Nestled atop the scenic Ratnagiri Hill in the Kakinada District of Andhra Pradesh, Annavaram Temple stands as one of South India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations. Officially known as Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy Devasthanam, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his manifestation as Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy.
The temple’s divine atmosphere, coupled with its location amidst lush greenery and the sacred Pampa River flowing at the hill’s base, creates an unparalleled spiritual experience for devotees. What sets Annavaram apart from other temples is its unique emphasis on the Satyanarayana Swamy Vratham – a powerful ritual performed daily by thousands of devotees seeking blessings for prosperity, harmony, and wish fulfillment.
Annavaram Temple Room Booking Online, Cottages, Marriage Halls & Room Prices
Historical Significance of Annavaram Temple
The temple’s fascinating history dates back to 1891, when it was constructed by Raja Ramanarayana, the Zamindar of Gorsa and Kirlampudi. According to legend, Lord Satyanarayana Swamy appeared in Raja Ramanarayana’s dream with divine instructions to build this sacred shrine.
Historical texts such as the Skanda Puranam and Agni Puranam detail the glory of Lord Satyadeva, who chose to settle on Mount Ratnagiri (named after Ratnakara, son of Meru Mountain) during Vedic times. The temple gained significant patronage from the Vijayanagara Emperor Sri Krishna Devaraya, who offered lands, titles, and golden items for daily worship.
Architectural Marvel: Understanding the Temple Structure
Dravidian Architecture at Its Finest
The Annavaram Temple exemplifies exquisite Dravidian architectural style, featuring a unique two-layer structure:
- Lower layer: Houses the sacred Sri Matrhripathvibhuti Vykunta Maha Narayana Yantra
- Upper layer: Contains the Vigrahas (sacred images) of the deity
The Chariot Design
The main temple is ingeniously constructed to resemble a chariot, complete with four wheels positioned at the four corners. These wheels symbolize the eternal passage of time and the cosmic journey.
The Cosmic Symbolism
The temple’s sanctum sanctorum represents the universe according to Vedic cosmology:
- Top (Head): Swarga-loka (Heavenly realm) – representing Lord Vishnu
- Middle (Heart): Antariksha-loka (Mid-realm) – representing Lord Shiva
- Base (Feet): Bhu-loka (Earthly realm) – representing Lord Brahma
This unique trinity representation makes the 13-feet tall idol truly special, embodying all three principal Hindu deities in one manifestation.
Annavaram Temple Darshan Timings 2026
Temple Opening Hours
Daily Hours: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Complete Daily Schedule
| Time Slot | Activity |
|---|---|
| 3:30 AM – 4:00 AM | Suprabhata Seva |
| 4:00 AM – 5:15 AM | Abhishekam and Archana |
| 5:15 AM | Balabogam |
| 5:30 AM | Panchaharathulu and Neerajana Mantra Pushpamal |
| 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Sarva Darshan (General Darshan) |
| 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Ashtothara Sathanama Poojas and Sahasranamarchanas |
| 9:30 AM | Sri Vari Nitya Kalyanam |
| 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM | Rajabhoga Mahanivedana |
| 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Sarva Darshan |
| 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Sarva Darshan |
| 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Darbaru Mandapam Seva |
| 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Sri Swamy Vari Darbaru Seva |
| 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Sri Ammavarla Ekanta Seva |
| 9:00 PM | Temple Closes |
Note: During festival periods and peak seasons, the temple may open as early as 2:30 AM to accommodate the influx of devotees.
Darshan Types and Ticket Prices 2026
Free & Paid Darshan Options
| Darshan Type | Ticket Price | Timings | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sarva Darshan (General) | FREE | 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Standard queue darshan |
| Seegra Darshan | ₹200 per person | 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Reduced waiting time + 150gms Bhogam Prasadam |
| Antaralayam Darshan | ₹200 per person | 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM | VIP access with minimal wait |
Waiting Time Expectations
- Weekdays: 30-45 minutes for Sarva Darshan
- Weekends: 60-90 minutes for Sarva Darshan
- Paid Darshan: Significantly reduced waiting time
Satyanarayana Swamy Vratham: The Temple’s Signature Ritual
What is Satyanarayana Vratham?
