Kurnool is famous for its temple tourism and has become a hotspot for people searching for spiritual awakening. The temples in Kurnool are the most revered and ancient temples in the nation. The place is jam-packed by devotees who travel here to visit their holy places. These temples are not just holy places but also home to the rich historical heritage of ancient India. You should visit these places at least once in your lifetime If you are a history student or someone who loves archaeology.
Top 10 Best Temples In Kurnool
Here are the 10 best temples in Kurnool which are a must-visit during your trip to this beautiful town in Andhra Pradesh:
1. Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple
Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple is well-known for its ever growing Nandi statue, one of the famous temples in Kurnool.The temple is surrounded by beautiful hills and natural caves offering an air of serenity. The idol of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati resides in the main sanctuary. There is a beautiful Nandi idol standing outside the temple, which was carved out of a single black rock. The temple was supposedly intended for Lord Venkateswara, but Lord Shiva was dedicated there instead because of the idol’s fractured toe.
Location: Yaganti, 100 km from Kurnool
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Ahobilam Temple
Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons
The temple complex known as Ahobilam is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple has nine shrines in the compound, each representing a distinct incarnation of Lord Narasimha. The temples, which are located in the Nallamala Hills, provide both natural beauty and a sense of peace. The Vijayanagara kings made major contributions to the temples, which are said to have been built in the eighth century. Ahobilam is connected to the legend of Lord Narasimha appearing to save his devotee Prahlada from Hiranyakashipu, the demon.
Location: Ahobilam, 74 km from Kurnool
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Mahanandi Temple
Photo: P. Madhusudan / Wikimedia Commons
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Mahanandi Temple is one of the popular temples in Kurnool for its nine Nandi shrines. The holy water streams at the temple are famous because they are thought to have healing properties. Experts believe it is due to the continuous flow of water that is located under the temple. A Swayambhu (self-manifested) Shiva Lingam can be found in the center of the temple. Though major restorations were made during the Vijayanagara dynasty, the temple originally dates back to the Chalukyan period.
Location: Mahanandi, 16 km from Nandyal, 90 km from Kurnool
Timings: 5 AM – 8:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
4. Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
Photo: Srinivas Chidumalla / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the eighteen Shakti Peethas honoring Goddess Parvati and one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples honoring Lord Shiva is what sets the temple apart from other temples. The temple features beautiful carvings and sculptures that contribute to making it a piece of art. Standing on the top of the Nallamala Hills, it provides stunning views of the forest below. The temple was allegedly constructed at the location where Lord Shiva and Parvati first appeared to Sage Agastya.
Location: Srisailam, 180 km from Kurnool
Timings: 4:30 AM – 10 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to February
5. Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
Photo: Sambachennamsetty / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, one of the incarnations of Vishnu. Known for its serene surroundings and magnificent architecture, the temple is visited by many devotees every year. It is believed that the temple was built in the Vijayanagara period and is one of the biggest temples in Kurnool. While we don’t really know who built it, it is still one of the oldest temples in Kurnool and among the most beautiful landmarks. It is one of the most prominent landmarks of the place.
Location: Rollapadu, 50 km from Kurnool
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to February
6. Sri Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
This temple, which worships Lord Shiva, is famous for its intricate carvings and breathtaking design. The picturesque beauty of the temple improves by its location on the bank of the Penna River. The natural spring that streams below the main lingam is the temple’s main attraction. The temple was constructed in the Vijayanagara era, and its architecture is a reflection of that period.
Location: Tadipatri, 120 km from Kurnool
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to February
7. Sri Kanyaka Parameshwari Temple
Photo: Hpsatapathy / Wikimedia Commons
The temple, dedicated to Goddess Kanyaka Parameswari, is famous for both its stunning design and peaceful setting. The temple is one of the important religious sites for the Arya Vysya community. Every year, people celebrate the Navratri with incredible enthusiasm from all over the world. The Arya Vysya community built the temple, which has served as the focal point of their religious activities for many years.
Location: Gunupur, Kurnool city
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
8. Sri Gopala Swamy Temple
Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons
The temple, one of the best in Kurnool temples, is located in the lovely village of Brahmamgari Matam. The temple complex has beautiful surroundings as well as a number of shrines. The temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna, is famous for both its lovely statue and peaceful setting. It is believed that the temple was constructed by a follower who received dream guidance from Lord Krishna. According to folklore, the temple’s Lord Krishna idol is extremely powerful and bestows desires upon followers.
Location: Brahmamgari Matam, 60 km from Kurnool
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
9. Sri Sangameswara Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is well known for its gorgeous sculptures and unique architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is located at the meeting point of the two rivers, Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers. The serene setting of the temple and the confluence’s beautiful looks make it a popular pilgrimage site. The temple was originally built in antiquity and has undergone renovations over the centuries by a number of dynasties.
Location: Muchumarri, 50 km from Kurnool
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: November to February
10. Nava Brahma Temple Complex
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
The Nava Brahma Temples, a collection of nine temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, date from the seventh and eighth century. These temples, which were constructed by the Badami Chalukyas, are popular for their complex carvings and Chalukyan architecture. Every temple, named after many incarnations of Brahma, provides a distinct spiritual experience. Located near the banks of the Tungabhadra River, these temples offer a calm atmosphere that attracts both tourists and believers.
Location: Alampur, 30 km from Kurnool
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Temples in Kurnool have a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and architectural grandeur with its complex network of temples. Every temple has a unique tale to tell, and exploring these sacred locations offers a glimpse into the history of Andhra Pradesh. Not only do they offer visitors solace but also give us a peek into Chalukyan architecture, their culture, beliefs, and day-to-day life. Plan your visit to Kurnool to explore these amazing temples and their history with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Veera.sj / Wikimedia Commons