Gubbala Mangamma Temple Histroy

It is believed that this temple exists from Tretayuga. As per the local folklore, Asuras used to live here in this forest area. In a ferocious battle between Asuras and Asuras, the weapons used in the battled fell on the Cave where the Goddess was residing. Angered Goddess, Killed the Demons and continued her ferocious form. Devas prayed for the Goddess to bring her back to peaceful form. Goddess self-manifested here on request of Devas to restore peace. Goddess Ganga and Nagamma also manifested here with Mangamma. 

Gubbala Mangamma Temple is located in Jangareddy Gudem, West Godavari District. It is said that Rama, Sita and Lakshman stayed here for some time. There are two mango trees near to this temple called by Rama and Lakshman to mark their presence. During Dwaparayuga, Pandavas lived here for some time after their exile from the kingdom. It believed that footprints of Bhima are still available here. Temple will be heavily floated on Tuesday, Thursday and Sundays.

Maddi Anjaneya Swamy Temple Jangareddygudem

As per the Legends, In Tretayuga, a demon Madvasura an ardent devotee of Hanuman used to work in the court of Ravana. During Rama-Ravana war, Madvasura unwilling to fight against Hanuman and left the body. He took birth as Madvakudu in Dwaparayuga and used to work with Kauravas. On seeing Hanuman flag on top of Arjuna's Chariot in the final battle, he left the war zone. He again took birth in Kaliyuga as Madhvudu and started living on the banks of Yerrakaluva.  Daily after taking a bath in Yerrakaluva he used to perform Hanuman Japam in his Ashram. Locals used to treat him as a Sage and called him by Maharshi Madhva. Out of his old age, he is not able to walk properly. One day, while going to the river bank to take the bath he was about to fell into the river, then a monkey held his hand and brought him to the back to the Ashram and served him a fruit.

Daily monkey used to hold him during bath and serve him with fruits. Sage without realising this used to continue with his Japam. One day, Sage looked at himself and thought how he was able to manage all his need with this aged body.  With his Spiritual powers, he came to know that the monkey is none other than Lord Hanuman and pleaded the Lord for his ignorance. Anjaneya Swamy appeared in his actual form and told him that he was happy in serving his devotee. Anjaneya Swamy also granted a boon of Sage's wish.  Sage expressed his desire to be with Swamy all the time. On his request Anjaneya Swamy self-manifested here with a fruit in one hand and Club (Gadha) in other and Sage to take the shape of a Maddi Tree.

Rameswara Swamy Temple Achanta

As per the Legends, Rama while on their way back to Ayodhya after Killing Ravana who was a Brahmin worshipped Siva Linga here to get rid of the sin. Hence, the name RamaLingeswara.

An interesting story associated with this temple, Once Two Saivites from Achanta, thought of worshipping Lord Siva in Kasi during Lingodhbava time. At the beginning of their journey, they came across a prostitute. One of the devotees attracted towards her and dropped his plans whereas the other with his pilgrimage to Kasi. The person who was performing Abhishekam to Linga during Lingodhbava time was distracted and keep thinking about his friend and pleasures. The one at pleasure house regretted and assumed Prostitute's Udder as Linga and started worshipping with devotion during Lingodhbava time. Impressed Lord Siva self-manifested here. Hence the Achanteswara (Aa Channu ta Eswara).

Ksheera Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple

As per the Legends mentioned in Skanda Purana and Brahmanda Purana, Demon Tarakasura theft Amrutha Atma Linga which emerged out during Ksheerasagar Mathanam (drilling Ocean of Milk). Tarakasura wearing this Linga around his neck, with hi supernatural powers, he was unbeatable. Kumara Swamy son of Siva and Parvathi, who was the commander-in-chief for deities came face to face with Tarakasura in the war. Kumara Swamy used his Sakthi weapon to kill Tarakasura. Kumaraswamy repeatedly broke Tarakasura body into pieces and it was reunified again.

Lord Maha Vishnu advised Kumara Swamy to break shiva linga into pieces, only then the demon can be killed. Maha Vishnu also said that even after breaking the shiva linga,  the pieces will try to reunite again. To prevent this reunion, all these broken pieces should be fixed in those places where they fall, by worshiping and building temples on top it.

