History:

dates back to 11th century AD. This temple is one of the Pancharamas in Andhra and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is renowned for its unique architectural style. The pictures of dancing Lord Shiva as Nataraja adorns the sanctum walls. Besides Lord Shiva, the temple complex also houses shrines of Lord Vishnu, Subramanya, Surya, Bhairava and Mahendra. The temple is a popular pilgrim center, attracting thousands of devotees from all over India every year. The festivals celebrated here are Maha Shivaratri, Vasanth Panchami and Ratha Saptami. The temple also has an interesting history. According to legends, Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati visited the temple to witness the 'Kurmavatara' of Lord Vishnu in the region. The temple structure also houses flag masts and pillars with designs of elephants which are believed to be a representation of Lord Shiva’s Tandava Dance. It is believed that Lord Murugan granted a boon to the sage called Tirumangai here. The temple's architecture is truly remarkable with a number of beautiful sculptures carved in the walls. It is one of the best temple in Andhra-Pradesh which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Srikurmam Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Sri Kurmannatha Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. 2. The temple is situated in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, India. 3. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Eastern Chalukyas during the 6th century, making it one of the oldest temples in the region. 4. Sri Kurmanatha Swamy is the main deity of the temple. The temple also houses other deities such as Sri Venkateswara Swamy, Sri Laxminarayan Swamy, Sri Sudarshana Swamy and Sri Garuda Swamy. 5. The temple is a popular pilgrimage centre and is visited by thousands of devotees from all over the country. 6. The inscriptions on the temple walls indicate that many important personalities have made donations to the temple in the past. 7. The temple is also associated with many legends, one of which is the legend of Sage Vyasa who is believed to have resided here and composed the famous Bhagavad Gita. 8. Other festivals celebrated at the temple include ‘Ramanavami’, ‘Krishna Janmashtami’, ‘Durga Pooja’ and ‘Kartik Purnima’. 9. The annual 10-day festival, called ‘Dasara’, is celebrated with great grandeur and devotion during the months of October-November. 10. The temple is managed by the Endowments department of Government of Andhra Pradesh and is under the control of the Devasthanam board. Here are some facts about the Andhra-Pradesh temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Andhra-Pradesh

Worship Method:

The worship method of Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple, Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh involves a number of rituals that must be performed on a daily basis. Everyday, at dawn, the temple priest offers a special worship to the presiding deity with Suprabhata Seva, which includes the chanting of Vedic mantras and stotras. This is followed by elaborate Puja rituals in which a variety of offerings and prayers are made. Later in the day, Bali (animalt sacrifice) and Arthi are also performed to the Lord. The temple also hosts many festivals throughout the year, which include Brahmotsavam, Holi, Navaratri, Utsavams, and Janmashtami among others. During these festivities, the idols of the deity are bathed, adorned and offered a variety of fruits, flowers and other offerings. Several pujas and rituals are conducted to honour the deities, which are followed by a procession in which devotees and locals come together for a joyous celebration. At the end of the festival, camphor is lit and offered to the deity, who is then taken in a procession around the temple. This most visited temple in Andhra-Pradesh

Opening Timing:

The temple is open daily from 5:00 am to 8:00 pm. top temples in Andhra-Pradesh

How to reach:

By Train: Srikurmam Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple is located near Srikakulam Town railway station which is well connected with many major cities via railways. By Air: The nearest airport to Srikurmam Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple is Vishakhapatnam Airport, located 128 km away. By Road: Srikurmam Sri Kurmanatha Swamy Temple is well-connected with major cities through buses and private taxi services. Taxis and buses from Vijayawada and Vishakhapatnam are available at regular intervals to reach the temple. famous temples in Andhra-Pradesh