Ardhagiri Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple – Sacred Hill of Sanjeevani

Location

Village: Aragonda
District: Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh
Altitude: ~500 feet above sea level
Access: About 15 km from Kanipakam and 23 km from Chittoor. Pilgrims typically reach via Chittoor or Kanipakam, then take local transport to the temple.

Main Deity and Subshrines

Presiding Deity: Veeranjaneya Swamy (Lord Hanuman), enshrined in a majestic form with sunlight falling directly on his feet during specific hours.
Subshrines include:

Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshmana
Lord Shiva (on the hilltop)
Sanjeevaraya Pushkarini – a sacred pond believed to contain medicinal properties

Temple Significance

Mythological Origin: Linked to the Ramayana, where Hanuman carried the Sanjeevani hill to revive Lakshmana. A fragment of the hill is said to have fallen here, forming Ardhagiri (“Half Hill”).
Healing Belief: The Pushkarini (temple tank) is believed to contain water with healing powers due to the Sanjeevani fragment. Devotees drink or bathe in it for relief from ailments.
Spiritual Energy: The temple is considered a source of positive energy and spiritual rejuvenation, attracting pilgrims seeking strength, courage, and protection.
Architectural Charm: Traditional South Indian style with intricate carvings and a serene natural setting. The climb of 500 steps to the hilltop offers panoramic views.
Historical Patronage: Built and maintained by Vijayanagara kings, known for their devotion and temple architecture.

History

Dynastic Patronage: The temple was constructed and expanded by the Vijayanagara kings, known for their devotion to Hanuman and their architectural patronage.
Centuries of Worship: Over time, local rulers and devotees have renovated and maintained the temple, preserving its spiritual aura and regional importance.

Legends

Ramayana Connection: During the battle in Lanka, Hanuman carried the Sanjeevani hill to revive Lakshmana. A portion of the hill is believed to have fallen at Aragonda, forming Ardhagiri (“Half Hill”).
Divine Resting Spot: Hanuman is said to have rested briefly at this location during his journey, sanctifying the site with divine energy.
Healing Waters: The Sanjeevaraya Pushkarini, a sacred pond near the temple, is believed to contain medicinal properties from the Sanjeevani fragment, attracting devotees seeking cures.

Architecture

Style: The temple follows Dravidian architecture, with inscriptions in Sanskrit and regional languages.
Sanctum Design: The idol of Veeranjaneya Swamy is placed such that sunlight falls directly on his feet, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
Hilltop Layout: Located at an altitude of ~500 feet, the temple is accessed via 500 steps, offering panoramic views of Aragonda’s lush landscape.
Subshrines: Includes shrines for Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Lord Shiva on the hilltop, reflecting a holistic Ramayana theme.
Natural Harmony: The temple blends with its surroundings, adorned with floral decorations and simple stone carvings that evoke serenity and devotion.

Rituals

Abhishekam (Sacred Bath): Performed daily to Veeranjaneya Swamy using water from the Sanjeevaraya Pushkarini, believed to enhance healing.
Alankaram: The deity is adorned with flowers, betel leaves, and sandal paste, reflecting Hanuman’s valor and devotion.
Archana & Harathi: Offered with chanting of Hanuman Chalisa and Ramayana verses, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Pushkarini Snanam: Devotees bathe in the sacred pond before entering the temple, seeking relief from ailments and spiritual cleansing.
Special Pujas: Conducted during Amavasya, Pournami, and Hanuman Jayanthi, drawing large crowds.

Festivals

Hanuman Jayanthi (Chaitra Purnima): Grand celebration with Rathotsavam, cultural programs, and mass annadanam.
Ugadi & Rama Navami: Rituals honoring Hanuman’s service to Lord Rama, with special decorations and Ramayana recitations.
Karthika Masam: Devotees light lamps and perform deepa puja, enhancing the temple’s spiritual ambiance.
Makara Sankranti: Pilgrims trek to the hilltop shrine of Shiva and offer prayers for strength and prosperity.
Monthly Pournami & Amavasya: Observed with special abhishekams and crowd gatherings for healing and blessings.

Beliefs

Healing Powers: The Pushkarini is believed to contain traces of Sanjeevani, offering relief from skin diseases, joint pain, and chronic ailments.
Spiritual Strength: Devotees seek Hanuman’s blessings for courage, protection from evil, and success in personal and professional life.
Ramayana Resonance: Pilgrims feel a deep connection to Hanuman’s journey, believing the site holds divine vibrations from his touch.
Sunlight Blessing: The natural sunlight falling on Hanuman’s feet is considered auspicious, symbolizing divine energy and clarity.

Temple Timings

Daily Pooja Schedule

Getting Here

Well-connected via APSRTC buses and private autos from Chittoor and Kanipakam.
Pilgrims often hire autos or cabs from Kanipakam after visiting the Vinayaka temple.

Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 AM) or evening (5–7 PM) for cooler weather and serene darshan.
Festival Days: Expect large crowds during Hanuman Jayanthi, Pournami, and Amavasya. Arrive early.
Carry Essentials: Water bottle, snacks, umbrella, and basic medicines. The climb involves ~500 steps.
Pushkarini Ritual: Bring a towel and change of clothes if you plan to bathe in the sacred pond.
Footwear: Leave footwear at designated counters before entering the temple premises.
Photography: Restricted inside sanctum; permitted in outer areas and hilltop views.