As advised by Maha Vishnu, Kumara Swamy used his Agni weapon to break the Siva Linga worn by the demon.  The Atma Linga broken into five pieces, the broken pieces tried to reunite by making the chant 'Aum'.  To prevent this Indra, Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon),  Vishnu and Kumara Swamy worshipped the Linga's at the respective places. It is believed that Lord Vishnu installed the Siva Linga and Tripura Sundari (Parvati) here. 

Another interesting story associated with this temple, A poor Brahmin Koushika who struggle a lot for his daily needs. Once his son Upaveeta asked his mother to prepare milk rice. Due to poverty, she asked him to pray for Bhimeswara. As advised by her mother, he sat right in front of Idol for the milk. Impressed Lord Siva created a milk pool with his Trishul Hence, the name Ksheerapuram and Palakolanu which later called by Palakollu. 

Natta Rameswaram Temple History

As per the legends, Rama installed Linga here to get rid of the Dosha in Killing Ravana who is a Brahmin. Rama reached West Godavari while on his way back to Ayodhya. He asked Anjaneya to bring Siva Linga from Kailash as time is lapsing, Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana made two Siva Lingas from the river Sand and worshipped the Idols. As these Idols had snails (Natta) within, hence the name Natta Rama Lingeswara or Natta Rameswaram. Sage Jamadagni installed a Ling here. This Linga will be under waters of River Gostani for 10 months in a year and will be available for Darshan only during Summer for 2 months. Three Idols within this temple complex are  Rama Lingeswara, Lakshmana Lingeswara and Jamadagni installed Linga. Parasurama performed Yajna here at this place.

Shakteeswara Swamy Temple Yanamadurru Bhimavaram

As per the Legends, Demon Shambasura after receiving the boon from Lord Siva started troubling Sages. Sages know that this Demon can only be killed by Yama Dharma Raja and approached him for the protection. Yama battled with the Demon for years and lost in the battle. Seeking more power, Yama did penance for Lord Siva. Lord Siva who was Sirsa Asana posture did not respond for a long time. Knowing this Goddess Parvati gave him the additional powers with which he Killed the demon. Hence this name after Yama as Yama Puri which later turned to Yanamadduru. On Yama's request, Lord Siva manifested here in Yoga posture with His Consort Parvati and son Subramanya. As Siva manifested here with Shakti, this temple was called by Shakteeswara.

Bhimavaram Mavullamma Temple History

It is believed that Goddess manifested here in the year 1200 AD but the temple inscriptions date to 1880 AD. As per the folklore, In the year 1880 AD, Goddess appeared in the dreams of devotees Marella Machiraju and Grandhi Appana and revealed her whereabouts. As instructed by the goddess, these two devotees uncovered the Idol in the mango farm. These two devotees built the temple for the Goddess in the year 1880 AD.

Annual Jathara will be celebrated for a month, which starts on Jyeshta Suddha Padyami. In the year 1910, due to floods in the Bhimavaram, Idol was partially damaged. In the year 1920, a sculptor Tatavolu Nagabhushana acharya from the village Kalla restored the temple and the Idol. After which, goddess appeared ferocious and devotees used to fear to visit the temple. Later the sculptor Grandhi Apparao made the changes and brought the appearance from ferocious form to the present peaceful form.

Someswara Janardhana Swamy Temple Bhimavaram

As per the Legends mentioned in Skanda Purana and Brahmanda Purana, Demon Tarakasura theft Amrutha Atma Linga which emerged out during Ksheerasagar Mathanam (drilling Ocean of Milk). Tarakasura wearing this Linga around his neck, with hi supernatural powers, he was unbeatable. Kumara Swamy son of Siva and Parvathi, who was the commander-in-chief for deities came face to face with Tarakasura in the war. Kumara Swamy used his Sakthi weapon to kill Tarakasura. Kumaraswamy repeatedly broke Tarakasura body into pieces and it was reunified again.

Lord Maha Vishnu advised Kumara Swamy to break shiva linga into pieces, only then the demon can be killed. Maha Vishnu also said that even after breaking the shiva linga,  the pieces will try to reunite again. To prevent this reunion, all these broken pieces should be fixed in those places where they fall, by worshiping and building temples on top it.

As advised by Maha Vishnu, Kumara Swamy used his Agni weapon to break the Siva Linga worn by the demon.  The Atma Linga broken into five pieces, the broken pieces tried to reunite by making the chant 'Aum'.  To prevent this Indra, Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon),  Vishnu and Kumara Swamy worshipped the Linga's at the respective places.

It is believed that Chandra (Soma or Moon) fixed linga at Bhimavaram by worshiping the growing Linga.

