Sri Koulutla Chennakesava Swamy Temple – A Divine Legacy in Kurnool’s Forests

 

Location

The temple is nestled in Kappatralla Village, Devanakonda Mandal, in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. It lies within a reserved forest area, about 50 km from Kurnool town, offering a serene and spiritually potent atmosphere.

Deities and Architecture

• Presiding Deity: Sri Chennakesava Swamy, a form of Lord Vishnu.
• Subshrines: Dedicated to Mallikarjuna Swamy, Bramarambika Devi, Vijaya Vinayaka Swamy, and Lord Dakshinamurthy.
• The temple showcases South Indian Dravidian architecture, with intricate carvings and traditional gopurams.

Significance

• The temple’s origin is linked to the Mahabharata lineage.
• King Parikshith, grandson of Arjuna, was cursed to die by snakebite after insulting a meditating rishi.
• His son Janamejaya performed the Sarpa Yaga to avenge his father’s death.
• Astika, born of a human and Naga woman, intervened and stopped the sacrifice.
• To atone for the killing of innocent serpents, Saint Vasista advised Janamejaya to consecrate Vishnu temples.
• One such idol of Chennakesava was installed in Koundinya Ashrama, which later became buried under an anthill.

Divine Revelation and Re-consecration

• In the 11th century A.D., a cow belonging to Golla Koulutla began pouring milk over the anthill.
• Lord Chennakesava appeared in Koulutla’s dream, instructing him to uncover and re-consecrate the idol.
• The temple was revived, and the deity came to be known as Koulutla Chennakesava Swamy.

Festivals

• The temple celebrates Brahmotsavam annually during Magha Masam, attracting devotees from across the region.

How to Reach

• By Road:
  The temple is located in a reserved forest area near Kappatralla Village, about 50 km from Kurnool town in Andhra Pradesh.
  You can reach Devanakonda Mandal by bus or private vehicle, then take local transport to Kappatralla.
• Nearest Bus Station:
  Devanakonda Bus Stand is the closest major stop. From there, autos or jeeps are available to reach the temple.
• Nearest Railway Station:
  Pendekallu Railway Station is the nearest railhead, connected to major routes via Kurnool.
• Nearest Airport:
  Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad is the closest major airport. From there, travel to Kurnool by train or bus, then proceed to Devanakonda and Kappatralla.

Tips

• Best Time to Visit:
  During Magha Masam Brahmotsavam, the temple is vibrant with rituals and cultural activities. Early mornings are ideal for peaceful darshan.
• Footwear & Attire:
  Traditional dress is recommended. Footwear must be removed before entering the temple premises.
• Local Terrain:
  The temple is in a forested area—wear comfortable footwear and carry water, especially during summer months.
• Photography: The temple’s architecture and forest backdrop are visually striking. Seek permission before photographing inside sanctum areas.