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Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Somarama Temple Bhimavaram (Someswara Temple) is one of the Pancharama Kshetras in Bhimavaram of West Godavari district. Many believe that Chalukaya Bheema constructed it. People also believe that Lord Chandra installed the Shiva Lingam of the temple. A tinge of modernity becomes conspicuous due to the paintings and sculptures.

What is the history of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

The history of the Somarama Temple Bhimavaram is that according to beliefs, during Tarakasura vadha, the Shivalingam which was present on the throat of Tarakasura, a powerful asura, was divided into five pieces. The Pancharama Kshetras are present in the place where the five pieces fell.

There are two famous legends about the temple. The legend says that, the Shivalinga was owned by Rakshasa King Tarakasura and he was so powerful that no one could win over him due to the power of Shivalinga.

Lord Kumara Swamy used his powers (Sakthi Ayudha) to kill Tarakasura into pieces but failed as they reunited again and again. On the guidance of Lord Sriraman Narayana who informed him to break the Shiva lingam worn by Tarakusura into pieces first and then place them in five different places forming the sacred temples (PancharamaKshetras).

Lord Chandra installed Shivalinga in Bhimavaram temple and hence the name SomeshwaraSwamy.

Another legend says that Lord Shiva when destroyed Tripura’s during ‘Tripura Samharam’, all that was left was a Shivalingam in the throat of the Lord of Tripuras was broken into five pieces and installed for worship in five different places as Pancharama Kshetras.

What is the significance of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Here is the significance of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram:

  • The Pancharama Kshetras are: Amararama at Amaravati, Guntur Draksharama at Draksharama, East Godavari Somarama at Bhimavaram, West Godavari Ksheerarama at Palakol, West Godavari Bhimarama at Samarlakota, East Godavari.
  • Within the premises on to the left side of the entrance lie the shrines of Lord Hanuman, Lord Sriram, Lord Kumaraswamy and Navagrahas in a hall. On to the right is an open hall with a huge statue of Nandi.
  • One of the most special features of this temple is that the color of the Shivalingam will change its color regarding the lunar aspects, the shape of the illuminated (sunlit) portion of the Moon. And hence during Pournami (full moon days), the color of the Shivalingam will be in white and during Amavasya (dark nights), the color of the lingam will be black.
  • Other deities are Goddess Adilakshmi, Lord Anjaneya Swamy, Lord Kumara Swamy, Sun God, Lord Ganesha, Navagraha and Nandi. The Pushkarani (temple tank) of Somarama Temple is Soma Gundam Pushkarani.

What are the timings of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Here are the timings of Somarama Temple Bhimavaram:

TimingsFromTo
Morning Darshan5 AM11:00 AM
Evening Darshan4:00 PM8:00 PM

Which festivals are celebrated at Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Somarama Temple Bhimavaram are:

  • Maha Shivaratri is a foremost festivals taking place in the months of February/March.
  • Sarannavarathri is another grand event that takes place during the months of September/October.

How to reach Somarama Temple Bhimavaram?

Here’s how to reach Somarama Temple Bhimavaram:

  • Road: The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs buses frequently from Palakollu, Rajahmundry as well as Vijayawada.
  • Air: The nearest airport is Rajahmudry or Vijaywada from where one can avail regular flights.
  • Rail: Also, the temple is 2km away from Bhimavaram railway station.

Where to stay nearby?

One can stay at ‘Visiv Stay’. This lodge is in Bhimavaram. It offers polished, sophisticated and a visual pleasure to its guests. The rooms are neat and are replete with all basic amenities.

What are some places to visit near Bhimavaram?

Some of the places one can visit near Somarama Temple Bhimavaram are:

  • Dwaraka Tirumala is popular for Chinna Tirupati Temple, a Lord Venkateshwara Temple on the top of the Seshachala Hill.
  • Dindi is about 80 km from Rajahmundry and has a village with virgin backwaters, lakes, lagoons, and rivulets around it.
  • Pithapuram and Draksharamam are two pilgrimage centers that people usually visit together with Kakinda as the base town for a stay.
  • The Bhadrachalam Temple Seetaramachandra Swamy temple is a 17th Century Lord Rama temple and is another important pilgrimage center.