Dwarka Tirumala Chinna Tirupati Temple

As per Legends, Sage Dwaraka did penance here on Sesachala Hills for the Lord Vishnu. Impressed with the penance, Lord self-manifested here in an anthill facing south. Sage unearthed the upper part of the Idol and remaining half still in the anthill because which Lord's holy feet is not visible outside. Later in the 11th Century AD, Saint Ramanujacharya installed one more idol following Vaikhanasa Agama Sastra on devotees request. 

Abhishekam will not be performed to the deity here. Annual Kalyanotsavam will be performed in the months of Vaikasa and Aswayuja to represent two deities. 

The present form the temple was built by Mylavaram Zamindars. Gopura, Mantap, Vimana and outer walls were built by Dharma Apparao during 1762 - 1827 AD. Rani Chinnamma Rao gifted jewels to the deity during 1877 - 1902 AD. 

Dwaraka Tirumala Temple Timings

Morning Hours: 4:00 am - 12:30 pm

Evening Hours: 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Antarvedi Narasimha Swamy Temple History

As per the Legends, In Krutayuga, the demon Raktavilochana, son of the demon king Hiranyaksha, performed a strict penance for the Lord Siva and got the boon. As per the conditions set in the boon, that new Raktha Vilochana will emerge out of every blood dropping on the Earth. With his supernatural powers, he started troubling Sages, Devas and innocent people in the Earth. Sage Viswamitra who was waiting for an opportunity to take revenge on Sage Vashista, provoked and diverted the demon on Sage Vashista's 100 sons. Sage Vashista was performing a strict penance on the banks, after diverting river Gowthami to the sea. Arundhati urged Vashista to save their children, for which Sage Vashista prayed for the Lord Narasimha who appeared before him with his Garuda Vahana. In the fierce battle, the demon Raktha Vilochana keeps gaining the strength. Lord Narasimha understood that this all due to the boon he acquired and created Maya Sakthi who came on a horse to the battlefield. Lord asked her to stretch her tongue and cover the entire Earth so that the demon's blood drops will not touch the Earth. Later Lord killed the demon with his discus (Chakra) and washed his discus and hands by creating the pool, which later came to known as Chakra Theertham. It is believed that whoever takes the bath in the Theertham will be relieved from the sins in the present life. Lord self-manifested here with His Consort Lakshmi facing West direction on Sage Vashista's request. As Maya Sakti came on a horse so she called by Aswarudambika, also called by Gurlakka. The blood pool which was created from the battles was called by the Raktakulya.

Temple Timings
5:00 am - 9:00 pm

Ainavilli Vinayaka Temple History Timings Address

It is believed that this deity exists from Krutayugam. In 14th Century AD, Great Scholar Sankara Battu mentioned this temple in his Sanskrit "Sri Pada Sri Vallabha Charitra" 5th chapter. As mentioned in the Charita, the villagers performed a Sarva Ganapathi Maha Yagna in 1320 AD and Lord appeared in the Yagna fire and accepted the offerings. Lord told them that he will take birth as SriPada Srivallabha. In the same chapter, it was mentioned that three atheists commented Ganapati because which they took the birth with disabilities Dumb,deaf and Blind. Later, these three discovered the Idol in the well while ploughing and got their actual forms. This place popular by the name Kanipakam Vinayaka. Ainavilli Vinayaka self-manifested here and is older than Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple. It is also said that Daksha Prajapati offered prayers to the Lord at Ainavilli before Daksha Yagna.

Ainavilli Siddi Vinayaka Temple Address and Contact number

Sri Vigneswara Swamy Devasthanam, Ainavilli, East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh

Contact number: +91 8856  225812

Appanapalli Bala Balaji Temple History

Vakulamatha wants to the see Lord as a child, on request of his mother Lord self-manifested here. Here is the story, Molleti Rama Swamy a coconut vendor, son of Molleti Munaiah and Mangamma, is an ardent devotees of Lord Venkateswara. He used to visit Tirupati regularly, once Lord in the form of a child appeared in the dreams of the devotee and told him that he will manifest in his village. One day Rama Swamy noticed Lord Balaji Idol in the weighing pan, he named the Idol as Bala Balaji and installed the Idol.

