Ahobilam Nava Narasimha Temples
Also known as: அஹோபிலம் நரசிம்மர் கோயில்கள் · అహోబిలం నరసింహ ఆలయాలు · अहोबिलम नरसिंह मंदिर
Andhra Pradesh Vishnu
Nine Narasimha shrines in the Nallamala forest, a major Narasimha pilgrimage. Needs some trekking.
- Deity
- Ahobila Narasimha, Prahladavarada (Lower Ahobilam)
- Tradition
- Vishnu
- Place
- Ahobilam, Nandyal
- State
- Andhra Pradesh
- Era
- Prahladavarada temple mostly 16th century.
Sthala Puranam
Tradition holds that Narasimha came out of a pillar here to protect his devotee Prahlada and defeat Hiranyakashipu. The nine forms are the nine shrines of the place.
Upper Ahobilam has the oldest shrine, to the fierce (ugra) form. Lower Ahobilam has the Prahladavarada temple, to the gentle (saumya) form, mostly built in the 16th century.
Speciality
- Nine Narasimha forms: Ahobila, Bhargava, Jwala, Yogananda, Chatravata, Karanja, Pavana, Malola and Varaha.
- The shrines are spread over forest and hill. Some need a walk or climb.
- The Ahobila Matha, a Sri Vaishnava mutt, is linked to this place.
Festivals
- Narasimha Jayanti
- Brahmotsavam at Lower Ahobilam
How to reach
By airKadapa and Tirupati are the nearest large airports; Hyderabad is the major hub.
By trainNandyal is the main railhead, about 70 km.
By roadAllagadda is the nearest town. Buses and cabs run from Nandyal and Allagadda.
Location is approximate.
Before you go
- Dress modestly. Leave footwear outside the temple.
- Timings, ticket rules and dress codes change. Check the temple's own notice or website before you travel.
- Book darshan, rooms and special poojas only at the official counter or website, not through agents.
- Visit a local guide before you trek to the upper shrines. Go early; forest shrines close by evening.
- Carry water. Jwala and Malola routes are hard.
Prayers for this temple
Sources
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