Mantralayam Temple Timings, History, Sevas and Poojas

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Mantralayam Temple is dedicated to Sri Raghavendra Swamy and treasures the memorial of the famous Vaishnava saint, Sri Raghavendra. It is located in Andhra Pradesh. In this guide you will find out about Mantralayam temple timings, history, poojas list, significance and how to travel to Mantralayam.

Mantralayam Temple – Facts

DeityShri Raghavendra
LocationMantralayam, Andhra Pradesh
Entry FeesGeneral Darshan – Free
Best Time to VisitAugust to March
PoojasAnnadanam, Vastra Samarpana
FestivalsMaharathostavam, Aradhanostavam

What are the timings of Mantralayam Temple?

Everyday at 6:00 am the cleansing of Raghavendra Brindavan takes place with holy water. During the Mangala Aarti anointment and adornment with precious jewels and clothes are done. The general timing of the temple is from 6 am to 8 pm. Here are the timings of Mantralayam Temple:

Ritual Timings
Morning Darshan 6:00 am to 2:00 pm
Evening Darshan 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Tirtha Prasada (Food) 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Swamiji Darshan 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Seva Sankalpa 8:00 am to 9:00 am
  • Mahapooja to Moola Rama, Mukhyaprana and Brindavana is performed at noon.
  • Mantrashakta is performed from 10 am to 11:30 am.

Mantralayam Temple Food Timings

Meals are served at a large dining space at the left of the sanctum. At night, devotees can purchase Prasad (puliogare and pongal) from the mutt counter, which is known as Annadaata.

Tirtha Prasad (Lunch)1 pm to 3 pm
Dinner (Sandhya Bhoga – Occasionally)After 8 pm

Mantralayam Temple History

Sri Raghavendra Swamy | Mantralayam Temple

Mantralayam Temple of Andhra Pradesh is dedicated to Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy, who lived during the 16th century

Sri Raghavendra Swamy is considered as an incarnation of Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu.

Raghavendra Swamy was a devotee of Sri Moola Rama and Sri Panchamukhi Mukhya Prana Devaru. It is believed that the five faced Hanuman gave darshan to the saint while he was performing penance at a place called Panchamukhi.

The teachings of this great saint are based on the Vaishnava cult, Dvaita philosophy and preaching of Madhvacharya.

Before becoming a saint, Sri Raghavendra was a family man with a wife and a son. On the day of his transformation, his wife wished to see him for the last time and hence came running to the mutt. But in her hurry, she felt in an abandoned well and died.

As it was an untimely death of her with the desire unfulfilled, she became a ghost and came to visit the saint in the mutt. Sri Raghavendra Swamy sensed her presence and sprinkled holy water, relieving her from the cycles of birth and death.

Sri Raghavendra is believed to have done many miracles in his lifetime.

Significance of Mantralayam Temple

Mantralayam Raghavendra Swamy Temple is not only a memorial of the saint but also worships Lord Hari, Vayu and Rayaru.

Mantralayam Raghavendra Swamy Temple houses three spectacular chariots, made with sandalwood and adorned with fresh and bright flowers.

Every day the deities are placed on the chariots and a wonderful procession round the temple takes place.

Mantralayam Temple Dress Code

As per the Mantralayam temple dress code, men should wear dhoti and no shirt (only Angavastram). Women devotees should wear a sari or salwar kameez. Devotees will not be allowed to enter the Mantralayam temple wearing informal attire like jeans, shorts or T-shirts.

To maintain the tranquility, devotees are expected to speak in a low voice and walk in queues. Some other guidelines which are followed at this Mantralayam temple are:

  • Devotees are suggested not to wear headgears, cooling glasses.
  • Men are requested to remove their shirt and hold it in their hands while paying the visit to Rayaru, while women are expected to be in traditional wear, like the sari.
  • Outside eatables are not permitted within the temple complex.
  • Last but not the least; devotees are expected to bath in the holy waters of River Tungabhadra (wetting their hair) before offering puja at the temple.

