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Amaravati Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Amaravati Temple is in the Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is in honor of Amaralingeswara, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. There is a huge Shiva Lingam that is worshiped here. Another deity of the Amaravati Temple is goddess Bala Chamundika, the consort of Amaralingeswara Swamy. In this guide you will find out about Amaravati temple timings, history, poojas list, significance and how to travel to Amaravati.

Amaravati Temple Timings

Here are the timings of Amaravati Temple:

RitualAmaravati Temple Timings
Morning Darshan6:00 am to 1:00 pm
Evening Darshan4:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Special DarshanRs.20 per person
RudrabhishekamRs.500 per couple
Entry FeeFree

What is the history of Amaravati Temple?

The most popular historical legend that revolves around Amravati temple is that the 15 feet Shiva Lingam here was nailed to stop its growth. There is a red mark at the top of the Lingam which is the blood stain that oozed out when the nail was hammered into it.

The Skanda Purana narrates a unique story of the Amaravati Temple. As per the Purana, at the end of Dwaparayuga, almost 5053 years ago, the Sounakadi saints asked the way to liberation to Maharishi Narada. Maharishi informed that Lord Krishna created River Krishna so that saints can bath in its water and attain salvation. Any devotee, who stays here for three days, bathes in the holy waters of the river and worships Lord Amareswara, shall attain liberty. Anyone who dies here shall be absorbed into Lord Shiva; hence, the importance of the place led to the construction of the temple.

Another legend states that when the demons defeated the gods at Varanasi, Lord Shiva appeared to defeat the demons. Devotees also believe that God Indra established the Shiva Lingum at this temple.

As per some, the temple was actually a Buddhist stupa and hence the base of the Amaravati Temple is still in Buddhist architectural form. The Mula Virat within the sanctum is in the form of a white marble lotus medallion, which is a feature of the Buddhist architecture.

Amaravati Temple exhibits the Dravidian style of architecture, built on a small hammock, known as Krouncha Shaila. There are four gopurams encircling the shrine along with a Vimana, all built in the Dravidian way. The walls of the temple are contain inscriptions, which are similar to that of the Kota chiefs of Amaravathi and Sri Krishnadevraya, monarch of the Vijayanagara Empire. The wife of Proli Nayudu, the then minister of the Kota king, Ketaraja, inscribed the inscription on the Mukhamantapa pillar .

The temple contains three concentric circles. While the first circle houses the temples of Mahishasura Mardini, Veerabhadraswamy, Omkareswara Swamy, Guru Dattareya, and Agasteswara Swamy, the second circle contains the temples of Vinayaka, Kalabhairava, Anjaneya, Nagendraswamy, Kumaraswamy along with the statue of Lord Krishna under a tree. The third circle is a bit above the second circle and comes with the temples of Kasi Viswanatha, Mallikarjuna, Pushpadanteswara Swamy and Kalahasthiswara. At the heart of these three circles is the deity of Amaralingeswara Swamy. Kalahasti temple has the remedy for Rahu Ketu Puja.

Besides engagement in the daily worship of the Lord, the temple trust of Amaravati Temple also participates in various charities for the overall development of the society.

What is the significance of Amaravati Temple?

Significance of Amaravati Temple is that it is in honour of  Lord Shiva, as the destroyer of the universe. It is one of the five Pancharamas, or holy sites, the other four being, Kumararama, Ksheerarama and Bheemarama and Draksharama. Worshiping at this temple is believed to resolve family issues.

Amaravati is an important site of Hindu and Buddhist religion. It was a centre of Buddhist art and still bears many relics of the same.

River Krishna is pious and devotees often dip in its holy waters to cleanse their souls.

The Amaravati Temple is also unique in its style of worship. Unlike other Shiva temples, Abhishekam (the custom of pouring libations) is performed from upstairs as the 15 feet Shiva Lingam is too high to be reached from the ground floor.

Besides its religious significance, the temple is also historically important. The inscriptions which are engraved on the walls of the shrine describe the ruling kings of the region.

What is the Dress Code for Amaravati Temple?

The dress code for Amaravati Temple is:

  • The temple committee encourages traditional get up of men and women while visiting the temple. The temple does not permit short dresses.
  • One should not use footwear within the temple premises.
  • The temple also does not allow photography.
  • One should switch off their mobile phones as well. Visitors can keep their belongings at the temple office.

