Month: November 2020

Srikurmam Temple: The Ancient Abode of Lord Kurma

Posted on by Chiranjeevi Reddy

History Of Srikurmam Temple:

Lord Vishnu, one among the divine trinity worshipped by Hindus is known to have undergone 10 incarnations in different periods to accomplish certain significant tasks, slaying the devil rampaging the earth and establishing peace and harmony. The incarnations or avataras have metamorphosed from complete animals to half human-half animals to complete humans.

The chronology of the incarnation is a wonderful metaphor of the ideal and expected procedure of shedding anger and ego to gain composure and civility. The 2nd incarnation of Lord Vishnu was Kurma avatara(tortoise incarnation) after matsya(fish) incarnation. The Kumaranathaswamy Temple, situated in the Gara Mandal of Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh is the only temple in the world that worships Lord Vishnu in the Kurma Avatara.

This temple which is also regarded as Srikurmam temple is known to have an interesting history. It is believed that initially it was a Shaivite temple , that is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and was christened as Kurmeswara temple.

Later, in the 11th Century AD, Ramanuja converted the temple into a vaishnavite temple and named it as Kurmanathaswamy Temple. Even today, both Vaishnavite and Shaivite traditions co-exist inside the temple premises and this makes it stand out.

Glory Of Srikurmam Temple:

The Srikurmam temple is believed to have been established by the king Sweta Chakravarti. The legend goes as, once Shweta Chakravarti approached his wife Vishnu Priya, a devotee of Lord Visnu with the intention of making love. But his wife denied since it was Ekadashi and she was observing a fast. On being turned down he became furious and compelled his wife. Vishnu Priya worshipped Lord Vishnu to save her. Lord Visnu in response created a stream that severed the couple and resulted in flood.

The sage Narada advised the king to pray to Lord Vishnu but by the time he arrived, the health of the king had deteriorated. Lord Vishnu, using his Sudarshan Chakra, dug a lake and a plunge into  it helped the king restore his health. The lake today is known as Shweta Pushkarini. On the request of the King, the Lord manifested in the tortoise. Brahma completed the rituals with Gopala Yantra , rendering the idol worthy to be worshipped. Inside the temple, Lakshmi, the consort of the Lord is also worshipped as Kurmanayaki.

Interesting Facts About Srikurmam Temple:

The Kurmanathaswamy temple has a number of interesting features. It hosts two Dhvajasthambas whis is quite rare for any Vaishnavite temple. Besides, there are 108 ekasila (single stones) which are unique and do not resemble each other at all. They bear inscriptions related to the ancient rulers of the region. People often visit the temple for ancestor worship since they believe that if offered prayer in that temple, their ancestors’ souls will gain salvation.

A park has been built around the temple to preserve the tortoise. It is a good recreation area with a noble purpose for ecological benefit. Do not miss a visit to the Srikurmam temple . The gorgeous architecture, glorious stories of the past and the tranquil surrounding will not disappoint you at all.

Srikurmam Temple Timings:

Monday 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

How To Reach Srikurmam Temple:

Travel Guide:

Sri Kurmam Temple is easily accessible by all three major modes of transport, roadways, railways, and airways. Which will come as a source of relief to the many travel enthusiasts ready to visit Sri Kurmam Temple in Srikakulam!

By Road:

Srikakulam APSRTC bus station and Gara APSRTC bus station are the nearby bus stations to Sri Kurmam Temple. APSRTC runs a number of busses from major cities to Sri Kurmam Temple.

By Rail:

Rails in India are the most affordable and most preferred modes of transportation. Srikakulam Road railway station, Tilaru railway station are the very nearby railway stations to Sri Kurmam Temple.

By Flight:

The place does not have its own airport. The two nearest airports to this town are Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam Airport at a distance of 330 kms and 120 kms from the temple, respectively.

Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple: The Sun God’s Timeless Legacy

Posted on by Chiranjeevi Reddy

Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple:

The Sun is the primary source of energy and the sole reason for sustenance and continuation of life on earth. To eulogise this supreme power the Sun is believed to have divine and spiritual capabilities and is worshipped extensively in cultures scattered all over the world. Arasavalli Sun Temple in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh is one such temple that worships the Sun God.

History Of Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple:

According to folk tales, Devendra, the king of Gods, once tried to break into the abode of Lord Shiva when he was with his wife Parvati. Lord Shiva’s gatekeeper, Nandi however objected and Devendra on being adamant was hit by Nandi on the chest and fell unconscious. He had a dream that if he builds a temple dedicated to the Sun Lord, he will be free from the pain. On regaining Consciousness he did the same.

Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple Construction:

However, inscriptions on the temple reveal that it was constructed by the Kalinga ruler, Devendra Verma in the 7th century. The Kalinga style of architecture used in the temple backs the claim of the archaeological experts.

Idols Inside Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple:

The main idol of the deity is made from a single shining graphite with elaborate carvings. The base of the idol has the sculptures of the dwarapalas or the gatekeepers, Mathara and Pingala. On top of the idol are Sanaka and Sanada, the enlightened saints, holding the umbrellas(chhatram). Anura, the charioteer is also portrayed and the three consorts of the deity, Usha, Chaya and Padmini are also depicted on one side.

Sunray Phenomenon Of The Arasavalli Sun Temple:

One of the most distinguishing features of the Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple is that it has been constructed in such a way that twice a year, in March and September, the rays of the Sun fall at the feet of the deity. This is an exhilarating sight. The Indra Pushkarini, believed to have been dug by Indra, using his Vajrayudha . People attach great value to it and believe that a dip in the lake before worshipping will attract the blessings and grace of the Sun God.

Arasavalli Temple Timings:

Monday 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Tuesday 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Wednesday 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Thursday 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Friday 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturday 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Sunday 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM

How To Reach Arasavalli Sun Temple:

Travel Guide:

Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple is easily accessible by all three major modes of transport, roadways, railways, and airways. Which will come as a source of relief to the many travel enthusiasts ready to visit Arasavalli Sun Temple!

By Road:

Amdalavalasa APSRTC bus station and Tekkali APSRTC bus station are the nearby bus stations toArasavalli Suryanarayana Temple. APSRTC runs a number of busses from major cities to Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple.

By Rail:

Rails in India are the most affordable and most preferred modes of transportation. Srikakulam railway station and Tilaru railway station are the very nearby railway stations to Arasavalli Suryanarayana Temple.

By Flight:

The place does not have its own airport. The two nearest airports to this town are Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam Airport at a distance of 326 kms and 110 kms from the temple, respectively.

Salihundam: The Historic Buddhist Site of Srikakulam

Posted on by Chiranjeevi Reddy

Salihundam:

Atop a hill, on the southern bank of river Vamsadhara is situated Salihundam that fosters in its lap the rich culture of Buddhism. Salihundam is a part of Gara Mandal of Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh and is 9 miles away from it. It is a famous tourist destination for hosting a number of Buddhist stupas. Gidugu Rama Murty, a prominent figure of Telugu literature is bestowed with the credit of discovering these relics in 1919. 

Salihundam Srikakulam:

Salihundam was earlier known as Salivatika, which means rice Emporium. At present it is regarded by some as Salyapetika, meaning box of bones or relics. The stupas represent the entire evolution of Buddhism from Theravada to Mahayana and Vajrayana.

The Buddhist excavations stand testimony to the fact that Buddhism was prevalent in the locality during the 2nd and 3rd centuries. In fact it becomes evident that Buddhism spread to Sumatra and other eastern countries from Salihundam. River Vamsadhara and the Kalingapatnam port have been primary conduits for cultural transport.

Salihundam Stupa:

The state authorities had conducted digging activities and discovered four stupas, architectural shrines and relics as a result. Besides, statues of Buddhist deities like Tara and Marichee have been preserved since their discovery. The stupas are scattered all over the hill, looking like oblong erections in a sprawling green ground. Several rocks with the stories of ancient travellers inscribed on them emanate a sense of nostalgia.

