Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple – Darshans & Bookings Guide

The Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple, also known as Amararama, is a sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Amaravati, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, on the southern bank of the Krishna River. The temple holds immense spiritual importance as one of the five Pancharama Kshetras, a group of temples where Lord Shiva is worshipped in five distinct forms.

This ancient temple attracts thousands of devotees every year, who visit to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings and experience the divine serenity of Amaravati.

Speciality and Significance

• Divine Origin: According to legend, when Lord Subrahmanya (Kartikeya) killed the demon Tarakasura, the Shiva Lingam worn by the demon broke into five pieces, which fell in different locations. One such piece fell at Amaravati, forming the sacred Amaralingeswara Lingam.

• Unique Lingam: The Shiva Lingam here is tall, around 15 feet in height, made of white marble, and is believed to be growing in size. To control this growth, a nail was reportedly hammered into the top, from which blood once oozed — still marked by a red stain visible today.

• Goddess and Deities: The presiding deity is Lord Shiva as Amaralingeswara Swamy, accompanied by Goddess Bala Chamundika Devi. The temple complex also houses several sub-shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Goddess Parvati, and other deities.

• Architectural Grandeur: The temple showcases a mix of Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles with majestic gopurams, intricately carved pillars, and a serene courtyard facing the Krishna River.

• Spiritual Belief: It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva here for three consecutive days and bathing in the Krishna River grants liberation (moksha). Devotees also believe that those who die here are absorbed by Lord Shiva himself.

How to Reach Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple

By Air:
The nearest airport is Vijayawada International Airport (Gannavaram), approximately 80–90 km from Amaravati. From the airport, taxis and buses are available directly to the temple town.

By Train:
The closest railway stations are Peddakurapadu (19 km) and Guntur Junction (35 km). Trains from major cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Vijayawada halt at Guntur, from where regular buses and taxis are available.

By Road:
Amaravati is well connected by road. Regular APSRTC buses and private vehicles operate from Guntur (35 km), Vijayawada (40 km), and Hyderabad (around 280 km). The temple is just about 1.5 km from the Amaravati bus stand.

Darshan Timings & Bookings

Temple Timings:

• Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM

• Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Entry & Ticket Information:

• General Darshan: Free entry for all devotees.

• Special Darshan: A small fee may be applicable for quick darshan (usually around ₹50).

Popular Sevas & Rituals:

• Rudrabhishekam: ₹200 (for two devotees)

• Nithya Kalyanam (Daily Marriage Ceremony): ₹3,000 onwards

• Astottaram Archana & Homams: Available on request

For special puja or seva bookings, devotees can contact the temple office directly. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam.

Dress Code:
Traditional attire is recommended. Men are advised to wear dhoti or formal trousers and women are encouraged to wear sarees or salwar suits. Footwear and mobile photography are not allowed inside the sanctum.

Temple Experience & Tips

• The temple atmosphere is calm and spiritually charged, especially during early mornings and evenings.

• During major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Navratri, and Karthika Deepotsavam, large crowds gather, and special rituals are performed.

• The Krishna River Ghat beside the temple is an ideal spot for a holy dip and peaceful meditation.

• Local shops sell prasadam, idols, and souvenirs for devotees.

• Accommodation options are available in Amaravati and nearby Guntur, including temple lodges and private hotels.

• Visitors are encouraged to maintain cleanliness and respect temple customs.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re planning a longer trip, you can also explore:

• Amaravati Stupa: An ancient Buddhist site with sculptures dating back to the 2nd century BCE.

• Krishna River Ghat: For serene walks and scenic views.

• Undavalli Caves: A beautiful rock-cut temple complex about 35 km away.

• Guntur City: For shopping, dining, and accommodation options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best time to visit the temple?

The ideal time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. Early morning and evening hours are recommended for peaceful darshan.

2. Is there any entry fee for darshan?

No, the general darshan is free. However, special darshan or puja tickets are available for a small fee.

3. Can I perform special pujas like Rudrabhishekam or Kalyanam?

Yes, the temple offers various sevas such as Rudrabhishekam, Nithya Kalyanam, and Homams. You can book these at the temple counter or by contacting the temple office in advance.

4. How far is the temple from Vijayawada?

The temple is about 40 km from Vijayawada and can be reached by car or bus in around 1.5 hours.

5. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

Photography is generally restricted inside the main sanctum but allowed in the outer temple areas.

6. Are there any accommodations nearby?

Yes, devotees can stay at temple guest houses in Amaravati or choose from several hotels in Guntur, which is about 35 km away.

7. What festivals are celebrated at the temple?

Major festivals include Maha Shivaratri, Karthika Deepam, Navratri, and Sankranti. During these periods, special poojas and cultural programs are conducted.

Conclusion

The Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple is a magnificent blend of devotion, architecture, and legend. Its tranquil setting on the Krishna River and its divine aura make it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for Shiva devotees. Whether you seek blessings, spiritual peace, or cultural heritage, a visit to this temple in Amaravati promises a soul-stirring experience.