Appanapalli Bala Balaji Temple Timings

Darshan Timings on Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri

Morning Hours: 6:30 am  - 12:00 pm

Evening Hours: 2:00 pm - 7:15 pm

Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple Sarpavaram

As per the Legends, Sage Kasyapa married Kadru, daughter of Daksha Prajapati. Kasyapa had many other wives among them Vinata is popularly known. Kasyapa and Kadru were blessed with 1000 serpents. Kadru had a bet with her sister Vinata, whoever loses the bet will serve other. Here is the bet, Kadru said that the Indra's White Horsetail is black when Vinata disagreed on this. Kadru too knows that the Horsetail is white, she wants to play a trick so that she can enslave her sister. For which she asked her Sons to go and hang themselves to the tail themselves so that it looks black. But Kadru's son disobeyed her request for which she angered and cursed them that they all will die in the Yagna fire. Worried Kasyapa approached Brahma and Brahma told him that your sons are noble so they will not die. Ananta, Son of Kadru, did penance here for the Lord Vishnu and Lord Vishnu appeared before him and accepted his as his residing place. Hence, the popular by the name Sarpavaram (Sarpa means Serpent, Varam means boon)

Bhavanarayana Swamy Temple Timings

Morning Hours: 6:00 am - 11:00 pm

Evening Hours: 5:00 am - 8:00 pm

Mallavaram Subramanya Swamy Temple History

A serpent appeared in the premises of Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple and stayed calm at Siva Linga inside the sanctum sanctorum. This cobra used to take the bath in the nearby water canals and comes back to the temple. Villagers realised that this serpent possesses divine qualities and started constructing temple by pooling money from the villagers. One day while at the construction site they noticed that the same cobra remained dead. This cobra was buried at the construction site and performed the last rites. Subramanya Swamy Serpent form was installed in the sanctum sanctorum. Idol of Siva and Parvati were also installed in the temple complex. 

Later, one cobra started visiting this temple regularly and stays at Siva Linga. Priests and devotees used to visit this temple and started performing Abhishekam to the Linga. Devotees from nearby villages started visiting this temple in thousands. This temple was built in the year 1962.

Contact number:  +91 9849373654

Subramanya Swamy Temple Bikkavolu

Subramanya Swamy Temple Bikkavolu is dedicated to Lord Subramanya Swamy. Devotees used to visit this temple for Kala Sarpa Dosha and Naga Dosha Nivarana Pooja. In the past, this place was called by Birudamkitta Puram. There was supposed to be a Big tunnel which connects Peddapuram fort and this temple. Britishers used to call this underground tunnel as Big Hole which later turned to be the present Bikkavolu.

This temple was built by the King Gunaga Vijayaditya III of Eastern Chalukyas during 849 - 892 Century AD. The rich carvings on the temple walls and Gopuras resemble the Dravidian architecture. There are 3 other shrines in the temple complex out of which Sri Raja Rajeswari Temple and Sri Chandrasekara were popular. This temple is of 1200 years old. Subramanya Sasti will be celebrated in a grand at this temple. Subramanya Swamy is located within the temple complex of Golingeswara Swamy Temple.

Bikkavolu Golingeswara Swamy Temple History

Golingeswara Swamy Temple Bikkavolu is dedicated to Lord Siva. The main deity Golingeswara resides here with His consort Goddess Parvati. In the past, this place was called by Birudamkitta Puram. There was supposed to be a Big tunnel which connects Peddapuram fort and this temple. Britishers used to call this underground tunnel as Big Hole which later turned to be the present Bikkavolu.

This temple was built by the King Gunaga Vijayaditya III of Eastern Chalukyas during 849 - 892 Century AD. The rich carvings on the temple walls and Gopuras were built in with Dravidian architecture. There are 3 other shrines in the temple complex out of which Sri Raja Rajeswari Temple and Sri Chandrasekara were popular. The idol inside the Sanctum Sanctorum is made of black granite. This temple is of 1200 years old. 

Bikkavolu Lakshmi Ganapathi Temple

This idol is a monolithic statue and is known as Vijayanand Ganapathi. It is said that this Idol is increasing year by year and measures 90 x 50 inches. It is believed to be installed during 849 AD - 892 AD by the Chalukya Kings of the eastern region. Devotees used to whisper their wish in the Lord's ear. This idol came out of the Earth while ploughing. In the year 1988 the then priest, Golapalli Chalapati Rao performed Laksha Patri Pooja and Ganapathi Homam on every Sukla Chaviti day and this continued for 10 years. Later this pooja process continued by their family members. Water comes out from the bottom portion of the left leg of the Lord. 