Festivals celebrated at Temple

Mantralayam Temple celebrates various kinds of festivals throughout the year. Devotees can offer various kinds of seva to fulfil the good wishes and for the well-being of the family members.

  • The Maharathostavam, also known as the car festival is celebrated with great pomp and glamour at Mantralayam Raghavendra Swamy Temple.
  • Sri Guru Raghavendra Swamy Aradhanostavam is another famous festival of the shrine.
  • The Dhanurmasa month is of great significance at the Raghavendra Swamy Temple. Besides regular worship and rituals, special events like Tulasi Archana and Hastodaka, Rathotsava and Maha Mangal aarti takes place during this month.
  • Devotees can request for special seva or endowments. There are lifetime seva or endowments which take place on holy days and again every year after the seva; the fund for the seva is raised from the fixed deposit of the seva that the devotee deposits the first time.
  • These special endowment worships are not performed on Ekadasi, Grahana or Eclipse days and on Sri Krishna Janmasthami.
  • Devotees can also offer seva without visiting Mantralayam Temple personally. They can send cheques and drafts for the seva and the same shall be performed on behalf of the devotees.

Mantralayam Sevas and Poojas

Besides the special endowments, there are regular worships done at Mantralayam Raghavendra Swamy Temple.

  • Regular worship of Sri Moola Ramadevara is done if HH Sri Swamiji is present at Mantralayam Temple.
  • Among the daily seva, the Dinaika Sampoorna Annadana Seva refers to the food endowment that a devotee can opt for. He or she can pay a fixed amount and the prasada for the day will be funded with that amount.
  • The Vastra Samarpana Seva refers to the gifting of clothes to the needy.
  • The Sankalpa Seva refers to taking an oath and spending the life as per the oath. Held every day between Sankalpa Seva requires utensils for performing Achamana, a small plate, a whole coconut, a coconut to be offered as a symbol and change as dakshina.
  • Bangaru Pallaki Seva, the Golden Chariot Seva, Kanaka Kavacha Seva, Rajata Rathotsava, Kanak Maha Pooja, Suprabhat Seva, Tulabhara Seva, Archana are some of the other seva that can be performed at the Raghavendra Swamy Temple.
Mantralayam Temple | Poojas & Rituals

How to reach

  • By Air: The air base at Hyderabad is the nearest airport to the temple. It is 236 kms from Mantralayam. After disembarking the flight, you can rent cabs or board buses to reach the temple.
  • By Train: The nearest railway station to the Raghavendra Swamy Temple is the Mantralayam Road. This railway station is about 12 kms from Mantralaya. Some of the local trains that can take you to the temple are the Dadar Madras Mail and the Bombay Mail. The Udayan Express from Bangalore also stops at Mantralaya. Mantralaya lies on the railway route of Mumbai-Chennai, Delhi-Bangalore, Hyderabad-Tirupathi. It is an hour journey from the station to Mantralayam Temple. There are private cabs, auto rickshaws, buses and vans available at the station which can take the pilgrims directly to the shrine.
  • By Road: There are regular bus service from the major South Indian cities, like Bangalore, Mangalore, Chennai, Mysore, Hyderabad, Tirupati and Bellary. Mantralaya is located at 595 kms from Chennai and 690 kms from Mumbai.

Mantralayam Temple Accommodation

The best place to stay at Mantralayam is at the guest houses of the Devasthanam (temple authorities). There are 100 guest rooms, some of which are also air-conditioned. Pilgrims who come for offering sevas can also get accommodations in separate cottages. The guest rooms can be booked at the central booking counter, located at the road junction.

Where to eat

There are several vegetarian food joints available near the Raghavendra Swamy Temple. While the Gulbarga Brothers, Brahmins Tiffin Center and Sri Udipi Krishna serves tasty lunch, the SR Tiffins attracts the fast food lovers. Hotel Pannaga is also well known for its cleanliness and food.

