About the TempleSrikakulam Andhra Mahavishnu temple is established at Srikakulam village of Krishna District in Andhra Pradesh. Themain deity Lord Vishnu has Shankh in his right arm and a Chakra in the left arm which represents peace. An original Salagrama Mala is used for decorating Lord Vishnu. This Salagrama Mala can be seen again in Tirumala and Ryali temples only.
History of the TempleSrikakulam Andhra Maha Vishnu Temple was built in 1081. It is one among the few temples where devotees can see Lord Vishnu as himself the i.e. actual image of Lord Vishnu. In all the other temples devotees worship his other incarnations such as Lord Venkateswara Swamy, Lord Narasimha Swamy, Lord Krishna and Lord Rama. The temple has a beautiful Gopuram. The pillars of Gopuram are carved with temple information. More than 30 in-blockading of the 12th and 13th century can be seen on the walls of this temple.
Legend of the TempleAs per the hearsay, King Andhra Vishnu built a huge wall which connected the three places Sri Sailam, Bheemeshwaram, and Kaleshwaram. All these temples are considered historic and ancient temples of Andhra Pradesh. It is said that Lord Shiva himself resides within these walls. King Andhra Vishnu had fought the battle against Nishambu for nearly three centuries before he killed him. The temple was constructed by King Andhra Vishnu and hence the temple was named after him. The prime deity is Lord Sri Maha Vishnu. Andhra Maha Vishnu Temple is ranked 57 among the 108 Divya Desams of Lord Vishnu.
Festivals and Celebrations
Apart from the regular pujas, Sahasra Naamaarchana and Astotharam are the special pujas performed here.
Sravana Nakshatra is the birth star of Lord Venkateswara. Hence, Swamy Nijaroopa Darshan and Abishekam are conducted on that day before 9 am.
Mukkoti Ekadasi is also celebrated in the temple.
This
temple is Parihara Sthalam for Aslesha, Revathi, and Jyeshta Nakshatras and for Budha Graha doshas. It is believed that taking a
dip in Krishna river before visiting this temple on Mukti Ekadasi will relieve all the sins.Chenna Kesava Swami Temple
How to reach
By Road: Buses are available from all places in Andhra Pradesh to Srikakulam village to access the temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Repalle which is 28 km away from the temple. Govt RTC buses are available from here to reach the temple.
By Air: The nearby airport is Vijayawada which is 46 km away from the temple. Bus and taxi services are available to access the temple.