Sri Pallikondeswara Saamy Temple, Surutapalli — Attraction in Andhra Pradesh

Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Surutupalle village of the Tirupati district in Andhra Pradesh, India. Here's a detailed review covering various aspects of the temple: Deity and Significance: The presiding deity, Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy (Lord Shiva), is uniquely portrayed in a reclining posture on the lap of his consort, Goddess Parvati (Marakathambigai). This is unlike most Shiva temples where the deity is in the Lingam form. This posture is believed to represent Lord Shiva resting after consuming the deadly poison (Halahala) during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). The name "Pallikondeswara" is derived from "Palli" (village) and "Konda" (hill), referring to its location on a small hillock. It also draws a similarity to "Pallikonda Ranganatha" (Lord Vishnu in a reclining posture). The temple is considered highly sacred, with the belief that Lord Shiva appeared here as a Swayambhu Lingam (self-manifested). Devotees visit seeking blessings for prosperity, health, and spiritual enlightenment. It is also believed that Lord Vayu (wind god), present in the temple, liberates devotees suffering from chronic diseases. History: The temple's history spans centuries, with its origins potentially dating back to the 7th century AD, attributed to the Pallava kings who were devoted to Lord Shiva. Another account suggests the temple was built much later, in 1232 AD, by Sri Venkata Perumalaraju Brahmadeva Maharaj, the King of Karvetinagaram. Local legends also mention that this is the place where Lord Shiva rested for a while after consuming the poison during the Samudra Manthan. Architecture: The Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. The temple complex comprises several structures: Main Sanctum: Houses the unique reclining form of Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy. Interestingly, there are two sanctum sanctorums: one with the Shiva Lingam and the adjacent one with the reclining deity. Mandapams: Ornate pillared halls used for rituals and gatherings. Gopurams: Towering entrance gateways adorned with detailed sculptures. Prakaram: The outer courtyard surrounding the main shrine. A large Nandi statue (the bull vahana of Lord Shiva) is prominently placed on a stone pedestal, facing the sanctum sanctorum with the Shiva Lingam. The temple also houses shrines for Lord Anjaneya (Hanuman) located opposite the main temple, as well as idols of Goddess Padmavathi and Smt Andal Devi within the temple premises. Notably, the temple has a depiction of Dakshinamurthy (Lord Shiva as the divine teacher) along with his consort, which is considered unique. Festivals: While the temple welcomes devotees throughout the year, certain festivals hold special significance: Maha Shivaratri: The most important annual festival, usually celebrated in February or March. Brahmotsavam: Celebrated during the Tamil month of Somavaram. Thiruvadhirai: Observed in the Tamil month of Margazhi. Annabhishekam: Performed during the Tamil month of Aippasi. Pradosham days: Special prayers are offered to both the Nandi and the Shiva Lingam simultaneously. How to Reach: By Air: The nearest airport is Tirupati International Airport, approximately 100 km away. By Train: The nearest railway station is Renigunta Junction, about 80 km from the temple. By Road: The temple is easily accessible by bus or car from major cities in Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states. It is located on the main road connecting Uthukkottai and Tirupati. Overall Experience: The Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple offers a unique spiritual experience due to the distinct reclining posture of Lord Shiva. Its ancient history, Dravidian architecture, and the serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for devotees and those interested in temple art and culture. The presence of the Shiva Lingam alongside the reclining deity adds to the temple's uniqueness. The major...

🌺🌸 Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple, Surutapalli – A Divine Wonder of Lord Shiva Resting! 🌸🌺

Nestled in the serene village of Surutapalli, near Uthukkottai on the Tamil Nadu–Andhra Pradesh border, lies the unique and sacred Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple 🛕✨ — the only temple where Lord Shiva is seen resting in a reclining posture (Sayana Kolam) like Lord Vishnu! 😇🙏

🌿 Divine Legend & History 🌿

According to ancient scriptures and temple lore, after consuming the deadly Halahala poison during the Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean), Lord Shiva became tired. To comfort Him, Goddess Parvati Devi (Sarvamangala) lovingly placed His head on her lap under the shade of trees at this very spot 🌳💞. Thus, Lord Shiva rested here as “Pallikondeswarar” (meaning the Lord who is resting). This sacred act symbolizes compassion, peace, and divine rest after saving the universe 🌍🕉️.

