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Yaganti Umamaheshwara
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Andhra Pradesh, Kurnool -
February 2, 2026
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February 2, 2026 
Important Days and Dates
The temple is most vibrant during the cooler months (October to March). Key days include:
- Maha Shivaratri: The most significant festival, celebrated in February/March. It features the Kalyanotsavam (divine wedding) of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Karthika Masam (October/November): The entire month is auspicious. Every evening, the Akasa Deepam (a massive lamp) is lit on the hilltop, and the temple is illuminated with thousands of oil lamps.
- Mondays: As with most Shiva temples, Mondays attract a large number of devotees for special prayers.
- Dussehra (Navratri): Dedicated to Goddess Uma Devi, where she is decorated in different avatars over nine days.
How to Reach
From Delhi to Yaganti
- By Air: Fly from Delhi (DEL) to Hyderabad (HYD) or Kadapa (CDP). From Hyderabad, take a train/bus to Nandyal or Banaganapalle.
- By Train: Take the Karnataka Express or Rajdhani to Guntakal or Dhone Junction, then hire a taxi (approx. 1.5–2 hours).
From Ahmedabad to Yaganti
- By Air: Fly from Ahmedabad (AMD) to Hyderabad (HYD). From Hyderabad, it is a 5–6 hour drive (approx. 300 km) via Kurnool.
- By Train: Take a train to Guntakal or Mantralayam Road, then proceed by local transport/taxi to Yaganti.
About History of the Temple
The temple was primarily constructed in the 15th century by the Vijayanagara Kings, Harihara and Bukka Raya. Legend says Sage Agastya intended to install an idol of Lord Venkateswara here, but since the idol’s toenail broke, he performed penance to Lord Shiva. Shiva appeared and stated the place resembled Kailash, making it his own abode.
Main Poojas Performed
The poojas at Yaganti are unique because devotees are often allowed closer access to the deity compared to other major South Indian temples.
| Priority | Pooja Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rudrabhishekam (Primary Pooja) | The most vital ritual where the deity is bathed with water, milk, and honey while chanting Vedic mantras. Devotees are often permitted to touch the deity during certain phases under priestly guidance. |
| 2 | Akasa Deepam | A unique daily ritual where a large lamp is lit on top of the hill behind the temple, burning from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. |
| 3 | Archana | A standard ritual involving the chanting of the 108 names of Lord Shiva and offering flowers/bilva leaves. |
| 4 | Vahana Pooja | Performed for new vehicles (2-wheelers or 4-wheelers) to seek protection from Lord Veerabhadra (the temple’s protector). |
Attire (Dressing Guidelines)
The temple follows traditional South Indian norms. While not as strict as some Kerala temples, modest clothing is mandatory.
Men:Traditional Dhoti or Lungi with a formal shirt or an Angavastram (shawl) is preferred. For Abhishekam, men are generally required to remove their shirts and vests. Jeans are permitted for general darshan, but shorts are strictly prohibited.
Women:Sarees, Half-Sarees, or Chudidars/Salwar Kameez with a dupatta are recommended. Avoid sleeveless tops, short skirts, or transparent clothing.
General Note:Footwear must be removed before entering the temple complex.
Official Websites
- Government Portal:
Andhra Pradesh Endowments Department
- Temple Information:While Yaganti does not have a dedicated high-traffic standalone “Trust” website like Tirupati, official information is managed under the Nandyal District Administration and the AP Endowments portal mentioned above.
Description
Important Days and Dates
The temple is most vibrant during the cooler months (October to March). Key days include:
- Maha Shivaratri: The most significant festival, celebrated in February/March. It features the Kalyanotsavam (divine wedding) of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Karthika Masam (October/November): The entire month is auspicious. Every evening, the Akasa Deepam (a massive lamp) is lit on the hilltop, and the temple is illuminated with thousands of oil lamps.
- Mondays: As with most Shiva temples, Mondays attract a large number of devotees for special prayers.
- Dussehra (Navratri): Dedicated to Goddess Uma Devi, where she is decorated in different avatars over nine days.
How to Reach
From Delhi to Yaganti
- By Air: Fly from Delhi (DEL) to Hyderabad (HYD) or Kadapa (CDP). From Hyderabad, take a train/bus to Nandyal or Banaganapalle.
- By Train: Take the Karnataka Express or Rajdhani to Guntakal or Dhone Junction, then hire a taxi (approx. 1.5–2 hours).
From Ahmedabad to Yaganti
- By Air: Fly from Ahmedabad (AMD) to Hyderabad (HYD). From Hyderabad, it is a 5–6 hour drive (approx. 300 km) via Kurnool.
- By Train: Take a train to Guntakal or Mantralayam Road, then proceed by local transport/taxi to Yaganti.
About History of the Temple
The temple was primarily constructed in the 15th century by the Vijayanagara Kings, Harihara and Bukka Raya. Legend says Sage Agastya intended to install an idol of Lord Venkateswara here, but since the idol’s toenail broke, he performed penance to Lord Shiva. Shiva appeared and stated the place resembled Kailash, making it his own abode.
Main Poojas Performed
The poojas at Yaganti are unique because devotees are often allowed closer access to the deity compared to other major South Indian temples.
| Priority | Pooja Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rudrabhishekam (Primary Pooja) | The most vital ritual where the deity is bathed with water, milk, and honey while chanting Vedic mantras. Devotees are often permitted to touch the deity during certain phases under priestly guidance. |
| 2 | Akasa Deepam | A unique daily ritual where a large lamp is lit on top of the hill behind the temple, burning from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. |
| 3 | Archana | A standard ritual involving the chanting of the 108 names of Lord Shiva and offering flowers/bilva leaves. |
| 4 | Vahana Pooja | Performed for new vehicles (2-wheelers or 4-wheelers) to seek protection from Lord Veerabhadra (the temple’s protector). |
Attire (Dressing Guidelines)
The temple follows traditional South Indian norms. While not as strict as some Kerala temples, modest clothing is mandatory.
Men:Traditional Dhoti or Lungi with a formal shirt or an Angavastram (shawl) is preferred. For Abhishekam, men are generally required to remove their shirts and vests. Jeans are permitted for general darshan, but shorts are strictly prohibited.
Women:Sarees, Half-Sarees, or Chudidars/Salwar Kameez with a dupatta are recommended. Avoid sleeveless tops, short skirts, or transparent clothing.
General Note:Footwear must be removed before entering the temple complex.
Official Websites
- Government Portal:
Andhra Pradesh Endowments Department
- Temple Information:While Yaganti does not have a dedicated high-traffic standalone “Trust” website like Tirupati, official information is managed under the Nandyal District Administration and the AP Endowments portal mentioned above.