Kotappakonda Sri Trikoteswara Swamy Temple is a well-known Hindu pilgrimage place in Andhra Pradesh’s Palnadu district. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Trikoteswara Swamy, and is perched atop the Trikuta Hills (also called Trikutadri), a hill with three distinct peaks. The temple holds deep spiritual significance and attracts millions of devotees, especially during the festival of Maha Shivaratri.
About Kotappakonda Temple: Trikuta Hills
The Trikuta Hills at Kotappakonda is unique because, from any direction, three distinct peaks are visible. These three peaks symbolize the divine trinity in Hinduism—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva (Rudra). The peaks are referred to as:
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Brahma Shikharam: This is where the main temple, dedicated to Trikoteswara Swamy, is situated. According to legend, Lord Shiva moved to Brahma Shikharam from Rudra Shikharam due to the devotion of the legendary devotee Gollabhama.
Rudra Shikharam: This hill houses the Old Koteswara Temple, the original location of Lord Shiva’s abode before he moved to Brahma Shikharam. It is also known as Paatha Kotayya or the old Kotayya temple.
Vishnu Shikharam: The Paapanaseswara Temple, a shrine where Lord Vishnu is believed to have performed penance for Lord Shiva, is located here. The hill also has a sacred pond called Paapanasa Teertha, known for its supposed power to absolve sins.
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Mythological Story of Kotappakonda
The temple is steeped in a mythological legend involving a devoted woman named Anandavalli, also called Gollabhama, the daughter of a cattleman. She became an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva and frequently visited the Old Koteswara Temple on Rudra Shikharam to offer her prayers.
Her intense devotion caught the attention of Jangama Devara, a divine sage who blessed her with a miraculous pregnancy despite her being a spinster, as a test of her faith. She remained unfazed and continued her worship. Jangama Devara then instructed her to return home, promising that Lord Shiva himself would follow her, but with the condition that she must not look back during the journey.
However, as she reached Brahma Shikharam, curiosity overtook her, and she turned back. As a result, Lord Shiva halted at Brahma Shikharam and transformed into a Lingam. This place became the site of the New Koteswara Temple, marking the final resting place of Lord Shiva. The mythological tale signifies devotion, faith, and the testing of one’s spiritual resolve.
Annual Festival: Kotappakonda Tirunallu
The Maha Shivaratri festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm, is the most important event at Kotappakonda. During this time, lakhs of devotees visit the temple to participate in the celebrations. The entire area is illuminated with colorful decorations, and various cultural activities take place. The festival is also marked by a unique Kite Festival, where kites are flown as part of the ritualistic celebrations.
Veda Patasala: Preserving Tradition
The Veda Patasala at Kotappakonda was established by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) to teach and preserve the Vedas, the sacred scriptures of Hinduism. Recognized as oral heritage by UNESCO, the Vedas are taught to students at this school, helping to preserve ancient knowledge and spiritual traditions.
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Kotappakonda Sri Trikoteswara Swamy Temple Daily Sevas And Timings
Morning: 05:30 AM to 01:30 PM, Evening: 3 PM to 07:30 PM
| S.NO | SEVA | TIMINGS |
| 1 | Eka Rudrabhishekam | 05:30 AM to 06:30 AM |
| 2 | Archana, Darshanam | 06:30 AM to 1 PM |
| 3 | Abhishekam | 06:30 AM to 12:30 PM |
| 4 | Archana on Gotras Panchaharati | 01:30 PM to 01:45 PM |
| 5 | Ashtothara pooja, Darshan, Archana | 03:30 PM to 7 PM |
| 6 | Darshan, Panchaharati, Pradoshakolarchan, Gotranamamulu | 7 PM to 07:30 PM |
How to Reach Kotappakonda Temple
- By Road: Kotappakonda is well connected by road, and buses and taxis are available from nearby towns such as Narasaraopet, Chilakaluripet, and Guntur.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Narasaraopet, approximately 20 kilometers from Kotappakonda.
- By Air: The closest airport is Vijayawada International Airport, around 100 kilometers away.
Conclusion
The Kotappakonda Sri Trikoteswara Swamy Temple is not only a place of religious worship but also a center of cultural and spiritual importance in Andhra Pradesh. With its rich history, and deep-rooted mythology. Annual festivals that draw in millions of devotees, it remains a cherished landmark of faith and devotion. Its significance as a Shaivite pilgrimage destination continues to grow, making it a must-visit for devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Kotappakonda Temple is famous for its location on a hill with three peaks symbolizing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
A: It is called Trikutadri because of the three distinct peaks visible from all directions, representing the Hindu trinity.
A: The main temple is located at an elevation of 1500 feet on Brahma Shikharam.
A: The biggest festival, Maha Shivaratri, is celebrated annually with great devotion.
A: There are four temples in the complex, located at different elevations on the hill.
A: The best time to visit is during Maha Shivaratri or any other major Hindu festival.
