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Annavaram temple, one of India’s most revered holy shrines, holds second place after Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. Built in the Dravidian style, the temple’s glory is detailed in the Revakhanda of Skanda Purana. The presiding deity, Lord Satyanarayana Swamy, resides on Ratnagiri Hill alongside his consort Sri Anantha Lakshmi and Lord Siva. The temple’s sacredness is enhanced by the Pampa River, which touches the hill’s base. Known for its divine trinity form, Sri Veera Venkata Sathyanarayana Swamy Vari Devasthanam temple attracts Vaishnava and Saiva devotees, offering blessings to thousands daily.
Annavaram Temple Location
Photo: Andrea Piacquadio / Pexels / Image For Representation
Sri Veera Venkata Sathyanarayana Swamy Vari Devasthanam is in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Approximately 120 kilometres from the bustling city of Visakhapatnam, this sacred site is comfortably accessible from major urban centres. It is set against a backdrop of verdant hills and lush greenery, offering a serene and picturesque setting.
How To Reach
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The temple is well-connected by various modes of transportation, making it easy for devotees and travellers to visit this holy site.
By Air: The nearest airport to the temple is Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ), about 120 kilometres away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
By Train: Annavaram railway station is conveniently located just 2 kilometres from the temple. It is well-connected to major cities like Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad, making train travel a comfortable option.
By Road: If you’re driving, the Temple is accessible via National Highway 16. The drive from Visakhapatnam takes around 2.5 hours and offers a scenic route through the Andhra countryside.
Places To Visit In And Around Annavaram Temple
Discover some lesser-known gems with this list of top places to visit near the temple:
1. Sri Satyanarayana Swamy Temple
Photo: కాసుబాబు / Wikimedia Commons
Sri Satyanarayana Swamy Temple, on Ratnagiri hill, 2 km from Annavaram Railway Station, is dedicated to Lord Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy. Constructed in the Dravidian style in 1891 and later reconstructed, the temple features a chariot-shaped design with 460 stone steps leading to it. The main deity is accompanied by Goddess Ananta Lakshmi and Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush greenery and the Pampa River, the temple is a significant spiritual site, especially during festivals like Kalyanam and Devi Navaratri.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM and 1 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: NA
2. Thalupulamma Talli Temple
Photo: Srichakra Pranav / Wikimedia Commons
Talupulamma Talli Temple, dedicated to the goddess Gramadevatha, is situated between the forested hills of Darakonda and Teegakonda, about 15 kilometres from Annavaram. It is a popular destination for locals, particularly truck and car owners from the Godavari and Northern Coastal districts, who come here to seek protection and financial stability. Devotees offer pooja, make sacrifices, and often paint their vehicle registration numbers on the temple walls as a mark of devotion. This temple is a significant religious site near Annavaram.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: NA
3. Uppada Beach
Photo: UdayAgastya77 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Managed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), Uppada Beach is a premier tourist spot near Annavaram, featuring a vast shoreline. Known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, the beach provides clear waters for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing strolls. A well-kept park behind the beach offers an excellent setting for picnics with family and friends, making it a great place for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NA
4. Kumararama Bhimeswara Swamy Temple
Photo: Divya Talla / Wikimedia Commons
Kumararama Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is renowned for its Dravidian architecture and is one of the five revered Pancharama Kshetras. The temple features a main hall supported by 100 pillars, and its inner sanctum houses a 16-foot-tall limestone Shivalinga, protected by a monolithic Nandi bull. The Shivalinga extends to the second floor and is venerated as Lord Rudrabhaga. This spiritual destination near Annavaram draws many devotees, especially during major festivals such as Maha Shivratri, Sarannavarathri, and Kalyana Mahotsavam.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: NA
5. Pampa River
Photo: Radhika41 / Wikimedia Commons
2 km from Annavaram Railway Station, the Pampa River flows at the base of Ratnagiri Hill, home to the Sri Satyanarayana Swamy Temple. The Pampa Sarovar barrage on the river features a boating facility, offering visitors a memorable ride. This experience lets you take in the serene landscape and lush greenery of Ratnagiri Hill. The peaceful atmosphere of the river provides an ideal setting for relaxation and appreciation of the natural beauty.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: NA
Where To Stay
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Accommodation options near the temple range from budget lodgings to mid-range hotels, catering to various preferences and budgets. Many hotels offer comfortable stays with basic amenities, including air conditioning and on-site dining, while providing easy access to the temple. Popular choices include the the temple Guest House, which offers a serene environment, and local lodges that provide clean rooms and hospitable service. These accommodations ensure a pleasant and convenient stay for both pilgrims and tourists, enhancing the overall experience of the visit.
Where To Eat
Photo: PriyaBooks / Wikimedia Commons
Annavaram offers a delightful taste of traditional Andhra cuisine, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the region. Don’t miss out on trying local delicacies such as Pulihora (tamarind rice), Gongura Pachadi (sorrel leaf chutney), and Pesarattu (green gram dosa), all known for their vibrant flavours and spice. Local eateries serve these dishes with a variety of accompaniments, such as chutneys and pickles, enhancing the overall dining experience and providing an authentic taste of Andhra Pradesh.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Annavaram temple is between October and March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and cool, making sightseeing and participating in temple activities comfortable. Avoid the peak summer months when temperatures can rise significantly.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip:
A trip to the temple can range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 per person, including transportation, accommodation, and meals, depending on your travel preferences.
Tips For Travellers:
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Check the temple’s opening hours and any special event schedules before your visit.
- Keep a small amount of cash for offerings and purchases at local stalls.
- Respect the local environment and dispose of waste properly.
- When visiting the temple, dress modestly. Women should wear sarees or salwar kameez, and men should opt for dhotis or trousers with shirts.
Annavaram Temple, with its divine presence and peaceful surroundings, offers a unique spiritual retreat for visitors. \located on Ratnagiri hill, this sacred site provides a serene atmosphere for reflection and devotion. To explore more about this sacred destination and plan your trip, visit TripXL’s website for detailed information and travel packages. Experience the serenity and cultural richness of Annavaram and make your visit truly unforgettable.
Cover Photo: Adityamadhav83 / Wikimedia Commons