Which festivals are celebrated at Amaravati Temple?

The Amaravati Temple is crowded with devotees during different festivals and it is one of the best times to experience the true South Indian rituals.

  • Maha Shivaratri is the major festival of the Amaravati Temple. Celebrated during the Hindu month of Magha Bahula Dasami (which is generally the month of March), during this festival devotees bathe the Shiva Lingum with milk on all the four phases of the day.
  • Navaratri celebrations also take place with great pomp and show at the temple, during the Hindu month of Ashwin (September- October)
  • The temple celebrates the Kalyana Utsavs throughout the year. These are marriage festivals and hence, visitors can witness the typical South Indian style of the wedding during the wedding months at the temple.
  • Janmastami is the celebration of the birth of Lord Krishna. This festival generally takes place during the month of Bhadon (July or August).

Which sevas take place at Amaravati Temple?

Besides the festivities, there are regular rituals at the Amaravati Temple.

  • During the ritual of Dhoopa, Deepa, Naivedyam, the air of the temple complex fills with the aroma of incense and the sound of bells create a celestial environment.
  • Abhishekam is another important ritual of the shrine. The priest pours milk over the Shiva Lingam, chanting the holy mantras or just ‘Om Namah Shivai.’
  • As the Shiva Lingum is very high, hence pedestal is there for the devotees so that they can perform this ritual with ease.

What is the official website of Amaravati Temple?

There is no official website for Amaravati Temple.  You can find all the information you need here.

How to reach Amaravati Temple?

Amaravati is an important tourist destination of Andhra Pradesh and hence easily accessible.

  • Air: Nearest airport is the Vijayawada. It is 82 kilometres from the temple.
  • Train: Pedakurapadu is the nearest railway station; 19 kilometres from Amaravati Temple.
  • Road: State buses, APSRTC ply non-stop between Amaravathi and Guntur. Buses also connect the temple city with other cities, like Vijaywada, Mangalagiri, Sattenapalle and Hyderabad.

Where to stay near Amaravati?

Tourists can avail decent hotels at Amaravathi. For luxurious accommodation, they must arrange for a stay at Guntur. Amaravati Temple trust also has special guest houses. The government has also made special arrangements for thousands of pilgrims that visit the temple and they can find accommodation at PWD travellers’ bungalow.

Where to eat in Amaravati?

There are several vegetarian hotels available near Amaravati Temple. The food comes with the unique South Indian flavour. The food stalls are clean and the food is tasty.

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Amaravati Temple are:

  • Venugopala Swamy: This 1800 years old temple is near Amaravati Temple and is for Venugopal, an incarnation of Lord Narayana.
  • Sai Baba temple: One of the most popular temples of Andhra Pradesh, this temple is also popular by the name of Shirdi Sai and is in honour the saint, Sai Baba.
  • Lalitha peetham: Dedicated to Goddess Lalitha Devi, this temple is an abode of peace. Be here during Rama Navami and Vijaya Dasami to enjoy the colours of festivals.
  • Buddha stupa: Also known as the Amaravathi Stupa, this Buddhist relic depicts the wonderful art and architecture of ancient India. This stupa is adjacent to the Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple.
  • Buddha statue: Located at Hyderabad, this serene idol of Lord Buddha is a popular tourist destination. With a height of 17.5 metres, this statue is on the banks of the Hussain Sagar Lake.

Hence, a trip to Amaravati Temple is not only a pilgrimage but also an excursion to the ancient art and architecture of India. The site of Amaravathi depicts a wonderful fusion of Hinduism and Buddhism, amazing the tourists.

Annavaram Temple Guide – Satyanarayana Swamy – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Annavaram Temple is one of the most popular holy shrines of the country and is the second most popular pilgrimage after the Tirupati Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The Satyanarayana Swamy Temple in Annavaram has been built in the Dravidian style. The richness and glory of Lord Satyadeva, the temple’s deity, is described widely in the Revakhanda of the Holy Skandhapuranam.

In Annavaram Temple, Lord Satyadeva sits with his consort Shri Anantha Lakshmi on one side and Lord Siva on the other side. The Lord took his abode on the Ratnagiri Mountain, named after Ratnakara who was the son of Meru, the holy king of the mountains. The Sri Satyanarayana Swamy at Annavaram is followed by the sacred Pampa River which is touching the feet of the hill as is the case with all Divyakshetrams.