The Satyanarayana Vratham is a sacred ritual offering to Lord Satyanarayana involving:
- Recitation of five sacred stories (Pancha Vratha Kadhas)
- Offering of fruits, flowers, and specific prasadam
- Performance of prescribed mantras and prayers
- Sankalpam (statement of purpose with name and gotram)
Devotees perform this vratham for various reasons:
- Newly married couples seek blessings for wealth and children
- Families pray for overall well-being
- Individuals request success in new ventures, career growth, or good marriage prospects
- Homeowners perform it during new house ceremonies
- Parents celebrate when a child is born
Vratham Timings and Ticket Prices 2026
| Vratham Type | Price | Persons Allowed | Duration | Prasadam Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Swamy Vari Vratham | ₹300 | Couple/Single | ~1 hour (6 AM-6 PM) | 500gms Bhogam Prasadam |
| Sri Swamy Vari Special Vratham | ₹1,000 | Couple/Single | ~1 hour (6 AM-6 PM) | 600gms Bhogam Prasadam + 150gms Bangi |
| Sri Swamy Vari Visista Vratham | ₹1,500 | Couple/Single | ~1 hour (6 AM-6 PM) | 600gms Bhogam + 150gms Bangi + Kanduva + Blouse Piece |
| Online Vratham (in absence) | ₹1,116 | — | Daily at 9:00 AM | Prasadam sent by post |
Vratham Booking Process
Daily Slots: Vrathams are conducted in batches starting every 30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
During Peak Seasons (Kartheeka Masam, marriage season): Vrathams may start as early as 2:00 AM.
How to Book Annavaram Darshan & Vratham Tickets Online
Step-by-Step Booking Guide
1. Visit Official Website
Go to: https://annavaramdevasthanam.nic.in
2. Create Account/Login
- New users: Register with mobile number, name, and password
- Existing users: Login with credentials
3. Select Service
Choose from available options:
- Darshan tickets
- Vratham bookings
- Seva bookings
- Accommodation
4. Enter Details
Provide required information:
- Names of all devotees
- Age and gender
- Mobile number
- Address
5. Select Date & Time
- Choose preferred date (advance booking available up to 60 days)
- Select time slot based on availability
6. Make Payment
Complete payment through:
- Credit/Debit cards
- Net banking
- UPI
- Other digital payment methods
7. Receive Confirmation
- Booking confirmation sent to registered mobile number
- Email confirmation with booking details
- Download/print ticket for temple visit
Alternative Booking Methods
WhatsApp Booking (for Online Vratham in absence of devotees):
- Send details to: +91-9491249990
- Include: Name, Gotram, Bank Transaction Details, Address
Counter Booking:
- Available at temple ticket counters
- Counter timings: 5:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Complete Seva & Pooja Details 2026
Popular Sevas and Their Prices
| Seva Description | Price (₹) | Persons Allowed | Timings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suprabhata Seva | 116 | Single | 3:30 AM |
| Laksha Patri Pooja | 2,500 | Couple/Single | 8:00 AM |
| Ammavari Laksha Kunkumarchana | 2,500 | Couple/Single | 8:00 AM |
| Nitya Kalyanam | 1,116 | Couple/Single | 9:30 AM |
| Pavalimpu Seva | 50 | Single | 2:00 PM |
| Swarna Pushparchana | 3,000 | Couple/Single | Every Ekadasi |
| Veda Aseervachanam | 500 | Couple/Single | As per devotee interest |
| Go (Cow) Pooja | 116 | Couple/Single | Daily |
| Surya Namaskaramulu | 1,116 | — | Every Sunday |
Special Nakshatram Sevas
| Seva | Price (₹) | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Abhishekam on Makha Nakshatram | 3,000/3,116 | Makha Nakshatram Day |
| Sitaramula Pattabhishekam | 116 | Punarvasu Nakshatram |
| Kanakadurga Ammavari Chandi Homam | 1,116 | Mula Nakshatram |
Homam Services (Online – in absence of devotees)
| Homam Type | Price (₹) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Lakshmi Prayuktha Ayushya Homam | 1,116 | Daily 9:00 AM |
| Vanadurga Ammavari Chandi Homam | 1,116 | Every Friday |
| Pratyangiri Homam | 750 | Every Pournami/Amavasya |
| Vanadurga Ammavari Pratyangira Homam | 1,116 | Every Pournami |
Prasadam Details and Prices
Available Prasadam Items
| Prasadam Type | Quantity | Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Prasadam | 150gms | 20 |
| Bangi Prasadam (Solid) | 100gms | 15 |
Special Note: The temple is famous for its Jaggery Pongal packed in banana leaves, which is a must-try for all visitors.
