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Ahobilam Narasimha
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Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam -
January 28, 2026
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January 28, 2026 
Important Days and Dates
Ahobilam is a profound spiritual destination, known as the Nava Narasimha Kshetra because it houses nine temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha. It is nestled in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh and is divided into Lower Ahobilam and Upper Ahobilam.
The temple follows the Vaikhanasa Agama tradition. Significant days include:
- Swathi Nakshatram: Occurs every month; it is the birth star of Lord Narasimha and is considered highly auspicious for Thirumanjanam (holy bath).
- Brahmotsavam: The most grand festival, usually held in February or March (Phalguna month).
- Narasimha Jayanthi: The appearance day of the Lord (usually in May).
- Mukkoti Ekadasi: Celebrated with great fervor in the winter months.
How to Reach
Ahobilam is somewhat remote, so planning is key. The nearest major town is Nandyal (approx. 74 km) or Kurnool (approx. 150 km).
From Delhi
- By Air: Fly from Delhi (DEL) to Hyderabad (HYD). From Hyderabad, hire a taxi or take a state bus (TSRTC/APSRTC) to Ahobilam (approx. 350 km / 7-8 hours).
- By Train: Take a train to Nandyal (NDL) or Kadapah (HX). From there, local buses or private taxis are available.
From Ahmedabad
- By Air: Fly from Ahmedabad (AMD) to Hyderabad (HYD) or Bengaluru (BLR). Bengaluru is about 400 km away.
- By Train: Take a train to Guntakal Junction (GTL) or Dharmavaram. From these junctions, you can find connecting transport to Nandyal and then to Ahobilam.
About History of the Temple
According to legend, Ahobilam is where Lord Vishnu took the Narasimha avatar to kill the demon King Hiranyakashipu and save his devotee, Prahalad. It is said that the entire mountain range represents Adisesha (the divine serpent), and Ahobilam sits at the “center” or the navel. The name “Ahobilam” translates to “Great Cave” (Aho – Great, Bilam – Cave), referring to the cave shrines where the Lord is worshipped.
Main Poojas Performed
The rituals here are deeply rooted in ancient traditions.
| Priority | Pooja Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thirumanjanam | The sacred abhishekam (bathing ritual) of the deity with milk, honey, and sandalwood. Often performed on Swathi Nakshatram. |
| 2 | Kalyanotsavam | The celestial wedding ceremony of Lord Narasimha and Goddess Chenchu Lakshmi. |
| 3 | Sahasra Namarchana | Chanting of the 1,000 names of Lord Narasimha while offering flowers/tulsi. |
| 4 | Nitya Aradhana | Daily rituals including waking the Lord (Suprabhatam) and offering Naivedyam. |
Attire (Dressing Guidelines)
Ahobilam maintains a traditional decorum, especially for those wishing to enter the inner sanctum or perform specific poojas.
Men:Recommended: Dhoti (Vasti) with a shirt or a formal kurta. For certain special poojas, you may be required to remain bare-chested or wear an Angavastram.
- Prohibited: Shorts, lungis, or sleeveless tops.
Women:
- Recommended: Saree, Half-saree, or Chudidar with a dupatta (scarf).
- Prohibited: Skirts, sleeveless tops, or western-style distressed clothing.
Official Websites
- Temple Trust/Official:
ahobilamutt.org
- Government Portal:
aptemples.ap.gov.in
Description
Important Days and Dates
Ahobilam is a profound spiritual destination, known as the Nava Narasimha Kshetra because it houses nine temples dedicated to Lord Narasimha. It is nestled in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh and is divided into Lower Ahobilam and Upper Ahobilam.
The temple follows the Vaikhanasa Agama tradition. Significant days include:
- Swathi Nakshatram: Occurs every month; it is the birth star of Lord Narasimha and is considered highly auspicious for Thirumanjanam (holy bath).
- Brahmotsavam: The most grand festival, usually held in February or March (Phalguna month).
- Narasimha Jayanthi: The appearance day of the Lord (usually in May).
- Mukkoti Ekadasi: Celebrated with great fervor in the winter months.
How to Reach
Ahobilam is somewhat remote, so planning is key. The nearest major town is Nandyal (approx. 74 km) or Kurnool (approx. 150 km).
From Delhi
- By Air: Fly from Delhi (DEL) to Hyderabad (HYD). From Hyderabad, hire a taxi or take a state bus (TSRTC/APSRTC) to Ahobilam (approx. 350 km / 7-8 hours).
- By Train: Take a train to Nandyal (NDL) or Kadapah (HX). From there, local buses or private taxis are available.
From Ahmedabad
- By Air: Fly from Ahmedabad (AMD) to Hyderabad (HYD) or Bengaluru (BLR). Bengaluru is about 400 km away.
- By Train: Take a train to Guntakal Junction (GTL) or Dharmavaram. From these junctions, you can find connecting transport to Nandyal and then to Ahobilam.
About History of the Temple
According to legend, Ahobilam is where Lord Vishnu took the Narasimha avatar to kill the demon King Hiranyakashipu and save his devotee, Prahalad. It is said that the entire mountain range represents Adisesha (the divine serpent), and Ahobilam sits at the “center” or the navel. The name “Ahobilam” translates to “Great Cave” (Aho – Great, Bilam – Cave), referring to the cave shrines where the Lord is worshipped.
Main Poojas Performed
The rituals here are deeply rooted in ancient traditions.
| Priority | Pooja Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thirumanjanam | The sacred abhishekam (bathing ritual) of the deity with milk, honey, and sandalwood. Often performed on Swathi Nakshatram. |
| 2 | Kalyanotsavam | The celestial wedding ceremony of Lord Narasimha and Goddess Chenchu Lakshmi. |
| 3 | Sahasra Namarchana | Chanting of the 1,000 names of Lord Narasimha while offering flowers/tulsi. |
| 4 | Nitya Aradhana | Daily rituals including waking the Lord (Suprabhatam) and offering Naivedyam. |
Attire (Dressing Guidelines)
Ahobilam maintains a traditional decorum, especially for those wishing to enter the inner sanctum or perform specific poojas.
Men:Recommended: Dhoti (Vasti) with a shirt or a formal kurta. For certain special poojas, you may be required to remain bare-chested or wear an Angavastram.
- Prohibited: Shorts, lungis, or sleeveless tops.
Women:
- Recommended: Saree, Half-saree, or Chudidar with a dupatta (scarf).
- Prohibited: Skirts, sleeveless tops, or western-style distressed clothing.
Official Websites
- Temple Trust/Official:
ahobilamutt.org
- Government Portal:
aptemples.ap.gov.in