Lord Satyadeva is the God of truth and he showers his eternal blessings on all humankind in his beautifully manifested form in the form of the divine trinity which is called Hari Hara Hiranyagarbhathrimurtyatmaka. Therefore, the temple is the only ones attracting pilgrims from both the Vishanava and Saiva Hindu religion.

The Veeravenkatasathya Narayana swami is the main temple on the hill dedicated to Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy. This is a temple of Sri Rama and there are shrines of Vanadurge and Kanaka Durga around. The Grama Devatha (village deity) temple is located in the village foot of the hill.

Annavaram Temple History

According to legend, Raja i.e. Ramarayanam was the then zamindar of the Gorasa and the Kirlampudi estates near Samalkot since he was ordained by Lord in his dream. He then traced the idol on the hill and worshiped and installed it at this spot on Sravanasuddhavidiya in the Telugu year khara 1891.

The temple was constructed on the hill and the Bay of Bengal situated at 11 miles is visible from the hill and row of the majestic Eastern Ghats is visible on other side. The hills and the Pampa River encircle Ratnagiri from all sides. The main hillock is about 300 feet above the sea level and there are about 460 well-laid stone steps that lead to the top.

The main temple has been constructed like a chariot that has four wheels at each corner. The main temple’s front has the modern architecture including a Kalyanamantapa. Down the way, there is a Ramalaya and then there are shrines of Vana Durga which is held in veneration and the Devi is believed to be seen there in the nights according to the holy precincts that a perpetually guard the lord.

Significance of Annavaram Temple

According to the Agni Purana and the Hindu mythology, any temple’s akriti is the manifestation of its Prakriti.  In the ancient texts, the idea is developed and the Slipasastra is based on this principle. The temple’s wall and Vimana should be constructed to remind the devotee of the universe while the supreme spirit is represented by the deity inside who is the core of the entire universe.

These texts believe that the chariot is a symbol of seven lokas which lie underneath and the seven lokas that lie above along with garbhalaya of the lord rule hearts and center that rules over the entire universe.

The Annavaram Temple has been constructed based on these ideas. The temple’s front side depicts the chariot, the Meru is on the floor and the pillar is at the center. The idols at tope are constructed to bring to life the idea that Lord remains at the centre but it also permeates entire universe.

The wheels depict both the Sun and Moon and serve as a reminder us that the Jaggernaut completely moves on wheels of time and this cycle goes on forever. The Annavaram temple satisfies the devotees’ ritualistic values and spiritual aspirations.

There is a dial on the north side of temple’s compound that shows Indian standard time which is easy to calculate. A Mandapam is constructed round the main temple and a Kalyana mandapam on the lower level, that provides space to conduct about a thousand Satyanarayan Vrathams at one time and 500 Vrathams can be conducted by the side of Ramalya.

The foundation of a Galigopuram has been laid opposite to the Kalyanamantapam by left side which lies to the south of the compound wall.

The annavaram temple has also installed NavaGrahams and a bigger temple might be built for them in future. Down the steps, there are office rooms, guesthouse, a Choultry and open-air theatre used for HariKathas. The walls of the Vratha halls and the open air theatre have been painted with figures that represent the story of the deity Satyanarayana Swamy and his devotee called Sadhuvu.

A shed for tonsure ceremony, the Kesakhandanasalahas been built on the eastern side of the temple. A new kitchen is also present behind the main temple where the priests prepare Naivedyam for the lord. Another kitchen prepares Prasadam.

The idol of the main deity is 13 feet high and is in cylindrical form. The base of the idol is in the lower sanctum that represents Lord Brahma and the idol’s top situated in upper sanctum that represents lord Vishnu. The idol’s middle portion represents Lord Siva. This image that represents the 3 Lords in a single idol i.e. the Trimurtis-Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva is of great attraction.

One of the most popular temples in Andhra Pradesh, a unique yantra based on Tripadvibhuti Narayan Upanishad exists here the shrine is constructed in two storeys, the lower one containing the yantra and upper one housing vigrahas of the lord. The idol is about 4 meter high is in cylindrical form.

The base in the lower sanctum represents Lord Vishnu and the middle portion represents Lord Shiva. The image of the deity forming a single idol and representing the Hindu trinity is of unique attraction.

Annavaram Temple Timings

Darshan Timings: 6 AM to 12 PM, 12:30 PM to 9 PM.