Nearby Temples

After a visit to the Raghavendra Swamy Temple, you may checkout the below-mentioned shrines to deep dive into the glorious past of India.

  • Nava Brindavan is another sanctum of Raghavendra Swamy. Located in the middle of River Tungabhadra, the place is sacred with 9 (Nava) Vrindavans at the same place. The 9 Vrindavans are, Sri Padmanabha Teertharu, Sri Kaveendra Teertharu, Sri Vageesha Teertharu, Sri Jaya Teertharu, Sri Vyasa Teertharu, Sri Srinivasa Teertharu, Sri Rama Teertharu, Sri Govinda Vodeyar and Sri Sudheendra Teertharu.
  • Panchamukhi Temple of Raichur is another famous temple located near Mantralaya. Located at 20 kms from the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple, it is believed that Sri Guru Raghavendra meditated here for 12 years and Lord Panchamukha (five-faced Lord Hanumana) appeared to him here.
  • There is also a unique rock formation found at Raichur. This rock formation is in the form of a helicopter.
  • Bichali, the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mritika Brindavana is located at 22 kms from the temple.
  • Kallaru is the pilgrimage of the sanctum of Sri Mahalakshmi. It is located at 62 kms from the temple.
  • Manvi, the Sri Jagannathadasara Sannidhi is located at 90 kms.
  • Chikalaparvi, the birth place of Sri Vijayadasara is located at 105 kms.
  • Mudumale, the temple of Sri Yadaveendra Teertharu is at 100 kms.
  • Dharoor, the pilgrimage of Sri Parthasarthi Sannidhi is located at 75 kms.
  • Chintraveli, the pilgrimage of Sri Pranadevaru Sannidhi is at 110 kms.
  • Gadwal, dedicated to Sri Chenna keshava Sannidhi is at 90 kms from the Raghavendra Swamy Temple.
  • Modalakallu, the Sri Swayabhu Venkateshawara Sannidhi is at 65 kms.
  • Sankapura, dedicated to Sri Gopala dasara Sannidhi is at 50 km distance.
  • Utthanuru, the birth place of Sri Gopala dasarais at 45 km.
  • Venisomapura, deciated to Sri Vyasatatvagna Teerthara Sannidhi is located at 75 km.
  • Alampur, the Nava Brahma temple is at 105 km.

Hence, a visit to the Raghavendra Swamy Temple is a journey to the holy land. If you want to participate in the major festivals, August to September is the best time; else August to March is good for praying in solitude. Besides visiting the temple, you can also enjoy a pleasant cruise over the River Tungabhadra in unique boats, known as coracles or putti.

Mantralayam Temple FAQs

Who is the Guru of Raghuvendra Swamy?

Sudhindra Tirtha is the Gurudeva of Raghuvendra Swamy.

What makes Mantralayam special?

Mantralayam  is a pilgrim village located in Kurnool district , Andhra Pradesh, India. Lying on banks of Tungabhadra River on the border of Karnataka state, it is considered to be a sacred place.

Why is Mantralaym so famous?

It is famous for the holy presence of Vrindavana (sacred burial) of Guru Raghavendra Swamy who was a Madhwa saint and follower of Sri Madhwacharya. The town got renamed as Mantralaya because of the beautiful mantras which poured from the holy mind of Raghavendra Swamy.

Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex is situated on a hill near Bheemunipatnam. It is present in Andhra Pradesh and is about 15 kilometers from Visakhapatnam. The name Thotlakonda is a Telugu name. It is derived from the presence of a number of rock-cut cisterns hewn into the bedrock of the hillock.  It literally means ‘Hill with stone wells‘. This is because of its stone wells that collected water for Buddhists.

Thotlakonda is located at a height of 128 meters on a hilltop. It is present near the village Mangamaripeta. The Indian Navy discovered this place. They were on an aerial survey for setting up a Naval Base.

What is the history of Thotlakonda?

