SriKurmam Temple is a temple dedicated to Sri Kurmanatha, which is the second avatar of Lord Vishnu, Kurma Avatar (Tortoise). It is the only Swayambhu Temple in the World where Lord Vishnu is adored in the form of Kurma. The temple is located 13 kilometers east of Srikakulam town near the bay of bengal sea. Srikurmam Temple is under the administration of Andhra Pradesh State Endowments Department.

Location Andhra Pradesh , Srikakulam, Hyderabad

Legend

According to the legends, a King named Sweta Maharaja did severe penance for many years during the Kruta Yuga. Pleased with the king's devotion, Lord Vishnu manifested in this place in Kurma avatar. Later Lord Brahma overlooked the celestial rituals and consecrated the shrine with Gopala Yantra.

Architecture

SriKurmam Temple has a blend of both Orrisa and Andhra style of architectures. The moolasthanam (central piece) is considered to be large saligrama. The image is not a sculpture crafted by man, but the fossil of an actual (large-size) turtle. There is a mandapam in front of the temple on lion pillars. The temple has two Dhwajasthambas (flag posts) in east and west directions. That is because the deity in this temple faces towrads the west. The temple has beautiful carvings of Lord Vishnu and other deities. SriKurmam Temple is one of the few temples in the world with centuries old rare mural paintings similar to those in Ajanta Ellora Caves. There is a tortoise park in the temple premises.

Culture

Andhra Pradesh has a rich and diverse culture. Andhra Pradesh is definitely a priceless gem present in the tiara of Indian glory. The uniqueness of this state is distinctly observed from its diverse religions and communities followed by Andhra people.An affinity for different cultures and a rare open-mindedness cultivated by a rich history allows for a harmonious way of life in the City of Nawabs.

Darsan Info

The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 3:00 PM to 7:45 PM.

Darsan Dresscode

Devotees are advised to be traditionally attired.

Famous Festival

3 day Dolotsavam (Falguna Paurnami - popularly known as Holi)

One day Annual Kalyanotsavam (Vaisakha Shudha Ekadasi)

One day Annual JanmaDinam (Kurma Jayanthi)

Festival of Deity on Jyeshta Bahula Dwadasi

One day Festival on Mukkoti Ekadasi

Temple Rituals

Abhishekam is performed to deity on daily basis and devotees can also participate by paying a nominal fee.The time of abhishekam is 4:30 AM to 6:00 AM.

Special Rituals

Devotees should do atleast one pradakshina (keeping the shrine to one's right) before the darshan of the Lord.

Additional Info

 

Jagadeesh Red Cherry Bakery and Restaurant

 Supermarket : Available