Lakshmi Ganapathi Temple Bikkavolu is dedicated to Lord Vinayaka. The Main deity inside the temple is 7 feet tall. The Unique feature of this Idol is that trunk of the lord turned towards the right. 

Andhra Sabarimala Ayyappa Swamy Temple Dwarapudi

The Idol of Ayyappa Swamy was installed in the year 1989 by Kanchi Peetadhi Pathi Swamy Jayendra Saraswati. This idol was prepared using five metals gold, silver, lead, copper and iron which is called Panchaloha. There are 18 holy steps to the shrines similar to Sabarimala steps.Devotees who practice Ayyappa Deeksha will their Deeksha by visiting this temple. Unlike Sabarimala, there is no age restriction for female devotees, anyone can visit this holy shrine. Devotees who can't travel long used to end their Deeksha by visiting this temple. This temple will be heavily crowded during Makara Sankranti day. Thousands of devotees who were in Deeksha used to visit this temple to watch Makara Jyoti and Makara Vilakku which marks the ends of their Deeksha. On Makara Sankranti day, Lord Ayyappa will be taken out in a procession on a Hamsa shaped chariot. 

Kumararama Temple Samrlakota History

Demon Tarakasura theft Amrutha Atma Linga which emerged out during Ksheerasagar Mathanam (drilling Ocean of Milk). Tarakasura wearing this Linga around his neck, with its supernatural powers, he was unbeatable. Kumara Swamy son of Siva and Parvathi, who was the commander-in-chief for deities came face to face with Tarakasura in the war. Kumara Swamy used his Sakthi weapon to kill Tarakasura. Kumaraswamy repeatedly broke Tarakasura body into pieces and it was reunified again. Kumaraswamy was confused and sought advice from Vishnu.

Lord Maha Vishnu advised Kumara Swamy to break shiva linga into pieces, only then the demon can be killed. Maha Vishnu also said that even after breaking the shiva linga,  the pieces will try to reunite again. To prevent this reunion, all these broken pieces should be fixed in those places where they fall, by worshiping and building temples on top it.

As advised by Maha Vishnu, Kumara Swamy used his Agni weapon to break the Siva Linga worn by the demon.  The Atma Linga broken into five pieces, the broken pieces tried to reunite by making the chant 'om'.  To prevent this Indra, Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon),  Vishnu and Kumara Swamy worshipped the Linga's at the respective places. Kumara Swamy had installed the Siva Linga here.

Kunthi Madhava Swamy Temple Pithapuram History

As per the Legends, Chitraketu was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu was taught with Spiritual truths by the serpent king Adi Sesha during his tough times. Chitraketu became proud as Adi Sesha himself visited his house.  While leaving his palace, Adi Sesha gifted him with a Vimana to fly around. Chitraketu while passing through Mount Kailash he noticed that Lord Siva had kept his arm around Parvati Devi.  On seeing this Chitraketu smiled and said that you are embracing mother Parvati in front of Ganas.  Angered Parvati cursed Chitraketu to take birth as a demon, Chitraketu apologised for his ignorance and politely accepted the curse.

Chitraketu took the birth as the demon Vritrasura to the Prajapati Tvashta, who was a sage with great powers. Vritrasura performed strict penance and got the boon from the Lord that no weapon known till then can kill him and no weapon can harm him which is made out of wood and metal and he would not die which is wet or dry. He is also granted with the power which keeps increasing during the battle. Vritrasura with all his powers dethroned the Indra, God of heaven. Indra to regain the control over the Heaven, created a weapon 'Vajra Yudha' from the bones of the Sage Dadichi and using sea foam which is neither wet or dry. Indra killed the demon and regained the control over the Indralok. To get rid of Sin of Killing a Brahmin, he had installed five Vishnu Idols by the name 'Pancha Madhava' at 5 different places which are Kasi, Prayag, Padmanabha, Pithapuram and Rameswaram.

