Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple Nandikotkur – The Second Arasavilli of Andhra Pradesh

Among the very few Sri Suryanarayana Swamy temples in India, the Nandikotkur Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple stands out as one of the most ancient, historic, and spiritually powerful temples.

Location

Nandikotkur town is located in Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, about 27 kilometers from Kurnool, on the Kurnool–Srisailam highway.

Origin of the Name – Nandikotkur

In ancient times, nine Nandi idols were installed around the village. As the village lay at the center of these nine Nandis, it was called “Navanandula Kotkuru.”
Over time, this name gradually transformed into “Nandikotkur.”

Legend (Sthala Purana)

In olden days, this entire region was a dense forest. While traveling to the sacred Shaiva kshetram Srisailam, the Kakatiya kings used to rest in this area.

During this period, the region was ruled by Chola Siri Singarayalu of the Velanati Cholas, who were vassals of the Kakatiyas. Singarayalu was a great devotee.

Once, while hunting in the forest, he grew tired and rested under a tree, where he fell asleep. In his dream, Lord Surya Narayana Swamy appeared before him and commanded him to:

Construct a temple
Install His divine idol
Begin regular worship

After waking up, Singarayalu shared his divine vision with the Kakatiya rulers, obtained their permission, built the temple, consecrated the deity, and initiated daily worship.

The Second Arasavilli

In Telugu states, whenever Surya temples are mentioned, Arasavilli comes first.
Next in importance and antiquity is the Nandikotkur Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple, earning it the revered title:

“The Second Arasavilli”

History

Historically, the temple was constructed in the 13th century by the Velanati Cholas. Subsequent rulers contributed to its development.

Over time, the temple fell into ruins. However, about 30 years ago, the local devotees and villagers took the initiative to renovate and restore the temple beautifully, reviving daily worship and spiritual activities.

Temple Architecture & Description

The temple faces East and is located in Kotaveedhi
A beautifully carved welcome arch stands at the main entrance
Atop the arch is Lord Surya Bhagavan riding a chariot drawn by seven horses
On either side of Surya Bhagavan are Goddess Saraswati and Lord Narasimha Swamy

Inside the Temple Complex:

Bali Peetham
Dwaja Stambham
Mukha Mandapam
Ardha Mandapam
Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum)

The Mukha Mandapam houses Lord Vinayaka.
The upper portions of the mandapa and the vimana are adorned with idols of various deities.

Main Deity

In the Garbhagriha, Sri Suryanarayana Swamy is seen in a standing posture, holding:

Padma (Lotus) in the right hand
Abhaya Mudra in the left hand

The Lord stands majestically on a seven-horse chariot, symbolizing divine energy and cosmic movement.

Unique Divine Phenomenon

A remarkable feature of this temple is that during Dhanurmasam, until the beginning of Uttarayana, the rays of the rising sun fall directly on the deity in the sanctum every day — a rare and sacred occurrence.

Pujas & Festivals