Keep On Travelin': May 2013


	Talpagiri Ranganadhaswamy Temple, Nellore: Sri Talapagiri Ranaganatha swamy Temple is located in Nellore city and is about 5kms away from Nellore Bus stand. RanganadaSwamy Temple in Nellore is more than 600years old. This temple is situated on the banks of the river Pennar and is marked by a huge 29 Mts tall Galigopuram with seven gold kalasams and its architectural splendour. The annual Rath Yathra of the God is a much awaited ritual in Nellore. There are seven kalisams, which brings beauty to the temple. Every year during the month of March-April (varies according to Hindu calendar) grand festival is celebrated. These are called Brahmotsavam. On the bank of river penna sri kashyapa Maharshi performed yagna and as a fruit of his penance conferred upon him the gift of establishing himself as Ranganadha Swamy at Nellore in 7^th cebtury, by Pallava ruler Sri Rajaraja Narendra. Subsequently in 13^th century Sri Jatha Varma has offered precious stones and metal to Lord Ranganadha Swamy. The Andhra Maha Bharatam i.e. from Viratprvam to the end of the epicwas written by the poet Sri kavi Brahma Tikkana, on the bank of pennar river. On the east there is seven storied Maha gopuram, south Sri Ranganayaki Lakshmi Devi) temple and beautiful mirror dias, west is sacred Pennar river and north Sri Andal Ammavari temple.

	Jonnawada: Mallikarjuna Swamu kamakshi tai temple, Jonnawada which is located about 12 kms from Nellore. The destination is also well connected for Railway station at Nellore. A famous Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi tai temple is located on the bank of river Pennar, 12 Km from Nellore. It attracts many piligirims. The Village is part of Buchireddipalem Mandal. In tretayuga Mahamuni Kasyapa Brahma performed yagna and pleased Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy thus this place is named as ‘Yagnavatika Jonnawada’. Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi tai grant to the innumerable devotes their desires, as their God head. Since then he continues conferring boons and his blessings on his devotees. This temple is constructed in the year 1150( Tretayuga). The goddess Kamkshi is belived as an incarnation of Shakti. A ‘Sri Chakram’ was installed here by Sri Jagadguru Sankaracharya. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the lake known as Kachpateertham, near the temple, which washes away all their bad karma. Brahma Rushi Sri Kashyap Mahamuni visited Bhoolokam (The Earth) and wanted to perform Yagna and chosen north of vedadri as Yagna Vatika (place to perform yagna) After successful completion of the Yagna a bright light appeared. It has spread over the whole bhoolokam. Later Lord Eswara appeared as Lord Mallikarjuna, who came out from fire of Yagna. There is bus service from Nellore to Jonnawada. For the convenienc of the pilgrims there are choultries of the Devastanam and TTD and also private choultries. Every year, during the celebration of Brahmstsavam in the month of Vaisaka, lakhs of devotees throng the holy centre to worship the goddess to attain salvation and Friday is the day very dear to Kamakshitai. One can find persons, persecuted by evil spirits, circumambulating in the temple precinct. A bathing ghat has been built on the bank of the Penna, for the convenience of the pilgrims.

	Narasimhakonda: Vedagiri Lakshmimarasimha Swamy devastanam came into being nearly 500 years ago, on the summit of Narasimhakonad. According to the rock inscriptions, this temple was built by the Pallava king Narsimha Varma in the ninth century. Legend goes that the sage Kasyapa established the temple on the bank of Pinakini. And the vedic scripture “Brahmapurana” reveals that the seven sages (Saptarishis) performed “yagnam” (Sacrifice) on the top of Narasimhakonda. The seven (Koneru) tanks were renovated with Mandapas on the hilltop . The holy place lies 15Km. away from Nellore, on the southern bank of the river Pinakini. Every year “Brahmotsavams” are celebrated here in the month of May. Jonnawada is to the north of the river.

