Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy Temple: Nestled in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, Ahobilam happens to be one of the most worshipped and pilgrimage places in India. This holy region caters to Lord Narasimha Swamy, who is the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu famous for defeating the asura Hiranyakashipu. This is a place which not only possesses mythological importance but also boasts of the majestic glory of devotion responsible for attracting a large number of pilgrims as well as tourists.
Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy Temple Timings, History & How to Reach
Ahobilam is believed to be the place where Lord Narasimha, the lion man incarnation of lord Vishnu, descended to end the tyranny of the demon king Hiranyakashipu and his devotee son Prahlada. The beauty of this place can easily be seen in its temples, its picturesque landscapes and even the difficult hikes. This holy place is further divided into two as Upper Ahobilam (Eguva Ahobilam) and lower Ahobilam (Diguva Ahobilam), where pilgrims visit the nine Narasimha temples located in thick jungles and rocky hills. For the devotees it is a way to reach god and for the adventure lovers, it is an exciting hike in the lap of nature.
How to Reach Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy Temple
By Air:
Tirupati International Airport (TIR or IATA) is the closest major plane terminal which is around 220 km away. It is also well known as Renigunta Airport. At the airport hire a taxi or take a direct bus to Ahobilam.
By Train:
Nandyal Railway Station is considered as the nearest railway track, 66 kms away and is well connected with all the major cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Vijayawada and Chennai. One can also travel from Kadapa Railway station(118 km) and Tadipatri which is 108 km away and from the station hire a cab or take a bus.
By Bus or By Road:
Vontimitta has great public transportation and is well connected by road from numerous state and national highways to prime cities like Kadapa, Tirupati, Bangalore and Hyderabad. One can reach Nandyal or Allagadda, from where one can hire a taxi to Ahobilam.
| City | Distance |
| Nandyal to Ahobilam | 65 km |
| Kurnool to Ahobilam | 150 km |
| Yaganti to Ahobilam | 78 km |
| Mahanandi to Ahobilam | 65 km |
| Hyderabad to Ahobilam | 340 km |
| Kadapa to Ahobilam | 130 km |
| Tirupati to Ahobilam | 230 km |
History or Significance of Ahobilam Sri lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple
The story of Ahobilam is related to Lord Narasimha, the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to ancient scriptures such as the Vishnu Purana and the Bhagavad Purana, Hiranyakasipu, the demon king, performed severe penance and was offered several boons that made him unkillable except in specific situations. His son Prahlada, however, was an ardent follower of Lord Vishnu which creates a disagreement in the father-son duo.
In order to save Prahlada, the Lord took the form of Narasimha and came out from the pillar to kill the demon Hiranyakashipu, restoring justice. The word “ahobilam” comes from the Sanskrit words ‘Aho’ which means ‘great’ and ‘Bilam’ which means ‘cave’. It is believed that Lord Narasimha fought the demon after he had burst out of a cave in Ahobilam in an act of rage. A temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha (a fierce form of Vishnu) also exists there which further enhances the historical importance of Ahobilam.
The Nine Narasimha Temple of Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy Temple
Ahobilam is famous for nine Narasimha temples out of which depict nine different forms of Narasimha swamy. These temples are located in the upper and lower part of the region and each of them is associated with a story of the appearance of Lord Narasimha.
- Jwala Narasimha Temple
This form of Narasimha is referred to as the most powerful and furious or the most terrific manifestation of Narasimha. This temple is at the point where Narasimha is said to have killed Hiranyakashipu, it is a cave temple, representing the Lord’s fierce presence.
- Ahobila Narasimha Temple
This is the largest temple out of all that is located in Ahobilam and is located on the upper hills. It is supposed to be the place where Narasimha appeared for the first time.
- Malola Narasimha Temple
This incarnation of Narasimha depicts more affection and love indicating the devotion of the Lord towards his devotees. Malola Narasimha is seen along with his consort Lakshmi.
- Kroda (Varaha) Narasimha Temple
This form of Narasimha has a boar face and is a form of both Varaha and Narasimha avatar. The temple is right near a waterfall which is a beautiful option for tourists as well.
- Karanja Narasimha Temple
Located near a Karanja tree, it is the temple built for Narasimha where the Lord is said to have incarnated to calm the disturbed mind of Hanuman.
- Bhargava Narasimha Temple
This temple is one of the earliest to be built and it is called Bhargava temple, which is built near a pond; the deity here is depicted in the meditative form.
- Yogananda Narasimha Temple
This statue depicts Narasimha teaching Prahlada the basics of yoga. This temple represents the more calm side of the deity.
- Chatravata Narasimha Temple
This temple is built under the banyan tree, which stands as a symbol of the Lord’s protection over his devotees.
- Pavana Narasimha Temple
This temple is said to be the quietest of all nine shrines and hardest to reach. This is one of the most isolated temples and it is believed to purify the tourists or devotees from all the sins.
Also Check out : Places to Visit in Rayalaseema
Festivals Celebrated at Ahobilam
Like many places, Ahobilam turns into a celebration whenever there is a festival with Brahmotsavam and Narasimha Jayanthi being of utmost importance. These festivals witness a large number of people who take active parts in the processions and rituals and other cultural programmes related to Narasimha Swamy.
Ahobilam Temple Timings
- Morning: 6:30 AM to 1:00 PM
- Evening: 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fee of Ahobilam Temple
There is no entry fee to visit Ahobilam Temple.
Best Time to Visit Ahobilam
The best time for visiting Ahobilam is Between October and March when the climate is suitable for trekking. The visit between July and September is known as the monsoon season which can be difficult because of heavy rainfalls and therefore, it is challenging to enjoy the trek. In summer which ranges from April to June, extreme heat is experienced especially during the day, where trekking and outdoor activities are less bearable.
Accommodation / Stays in Ahobilam Narasimha Swamy Temple
Ahobilam provides several types of accommodation for pilgrims including certain guest houses, dormitories and hotels. Most of the pilgrims however prefer to stay in the guest houses operated by the Ahobilam temple authorities that offer some minimal facilities.
Conclusion
Ahobilam is a place where divinity and nature are well connected. It is not just a religious place, but a journey that involves adventure, history and devotion as well. The story of Narasimha continues to motivate devotees, for which a visit to Ahobilam makes one feel elated and certainly gives a warm feeling that the divine is always near.
