Contents
| Date built: | – |
|---|---|
| Deity: | shiva |
| Architectural style: | Dravidian architecture |
| Major festivals | Sivarathri |
| Locale: | Surutapalli |
| District:: | chittoor |
| Address: | – |
| Phone | – |
1. Introduction & Spiritual Essence
Located in the serene village of Surutapalli in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, the Pallikondeswara Temple stands as a unique testament to the syncretic traditions of Hindu worship. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is renowned as the Pradosha Kshetram. Unlike the dominant Shaivite tradition of worshipping Shiva in the Lingam form, here he is revered as Pallikondeswarar—a name translating to “the Lord who reclines.”
Phalaśruti: The Benefits of Darshan
Devotees flock to this sacred shrine to witness the Bhoga Sayana Siva (Shiva in a state of divine rest). The primary spiritual significance lies in the image of Shiva reclining on the lap of Goddess Parvathi (known here as Sarva Mangalambika). This posture, typically associated with Lord Vishnu (Ranganatha), symbolizes ultimate tranquility and the cessation of worldly suffering.
It is believed that performing Pradosha Nama Japa (worship during twilight) here grants Moksha (liberation) and washes away sins. For devotees seeking relief from Pitra Dosha (ancestral afflictions), a visit to this temple is considered highly meritorious.
2. Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend
The Vijayanagara Legacy
According to temple records and architectural analysis, the Pallikondeswara Temple was constructed during the late Vijayanagara period (likely 10th to 13th century, with later expansions). The rulers of this dynasty were ardent patrons of both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, which explains the unique reclining posture of Shiva, mirroring the Vaishnavite Ranganatha.
The Sthala Purana (Local Legend)
Tradition holds a celestial story behind the deity’s posture. After the great Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean), the deadly poison Halahala emerged. Lord Shiva consumed it to save the universe, causing his throat to turn blue (Neelakantha). Overwhelmed by the heat and poison, Shiva sought rest, reclining on the lap of Goddess Parvathi to cool his body and mind.
Another legend connects the temple to the Pradosha period (twilight). It is said that celestial beings, including the Ashta Dikpalakas (guardians of the directions), visit this spot every Pradosha time to worship Lord Shiva.
3. Architectural Marvels
Dravidian Style & Vastu Shastra
The temple showcases the classic Dravidian style of architecture. Unlike many temples of this period, the complex is built on a single tier without a towering Rajagopuram (entrance tower), creating a horizontal sprawling effect that emphasizes the sanctity of the ground level. The layout follows Vastu Shastra principles, with the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) perfectly aligned to the east, allowing the first rays of the sun to illuminate the deity.
The Sanctum and Sculptures
The heart of the temple is the Garbhagriha, housing the 6-foot long reclining image of Shiva. The sculpture depicts Lord Shiva resting his head on a stone pillow, with his consort Parvathi seated beside him.
Surrounding the central idol are depictions of:
- Ashta Dikpalakas (Guardians of the Directions): Standing in reverence.
- Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikeya: Positioned as sons.
- Surya and Chandra: The Sun and Moon deities, signifying cosmic cycles.
The ceiling of the Mandapa features intricate carvings of deities, floral motifs, and scenes from Puranic lore, carved from black granite.
4. Darshan & Ritual Logistics
The temple administration manages the daily rituals to ensure a smooth flow of devotees. Below are the general timings. Note that timings may vary slightly during festival seasons.
Daily Timings
| Session | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Special Pradosha Timing | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
Key Sevas and Booking
The temple offers various Sevas (services) that can often be booked online through the APTDC (Andhra Pradesh Tourism) or local temple administration portals.
- Abhishekam: Ritual bathing of the deity (performed on Mondays and Pradosha days).
- Archana: Chanting of names (Can be done individually or for families).
- Kalyanotsavam: Celestial wedding ceremony (special arrangement required).
- Vrishabha Seva: Offering to Nandi (the bull vehicle).
2026 Festival Calendar
- Maha Shivaratri: February 26, 2026 (All-night festival with special Abhishekam).
- Pradosha Vratam: 1st & 3rd Mondays of every month (Highly recommended).
- Karthika Deepam: November 5, 2026.
- Sravana Masam: July – August (Daily Rudrabhishekam).
5. Practical Visitor Guidance
Code of Conduct & Rules
- Dress Code: Traditional attire is mandatory. Men should wear Dhoti or pants with a shirt; Women should wear Saree or Salwar Kameez. Western attire is strictly prohibited.
- Photography: Photography is not permitted inside the sanctum sanctorum. Mobile phones and cameras must be deposited at the designated locker counter at the entrance.
- Footwear: Leave footwear at the paid cloakroom (nominal fee) outside the temple complex.
Crowd Management & Best Time to Visit
- Best Hours: For a peaceful Darshan, visit between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM or after 7:00 PM. Avoid Sunday evenings due to local crowds.
- Seasonal Advice:
- Summer (May–June): Surutapalli gets hot. Carry a water bottle and wear head coverings.
- Monsoon (July–Sept): The temple courtyard can be slippery; wear rubber-soled chappals.
6. Pilgrimage Connectivity
How to Reach
Surutapalli is a small village located near Punganoor on the Andhra Pradesh–Tamil Nadu border.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport (TIR) approximately 75 km away. Alternatively, Chennai International Airport is about 110 km away.
- By Rail: The nearest major railway junction is Tirupati Railway Station (TPTY).
- By Road:
- From Tirupati: Take the NH 71 towards Punganur, then follow local signs to Surutapalli (approx. 1.5 hours).
- From Chennai: Take the NH 75 via Chittoor/Punganur.
Nearby Sacred Sites
Enhance your pilgrimage by visiting these nearby temples:
- Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple (Kalahasti): Located 45 km away, famous for Rahu-Ketu Sarpa Dosha remedies.
- Kalyana Venkateswara Temple (Srinivasamangapuram): Located 30 km from Tirupati, a major alternative to the Tirumala crowd.
- Srikurmam: Located in Srikakulam (nearby district), the only temple dedicated to Vishnu in his Kurma (Turtle) avatar.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What makes the Pallikondeswara Temple unique?
Unlike most Shiva temples where the deity is a Lingam, this temple features a Murti (idol) of Shiva reclining on the lap of Goddess Parvathi, a posture usually reserved for Lord Vishnu.
2. Is there a VIP darshan entry available?
The temple administration facilitates a paid darshan queue for a nominal fee (usually ₹50 – ₹100 depending on the festival). There is no specific “VIP” quota, but accessibility for elderly and disabled devotees is prioritized.
3. Is online seva booking available?
Yes, basic sevas like Archana can be booked online via the Andhra Pradesh Tourism website. However, for complex rituals like Kalyanotsavam, it is recommended to contact the temple office directly.
4. What is the significance of Pradosha time?
Pradosha is the twilight period (between sunset and late evening) when Lord Shiva is believed to perform the cosmic dance of destruction and creation. Worshiping at this time is said to destroy sins.
5. Are there accommodation facilities near the temple?
While Surutapalli is a small village, there are decent lodges available in Punganur (15 km away) and Tirupati (70 km away). The temple has basic amenities for short stays.