  • The Indian Navy discovered Thotlakonda. They were on an aerial survey for setting up a Naval Base.
  • During 1988 – 1993, after its discovery, major excavations have been conducted by the Andhra Pradesh State Archaeology Department.
  • The excavations led to an establishment of the existence of a Hinayana Buddhist complex which flourished 2000 years ago.
  • The excavations reveal foreign trade with its lead and Roman silver coins.
  • Terracotta tiles, miniature stupa models in stone, stucco decorative pieces, sculptured panels,  and Buddha footprints were also found.
  • This complex was active between the year 200 BC and 200 AD.
  • Thotlakonda might have accommodated more than 100 bhikkhus.
  • It declined by the end of the 3rd century.

What is the architecture of Thotlakonda?

  • Thotlakonda complex is beautiful with magnificent structural design.
  • There are meditation halls. It protects Monks from outside disturbances.
  • There are stupas at the center of the meditation halls.
  • The layout of the kitchen and resting place for Monks are simple.
  • Monks visiting this Buddhist school from far places came through the sea route. They used to stay here for months and year before completing their study.
  • There are stones that mark the direction of Sunrise and sunset.
  • Thotlakonda Complex has various Stupas, Viharas, and Chaityas.
  • There are 12 tubs. These store drinking water. Out of them, four are available within the complex and others were a little outside of the area.
  • The eagle-shaped hilltop gives a panoramic view of the sea and the curved coastline.

How to reach this place?

Train: Take a train to Vizag. The nearest station is Vizag. This place is at a distance of 22 Kms from Vizag Railway Station.

Air: The nearest airport is Vishakhapatnam. It is 35Kms away from here.

Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple Guide – Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Srinivasa Mangapuram temple is an ancient Hindu Vaishnavite temple present at Srinivasamangapuram which is 12 km from Tirupati in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, a form of Vishnu and is referred to as Kalyana Venkateswara Temple.

The presiding deity of the temple is Venkateswara who is also Kalyana Venkateswara. The deity will be facing west and is in standing posture with four hands with left two hands one in varada mundra and one holding Chakra and right two hands one in kati mudra and the other holding Shanka.

What is the history of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

According to the history of Srinivasa Mangapuram temple, the temple itself is believed to have I existed from very ancient times and it is said that Sri Venkateswara is referred to even in the Rigveda. ‘Sri Venkatachala Mahatrnyam’ contains Puranic lores from the twelve Mahapuranas.

After celebrating the marriage of Lord Venkateswara Swamy with Goddess Padmavathi, he did not immediately return to the Tirumala hills. But instead he visited the sage Agasthya’s ashram to seek blessings. Yes, even the lord is humble enough to seek blessings from elderly and wise.

As it was scientifically wrong for the newlyweds to scale the hill for six months, the lord was unable to immediately return to the Tirumala mountain-temple. At this situation the sage Agastya suggested that Swamy Venkateswara along with his wife could stay at his humble ashram. Then, the Lord graciously accepted this request and blessed with the ashram with his presence for the entire six months.

About the temple history, this is no substantial indication about its construction. Devotees also believe that the ancient temple’s destruction took place in 1324, during the reign of Sultans. As per the inscriptions on the temple, one can say that the grandson of Sri Annamacharya, Sri Tallapaka Chinna Tirumala Acharya had renovated this temple during 16th Century. Moreover, Tallapaka Family maintained it over a long period of time.

Later it came under the administration of Archaeological Department, Government of India. Finally in 1967, it came under the control of TTD.

