Temple

Situated in Mangalagiri, Panakala Narasimha Swamy Temple is one of the famous temple in Andhra pradesh dedicated to Lord  Narasimha Swamy. It is one of the 8 important Mahakshetrams (sacred places) in India. Panakala Narasimha Swamy implies God Who Drinks Panakam (jaggery water). Here the God takes jaggery water as offering by a conch. There are 3 Lord Narasimha temples in Mangalagiri. Panakala Narasimha Swamy on the hill, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy at the foot of the temple and Gandala Narasimha Swamy at the top of the hill.

Legend

According to the legends, King Pariyatra had a son named Hrasva Srungi. Hrasva Srungi visited all holy and sacred places to regain normal bodily stature and finally visited Mangalagiri and stayed there for three years. He performed severe penance to Lord Vishnu. One day King Pariyatra came there to take Hrasva Srungi back to his kingdom. But Hrasva Srungi took the shape of an elephant to become the abode of Lord Vishnu who is locally known as Panakala Lakshmi Narasimhaswamy.
There is a legend about the offering of the panakam (jaggery water) to the Lord. It is said that the hill was once a volcano. Sugar or jaggery water, it is said, neutralizes sulphur compounds found in a volcano and prevents a volcanic eruption.

Architecture

Panakala Narasimha Swamy Temple is situated on the hill. In 1955, a dhwajasthambham was erected in front of the temple. There is no statue of the god in the temple. In that place, there is only mouth, widely opened to 15 cms. The mouth is covered by metal face of the god. The temple has a very tall tower with beautiful sculpture which has 11 storeys. Behind the temple there is the temple of Goddess Lakshmi.

Picture Courtesy : commons.wikimedia.org

Darsan Info

The temple is open from 7: 00 AM to 3: 00 PM.

Darsan Dresscode

There is no specific dress code. Devotees are advised to dress appropriately.

Famous Festival

The temple celebrates all festivals like Narasimha Jayanthi, Maha Shivaratri, Rama Navami, Mukkoti Ekadashi and Hanumath Jayanti. Brahmothsavam is an important festival celebrated at  the temple.

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.

Temple Rituals

The temple opens at 7:00 AM
Archana : 7:00 AM to 7:30 AM
Special Archana for the devotees and offering Panakam : 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Maharnivedana : 1:00 PM
Temple closes at 3:00 PM

Special Rituals

Lord Narasimha Swamy will go on procession on a small chariot on Mahasivarathri.

Additional Info