  • Many Poojas are conducted throughout the day by the temple priests and Abhishekas are performed by the devotees at Rs. 100/- per each ticket in the Yantralayam.

Festivals Celebrated here

Ekadashi is a very auspicious occasion for the annavaram temple as this is the best day to perform the Satya Narayan Vratham. Hindus have been performing the Shri Satyanarayana Vratham for ages throughout India.

The vratham is known to bring wealth, prosperity, education, and offspring. A number of pilgrims visit the temple from far and near and the daily average attendance of the temple is two thousand. Ekadashi is a very auspicious occasion for this vratham, but the individual devotees also perform this vratham on any convenient day. The vratham has become all the more popular due to the experience narrated in stories and also due to the legends and observations of daily life.

The vratham has an important fable according to which Sage Narada was once very much distressed about the immense misery of men in this world. He prayed to Lord Vishnu to suggest a way out. The Lord told him about the Satyanarayana Vratham and he said that this would relieve all men of the troubles.

The vratham was also useful to gain worldly prosperity and to achieve salvation after death. Lord narrated that a pious Brahmin from Banaras had performed this magical vratham first. Other people who had performed the Vratham and had benefitted were King Ulkamukha from Bhadrasila Nagaram, Emperor Tungadhwaja, and a Vaishya business man named Sadhuvu.

The community of Gollas in the kingdom of Tungadhwaja and a poor woodcutter from Banaras had performed this vratham. They were all blessed by the great Lord Satya Narayana Swamy (who is Vishnu himself) and they achieved all they desired in life.

This vratham has hence caught fascination of the millions of devotees who have heard the stories and offer respect to the Lord. These stories are easy to understand for the common people as well as within the understanding of the scholars. Thus, all classes of people can perform the vratham and this has popularized it among them as people have been benefitted by the vratham.

According to the texts of the Vratham, Sadhuvu’s daughter Kalavathi had left the prasadam of Lord Satya Narayan to see her husband and thus the husband drowned in the boat in which he was travelling. Thus, Kalavathi was grieved and decided to kill herself. Sadhuvu was extremely grieved to see his only daughter preparing for sahagamana. He thus realized that only Lord Satyanarayana could come to his relief and thus, he fervently prayed to him.

The lord revealed that this catastrophe was inflicted upon them as Kalavathi did not take her prasadam in the hurry to go to her husband. Thus, Kalavathi rushed home and took the prasadam and when she hurried back to the seashore, she saw her husband Ratnakara who was safe on the shore. She then told him all about the Lord and upon hearing this her husband was so much impressed that he heart fully prayed to the Lord and the Lord’s blessings changed the spot  into Ratnagiri hill on which the Lord took his permanent abode.

According to legend, the River Pampa running by the hill is the form of the devotee Kalavathi who had melted with ecstasy at the grace of the Lord and of her husband’s achievement and thus began to flow as Pampa River.

Poojas and Rituals at Annavaram Temple

The Sathya Narayan Vratham is performed on Ekadashi and has a specific procedure. First Lord Ganesha and the Navagrahas are offered respect and then the image of the deity is placed on a clean spot.

The Lord is appeased through chants, flowers, and prasadam that includes fruits, sweet wheat flour, and sweets are offered to the deity. The story is then narrated and Aarti is performed at the end. After the prayer, a small lamp is lit near the idol is known as the Aratika. The devotees take prasadam at the conclusion of the pooja.

How to Reach Annavaram Temple – By Rail, Road, and Air

Annavaram is a village situated close to River Pampa in the east Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. It is situated about 32 kms from Pithapuram, 51 km from Kakinada and 72 kms from Rajahmundry. The Sri Veeravenkata Satyanarayana Swamy Vari Devasthanam, Annavaram is well connected by both rail and roadways. It can be reached by road, rail and airways:

By Air: The nearest airport is at the east side of Annavaram at Visakhapatnam and all flights fly to Vishakhapatnam. Annavaram is at a distance of 3 hrs from Visakhapatnam. On the west side of Annvaram, the Rajahmundry Airport is located.

By Train: Many trains that pass between Kolkata and Vijayawada stop at the Annavaram station. One can also stop at Visakhapatnam.

By Road: There are regular buses to Vishakhapatnam as well as Annavaram from all major cities. Madras to Calcutta, National Highway-5 road is going via Annavaram. Regular bus service is available from all nearby towns.