What is the significance of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here’s the significance of Mangapuram Temple:

  • Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple is an alternative to those devotees who are unable to visit the Balaji Temple on the Tirumala Hills. Many newly-wed couples also come here to seek the lord’s blessing for a happy married life.
  • Sri Rama Temple, Sri Ranganayaka Temple, Sri Padmavathi and Sri Andal Temple are other shrines in this complex. Devotees can also find small shrines including Sri Sakti Vinayaka Swami, Sri Veerabhadra Swami, Sri Avanakshamma, Sri Parasareswara Swami and Sri Agastheeswara Swami.
  • According to Vaikhanasa Bhagavat Shasthram Lord Venkateswara’s idol is ‘Sthanaka yoga Viraha Murthy’. Sthanaka means Standing, Yoga means this idol is mainly for Rishis who wish to attain Mukthi, Viraha means without Sanka and Chakra.
  • The idol at Srinivasa Mangapuram is consecrated by Srikrishna Devaraya with the help of Vaikhanasa Priests at Tirumala so that He will be always in touch with the Lord Balaji as he is a diehard devotee of him. So it is a Pratista made by Humans. Whereas in the Tirumala Temple Lord Balaji is self existent and devotees believe that a self existent idol is more powerful than a Pratistitha idol.

What are the timings of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here are the timings of Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple:

TimingsFromTo
General Darshan timings5:30 a.m7:30 p.m.
Kalyanotsavam11 AM12 PM
Sahasranamarchana7:30 a.m.
Sarvadarshanam(Throughout the day)

Which festivals are celebrated at Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

  • The premier focus of the Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy temple is the “Kalyana Utsavam” every day.
  • The “Bramhostav” held during the months of February and March.  On this occasion the Lord Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy ascends on a Simha Vahanam (Lion Carrier Ratham) to be a drawn-along with the devotees.

How to Reach Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple?

Here’s how to reach Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple:

  • By road: it is 12km from Tirupati. Local buses and autos are available making the journey easier.

Where to stay nearby?

Some of the places where one can stay near Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

  • Hotel Fortune Select Grand Ridge is one of Tirupati’s five star hotels at the intersection of Chennai-Bangalore highway, on the Tiruchanoor road. This hotel is just beside Shilparamam Theme Park..
  • Situated at a distance of 17 km from Tirupati Airport, KVP Residency is another place that provides ample car parking space. Sri Venkateswara Swamy Vaari Temple is at a distance of 25 km from the place.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple are:

  • Kanipakum Temple:- You may visit one of the most important Vinayaka temple in south India, at a distance of 86 KM from the Sri Kalyana Venkateswaraswami Temple.
  • Tirumala Venkateshwara Swamy Temple:- It is at a distance of 12 KM. Frequent buses are available. Or you can reach through private vehicles.
  • Srikalahasti Temple:- It is at a distance of 60 KM. One can also cover this distance under one and a half hours with a private vehicle or taxi cab. Srikalahasti temple is famous for the Rahu Ketu Pooja.

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple – Timings, Poojas, and Entry Fee

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Kanipakam Temple is one of the holy abodes of Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha) – the beloved son of Shiva and Parvati. It is present on the banks of river Baahuda, in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. Ganesha is the controller of ‘Ganas’, the remover of obstacles, and the Lord of wisdom. It is usually visited when one is visiting Tirumala Balaji Temple.

Vinayaka Temple is also known as Sri Varasidhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple.

The word ‘Kanipakam’ originates from two Tamil words – ‘Kani’ meaning ‘wetland’ and ‘Pakam’ meaning ‘flow of water’. The idol of ‘Swayambhu’ Vinayaka is inside ‘Kalyani’, a lake in which the idol was originally found. ‘

It is believed that the main idol of this temple, Lord Vinayaka is self-manifested; hence it is also called with the name of Swayambhu Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple.

The Kanipakam temple has Chola architecture, with a simple yet elegant Gopuram for the temple complex that houses temples of two other deities – Sri Manikanteshwara and Sri Varadaraja Swamy.

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple – Facts

Deity Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha)
Location Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple,Kanipakam, Irala Mandal, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, 517001, India
Darshan Timings 04:00 A.M.- 09:30 P.M.
Dress Code Traditional Wear
Festivals Brahmostavam, Deepotsava

What are the timings of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Here are the timings of Kanipakam Temple:

TimingsFromTo
Morning Darshan4 AM 11 AM
Evening Darshan12 PM9:30 PM

Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple Entry Fee

PurposeFees
AksharabhyasamRs.116/-
Namakaranam: Rs.116/-
Balasara Rs.116/-
Anna Prasana Anna Prasana
Vahana Pooja Rs.50/- to Rs.150/-
Sashwatha KalyanotsavamRs.5116/-
Sashwatha Unjal Seva Rs.7500/-
Sashwatha Abhishekam Rs.7500/-
Sashwatha Ganapathi HomamRs.7500/-
Sashwatha NityarchanaRs.1516/-
Sashwatha Free Prasadam Rs.1516/-
temple-entry-fee
Kanipakam witnesses huge rush.