Sripada Srivallabha Dattatreya Temple Pithapuram

As per the Legends, Sripada Srivallabha the first incarnation of Lord Dattatreya in this Kaliyuga had lived from 1320 AD to 1350 AD. He was the third son of a Brahmin couple Appalaraja Sarma and Sumathi. Brahmin couple had two sons who were blind and disabled. It is said that when Appalaraja Sarma was preparing for Sraddha for his ancestors, a Bhikshu came to his house for food. Treating him as the Dattatreya, they offered food to his saint before feeding invited Brahmins. Impressed saint offered a boon for the Sumathi. She asked for a son who is Knowledgeable and good in health for the saint replied saying that Yes, you will be blessed with a knowledgeable child who will be the Guru of Gurus. SriPada completed Veda reading by Seven and after his Upanayanam, he started promoting Gyan. At the age of 16, his parents started looking for a bride. He told his parents that he will only marry "Vairagya Stree" where Vairagya means Dispassion and Stree mean Woman as he wants to stay as a single. He started with his pilgrimage and while leaving the home he cured his brothers and asked them to look after parents. He spent some time in Badri Kedar in the North India then moved to Gokarna Mahabaleshwar in the South India and stayed there for 3 years.  Then he spent most of his time at Kuravpur (the present Jurala project) in the Srisailam hills.

Puruhutika Devi Temple Pithapuram Andhrapradesh

As per legends, Prajapati Daksha's daughters had married the devas, but the youngest daughter, Sati had chosen to marry Lord Siva against her father's wish. Daksha was not keeping good relation with his son-in-law Lord Siva. Daksha to insult Lord Siva, decided to perform big Yagna, for which he invited all the gods and goddesses, except Lord Shiva, to partake their offerings.

When Sati on knowing this Yagna, decided to visit her maternal house, though she was not invited. Sati who was offended by the scoldings of her father immolated herself in the fire of Yogagni generated by her. Angered by this, Siva ordered Veerabhadra to destroy Daksha Yagna. Veerabhadra along with Kali and other Siva Ganas destroyed to Yajna and killed Daksha. 

Lord Siva after collecting Sati's body, danced the dance of destruction 'Pralaya Thandavam'. To stop this destruction, Vishnu sent his disc (Sudarshana Chakra) to break the corpse of Sati body into pieces. The disc broke the corpse into 18 pieces, which fell across the Indian subcontinent. These 18 places were called by Sakthi Peethas. Pithapuram is the place where Peeta part from Sati's body fallen here.

Kukkuteswara Swamy Padagaya Kshetra Pithapuram

As per the Legends, a demon by the name Gayasura who was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu performed strict penance. Lord Vishnu appeared before him and granted his wish that whoever sees him should attain salvation. Gayasura using his spiritual powers started increasing his body size with the intention that everyone on the Earth should attain salvation. Indra, the God of Heaven worried that if everyone attains salvation then there will be an imbalance in the creation and prayed for the Lord's Vishnu, Siva and Brahma seeking a solution. Lord Vishnu, Siva and Brahma transformed themselves as a Brahmins and approached Gayasura for Yajna space. They told Gayasura that there are many evil incidents on the Earth so they want to perform Yajna on top of Gayasura body which is holy. Brahmins also told him that this Yajna will run for seven days and you should be strong enough to bear the pain if the conditions are not met then he would be killed. Gayasura accepted their request and slept by lying down on the Earth, with Head in Siro Gaya (Gaya in Bihar), Navel in Jijapur (Nabi Gaya in Orissa) and his foot in Pithapuram (Padagaya in East Godavari , Andhra Pradesh). Gayasura started counting days on rooster crowing at early hours and on the last day of the Yajna, Siva took the form of a cock and crowed in the midnight. Not knowing the trick Gayasura woke up which disturbed the Yajna. Brahmins accused Gayasura of not sticking to his promise and also told him that, if he can't bear the pain from Yajna for 7 days then how can he absorb the sins of entire humankind. Angered Brahmins were ready to kill him, Gayasura ready to offer himself as promised. Impressed Lords before him in their actual form and granted a wish that the place where he laid down would become a holy shrine with Head part to be the Lord Vishnu's holy abode, Lord Brahma at Navel part and Lord Siva at the feet. And also granted boon that performing Pindapradana will credit their ancestors and attains salvation.

Mallkarjuna Swamy Temple Manikeswaram History

According to folklore, A salt merchant who was an ardent devotee of Lord Siva thought of taking a night halt at this place then called Boddupalli. A Siva devotee he used to sleep in the premises of temple during night halt. As he could not find any Siva temple, he poured the Salt on the Earth and placed measure (Manika in Telugu) on top it and offered prayers before getting into sleep. To his surprise, next day morning the measure transformed into a Stone resembling Linga. Hence, the village popular by the name Manikeswaram. 

From the inscriptions, it is known that this temple was built by the Chola Kings in 11th century AD who stayed here during their journey. 

