Sri Agastheswara Swamy Temple Kadapa – History, Legends, Rituals & Travel Guide

Location

• Situated on the banks of River Penna in Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh.
• Close to Lingapuram village, making it a serene riverside shrine.

Deities

• Main Deity: Lord Shiva as Agastheswara Swamy, worshipped in the form of a Shiva Linga.
• The Linga is believed to have been installed by Sage Agastya (Agasthya Muni).
• Consort: Goddess Raja Rajeswari Devi, depicted in standing posture holding lotus flowers.

Significance

• The temple is revered as a sacred Shaivite shrine, with strong connections to Agastya Muni’s penance and worship of Lord Shiva.
• Its riverside location adds spiritual importance, as the Penna river is considered purifying.
• Devotees believe worship here grants blessings of peace, prosperity, and relief from doshas.

Rituals & Festivals

• Daily Poojas follow traditional Shaiva Agama practices.
• Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with grandeur, attracting pilgrims from Kadapa and nearby districts.
• Other observances include Karthika Masam rituals and Navaratri celebrations for Goddess Raja Rajeswari.

Architecture

• Built in Dravidian style, with a sanctum housing the Shiva Linga.
• Separate shrine for Goddess Raja Rajeswari.
• The temple’s riverside setting enhances its spiritual aura.

History & Legends

• The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Agastheswara Swamy, believed to have been installed by Sage Agastya (Agasthya Muni) during his penance.
• Local legends say Sage Agastya worshipped Lord Shiva here on the banks of the Penna River, making it a spiritually powerful site.
• The temple is part of a network of shrines linked to Agastya across South India, emphasizing his role in spreading Shaivism.

Beliefs

• Worship here is said to bring peace, prosperity, and relief from doshas, especially planetary afflictions.
• Devotees believe prayers at this temple help overcome obstacles in life and grant blessings of stability.
• The Penna river waters are considered purifying, and ritual baths are believed to cleanse sins.

Getting Here

• Nearest Town: Proddatur (~15–20 km away).
• By Road: Accessible via Kadapa–Proddatur routes; buses and private vehicles connect Lingapuram village.
• By Rail: Kadapa Railway Station is the nearest major railhead.
• By Air: Tirupati International Airport (~150 km away).

Tips

• Best Season to Visit: September to February (pleasant winter climate). Summers can be very hot.
• Dress Code: Traditional attire is expected (men: dhoti/shirt; women: saree/salwar).
• Festivals: Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam are celebrated with grandeur.
• Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with Gandikota Fort and other Penna riverbank temples for a spiritual and scenic circuit.