Matsyagundam, also known as the "Fish Pool", is a small village located in the Araku Valley of Andhra Pradesh, India. It's roughly 115 kilometers away from the city of Visakhapatnam . This little place is famous for its natural pool teeming with a variety of fish and an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Sri Matsyalingeswara Swamy Temple, which is believed to be about a century old.
The stream that runs through Matsyagundam has an interesting folklore associated with it. Legend says that there was once a big battle between the Singarajulu (snakes) and the Matsyarajulu (fish) at a place called Gemmili. The Mother Fish is said to have rescued all the fishes and brought them here, after which the place came to be known as Matsya Gundam (Fish Pool) . Even today, the local people revere the fish and don't consume them.
Here are some of the things you can expect to see and do in Matsyagundam:
See the Fish Pool: The main attraction of Matsyagundam is the natural pool where you can see a variety of fish. The fish here are quite tame and are said to even feed out of your hand.
Visit the Sri Matsyalingeswara Swamy Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple is believed to be about a century old and has some interesting architecture.
Explore the Araku Valley: Matsyagundam is located in the Araku Valley, a beautiful hill station with stunning scenery. There are many other things to see and do in the valley, such as visiting waterfalls, hiking, and exploring tribal villages.
Here are some tips for planning your trip to Matsyagundam:
- The best time to visit Matsyagundam is during the Maha Shivaratri festival, which is usually held in February or March. During this time, the temple is decorated and there are special pujas (prayers) held.
- Matsyagundam is a small village, so there are not many places to stay. However, there are a few guesthouses and homestays in the area. You can also stay in Araku Valley, which is a short drive away.
- The weather in Matsyagundam is pleasant all year round. However, the winters (November to February) can be a bit chilly, so be sure to pack accordingly.
- There is no entry fee to visit Matsyagundam. However, there may be a small donation required to enter the Sri Matsyalingeswara Swamy Temple.
Overall, Matsyagundam is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Andhra Pradesh.