One of Lord Vishnu’s eight revered Mahakshetras in India is the Sri Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, which is situated atop the Mangalagiri hill in Andhra Pradesh. Being one of the few temples where the deity “drinks” the offering, this one is genuinely unique in that the deity, Lord Narasimha, is worshipped in liquid form and the Panakam (jaggery water) offered by devotees is partially consumed by the Lord himself.
TTD 300 Rs Special Darshan 2025 – Tirumala Booking, Dates & Timings
History of Panakala Narasimha Swamy Temple
Mangalagiri, which translates to “Auspicious Hill,” was supposedly made by Lakshmi Devi as a penance for Lord Vishnu. It is thought that the hill is shaped like an elephant, which represents power and loyalty. It is said that Lord Narasimha came to this place to destroy evil and bless followers.
The temple was built during the reign of Cholas and Vijayanagara kings, who added to its architectural splendor and spiritual standing. It is mentioned in ancient Puranas.
The Panakala Swamy Temple enjoys a magnificent view from its position halfway up Mangalagiri Hill. With only the deity’s open mouth carved into the rock, where Panakam is poured as an offering, the temple is uncomplicated yet profoundly spiritual. At the base of the hill is a second temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, which is well-known for its imposing 11-story gopuram that was constructed by the Vijayanagara kings.
Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Timings
| Time | Activity Description |
|---|---|
| 07:00 AM | Temple Doors Open, Morning Archana Begins |
| 07:00–07:30 AM | Morning Archana |
| 07:30 AM – 01:00 PM | Special Archana & Panakam Offering to Devotees |
| 01:00 PM | Maharnivedana (Main Offering) |
| 03:00 PM | Temple Doors Close |
Note: No Archana is performed in the evening as it is believed that the Lord is worshipped by Gods and Sages during that time.
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple Timings
| Time | Activity Description |
|---|---|
| 05:00 AM | Temple Doors Open |
| 05:30 AM | Offering of Theertham |
| 06:00 AM | Morning Archana |
| 07:30 AM | Ghoshti with Theertham |
| 07:30–11:00 AM | Special Archana for Devotees |
| 11:30 AM | Maharnivedana (Main Offering) |
| 12:30 PM | Temple Doors Close |
| 04:00 PM | Temple Doors Reopen |
| 04:00–07:00 PM | Special Archana for Devotees |
| 07:30 PM | Evening Archana, Harathi, Theertha Ghoshti |
| 08:30 PM | Temple Doors Close |
Darshan Timings
| Day | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Daily | 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM | No evening darshan |
Note: The temple is closed after 3:30 PM. Only morning darshan and offering of panakam are allowed.
Festivals Celebrated
Many festivals are celebrated at this temple with great devotion:
- Brahmotsavam – Celebrated in the month of Phalguna (Feb–Mar) with processions and rituals.
- Narasimha Jayanti – The birth of Lord Narasimha.
- Vaikunta Ekadasi – Very auspicious for Vishnu devotees.
- Karthika Masam – Lighting lamps and special prayers in November.
Temple Location and How to Reach
Location:
Mangalagiri Hill,
Guntur District,
Andhra Pradesh – 522503, India
How to Reach:
- By Road: Buses and taxis available from Vijayawada (12 km) and Guntur (25 km).
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Mangalagiri Railway Station (2 km).
- By Air: Nearest airport is Vijayawada Airport (Gannavaram), around 35 km away.
You can take an auto or walk up the hill to reach the temple.
Temple Contact Information
Official Website : https://www.mangalagiri.org/index.html
Email: Not officially listed
Temple Timings Helpdesk: Available at temple entrance
Dress Code and Visitor Tips
- Wear simple, traditional clothes.
- Climbing the hill can be tiring, so wear comfortable footwear (remove at the temple).
- Bring water, especially in summer.
- Senior citizens can use palanquins or vehicles to reach the top.
FAQs about Sri Panakala Narasimha Swamy Temple
Q1. Why is it called Panakala Narasimha Swamy?
Ans: Because devotees offer panakam (jaggery water) to Lord Narasimha, and He is believed to drink it.
Q2. Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Ans: Photography is usually not allowed in the sanctum but is permitted outside.
Q3. Can we visit anytime during the day?
Ans: No. Temple is open only from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Q4. Are there any other Narasimha temples nearby?
Ans: Yes, Mangalagiri has three Narasimha temples:
- Panakala Narasimha (on the hill)
- Lakshmi Narasimha (at the foot of the hill)
- Gandala Narasimha (behind the hill)