Madukeswara Swamy Temple Manikeswaram is dedicated to Lord Siva and this temple is called Dakshina Kasi (South Kasi). As Manikeswaram Temple located on the banks of Gundlakamma which is similar to Kasi on the bank of River Ganga.

Mokshagundam Mukteswara Swamy Temple History

It is believed that Sage Vasista had installed the Siva Linga here and performed Puja.

As per the Legends, Everyday, Renuka the wife of Sage Jamadagni used to bring water from river Tungabadhra in a new pot which she prepares from the clay of river Tungabadhra for the Pooja of her husband. This power of moulding clay and Sand into a pot was acquired by her due to the power of her great Pathi (Husband) Bhakti. One day, while she was busy with her daily work, she chanced to glance at a king and queen who were bathing in the river. This caused a little amount of mental disturbance in Renuka so she was not able to prepare the pot. She, therefore, returned Ashram with the empty hands.

Sage Jamadagni who was aware of the powers of his wife understood that she had deviated from her path and therefore ordered his sons to kill her at once. All of them kept quite, but Parasurama alone was dutiful and carried out the cruel order of his father. Parasurama took bath here in this temple tanks and relieved from the committed Sin and performed Puja to the Lord. Hence, the diety got the name Mukteswaram.

Sathyavolu Ramalingeswara Temple History

This temple was built by Badami Chalukyas of Chola dynasty during 6th - 7th Century A.D. Rich carvings on the temple walls shows this fine skills of Chola Kings. There is a footprint at the entrance of the temple, devotees used to worship this footprint treating it as the Lord's impression. This temple was partly damaged during the Muslim rulers invasion. Entrance Mantap is of star shape which Cholas used to follow in their constructions. It is said that Sage Satya Rishi performed penance here for the Lord so the place called by Satyavolu. Later the temple was raised by Chola Kings.

As per the Legends, this Idol was installed by the King Janamejaya, Son of Parikshit and Great Grand Son of Pandava King Arjuna. Janameya to get rid of Sarpa Dosha had installed Siva Lingas in the South and Satyavolu Temple is one among them.

By Train

1. The nearest Railway station is at Giddalur which is 7 km from the temple

By Road

1. Giddalur is well connected with major cities in Andhra Pradesh with good bus frequency

Nemaligundla Ranganayaka Swamy Temple History

As per the Legends, Sage Mayura Rishi performed penance here for Lord Vishnu. To perform daily Abhishekam to the Lord,  Sage dug a small water pool with his nose tip. which later turned into a bigger pool. The water pool structure is in the shape of a Peacock so the place popular by the name Nemaligundla, where Nemali means peacock and Gundla mean Pool. Sage installed Ranganayaka Swamy Idol next to this water pool. Later the temple was built by the Villagers.

It is believed that those who speaks lies at this holy place will be punished.  The main deity Ranganayaka Swamy was in the reclining posture. 

Nemaligundla Ranganayaka Swamy Temple is located in Nallamalla Forest. Temple can be reached from J. Pullala Cheruvu in Racharla Mandal, Prakasam District. Annual Brahmotsavam festival will be performed to the deity during Mar- Apr. Brahmotsavam will be conducted for 3 days.

Mallavaram Venkateswara Swamy Temple History

As per the Legends, Once Lord Venkateswara happens to reach Gundika river. Impressed with the beauty of the hill, he thought of taking rest here. Tammavarapu Hill told Lord that it can't bear him. Angered Venkateswara kicked the edge of the hill, part of which fell into Gundlakamma. Even today the broken piece of the hill can be seen in the middle of Gundlakmma. Mallavaram Hill requested Lord to take rest on him. Lord accepted the kind request and took rest on this hill for some time. Lord went around the hills on a Horse, footprints which are still visible. While leaving the place, Lord asked the Hill if you have any wish. Mallavaram with great devotion requested Lord to leave him velour on him. Lord granted the wish of the Hill and left the place. Later, while Sage Narada moving around this place, found the velour of the Lord and installed the Idol here.  It is said that Serpent King Adisesha performed Pooja to the Lord here. 

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Singarayakonda

As per the Legends, This region was ruled by Demon Kharasura, who established a vast Kharati Dynasty. He was an ardent devotee of Lord Narasimha who used to visit this place daily for Lord Narasimha Darshan. One day, When Kharasura requested the Lord for a boon, Lord replied him that He will grant boon in his Rama Avatar (An Incarnation of Lord Vishnu). Angered Kharasura started interrupting Yajnas and Homam of the Sages. When Rama exiled from the Kingdom, during his journey towards the south, Sages requested Rama to guard their Yajna. When Rama came across Kharasura who a devotee of Narasimha, Rama installed and offered prayers to Lord Narasimha before killing the demon. 

