About the TemplePenchala Narasimha Swamy temple is established at Penchalakonda in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. The prime deity in this shrine is Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu along with his consort Goddess Chenchu Lakshmi. The idol of Lord Narasimha is a Swayambhu in this shrine.
The temple has beautiful raja gopuram with portraits of various gods and goddesses on it. When Lord Narasimha Swamy arrived at Bhairavakona for his wedding with Chenchu Lakshmi, the sages held umbrellas for Lord. Hence, this place is known as Chatravata. And the Lord is also known as Chakravartin Narasimha Swamy. The devotees offer silver and golden umbrellas to the Lord Narasimha Swamy. The temple also has a shrine of Lord Anjaneya Swamy.
History of the TempleSri Penchala Lakshmi Narasimha Swami Temple is an ancient, holy temple. It was built according to Agama Shilpa Shastra. The idol of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy is also known as Somasila Narasimha Swamy which is self-manifested on a huge rock in Yog Mudra or meditative position. Hence, the shrine got its name as Penusila as the idol of Lord was found on a rock. Later the place became popular as Penchalakona. This shrine is considered among one of the Nava Narasimha Kshetras.
Kandaleru river flows behind the temple which arises from the waterfalls of the mountain ranges. It is believed that sage Kanva stayed here and did penance. Hence, the river is named for Kanvamukhi River. This river is also known as Kandaleru.
Legend of the TempleLord Vishnu took Narasimha avatar to rescue Prahlad from the demon Hiranyakashipa. After killing the demon Lord arrived in the forest in Ugra Swarupa. In order to cool him down, Goddess Sridevi followed him as Chenchu Lakshmi who was the daughter of the leader of Chenchu tribe. After marrying Chenchu Lakshmi, Lord manifested himself here as a huge rock.
Festivals and Special PujasApart from regular Pujas and Abhishekams, Special pujas are performed on the occasions of Dasara, Navratri and Utsavalu in a grand manner.
In Vaisaka Masa, on the occasion of Narasimha Swamy Jayanthi, Brahmostavams is celebrated for 5 days. The Chenchu tribes are given prime importance in this festival. The first Nivedyam such as fruits and honey are offered by Chenchu tribes to their son-in-law, Lord Narasimha.
How to reach
By Bus: The Buses are available from each and every place in Andhra Pradesh to reach the Penchalakona temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station which is 63 Km far from the temple is Gudur Junction. Government and private transportation are available from here to reach the temple.
By Flight: The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, Renigunta which is 98 km from the temple.