- Address:
Nidadavolu, West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh
Deities
- Presiding
Deity: Lord Shiva as Sri Golingeswara Swamy
(Swayambhu Maha Linga).
- Other
shrines: Parvati Devi and associated Shaivite deities.
Temple Significance
- One
of the ancient Shaivite temples in Andhra Pradesh, dating back to
the 7th century.
- Known
for its Swayambhu Shiva Linga, believed to have manifested
naturally.
- A
sculpture of a cow atop the mandapam symbolizes the divine origin
of the linga.
History & Legends
- Constructed
between 696–733 AD by King Vijayaditya of the Chalukya dynasty,
father of King Vikramaditya.
- The
town was historically called Niravadyapuram.
- Legend:
A cowherd noticed his cow pouring milk at a spot daily; upon digging, a
Shiva Linga was found. The king later built the temple at this sacred
site.
Rituals & Festivals
- Daily
Pujas: Abhishekam, Archana, Deeparadhana.
- Maha
Shivaratri: Celebrated with grandeur,
night-long prayers, and special abhishekams.
- Karthika
Masam: Devotees light lamps and perform rituals.
- Pradosham:
Bi-monthly observance dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Mondays
are considered auspicious for Shiva worship.
Beliefs
- Worshipping
Sri Golingeswara Swamy is believed to remove obstacles and grant peace.
- The
Swayambhu linga is considered especially powerful.
- The cow sculpture reinforces the belief in divine intervention in the temple’s origin.
Getting Here
- Nearest
Town: Nidadavolu.
- By
Train: Nidadavolu Junction (major railway station
nearby).
- By
Road: Well connected from Rajahmundry (~25 km) and
Eluru (~60 km).
- By
Air: Rajahmundry Airport (~30 km).
Tips
- Visit
during Shivaratri or Karthika Masam for a vibrant spiritual
experience.
- Carry
essentials, as facilities may be limited.
- Respect
customs: remove footwear, dress modestly.
- Early mornings are ideal for peaceful darshan.