Hotels in Annavaram

Sun Ray Village resort, Visakhapatnam which is the finest resort and family leisure destination at Vizag. Hotel Daspalla is centrally located in the heart of Visakhapatnam near Jagadamba centre.

Nearby Temples

Talupulamma Talli Temple: It is one of the most famous and a well-known place in Andhra Pradesh and people visit for offering pooja to the Goddess after purchasing a new vehicle.

Sri Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple: This is an ancient Siva temple in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh

Pancharama Sri Kumararama Bheemeshwara Swamy Temple: It is located in Samalkota near Annavaram and is a popular temple there.

Vishakhapatnam is near Annavaram and is also a popular tourist attraction in the region. It has been built along the seashore of the Bay of Bengal. It is bounded and broken by the bold headland which is called the dolphin’s nose (357mts above the sea level).

Vishakhapatnam also has a stunning beach. The region’s surrounding area also very picturesque with the well-forested Eastern Ghats and numerous rivers, major among which are the Godavari and Indravati River.

Mangalagiri Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Guide – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Mangalagiri Temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha and located in Andhra Pradesh. There are three Narasimha Swamy temples in Mangalagiri – the Panakala Narasimha Swamy on the hill, the Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy at the foot of the temple and the Gandala Narasimha Swamy at the top of the hill.

Mangalagiri is one of the 8 Mahakshetrams where Lord Vishnu manifested himself. Originally this place was popular as Thotadri where Devi Lakshmi did tapasya. During Vijayanagara Kingdom, this place was also famous as Mangala Nilayam. Mangalagiri Temple is a sacred place where a devout person can find peace and bliss.

What is the history of Mangalagiri Temple?

According to the history of Mangalagiri Temple, a very intriguing story revolves around how the mountain came into existence. The hill looks like an elephant in shape. Hrasva Srungi, the son of the king Pariyatra, visited all holy places for the purpose of regaining normal bodily stature.

He finally came to Mangalagiri and stayed there for three years to fulfil his penance. His father came to take him back home but he to serve Lord Vishnu for eternity took the shape of an elephant and remained at the place. Devotees also believe that all the Devas asked him to stay at the place so that he can attain Moksha and salvation in his life.

What is the significance of Mangalagiri Temple?

Here is the significance of Mangalagiri Temple:

  • Sri Channapragada Balaramadasu constructed the steps to the Mangalagiri Temple in 1890.
  • On the right side of the steps to reach the Mangalagiri Temple, there lies a stone inscription by Sri Krishnadeva Raya of Vijayanagar and further up, one can see the foot prints of Mahaprabhu Chaitanya.
  • A temple of Lord Panakala Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy  is there at midway of the steps where there is only the face with the mouth widely open.
  • Behind the Mangalagiri Temple there is the abode of Sri Lakshmi, to the west of which there is a tunnel that, according to beliefs, can lead you to the great Vundavalli caves on the banks of the Krishna.
  • Panakala Narasimha Swamy is the God Who Drinks Panakam.
  • Also, the god is self-existent here.
  • The God takes jaggery water as an offering served by a conch. When the Jaggery water is actually poured into the mouth of the Lord, a gargling sound is there as if the Lord is actually drinking it.  The sound becomes shriller and shriller when the Lord is drinking.

What are the timings of Mangalagiri Temple?

Here are the timings of Manglalagiri Temple:

TimingsFromTo
Open7 am8:30 pm
morning Archana7:00 a.m7:30 a.m.
Panakam and seva darshan7:30 a.m1:00 p.m.
Mahanirvedana 1:00 p.m

What are the festivals celebrated at Mangalagiri Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Mangalagiri Temple are:

  • The Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Brahmothsavam is the grand annual festival. Devotees believe that  Dharmaraja started the celebration at the behest of Lord Krishna. The celebrations take place for 11 days during the months of February-March.
  • Srirama Navami, Hanumajayanthi, Narasimhajayanthi, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and Mahasivarathri are other festivals. On Mahasivarathri, the Lord goes on a procession on a small chariot.
  • Further, the Phalguna Suddha Purnima that happens on Chaturdasi, commences the marriage of Santha Narasimha Swamy, and Sridevi and Bhoodevi.

How to reach Mangalagiri?