It is said that Lord Vishnu, Brahma, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Indra, and all Devas gathered here to offer prayers to the resting Lord Shiva. Hence, this place is often called “Dakshina Kailash” (Southern Kailash) 🌺🕉️.

🌸 Deities & Sanctum Details 🌸

🕉️ Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy (Lord Shiva) – In a majestic Sayana Kolam, reclining on the lap of Goddess Parvathi Devi (Sarvamangala Thayar) 💫

🌹 Goddess Maragathambika – The divine consort of Lord Shiva, blessing devotees with grace and strength 💖

🌼 Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma, Lord Indra – Present here in the sanctum, performing pooja to the reclining Shiva 🪔

🌺 Lord Dakshinamurthy, Vinayaka, Murugan, Navagrahas, Chandikeswarar, Bhairavar – All with their separate shrines inside the temple complex 🙏✨

🌷 Divine Vibes & Significance 🌷

This temple radiates powerful vibrations and calm energy 💫💮. The air around feels divinely charged, giving immense peace to those who meditate or sit quietly here 🌿🌸. Devotees believe that visiting this temple removes negative energies, health troubles, and karmic burdens.

Even though the temple is ancient and spiritually powerful, it currently lacks large-scale support and maintenance, which makes it feel even more sacred and untouched 🌺 — a place where you truly feel Lord Shiva’s serene presence in silence 💖🕉️.

🌼 Location & Visiting Info 🌼

📍 Surutapalli, near Uthukkottai, on the Chennai–Tirupati Highway (NH205) 🕰️ Open all days – Best to visit during Pradosham, Shivratri, and Full Moon Days 🌕 💐 Don’t miss the peaceful Sayana Darshan of Lord Shiva – a rare and soul-touching sight 🌺

🌹🌸✨ A temple where Lord Shiva rests and devotees find peace — truly, Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple, Surutapalli, is a treasure of divine bliss, silence,...

Hi guys I am from Bangalore and I visited this Beautiful Temple on 15/2/25.

1. Sri Pallikondeswara temple situated in Suruttapalli, next to Uthukottai. (70kms from Tirupati)
2. Temple is located in Main Road of Andhra/Tamil Nadu Border.But Temple is in Andhra Pradesh only.
3. Temple Timings is from 5AM to 1PM and from 4PM to 8.30PM & On Pradosham days morning 6.00 a.m. to 8.30 p.m
4. U will get Pleanty of Buses from Tirupati U should ask for Tirupati- Sathyavedu Bus Route
5. Buses will give Stop Just in front of Temple only.
6. Here Lord Shiva is in a reclining position. Usually we can see lord Vishnu in a reclining position , but only here we can see lord Shiva moolavar in a sleeping position. 7)Best place for Pradosha Pooja
7. This temple is the one and only temple of Shivan as sleeping idol in Entire INDIA 9)Only Temple where Dakshinamoorthy present with his wife. 10)According Puranas During Samudra manthan, the poison (Halahala) which cameout and Lord SHIVA drunken and holed in center of neck hence he well named as Neelakanta and He lead down to relax, keeping head in the lap of Parvati. 11)And The gods, who were concerned about Shiva’s well-being assembled there and stood around him, waiting for the Lord to open his eyes.
8. This lying posture of Shiva is rare and unique, is almost similar to Vishnu’s reclining posture and also sivan known as Bhoga Sayana Sivan. 13)This is an unknown hidden temple of Lord SHIVA, so please do visit this temple if you are in Tirupati
9. For special dharsan they are charging 50rs and 100rs.
10. Huge 2/4/6/12 wheeler Parking is Available with Parking Charges.
11. Drinking Water/ Toilet Facilities are Available.
12. Daily Annadhanam is Provided from 11.30AM to 3.30PM.
13. Mobile phones are allowed inside the temple.
14. No Dress code but be in Traditional Wear.
15. The temple was built by Vijayanagara king this temple is a 700 year old temple Built by the Vijayanagara king Harihara Bukka Raya (1344-47).
16. Outside the temple small restaurants are available where food is also good.
17. NOTE : Temple special for Pradosha pooja - evening 5 to 6:30 pm on Pradosha days (evening time of triodasi (13th day after new/full moon) turning Chaturvedi (14th day of same above). Rs. 500 ticket to participate in special pooja with prasad, free to watch. Best to be there by 4 pm on pradosham day, due to large crowds...