About the TempleLepakshi is located around 15 km to the east of Hindupur in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. Lepakshi village is known for the Veerbhadra Temple, where Lord Veerabhadra Swamy is a presiding deity. The temple is one of the masterpieces of Vijaynagar style of Architecture.
Temple Architecture
The temple is dedicated to Lord Veerabhadra is located here. This Lepakshi temple was constructed by the brothers Viranna and Virupanna in Vijayanagar architectural pattern. The temple is popular for its carvings which were created by the craftsmen of Vijayanagara Empire. A huge Nandi which is made out of single granite stone is one of the major attractions in this temple. The temple is renowned for the best mural paintings of Vijayanagar Kings. Many old Kannada inblockedions can be seen on the walls.
Temple Maha Nandi
Other Shrines in the TempleThere are three temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Veerabhadra. A tortoise-shaped hill, known as Kurma Saila houses the temples of deities such as ‘Papanatheswara’, ‘Raghunatha’, ‘Srirama’, ‘Veerabhadra’ and ‘Durga’. Among all these temples, the temple of Veerabhadra is the most important temple.
Temple Idol
Lepakshi is a peculiar testimony for Vishwakarma Brahmins who built these temples. It is believed that noted Vishwakarma "Amarashilpi Jakkanachari" took immense interest in the architecture planning of these temples. There are many blockedures or text carved on stones depicts that the notable carvers such as Dakoju, Maroju took part in the construction of this temple.
Temple Hanging Column
LegendThere is a small story related to this temple. It is said that Lord Ram worshipped in this temple on his way to Sri Lanka. He saw the injured Jatayu, a big bird whose wings were chopped. Lord Ram addressed it as Leypakshi. The bird informed him about the abducting of Goddess Sita by Ravan. Later, the bird died after giving this message to Lord Ram. Jatayu’s last rites were performed here by Lord Rama.
Temple Shiv Lingam
Temple Side View
Festivals and CelebrationsA 10- day long celebration including the car festival is conducted in the temple, during the month of February. During the festival, the temple is visited by the pilgrims from all over the country.
How to Reach
By Road: Buses and taxis from all places in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are available to reach the temple in Anantapur.
By Train: From here Govt buses, private taxis or auto-rickshaws are available to reach the temple. The nearest railway station is Hindupur railway station which is 12 km away
By Air: The nearest airport is Puttaparthi, which is 80 km away from Anantapur.
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