Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Malyadri

Also known as Malyadri Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, is nestled between two rivers—the Krishna and Penna rivers—and is a famous pilgrimage site drawing thousands of devotees every Saturday. This temple is unique because devotees can have the darshan of Lord Narasimha Swamy only on Saturdays; on the remaining days, darshan is not allowed.

This temple being the 7th among the Nava Narasimha Kshetras, Sri Jwala Narasimha and Lakshmi Devi are the presiding deities, who are worshiped with great devotion and faith. Devotees also refer to the Lord Narasimha as Malakonda Swamy, since the Lord is residing on Malakonda hill. The Lord Narasimha Swamy is residing here in his fierce form.

Lord Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy is so merciful for his devotees; those couples who are childless and waiting for a child should pray to the Lord for three consecutive Saturdays. He blesses His devotees with healthy progeny. Not only from Andhra Pradesh, but even from neighbouring states like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, people visit this temple to fulfil their wishes.

Nestled atop the Malyadri hills in Valetivaripalem, Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, this Divya Kshetra is surrounded by thick, lush green forests and offers a peaceful and spiritually uplifting ambience.

According to Vedic history, once Lord Vishnu was discussing worldly matters with Lakshmi Devi. He asked his consort if she had any wish. Lakshmi Devi replied that there were only a few Divya Kshetras on earth, and she wished there were more so that devotees could have peaceful darshan and offer prayers for the well-being of their families.

In response, Lord Vishnu asked his Vanamala (garland) to transform into a Parvata (mountain). Following his instructions, the Vanamala became Malyadri Hill. The name is derived from “Mala,” meaning flower, and “Adri,” meaning hill.

Sage Agastya and Jwala Narasimha Manifestation

There is also a sacred Sthala Purana associated with this place. Sage Agastya performed intense tapasya on Malyadri to please Lord Narayana. Pleased with his devotion, the Lord manifested here in a fiery form resembling a red flame. Because of this ugra rupa (fierce form), the Deity came to be known as Jwala Narasimha.

Divine Tale of Lakshmi Devi and the Hill

Another devotional account tells that Lakshmi Devi once became upset with the Lord. As she gazed upon the hill, it split into two parts, forming a narrow path. She then sat atop the hill, and this path now serves as a staircase for devotees to climb and reach the hilltop.

Divine Combo of Shiva-Keshava

Lord Malakonda Narasimha is worshiped inside a spacious cave on the hill, and beneath it, a Shivalinga is installed. This sacred hill is considered a revered site of Shiva-Keshava, symbolizing the divine unity of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

Sacred Rituals and Divine Grace

Devotees who perform Pradakshina (circumambulation) with utmost devotion and sincerity for five or nine consecutive Saturdays can help overcome obstacles and relieve problems.

Special significance is given to childless couples; those who visit the temple during the Jyeshta month and light cow-ghee lamps for three consecutive Saturdays are believed to be blessed by Lord Narasimha Swamy with children, fulfilling their heartfelt wishes.

There are two temples of Lord Narasimha Swamy located on the hills of Malyadri. One is at the hilltop, and the other is at the base of the hill.

To reach the hilltop temple, the devotees need to climb 970 steps, passing through a narrow staircase.

At this temple, Lord Malakonda Swamy is worshiped according to the rituals and traditions prescribed in the Pancharatra Agama shashtra.

At the hilltop, the large gopuram serves as a gateway to the temple. Inside the temple complex, there is a Mukha Mantapa, where rituals and gatherings take place. The pillars are adorned with beautiful stone carvings.

At the heart of the temple lies the cave-like Garbha Griha, where Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy is enshrined. The sanctum is small and constructed with traditional stone blocks, reflecting classic South Indian temple architecture.

Also, there are other deities like Yakshas, Devas, Gandharvas, and Siddhas that are worshiped here on other days.

There are seven tirthas representing seven sages on this sacred hill—Narasimha Tirtha, Varuna Tirtha, Kapila Tirtha, Agastya Tirtha, Sankara Tirtha, Jyoti Tirtha, and Indra Tirtha. Taking a sacred holy dip in these tirthas purifies the soul and mind.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM

The darshan of Lord Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy is allowed only on Saturday. Whereas other deities can be worshiped on other days.

Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple: It is a sacred temple devoted to Lord Venkateswara, attracting devotees seeking blessings and prosperity.

Shiva Temple: It is a peaceful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located amidst serene natural surroundings near Malyadri Hill.

Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple: It is a revered temple honoring Lord Veerabhadra Swamy, known for its traditional architecture and devotional atmosphere.

Sri Maha Ganapathi Temple: A divine temple dedicated to Lord Ganapathi, worshipped for wisdom, success, and removal of obstacles.

By Railway: Singarayakonda railway station in the Prakasam district is the nearest railway station. It is located at the short distance of 3.2 km from the temple. From here, you can choose a bus, taxi, or auto as a mode of transport.

By Road: Malyadri is connected to neighbouring cities like Kandukur, Singarayakonda, Hyderabad, Telangana, and more.