India is known for its rich heritage and cultural diversity. The country is home to many famous temples that attract millions of devotees every year. One such temple is the Nandikeshwari Temple located in the town of Nandigama, Andhra Pradesh. The temple is a significant pilgrimage destination in India, and it is visited by people from all over the country.  

Introduction to Nandikeshwari Temple  

The Nandikeshwari Temple is dedicated to the goddess Nandikeshwari, who is believed to be an incarnation of the goddess Shakti. The temple is located on the banks of the Krishna River and is surrounded by lush greenery. The temple is a popular destination for devotees who seek the blessings of the goddess.  

History of Nandikeshwari Temple  

The history of the Nandikeshwari Temple dates back to the 7th century. According to legend, the temple was built by the Chalukya Dynasty during their reign. It is believed that the temple was built on the site where the goddess Nandikeshwari appeared to a group of devotees.  

Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations and restorations. Today, the temple stands as a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh.  

Architecture of Nandikeshwari Temple  

The Nandikeshwari Temple is a fine example of South Indian temple architecture. The temple has a Dravidian style of architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple is built with granite and has a large gopuram (tower) at the entrance.  

Inside the temple, there is a sanctum sanctorum where the main idol of the goddess Nandikeshwari is located. The idol is made of black stone and is adorned with gold ornaments. The temple also has several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities.  

Festivals Celebrated at Nandikeshwari Temple  

The Nandikeshwari Temple is a popular destination for festivals and celebrations. The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Navaratri, Dussehra, and Diwali.  

During the Navaratri festival, the temple is decorated with flowers and lights. The festival is celebrated for nine days, and each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess Nandikeshwari.  

Nearby Attractions  

Apart from the Nandikeshwari Temple, there are several other attractions in and around Nandigama that are worth visiting. Some of the popular tourist destinations include:  

• Kondapalli Fort  
• Bhavani Island  
• Undavalli Caves  
• Prakasam Barrage  

How to Reach Nandikeshwari Temple  

The Nandikeshwari Temple is located in the town of Nandigama, which is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is the Vijayawada International Airport, which is located about 65 km away from the temple. 

Hidden facts about Nandikeshwari Temple, Nandigama:- 

Nandikeshwari Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Nandigama town in the state of Telangana, India. Here are some lesser-known facts about the temple:

Historical Significance: The temple is believed to have been built during the 10th century by the Eastern Chalukya king Rajaraja Narendra. It was later renovated by the Kakatiya dynasty in the 13th century.

Unique Architecture: The temple's architecture is a unique blend of Chalukyan and Kakatiyan styles. The temple's gopuram (tower) has intricate carvings and sculptures that showcase the artistic skills of the craftsmen of that time.

Religious Significance: The temple is dedicated to Goddess Nandikeshwari, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. It is one of the 18 Shakti Peethas, which are considered to be the most sacred places of worship for followers of the Hindu faith.

Festivals: The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Navratri, Dussehra, and Diwali. The temple also hosts a grand annual festival called Shakambari Utsavam, which is celebrated during the month of January.

Legend: According to legend, the temple was built on the spot where Lord Shiva appeared before a devout worshipper and granted his wish. The temple is also associated with the legend of Goddess Sati, who is believed to have sacrificed herself in a sacrificial fire after her father insulted her husband, Lord Shiva.

Location: The temple is situated on the banks of the river Krishna, which adds to its natural beauty. The temple's location also makes it a popular tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride on the river.

Overall, the Nandikeshwari Temple is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of the Hindu faith, and its unique architecture and rich history make it a must-visit destination for tourists.

How to reach Nandikeshwari Temple, Nandigama by air and nearest airport?  

If you plan to reach Nandikeshwari Temple in Nandigama by air, the nearest airport is the Vijayawada Airport, located approximately 68 kilometers away. The Vijayawada Airport has regular flights from major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.  

Once you reach the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Nandikeshwari Temple in Nandigama. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the traffic and mode of transport.  

Alternatively, you can also reach Nandikeshwari Temple by train. The nearest railway station is the Nandigama Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.  

How to reach Nandikeshwari Temple, Nandigama by road and nearest bus stand?  

If you plan to reach Nandikeshwari Temple in Nandigama by road, there are several options available depending on your location.  

If you are traveling from Vijayawada, you can take the NH65 highway and drive for approximately 50 kilometers to reach Nandigama. If you are coming from Hyderabad, you can take the NH65 and drive for approximately 290 kilometers to reach Nandigama.  

The nearest bus stand to Nandikeshwari Temple is the Nandigama Bus Stand, which is well-connected to major cities in Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states. You can take a bus from Vijayawada, Hyderabad, Guntur, and other cities to reach Nandigama Bus Stand. From there, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.  

Closure  

The Nandikeshwari Temple is a significant pilgrimage destination in India. The temple is not only a religious site but also a cultural and historical landmark. The temple's intricate architecture, rich history, and religious significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Andhra Pradesh.  

FAQs  

What is the significance of Nandikeshwari Temple? 

The Nandikeshwari Temple is dedicated to the goddess Nandikeshwari, who is believed to be an incarnation of the goddess Shakti.