The Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple in Visakhapatnam (Vizag) is one of the city’s most powerful and cherished spiritual landmarks. Located in the bustling old-town area of Burujupeta, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kanaka Mahalakshmi, worshipped as the guardian deity of Vizag. She is believed to bless her devotees with prosperity, protection, happiness, and overall well-being.
For the people of Visakhapatnam, this temple is more than a religious site — it is a symbol of identity, faith, and community bonding. Every day, thousands of devotees visit seeking guidance, blessings, and peace.
Origin & History of the Temple
The worship of Kanaka Mahalakshmi in Vizag is believed to be centuries old. According to traditional accounts:
- The idol of the goddess was discovered in the old fort area of the city, believed to be divine and self-manifested (swayambhu).
- The present shrine was constructed in 1912, giving the temple a structured place of worship while preserving its ancient heritage.
- Local stories narrate that when the idol was once shifted temporarily due to developmental works, the city faced a severe epidemic. Devotees felt that the disturbance of the deity caused discontent. Once the idol was restored to its original place, calm returned, strengthening public belief in the goddess’s protective powers.
Since then, Goddess Kanaka Mahalakshmi has been revered as the preserver and protector of the city.
Deity & Spiritual Significance
Goddess Kanaka Mahalakshmi is considered the embodiment of:
- Wealth and prosperity
- Protection from misfortune
- Physical and emotional well-being
- Success in business and financial matters
- Harmony in family and relationships
Local residents strongly believe that the goddess watches over the entire city of Visakhapatnam. Traders, shopkeepers, homemakers, students, and working professionals alike visit regularly to seek blessings.
Devotees say that sincere prayers, especially during Thursday worship, are powerful enough to remove obstacles, attract positive energy, and grant long-awaited wishes.
Temple Architecture & Structure
The temple stands out with:
A Tall, Beautiful Gopuram
The multi-tiered entrance tower is decorated with colorful sculptures of deities and celestial beings.
Sanctum of Goddess Kanaka Mahalakshmi
The idol is simple, powerful, and worshipped in an open-access manner. Devotees can offer flowers, coconuts, kumkum, and prayers directly.
Spacious Courtyard & Ritual Area
During festivals or special poojas, the courtyard fills with vibrant energy as devotees gather to offer prayers.
Community-Friendly Design
The temple structure reflects its role as a “people’s temple,” keeping rituals accessible and uncomplicated.
Despite being located in a busy area, the temple maintains a serene, devotional atmosphere, drawing devotees throughout the day.
Temple Timings
Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple is known for long and flexible darshan hours, accommodating devotees from early morning to midnight.
Daily Schedule
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Afternoon Break: 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM
- Midday Darshan: 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Evening Break: 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM
- Evening/Night Darshan: 6:00 PM to 12:00 Midnight
(Timings may vary slightly on festival days and special occasions.)
Major Festivals & Auspicious Days
Thursdays
Thursdays are the most important day for devotees of Goddess Mahalakshmi. The temple becomes vibrant with special archana, lights, flowers, and long queues of worshippers.
Margasira Masa
This entire month (usually November–December) is celebrated with great devotion. Special poojas are performed every Thursday of this sacred month.
Diwali & Dhanteras
As the goddess of wealth, Goddess Mahalakshmi is worshipped grandly during the festival of lights.
Navratri
Nine days of celebration honoring divine feminine energy bring thousands of devotees to the temple.
During festivals, the atmosphere becomes festive, colorful, and spiritually charged with chants, lamps, and vibrant decorations.
How to Reach the Temple
Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple is located in:
Burujupeta / Chengal Rao Peta, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
By Road
Public buses, autos, and taxis run frequently to the old-town area. It is easily reachable from all parts of Vizag.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Visakhapatnam Railway Station, just a few kilometers away.
By Air
Visakhapatnam International Airport is approximately 10–12 km from the temple. Taxis and autos offer direct connectivity.
Best Time to Visit
- Early mornings for peaceful darshan
- Evenings to experience vibrant temple atmosphere
- Thursdays and festive days for special spiritual energy
Why You Should Visit Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple
- It is one of Vizag’s most spiritually important temples, deeply connected with local culture.
- Believed to be the guardian deity of Visakhapatnam, offering protection and prosperity.
- A powerful place for those seeking peace, blessings, financial stability, or fulfillment of personal wishes.
- Located conveniently in the heart of the city, making it perfect for tourists and locals alike.
- The temple’s positive energy, simplicity, and divine atmosphere make every visit memorable.
Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple Vizag Phone Number – 0891 2566515
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the presiding deity of the temple?
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kanaka Mahalakshmi, worshipped as the patron deity of Visakhapatnam.
2. When was the temple established?
The present structure was built in 1912, though the worship of the goddess is believed to be much older.
3. What are the temple darshan timings?
Darshan is available from 5 AM to 12 Midnight, with short breaks in between.
4. Why is Thursday considered special at this temple?
Thursday is an auspicious day for worshipping Goddess Mahalakshmi. The temple conducts special poojas and draws large crowds.
5. Is the temple easily accessible for tourists?
Yes. It is centrally located in Visakhapatnam and well connected by public transportation.
6. What blessings do devotees seek here?
Devotees pray for prosperity, happiness, business success, good health, and overall family welfare.
7. Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Photography rules may vary, so it’s best to check with temple authorities at the entrance.
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