Ticket Counter Locations and Timings
| Counter Location | Number of Counters | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Up Hill Counter (Near Ramalayam) | 2 | 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Down Hill Counter (Near Steps) | 1 | 24 Hours (Round the Clock) |
| Highway Road Counter (Near Model Temple) | 1 | 24 Hours (Round the Clock) |
Accommodation at Annavaram Temple
The Devasthanam provides various accommodation options for devotees:
Room Types Available
- Guest houses
- Cottages
- Dormitories (for budget travelers)
- Marriage halls (for special functions)
Booking Accommodation
Online Booking: Available through official website
Contact Number: +91-9032694966
Email: endow-eoanna@gov.in
Deposit Requirements:
- Reservation amount required at booking
- 50% of rent as caution deposit
- Refunded after proper check-out
Annadanam (Free Food Service)
True to its name (“Anna” meaning food and “Varam” meaning blessing), the temple maintains a strong tradition of Anna Danam – free meal distribution.
Annadanam Facilities:
- Free meals served daily to all devotees
- No discrimination based on caste, creed, or economic status
- Symbolizes community well-being and equality
- Managed by dedicated Superintendent
Contact for Annadanam: +91-9490712066 / +91-9030059998
How to Reach Annavaram Temple
By Train (Most Convenient)
Nearest Railway Station: Annavaram Railway Station (ANV)
- Distance from Temple: 2-3 km
- Location: Situated on the Howrah-Chennai Main Line
- Connectivity: Direct trains from:
- Vijayawada
- Visakhapatnam
- Hyderabad
- Chennai
- Kolkata
- Rajahmundry
By Road
Nearest Bus Stand: Annavaram Bus Stand
- Distance from Temple: 2 km
- Bus Services:
- APSRTC buses from major cities
- Private buses available
- Well connected to Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada, and Kakinada
Distance from Major Cities:
- Kakinada: 44.7 km
- Rajahmundry: ~50 km
- Visakhapatnam: ~100-120 km
By Air
Option 1 – Rajahmundry Airport (RJA)
- Distance: 70-80 km from temple
- Transport: Taxis and buses available
Option 2 – Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ)
- Distance: 100-120 km from temple
- Transport: Direct buses, cars, and taxis available
Local Transport
- Auto-rickshaws available from railway station/bus stand
- Temple vehicles may be available
- Private vehicles allowed up the hill
- Parking facilities available at base and hilltop
Note: There are approximately 460 steps to climb if you choose to walk to the temple from the base of the hill.