The top of the hill view is a pure bliss. Amidst the green surrounding, immersed in the contagious silence with the gentle breeze brushing past your face, the Vamsadhara gracefully meandering and commingling with the Bay of Bengal with utter docility, you will feel ecstatic, absorbing the spirituality hanging low in the air and get transported to the reposeful days of the past.

How To Reach Salihundam:

Travel Guide:

Salihundam is easily accessible by all three major modes of transport, roadways, railways, and airways. Which will come as a source of relief to the many travel enthusiasts ready to visit Salihundam Srikakulam!

By Road:

Narasannapeta APSRTC Bus Station, Srikakulam APSRTC Bus Station, Tekkali APSRTC Bus Station are the nearby bus stations to Salihundam. APSRTC runs a number of busses from major cities to Salihundam.

By Rail:

Rails in India are the most affordable and most preferred modes of transportation. Naupada railway station, Kotabommali railway station are the very nearby railway stations to Salihundam.

By Flight:

The place does not have its own airport. The two nearest airports to this town are Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam Airport at a distance of 320 km and 130 km from the temple, respectively.

Rivers in Srikakulam: Lifelines of Culture, Nature, and Heritage

Posted on by Chiranjeevi Reddy

Rivers in Srikakulam District:

Srikakulam is a riverine district. The four rivers in Srikakulam district are the Vamsadhara, the Nagavali, the Mahendratanaya and the Bahuda river. Out of these the two major ones are Vamsadhara and Nagavali rivers. Together they cover 5% of the total area of Srikakulam district. All the rivers have their course in Andhra Pradesh as well as the adjacent rivernine state Odisha, where they have their origins too. Both Vamsadhara and Nagavali confluence with the Bay of Bengal at two different regions in Srikakulam which are popular beaches and prominent tourist destinations in the state.

Vamsadhara River:

The Vamsadhara river has its course between Rushikulya and Godavari rivers. Originating from the border of Thuamul Rampur in the Kalahandi and Kalyansingpur in Rayagada district of Odisha, the river flows for a stretch of 254 km in the states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. 154 km flows in Odisha,29km has its course at the border of the two neighbouring states and 82km lies entirely in Andhra Pradesh. it confluences with the Bay of Bengal at Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. 

The Vamsadhara river basin has a catchment area of 10,830 km. The river witnesses an average rainfall of 40 mm. Since Vamsadhara flows through both Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, an agreement has been made to enable both the states to use equal share of water. The banks of Vamsadhara river in Andhra Pradesh hosts two major tourist destinations. One being the Kalingapatnam where it confluences with the Bay of Bengal and the other being Mukhalingam , quite proximal to Kalingapatnam. One of Vamsadhara’s important tributaries is Mahendratanaya. It originates from the Mahendra hills of Gajapati district of Odisha, flows 90Km and merges with the Bay of Bengal near Baruva in Andhra Pradesh. An irrigation project across the vamsadhara river of an estimated amount of Rs127 crores which was launched by the former chief minister of Andhra pradesh,YS Rajasekhar Reddy is yet to be completed.

Srikakulam Nagavali River:

The Srikakulam Nagavali river, popularly called Langulya , originates from a hill in Kalahandi district of Odisha and flows from Southern Odisha to Northern Andhra Pradesh. Nagavali is an independent river and the river basin has a catchment area of 9510 km. Though the total length of the river is 256Km, 161Km of the river flows in Odisha and the rest flow in Andhra Pradesh. It receives an annual rainfall of 1000 mm. The Nagavali river has its course in vizianagaram, Srikakulam and finally merges with the Bay of Bengal at Kallepalli, Srikakulam.