Here’s how to reach Mangalagiri Temple:

  • Air: the nearest airport is Vijayawada airport. It is also connected by Hyderabad and Vishakapatnam.
  • Rail: Vijayawada also connects with all major cities in India so the rail route is frequently availed.
  • Road: Vijaywada also connects well with Madras, Nellore, Vizag and other cities.

Where to stay in Mangalagiri?

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

  • Fortune Murali Park Hotel- this hotel is along the banks of the Krishna River and overlooks the Indrakiladri Hills. Fortune Murali Park Hotel is three kilometers from the Vijayawada Railway Station and 20km from the airport.
  • The Gateway Hotel, M.G.Road is another grand place to check in. It has an welcoming atmosphere with luxurious decorum.

What are some places to visit near Mangalagiri Temple?

Some of the places one can visit near Mangalagiri Temple are:

  • Kanaka Durga Temple is a siginificant temple in Vijayawada. On Friday evenings, the priests dress the goddess in silken finery.
  • At Amararama Temple, Lord Shiva is also worshipped as Amaralingeswara Swamy or Amareswara Swamy, along with his consort Bala Chamundika. This Temple along with the Draksharama Temple in Draksharamam, Ksheerarama Temple in Palakol, Somarama Temple in Bhimavaram and the Kumararama Temple in Samalkota, forms the holy Pancharama Kshetram.
  • The Undavalli Caves are a great architecture of cave complex. A cluster of 64 caves of black rock make the place truly magnificient. They also hold lovely figurines made of monolithic black granite rock. Moreover, the most notable is the stunning image of a reclining Vishnu.

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.

Simhachalam Temple Guide – Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha – Timings, Poojas, and History

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Simhachalam Temple is a hilltop temple situated in Vishakhapatnam (Vizag) in Andhra Pradesh. It is visited with great reverence by devotees of Lord Vishnu. It is dedicated to Lord Narasimha Swamy, a lion-man incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is beautifully adorned with really intricate carvings. The Sanskrit translation of “Simha” is a lion and “Achala” is a hill, hence the name Simhachalam. 

The deity is in the tribhangi posture, with two hands and the head of a lion on a human torso. The temple has the most exquisite stone-carved 16-pillared Natyamandapa and 96-pillared Kalyanamandapa. According to the legend, Narsimha’s avatar when he killed Hiranyakashyp was very fierce. His idol is covered with sandalwood throughout the year and is revealed only once a year. The day is celebrated as Chandanotsavam and on this day, the temple receives maximum devotees from all over the world.

Simhachalam Temple 2

Simhachalam Temple History

  • The legend of Simhachalam relates to the story of Hiranya-Kasyapa, his son Prahlad and Lord Vishnu’s avatar, Narsimha. Hiranyaksha, the brother of Hiranya-Kasyapa intended to disturb the peace on earth and seized it. Lord Vishnu assumed the incarnation of Boar (Varaha Avatara) and destroyed him, thus rescuing the earth.
  • Hiranyakasipu, with intent to avenge the death of his brother Hiranyaksha, performed austerities (tapasya) to seek immortality from Lord Brahma. Brahma grants him a boon that he could not be killed by animal or man, neither in the morning nor in the night. Hiranyakasipu, with an evil desire to bring the world to his feet, began punishing the gods, sages, and worshipers of Lord Vishnu.
  • However, Hiranyakasipu’s own son Prahalad was a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Angered by Prahalad’s devotion, Hiranyakasipu tried several ways to end his life. He asked his servants to drown his son in the sea and place mount Simhadri over him. However, Lord Narayana rescued him by jumping over the hill and lifting up Prahalada from the sea. Simhadri is thus the place where the Lord rescued Prahalada.
  • After Narsimha killed Hiranyakyshp, Prahalad built this Simhachalam Temple. However, Simhachalam Temple was neglected for centuries and it began to decay with time. When the next life-cycle began, Simhachalam Temple was discovered by Emperor Pururava of the Lunar Dynasty. Legend has that Pururava, and his wife Urvasi, were drawn to Simhachalam by a mysterious power. That is how they discovered the deity which was lying on the hill, embedded in crests of earth. It is also said that he received a message from the heavens not to expose the image but cover it with sandal paste. He was also instructed to worship the Lord in this form and only on the third day of the month of Vaisakha, could he remove the paste and reveal his nijaswarupa. Emperor followed these instructions and kept the deity covered with sandal paste, revealing it only once a year. He also constructed a temple around the deity, which has remained ever since.
  • Based on the inscriptions discovered which dated back to the year 1087, endowments to the temple were made by Kulottunga Chola I of Tamil Nadu. According to another inscription, one of Velanandu chief Gonka III queens covered the image with gold during the of the years 1137-56. Yet another one mentions that the central shrine and the enclosing veranda were built in the 13th century by the Eastern Ganga king Narasimha I. There are over 525 inscriptions in the temple, written in Telugu and Oriya and one of them states that the monarch of Vijayanager, Krishna Deva Raya had visited the temple twice, once in 1516 AD and then in 1519 AD. There are details of his victories in the temple inscriptions such as the one where he defeated the Gajapati ruler of Orissa Gajapati Prataparudra Dev and provided offerings to the villages so that they could continue the worship. A valuable emerald necklace offered by the Emperor is still present in the temple. The trustees of the temple for the last 3 centuries have been the Royal family of Vizianagaram, also known as ”The Pusapati Gajapathi’s”.