Essential Visitor Information
Dress Code
No Strict Dress Code, but devotees are advised to wear:
Men:
- Dhoti and shirt (preferred)
- Kurta and pajama
- Avoid: T-shirts, jeans
Women:
- Saree or salwar kameez (with pallu)
- Traditional attire preferred
- Modest clothing required
General Rule: Decent, modest clothing suitable for temple rituals
What to Carry for Vratham
If booking counter tickets:
Purchase Vratham Set from shops at temple including:
- 5 coconuts
- Fresh flowers
- Half dozen bananas
- One blouse piece
- Betel leaves
If booked online with higher-tier packages:
- All materials provided by temple
- Just carry your booking confirmation
Important Tips for Visitors
- Advance Booking: Book well in advance during festival seasons (Kartheeka Masam, marriage season)
- Arrival Time: Reach 30 minutes before your scheduled vratham/darshan time
- Peak Days: Expect larger crowds on weekends and festival days
- Cleanliness: Wash hands and feet before entering temple premises
- Phone Etiquette: Keep mobile phones on silent inside temple
- Respect Customs: Follow priest instructions during rituals
- Timing Confirmation: Verify timings on official website before visit as they may vary on special days
Facilities Available
- Parking: Available at both base and hilltop
- Drinking Water: Available throughout temple complex
- Restrooms: Clean facilities for devotees
- Medical Aid: Basic first aid available
- Cloak Room: For storing belongings
- Prasadam Counters: Multiple locations
- Kesha Kandana Sala (Hair Offering): 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Temple Contact Information 2026
Main Office
Address: Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy Devasthanam, Annavaram-533406, Kakinada District (formerly East Godavari District), Andhra Pradesh
Important Contact Numbers
| Department | Contact Person | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Executive Office | Executive Officer | 08868-238121, 238125, 238163 |
| Online Services Support | — | +91-8519813124 |
| Vratham Bookings (WhatsApp) | — | +91-9491249990 |
| Protocol Office | Reception | +91-9392908598 |
| Temple | Assistant Executive Officer | +91-9848051211 |
| Temple Operations | Superintendent | +91-9491249990 |
| Accommodation | Superintendent | +91-9032694966 |
| Prasadam | Superintendent | +91-9490712066 |
| Annadanam | Superintendent | +91-9491249990, +91-9030059998 |
| Sevas & Kesha Kandana | Superintendent | +91-9392908605 |
Email & Website
Email: endow-eoanna@gov.in
Website: www.annavaramdevasthanam.nic.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Annavaram Temple famous for?
Annavaram Temple is renowned for Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy (Lord Vishnu) and the daily Satyanarayana Vratam ritual performed for prosperity and well-being.
2. Where exactly is Annavaram Temple located?
The temple is located on Ratnagiri Hill in Annavaram village, Kakinada district, Andhra Pradesh, India.
3. What are the darshan timings?
- Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening Darshan: 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
(Timings may vary on festival days)
4. Is online booking available?
Yes, online booking for darshan, vratham, sevas, and rooms is available at: https://annavaramdevasthanam.nic.in
5. What is the cost of Satyanarayana Vratam?
- Regular Vratham: ₹300
- Special Vratham: ₹1,000
- Visista Vratham: ₹1,500
- Online Vratham (in absence): ₹1,116
6. Is free darshan available?
Yes, Sarva Darshan (general darshan) is completely free. Paid options (₹200) offer faster access.
7. Can I perform vratham on the same day without advance booking?
Yes, vratham tickets are available at the counter from 5:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but advance booking is recommended during peak seasons.
8. Are accommodation facilities available?
Yes, the Devasthanam provides guesthouses and cottages at budget-friendly rates with online booking facility.
9. What is the nearest railway station?
Annavaram Railway Station is just 2 km from the temple and is well-connected to major cities.
10. Is vehicle parking available?
Yes, ample parking is available at both the base of the hill and near the temple complex.
11. Are special darshan tickets available?
Yes:
- Seegra Darshan: ₹200 (includes prasadam)
- Antaralayam Darshan: ₹200 (minimal waiting time)
12. What food facilities are available?
- Free Annadanam (meals) served daily
- Prasadam counters selling Laddu, Pulihora, Jaggery Pongal
- Reasonable prices
13. Is the temple open every day?
Yes, the temple is open 365 days a year, including all festivals and holidays.
14. What is the significance of the Satyanarayana Vratham?
Performing this vratham is believed to:
- Remove obstacles and troubles
- Bring wealth, health, and prosperity
- Grant spiritual growth
- Fulfill wishes when performed with devotion
15. Can I perform vratham if I cannot physically visit?
Yes, the temple offers online vratham service (₹1,116) where priests perform the ritual on your behalf, and prasadam is sent by post.
Conclusion: Why Visit Annavaram Temple
Annavaram Temple offers a complete spiritual experience combining:
- Divine Blessings: Through the powerful Satyanarayana Vratham
- Architectural Beauty: Stunning Dravidian architecture
- Natural Serenity: Peaceful hilltop location with scenic views
- Community Service: Tradition of Annadanam (free meals)
- Modern Convenience: Online booking and well-managed facilities
- Accessibility: Excellent connectivity by road, rail, and air