Bahuda River:

The Bahuda river’s origin is located at Goniya Bosa hills in Orissa state and it flows through the villages of Ichapuram mandal, Srikakulam.The Bahuda river assists farmers of Ichapuram with the cultivation of their majestic paddy crop. Bahuda River connects the borders of Andhra Pradesh and Orissa. The Bahuda river bridge has been there for ages and surprisingly trains pass through the bridge till date. People throw coins on it as a symbol of their devotion. The river finally merges with the Bay of Bengal at Donkuru village.

Telineelapuram Bird Sanctuary: A Paradise for Birdwatchers

Posted on by Chiranjeevi Reddy

Telineelapuram and Telukunchi are small villages, situated at a distance of 65 km and 115 km from Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh respectively. Every year from September to March, these villages become the abode of a large number of migratory birds who reach here after covering miles. The avian mates fly all the way from Siberia to escape the harsh winter and find warmth, food and a suitable breeding ground.

The Telineelapuram and Telukunchi Bird Sanctuaries primarily host the painted storks and spotted billed pelicans. Villagers find the arrival of the winged visitors extremely auspicious and give them a warm welcome. Over the years there has developed a connection between the birds and the villagers. Often the people find it joyous to feed the birds nesting in their region. The incessant humming and chirping of the birds brings life to the quiet environment and drips merriment and excitement into the hearts of the villagers.

The birds flock in a peculiar manner, in the shape of an arrowhead. They build their nests very tactfully, especially on tamarind and mesquite trees. Only 10% of a bird’s weight rests on the tree. This allows flocking of a large number of birds on the same branch without breaking it.

The super long journey takes a toll on the health of the birds. They lose fat and appear frail. The abundance of food in these two regions makes up for the loss .

Moreover, Telineelapuram and Telukunchi serve as excellent breeding grounds for the winged visitors. They lay eggs and feed and train their young ones before embarking on their return trip to Siberia. Some younger birds however fall off the nest or fail to show impressive progress and are thus rejected by their mothers.

These birds are taken care of by the concerned authorities of the sanctuaries and are left free when they can fully spread their wings and take flight.

Telineelapuram Bird Sanctuary:

There cannot be a better place for bird lovers and ornithologists. A watch tower has been erected at the Telineelapuram Bird Sanctuary to boost convenience of the visitors and impart them a clear vision of the flocking birds. Surrounded by an abundance of flora and fauna, the bird sanctuaries proudly recite how nature in its pristine form can be.

How To Reach Telineelapuram Bird Sanctuary:

Travel Guide:

Telineelapuram is easily accessible by all three major modes of transport, roadways, railways, and airways. Which will come as a source of relief to the many travel enthusiasts ready to visit Telineelapuram!

By Rail:

Telineelapuram doesn’t have a railway station but Naupada and Palasa stations are nearby it. It’s a very small yet teeming railway station. Telineelapuram is an important region of Sompeta at a distance of 3 kms from it.

By Road:

Separate buses run between Tekkali and Telineelapuram more frequently. Some of the bus stations near Telineelapuram are Naupada, Tekkali and Srikakulam bus stations. 

By Flight:

It is obvious that you cannot reach Telineelapuram directly by flight. The nearest airports are Biju Patnaik Airport , Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam Airport, Andhra Pradesh. Once there, you can easily travel to Telineelapuram by rail or road.

Telukunchi Bird Sanctuary:

There cannot be a better place for bird lovers and ornithologists. A watch tower has been erected at the Telineelapuram Bird Sanctuary to boost convenience of the visitors and impart them a clear vision of the flocking birds. Surrounded by an abundance of flora and fauna, the bird sanctuaries proudly recite how nature in its pristine form can be.

How To Reach Telukunchi Bird Sanctuary:

Travel Guide:

Telukunchi is easily accessible by all three major modes of transport, roadways, railways, and airways. Which will come as a source of relief to the many travel enthusiasts ready to visit Telukunchi!

By Rail:

Telukunchi doesn’t have a railway station but Ichapuram and Berhampur stations are nearby it. Telukunchi is an important region of Ichapuram at a distance of 4 kms from it.