Significance of Simhalchalam Temple

  • The presiding deity of the Simhalchalam Temple is Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha, which resembles a Shiv linga and combines the iconography of Varaha and Narasimha. The idol, which is covered throughout the year in sandalwood paste, reveals itself once a year during the Chandana Visarjana and at that time, the pilgrims can see the deity.
  • Simhalchalam Temple is an architectural marvel and deserves high praise. Simhalchalam Temple has a high tower surmounting a square shrine and a 16 pillared mandap. There is a portico in the front with a smaller tower above it along with a veranda, where a stone care structure rests with stone wheels and horses carved in stone. The structure is made of dark granite, which is intricately carved with conventional and floral ornament and scenes from the Vaishnavite puranas. One of the pillars is called the kappa stambham or ‘tribute pillar’. It is believed that the pillar has healing powers and cures infertility.
  • The carvings and the architecture bear similarity with that of Temples in Konark such as the chariot, elephants, and flowers/plants. The 16 pillars of the Kalyana Mandap have carvings depicting the incarnations of Lord Vishnu and the outer sanctum is dedicated to depicting the images of King Narasimha.

What are the timings of Simhachalam Temple?

Darshan Timings: 7 AM to 4 PM, 6 PM to 9 PM.

Festivals celebrated at the Simhalchalam Temple

  • CHANDANOTSAVAM: The main festival celebrated in Simhalchalam Temple is on akshaya thritheeya which is the 3rd day of Vaisakhamasam (usually during the month of April or May). Although throughout the year, the deity is covered in sandal paste preperation, on this day, the sandal wood paste is removed from the deity in a ceremony call Chandanayatra or Chandanotsavam. The devotees can then witness the Nija roopa darsanam (darshan without the chandan layer) of the Swamy. Over 1 lakh devotees visit the temple on this day to celebrate the festival.
  • UGAADHI (TELUGU NEW YEAR): The Pandhiri raata utsavam is celebrated at the temple and Sri Swamy is dressed as the bridegroom (Chaitra Suddha Padyami).
  • NARASIMHA JAYANTHI: The Narasimha Jayanthi festival occurs on the 14th day of the 1st half of month of ‘Vaisakha’ and is celebrated as Birthday of the Lord Narasimha.
  • RADHOTSHAVAM: This is a festival celebrated at the temple before the God gets married.
  • KALYANOTHSAVAM: Sri Swamy vari Vaarshika Thirukalyana Mahothsavam (From Chaitra Sudda Dasami to  Chaitrasudda Pournami) (march/april).
  • VAISAKHA POURNAMI: This is the 2nd phase of Chandana Samarpana and is one of the most auspicious days at the temple.
  • JYESTA POURNAMI: This is the 3rd and final phase of Chandana Samarpana and is celebrated early in the morning.
  • TEPPOTSAVAM: Teppotsavam is celebrated on Pushya Bahula Amavasya and on this day, the ‘Utsava idols’ are taken in a palanquin from the temple to ‘Varaha Pushkarini’. The devotees get to have a look at the Lord and the procession begins on the hill at 3 p.m. and reaches the foot of the hill around 4.30 p.m.
  • KANUMA: This day is celebrated by bringing the deity downhill to the garden for darshan and a fair is organized. The temple administration organizes this fair near the lake and scenes from Bhagwat Gita’ ‘Gajendra Moksha’ episode are enacted by the priests. The idols are then taken to Sri Pydithalli Ammavari temple.
  • VYKUNTA EKADASI: On this day, the Lord Narasimha Swamy attracts the devotees on vykunta dwaram and is celebrated on Dhanusudda Ekadasi.
  • GIRI PRADHAKSHINA: Generally, Giri Pradhakshina is celebrated in the month of June or July on “Aashada Pournami”. The devotees fast on this full moon day and walk around the Simhalchalam hill which is a stretch of 34kms. Only after the darshan and the Pradakshina do they break their fast and eat dinner. Alternatively, devotees may also circle 180 times around the temple if they find the 34km trek too tiring.

