Famous Temples in Vizag
Visakhapatnam (nicknamed Vizag) is the largest city, both in terms of area and population in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. After independence, Visakhapatnam developed into one of the country’s chief ports and became the headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy.
Vizag is a major sea port on the south east coast of India. The city was named after the god of Valor, Visakha.Its a center for religious traditions. Hindu temples, evidently occupy a major portion of the district. Widely explored temples in Vizag are Appikonda Temple, Bheemeshwaralayam, Kotilingam Temple, Simhachalam Temple, Lord Venkateshwara Temple, Bhavatarini Kali Temple, Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple, Kotilingeshwara Swamy Temple, Sampath Vinayak Temple.
Appikonda Temple:- Appikonda is a village located 18-kms from Vizag at the cost of the Bay of Bengal. There is a saying that in this village Kapila Maha Muni has installed the idol of Somalingeswara Swamy and thus the name – Kapilakonda which was over the ages changed to Apillakonda and further to Appikonda.
Bheemeshwaralayam:-The temple is in Bheemli. It’s a group of 13 temples. All the temples were constructed by different rulers. Due to this the temples have distinctive styles of construction. This temple’s compound is in the heart of the village.
Kotilingam Temple:- This temple is at Panchadarla near Anakapallee. It is located close to the `five fountains` – five jets of water fed by a perennial spring. The presiding deity Lord Shiva has 12 rows of 85 lingams carved on a single lingam.
Simhachalam Temple:- This temple was Built on a hill and has exquisitely carved halls. It is one of the most unique temples of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy in India. The Chandanotsavam or the Nijaroopa Darshanam Day is the annual ritual conducted at the temple. It is only on this day devotees can see the nijaswarupam of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy .According to Telugu almanac it is done on Vaiskha Suddha Tadiya.On other days, the Lord is covered with a layer of chandanam.On this day chandanam is removed and is covered with a fresh layer of chandanam(sandalwood).
Lord Venkateshwara Temple:- The Ceramic- Lord Venkateshwara as the Lord of Tirumala is the all pervading Lord of the Universe. This beautiful Teak wood framing art is crafted on a ceramic mould base. The flourescent art makes the form of the Lord glow in darkness.
Bhavatarini Kali Temple:- The temple is located near Ramakrishna beach takes the first priority for this nine day festival. The 56 feet Durga idol burnt instituted at Autonagar, Gajuwaka.Goddess Kali is worshipped in this temple. Koti Kumkumarchana puja will be performed during the navaratris.
Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple:- Sri Kanaka Malalakshmi is the presiding deity of the Vizag locals. The month of Margasira according to Hindu calendar that generally comes during October-November every year is considered the most auspicious period and annual celebrations are celebrated in the temple.
Sampath Vinayak Temple:- Devotees believe that praying at the Sri Sampath Vinayaka Temple will remove luck and bring success in their life. The temple is located at a couple of kilometers from Vizag Railway Station. Though small in size, the temple has a special place in the hearts of Vizagites and the visitors too. Sri Sampath Vinayagar temple has become one of the famous temples in Visakhapatnam City attracting daily a number of devotees. Sri Sampath Vinayagar is a powerful deity in Visakhapatnam. There is staunch belief among the devotees that their sins are washed off and desires fulfilled by offering prayers to the deity.
Buddhist temples in vizag :- Visakhapatnam is surrounded by ancient Buddhist sites, most of which have been excavated recently and illustrate the legacy of Buddhism in the region. The village of Sankaram near Anakapalli, 38 km from Visakhapatnam City is known for its 3rd and 4th century Buddhist structures. Situated on two small hillocks, these Buddhist constructions are believed to be made during Mahayana period. The hills, Bojjanakonda and Lingalakonda have a monastery, numerous rock-cut stupas and sanctuaries cut into the sides of the hill with several Buddha images.