By Road:

Direct buses between Telukunchi and Ichapuram are not available but separate autos run between Ichapuram and Telukunchi more frequently. Some of the bus stations near Telukunchi are Ichapuram, Kanchili and Berhampur bus stations. 

By Flight:

It is obvious that you cannot reach Berhampur directly by flight. The nearest airports are  Biju Patnaik Airport, Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam Airport, Andhra Pradesh. Once there, you can easily travel to Berhampur by rail or road.

Kalingapatnam Beach: Serenity and Scenic Beauty on Andhra’s Coast

Posted on by Chiranjeevi Reddy

Kalingapatnam Beach:

With the roads burying their heads in the lap of the golden sea bed, the Kalingapatnam beach witnesses an enthralling transition from the bustling town to a tranquil atmosphere. Situated 30 Kms away from the district headquarters in Srikakulam, it is the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal and the Vamsadhara. The convergence of water bodies, the vibrant sky, palm groves and the loose sand push the location to the cusp of scenic beauty. 

During the colonial period, Kalingapatnam beach Srikakulam was an important port. Europeans leveraged this expanse to engage in trade, dealing in cotton, paddy and textiles. It was a dockyard for ships sailing from Singapore, Myanmar, Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries. However, with the end of the colonial rule, the bustling port lost life and eventually ceased to exist. But a lighthouse at Kalingapatnam beach stands tall against the skyline as a testimonial edifice to colonial rule and entices tourists in large numbers. 

Kalingapatnam:

Kalingapatnam is also the proclaimer of the rich Buddhist history of the place. A number of Buddhist stupas enlighten visitors about the culture of Buddhism. The Salihundam Buddhist complex is not much away from Kalingapatnam beach Srikakulam and is therefore a ‘must visit’ site for the tourists. 

Since Kalingapatnam beach Srikakulam attracts tourists from nooks and corners of the world, the Andhra pradesh government has recognised Kalingapatnam beach as a prime tourist destination and strives to bring about development. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to invest in projects related to the purpose. It has come a long way in these years with the sincere efforts of the concerned authorities.

Kalingapatnam Beach Festival:

Once a year, for consecutively two days, the Kalingapatnam beach festival is celebrated with great pomp and show. The festival feels resplendent with the convergence of sports, music and dance performed by Tollywood celebrities and Jabardasth artists. This Kalingapatnam beach festival will be celebrated for two days in which dandia, kolatam, and robo dances will be the special attraction. Various stalls arranged as a part of the beach festival are attracting people.

Kalingapatnam beach Srikakulam can be accessed from Visakhapatnam and Srikakulam by public as well as private transportation. Tour packages of Andhra Pradesh also cover Kalingapatnam beach, kalingapatnam beach resorts. It portrays a peaceful unification of exotic and indegenious cultures. So, get ready to bask in the sunshine on the sprawling beach, the following vacation season.

Kalingapatnam Beach Resort:

Kalingapatnam beach resorts have been constructed nearby to facilitate lodging of the tourists. Sea sports like surfing is a great delight to the visitors and sea foods never fail to pamper the tourist’s taste buds.

How To Reach Kalingapatnam Beach:

Travel Guide:

Kalingapatnam beach is easily accessible by all three major modes of transport, roadways, railways, and airways. Which will come as a source of relief to the many travel enthusiasts ready to visit Kalingapatnam beach Srikakulam!

By Road:

Gara APSRTC bus station, Srikakulam APSRTC bus stations are the nearby bus stations to Ichapuram town. APSRTC runs a number of busses from major cities to Kalingapatnam beach.

By Rail:

Rails in India are the most affordable and most preferred modes of transportation. Srikakulam railway station, Tilaru railway station are the very nearby railway stations to Kalingapatnam beach.

By Flight:

The place does not have its own airport. The two nearest airports to this town are Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam Airport at a distance of 330 kms and 135 kms from the beach, respectively.