Daily Pooja / Sevas Timings of Kanipakam Temple:-

Name of the Seva Timings
Suprabatham & Bindu Teerthabishekam 4:00 AM to 5:05 AM
Palabhishekam 5.45 PM to 6.15 PM
Ganapathi Sahasra Namarchana6.00 AM


Panchamrutha Abhishekam 5.30 AM to 6.00 AM
9.00 AM to 10.00 AM
11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Ganapathi Homam 9.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Nitya Kalyanotshavam 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Ganapathi Modaka Pooja Before 12.00 PM
Phodasa Ganapathi Pooja Before 12.00 PM


Moola Mantraarchana Before 12.00 PM
Unjala Seva 6.30 PM to 7.30 PM
Pavalimpu Seva(EkanthaSev)9.30 PM to 10.00 PM
Nijaroopa Darshan 5.00 AM to 5.30 AM
7.00 AM to 7.30 AM
8.30 AM to 9.00 AM
10.30 AM to 11.00 AM
Athi Seeghra Darshan 5.00 AM to 5.30 AM
7.00 AM to 7.30 AM
8.30 AM to 9.00 AM
10.30 AM to 11.00 AM
4.30 PM to 5.00 PM
Poolangi Seva Thursday Only
daily-pooja
Daily pooja timings are- 04:00 A.M. – 09:30 P.M.

What are the legends of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

According to the legend behind Sri Vara Siddhi Vinayaka Temple:-

  • There were three brothers, each suffering with one deformity; one was dumb, another deaf and the third one was blind.
  • In spite of the difficulties, they worked on a small piece of land, cultivating it so as to earn their livings.
  • However, one day they when they were trying to get water from well using the Piccota system, they found out that the well had dried up.
  • Hence, one of the brothers started digging the well further. During that process, an iron hit a stone formation. This filled the well with blood.
  • Brothers were shocked with the sight of blood in the well, as they witnessed the sight; their physical disabilities got automatically cured.
  • When the villagers came to know about the miracle, they tried to further deepen the well.
  • In spite of constant trying they couldn’t do it as by then Lord Vinayaka’s idol had self-manifested itself, emerging out of the water of the well.
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Self-manifested Lord Vinayaka’s idol
  • It is also believed that the Lord Vinayaka idol at Kanipakam has been growing in size on a daily basis. At present devotees can see up to the abdomen and knees of the Lord Vinayaka.
  • Hence, it is seen that the Lord’s idol has outgrown the armor or Kavacham which was offered about 50 years ago by Smt. Lakshmamma.

What is the history of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

  • Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple’s history goes back to the 11th century. It is said the temple was built in the 11th century, during the reign of Cholas by the Chola King Kulothunga Chola.
  • Later, the original temple was renovated and expanded further during the Vijayanagara Dynasty in the 13th century.
  • It is built on the banks of River Bahuda, which also has a legend behind it. According to the legend, Sankha and Likhita, two brothers were going to Kanipakam to seek the blessing of the Lord.
  • However, during their journey, the younger brother Likhita, unable to bear his hunger plucked a mango from the mango grove and in spite of his elder brother’s advice ate the fruit.
  • Seeing this, the elder brother informed the King, asking for the rightful punishment to his brother for the sin he had committed.
  • Resultantly, Likhita lost both his hands owing to the punishment given to him. Later, when both the brothers resumed their pilgrimage and went ahead to take a dip in the water of the river near Kanipakam, the younger brother regained both his arms.
  • Since then, the river was named Bahuda, which means the human arm.