Poojas and Rituals at Simhalchalam Temple

The following poojas are performed at the Simhalchalam Temple throughout the year:

  1. Ashtottara Sathanamarchana
  2. Sahasranamarchana (05.00 PM – 05.45 PM)
  3. Ammavaraki Ashtottara Sathanamarchana
  4. Kappasthabham Aalinganam
  5. Gopooja
  6. Nitya Kalyanam (09.30 AM – 10.30 AM)
  7. Garuda Seva
  8. Swarnapushparchana (Every Thursday at 07.00 AM – 08.00 AM)
  9. Laksha Kunkumarchana
  10. Laksha Tulasi Pooja
  11. Saswatha Laksha Kumkumarchana
  12. Saswatha Laksha Tulasi Pooja
  13. Nityapooja, Bhogakainkaryamu
  14. Saswatha Nitya Kalyanam
  15. Saswatha Garuda Seva
  16. Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva (Every Saturday at 05.30 PM – 06.30 PM)
  17. Sudarsana Narasimha Yagam (Monthly once on Swathi Nakshathram day)

How to reach Simhachalam Temple?

  • By Air: The nearest airport to Simhachalam Temple is Vishakhapatnam airport,   Vishakhapatnam which is 10 km away (30min drive) from the Temple.
  • By Train: The nearest railway station to Simhachalam Temple is Visakhapatnam Train Station which is 7 km away from the Temple. From the Vizag Railway station, it is 45 mins drive by road. If you get down at the Waltair Railway Station, you can visit Simhachalam by Bus (6A).
  • By Road: Busses numbered 6A, 28 and 40 starts from the Dwaraka Bus Station (APSRTC Complex). Devotees who are starting from Gajuwaka, you can get Bus numbered 55 and devotees starting from Maddilipalem, get the bus numbered 540.

There is also a Trekking route available for trekking lovers from Madhavadhara side, two hours climbing to temple premises with steep natural stone steps and a beautiful view of Vizag city and at the other side the temple view from the hill top.

Hotels in Vizag: Where to stay

  • Several cottages are available for devotees to stay in at the top of the hill, such as A.P.T.D.C.
  • Chandana Tourist rest house, Temple Cottage and Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam Cottages. Apart from these cottages, there are several hotels and other accommodation options available down the hill in the city of Visakhapatnam.

Where to eat nearby?

In 1989, the Dharamakartha, Dr. P.V.G.Raju Garu introduced the Nityannadanam Scheme under which close to 1500-2000 devotees are served the Annaprasadam every day. This count has recently increased to 5000 devotees and the temple is welcoming more people. Apart from the meal at the temple, there are options available at eateries around the temple at the hill.

Nearby Temples

  • Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple – It is located on National Highway 5 in Sheela Nagar, Visakhapatnam and is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, who is the preceding deity. Kerala Vastu Shastra has been used to build the temple and it was constructed 25 years ago by the BHPV Employees Union. The Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple is located 27kms away from Simhachalam Temple.
  • Sri Sampath Vinayagar Temple – The temple is established in Asilmetta, Visakhapatnam and was built in the year 1962 by Late S.G. Sambandan, Late T.S. Selvaganesan, and Sri T.S. Rajeswaran. The devotees visit the temple believing the mythology that the powerful deity Sri Sampath Vinayagar will wash off their sins if they offer their prayers. The Sri Sampath Vinayagar Temple is located 20 kms away from Simhachalam Temple.
  • Arasavalli Sun Temple – It is dedicated to the Hindu deity Surya or the sun, and is located in  Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. The temple was originally named Harshavalli which means and an abode of joy. The temple was constructed by the Kalinga rulers Devendra Varma of Orissa in the 7th Century AD. The Sun Temple is located 11 kms away from Simhachalam Temple.

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