Sri Irukalala Parameswari Ammavari Temple, Nellore — A Sacred Landmark of Divine Feminine Power

 

Location Overview

• Address: Jonnavada Road, Mulapet, Nellore, Andhra Pradesh – 524003
• Proximity: Just 1.4 km from Nellore Railway Station, near Swarnala Cheruvu (Golden Pond)
• Access: Easily reachable via auto, bus, or cab from major city points like NTR Necklace Road and Kotamitta

Presiding Deity

• Sri Irukalala Parameswari Ammavaru — a fierce and protective form of Goddess Chamundeshwari
• Considered the Grama Devata (village deity) of Nellore, worshipped for protection from evil forces and fulfillment of vows
• Idol is adorned with gold ornaments, seven-colored floral decorations, and often accompanied by an owl, symbolizing wisdom and vigilance

Temple Highlights

• Historical Significance:
• Believed to date back to the 10th–11th century CE, with roots in the Maurya, Satavahana, and Kakatiya periods
• Protected as an A.P. State Monument, with inscriptions in Telugu, Tamil, and Devanagari on temple pillars
• Architecture:
• Built with reddish soft stone, featuring Mukha Mandapam, Namaskara Mandapam, Ardha Mandapam, and Garbha Griha
• Temple complex includes Utsava Mandapam, Kalyana Mandapam, and a newly constructed Rajagopuram
• Rituals & Beliefs:
• Devotees tie taayattu (sacred thread) to ward off evil and fulfill wishes
• Animal sacrifices are still practiced as part of traditional vows
• Special pujas held during Fridays, Amavasya, and Navaratri
• Cultural Role:
• Hosts weekly markets (Santa) near Swarnala Cheruvu, historically linked to trade and temple offerings
• Plays a central role in Nellore’s spiritual and cultural identity

Temple Hours

6.00 am to 12.30 pm

5.30 pm to 8.30 pm

Tips

• Fridays and Amavasya days tend to be more crowded due to special pujas.
• Arrive early for taayattu tying rituals and darshan during festive days.
• The temple is especially vibrant during Navaratri, Ugadi, and local jatara celebrations.

Getting Here

By Road

• From Nellore Bus Stand: Take an auto or cab via Jonnavada Road; the temple is near Swarnala Cheruvu (Golden Pond).
• From Tirupati or Chennai: Use NH16 to reach Nellore, then local transport to the temple.
• Local Autos: Widely available from Kotamitta, NTR Necklace Road, and Nellore RTC Complex.

By Train

• Nearest Station: Nellore Railway Station
• From the station, the temple is just 1.4 km away — a quick ride by auto or even walkable for those who prefer a short stroll.

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport (~130 km)
• From Tirupati, take a train or bus to Nellore, then local transport to the temple.