What is the significance of the Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The significance of Kanipakam Temple is that Lord Ganesh is ‘Varasiddhi Vinayaka‘ here because he fulfills the ardent wishes of his devotees when they offer prayers with devotion and sincerity. Also, there are several occasions when a person voluntarily admitted to wrong-doing acts on entering the temple.

This sacred shrine of Kanipakam temple is widely believed to be an upholder of truth and justice. The aura of the Divine Almighty is such that or takes a dip in the holy water. It is as if the Lord evokes a sense of fearful guilty conscience in the mind of the person and makes him genuinely repent for the same.

To this day, the temple solves everyday quarrels between villagers by the two people taking a ‘Pramanam‘ – a special oath in which they take a dip in the Pushkarini and testify before the Lord.

Devotees who wish to give up bad habits like smoking or excessive drinking – take a bath in the holy place and take an oath in the Kanipakam temple by contributing Rs. 516/-. This is a Seva popular as ‘Pramanam’.

What are the festivals celebrated at the Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kanipakam Temple are:

  • Brahmostavam: It takes place for a duration of twenty-one days. During the evenings, devotees take the ‘Utsava Moorthi’ into the town in different kinds of colorful Vaahanas (vehicles) on all days – Hamsa Vaahana (Swan), Mayura Vaahana (Peacock), Mooshika Vaahana (Mouse), Shesha Vaahana (Snake), Vrishabha Vaahana (Bull), Gaja Vaahana (Elephant), Pushpa Pallakki (Flowered palanquin), Vimanotsava (Airplane), to name a few.
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Brahmostavam takes place for a duration of twenty-one days.
  • Deepotsava: It is the celebration involving the floating of lamps in the Kalyani. It is another important festivity and the temple looks magnificent amidst hundreds of floating lamps, under the starry sky.
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Deepotsava is the celebration involving the floating of lamps in the Kalyani.

How to reach Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Here’s how to reach Kanipakam Temple:

  • Air – One can avail direct flights to Tirupati from Hyderabad and Chennai only.
  • Rail – Mysore – Tirupati Fast Passenger operates daily, departs Bangalore at 8.15 PM and reaches Chittor at 2.30 AM.
  • Road – Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs daily buses between Bangalore and Chittoor.

Where to stay nearby Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The Temple Management runs 6 guest rooms and Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams Trust runs the operations of 14 rooms for devotees. Another accommodation complex with 100 rooms is under construction. Besides the Temple accommodation, several private hotels and lodges also provide good quality accommodation to the devotees, in Chittoor city.

What are some temples nearby Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

Some of the temples near Kanipakam Temple are:

  • Manikanteswara Temple: The ancient temple of Manikanteshwara exists since the times of the Chola King Kulothunga Chola. People believe that he built 108 temples of Shiva, to obtain relief from the sin of killing a Brahmin – “Brahma Hatya Papam’. Famous for the Chola architecture, the exquisite sculpture of the idol adds on another striking feature to the divine altar.
  • Varadaraja Swamy Temple: This Kshetram of Lord Ayyappa, also known as Harihara is a landmark in the surroundings, owing to the vast temple compound structure and the architectural marvel in the temple complex, that also houses two other deities – Sri Anjaneya Swamy and the Nava Grahas.
  • Ardhagiri Sri Veeranjaneya Swamy Kshetram – Present at a distance of 15 km from Kanipakam, this holy shrine dates back to Threta Yuga or the times when Lord Rama fought against Ravana the abductor of Sita. Devotees also believe that the Lord fulfills the wishes of those who pray overnight on a full moon night. Cultural programs take place throughout the night for the benefit of the devotees.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple

What are the timings of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

04:00 A.M.- 09:30 P.M. is the timings of the temple.

What is the history of Kanipakam Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple?

The temple was constructed in the early 11th century CE by the Pandian King Maravarman Sundara Pandian and a Siva temple by Kulothunga Chola I.

If you have any questions about the Kanipakam Temple , please leave a comment below, and we will get back to you within one hour.

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