The Hathakesvara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is situated on the banks of the Krishna River, at the entrance to the Srisailam Gorge. The temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Andhra Pradesh, and is visited by millions of devotees every year.
The temple is believed to have been built in the 10th century by the Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI. The temple is named after the legend that Lord Shiva performed the Hatha yoga here.
The temple is a three-storeyed structure, with the sanctum sanctorum located on the first floor. The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Lord Shiva, which is carved out of black stone. The idol is four-armed, and is seated in a lotus pose. The trunk of the idol is turned to the left, and is holding a pen and an ink pot.
The temple is surrounded by a number of smaller shrines, dedicated to various deities, including Lord Vishnu, Parvati, Kartikeya, and Nandi. The temple complex also has a number of mandapams (pavilions), where pilgrims can rest and relax.
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The best time to visit the temple is during the early morning or late evening hours, when the crowds are smaller.
The temple is located about 200 kilometers from Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh. The nearest airport is the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, which is located about 150 kilometers from the temple.
The temple can be reached by road or by rail. The nearest railway station is the Srisailam Railway Station, which is located about 10 kilometers from the temple.
There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located near the temple, where pilgrims can stay. The temple also has a number of restaurants, where pilgrims can eat.
The Hathakesvara Temple is a must-visit for pilgrims and tourists alike. The temple is a beautiful example of Hindu architecture, and is a place of great religious significance.
Here are some additional details about the temple:
- Architecture: The temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has a gopuram (gateway tower) that is about 50 feet tall. The temple has a number of mandapams (pavilions), where pilgrims can rest and relax.
- Deities: The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. The temple also has shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Parvati, Kartikeya, and Nandi.
- Festivals: The temple celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year. The most important festival is the Mahashivratri festival, which is celebrated in February or March.
- Legend: According to legend, Lord Shiva performed the Hatha yoga here. The temple is also said to be the place where Lord Shiva married Parvati.
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