It is believed that Sage Narada did penance for Lord Narasimha who appeared before him in Varaha Narasimha Avatar. 

Temple Darshan Timings

Morning Hours: 7:00 am - 12:30 pm

Afternoon Hours: 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple Motupalli

Sri Rama and Veerabhadra Swamy Temples in Motupalli Village reflect the rich culture of Satavahana Kings. It is said that this Temple flourished during the times of Kakatiya rulers who established sea trade with foreign countries. Inscriptions on the temple walls were written in Telugu, Tamil and Sanskrit Languages. Motupalli Village is located in the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh in Chinnaganjam Mandal, Prakasam District. During Kakatiyas, Motupalli acted as the major hub for sea transportation. 

Sri Rama Navami festival will be celebrated in a grand here, villagers from nearby villages used to participate during the annual celebrations. Currently, this site is under the maintenance of Archaeological Survey of India. 

Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Malakonda History

As per Legends, Lord Vishnu asked Goddess Lakshmi if she had anything in her mind. Goddess Lakshmi replied that the current existing Divya Kshetras were not easily accessible for the devotees and needs lot of money to travel long distances. Goddess Lakshmi requested Lord to manifest in a place which is accessible for the devotees. Lord Vishnu granted Goddess wish and ordered Vanamala to establish a Holy abode for his stay on the Earth. As instructed by the Lord, Vanamala transformed himself as a Hill Malakonda for the Lord's stay. Lord Self manifested here with His Consort Lakshmi on top of Malakonda. 

Temple Timings: Temple opens only on Saturdays for Devotees Darshan. 

It is 970 steps to reach Hill top. This path is fully covered with flowers and rocks. There is another path to Hill which is Narrow, only Auto, Tractors, Car and other private vehicles can pass thru this path. It will be slow moving traffic as many like to take this path. 

Chennakesava swamy temple markapur

Chennakesava Temple Markapur reflects Vijayanagara style of construction. Temple is located on banks of the river Gundlakamma. Temple Tower can be viewed even from the very long distance. Temple tower is of 135 feet tall.

In the month of December, Sun rays pass through Gopuram and touches the feet of the deity for 20 mins in a day, which is a marvellous engineering. This event occurs for 12 days in the month of Dec. This temple was built by the Vijayanagara rulers during 1405 - 1459 A.D. Temple walls and Gopuram were filled with rich carvings. 

It is said that Lord Vishnu killed the demon Kesi at this place. The Main deity Chenna Kesava Swamy was accompanied by His Consort Goddess Lakshmi in the Sanctum Sanctorum. 

Chennakesava Temple Markapur Timings: 6:00 am - 8:30 pm

By Train

1. The nearest railway station is at Markapur Road which is at a walkable distance from this temple.

By Bus

1. Direct bus to Markapur is available from Prakasam bus station which is 74 km away.
2. Direct bus to Markapur is available from Ongole which is 94 km away.

Siddhi Janardhana Kotipalli History

As per Legends, Sounaka and other Sages went to Sage Suta to know the sacredness of Koteeswara and Siddi Janardhana. Suta started narrating as follows. Sage Narada once went to Lord Brahma to know the Sacredness of Goutami and Kotitirtham and What made Lord Someswara to self-manifest here. Lord Brahma replied him that area of 3 - 4 miles to the South of Kotitirtham and Near Mukteswaram is a very sacred place, and at Goutami and Kotitirtham they all merge in the Holy Vishnu Tirtha, The Brahma Tirtha and Maheswara Tirtha and Rama Tirtha.

Once the benefactor of the Devas, Pundarikaksha performed penance here for years. Ruler of demons, King Bali conquered and started ruling three worlds. Agni, Indra with other Devas approached the Lord at Koti Thirtham. Kasyapa an ardent devotee prayed for the Lord to rescue Devas. Lord Vishnu pleased with Kasyapa prayers and born to Kasyapa and Aditi in his Vamana Avatar. Vamana went to King Bali seeking 3 feet land space. Vamana in his Third step sent Bali to Pathala Loka. Sage Kashyap installed Lord Vishnu here as the Kshetra Palaka.