	Penchalakona:- This is a very ancient sacred place (pilgrim centre). Lord Narasimha manifested Himself here as a huge of rock in “Yoga mudra” (in an entwined contemplative posture) and hence it acquired the name of “Penusila” (huge rock) and in course of time became famous as “Penchalakona”. Legend has it that after slaying the demon Hiranya Kasipa, Lord Narsimha bathed in Penchalakona and withdrew that “Avatara”(incarnation) of Narasimha, shedding His anger and ferocity. The Lord here goes by the name of Somasila Narasimhaswamy and has become one of the Nava Narasimhas (nine manifestations). People belive that because the sage Kanva resided in this area in the past, the river flowing here acquired the name Kanva Nadi and that with efflux of time it became Kandaleru. It is also learnt that the temple was renovated in the 10th century. Penchalkona lies at the foothills of Veligondalu (mentioned earlier), at a distance of 80 km., from Nellore. Narasimha Jayanthi is celebrated every year in the month of May and devotees flock specially on Saturday. The Devestanam choultries provide facilities to the piligrims and there is bus service too.

	Mannar Poluru:- Alghu Malluru Krishna Swamy temple is existing in the Mannarpoluru Village, right from the time of Telugu Chola rulers. The village is close-by to Sullurupet, at a distance of 103 Km. from Nellore. It was built in the 17th century by Bangaru Yadama Nayudu, the living place of mallayodas or wrestlers. According to a legend, it was here that Lord Sri Krishna defeated Jambavantha in a duel and married his daughter Jambavati and that Lord MahaVishnu deflated the bloated ego of Garutmata here alone. Apart from the idol of Satyabhama and Jambavati, the two consorts of Lord Krishna, the idol of Jambavantha creating the illusion of shedding tears are bound to amaze the viewers. One cannot help marvelling at the sculptural splendour exuded by the idols of the beauties.

	Chengalamma Temple - Sullurupet Goddess Chengalamma Parameswari manifested Herself in the village of Sullurupet which lies 100Km. away from Nellore on the Kolkata-Chennai highway and the temple for Her was built on the bank of the Kanlangi river. History tells us that it was established during the fourth and fifth centuries. People also refer to her as the village goddess “Tenkali”. With the passage of time, she is being worshipped regularly by devotees as Chengalamma. Devotees turn up in large number to witness “Chengalamma Jatara” (fair). The Village goddess who was called Tankali gained reputation as Sullurupet Chengalamma Thalli and her idol in the temple faces the sea. Devotees from different parts of the State visit the place and fulfil their vows, refering the goddess as the mother who grants boons liberally. The naturally-formed image of the goddess adorning the hanging roots (vooda) of the banyan tree is really an awe-inspiring spectacle.

	Somasila Dam Somasila is one of the biggest Irrigation Project in the District. The project is envisaged to create Irrigation potential. It is constucted across River Pennar and is situated near Somasila Village of Ananthasagaram Mandal, Nellore District. Since it is located in eastern ghats situated at the out skirts of the district, natural beauty is nose worthy. There is a temple in the village called Someswara Temple blessed by the Lord Siva on the other side of River Pennar an Ashram is situated. Tourist Population including school children are gradually increasing owing to its importance. It can be developed as a Very good Tourist Centre.

	Kandaleru Dam Kandaleru Dam which is located about 60 kms away form Nellore. The destination is also well connected for State Highway from Nellore to Kadapa via Rapur & Rajampet. It was constructed across the Kandaleru river. This river originates in Velegonda hills and it flows across Gudur . This being World’s Biggest Earth Dam with 68 TMC Water Storage spread over 11 kilometre which is supplying Drinking water to Tamilanadu is a Pictorious Spot with Hillocks and Forest around. One Government Guest house has constructed with 4 suites, Meeting hall and a Dnining hall with kichen for official purpose. It attracts many pilgrims. The Dam is a part of Rapur Mandal.

	Udayagiri Fort: Udayagiri Fort which is Located about 100 kms. From Nellore. Udayagiri Fort commanding at a hight of 3079 feet. Boasts of great natural beauty. The hill side has lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls. The ruined fort is attracting the Tourists in a big way. However, the acccess is only by steps and there is no road to the Fort. During the rule of the Gajapathis and the Vijayanagar Rulers, this Town grew to great splendour. The ruins of 365 Temples found in the Town reflected the sculputure and archetecture of various periods. The structure on the hill such as the Ranganatha Temple reflects Chola culture, the Balakrishna Mandiram reflects Pallava culture and the Paruveta Mandapam reflects Vijayanagara Culture. Other structures include Chinna Masjid and pedda Masjid. A great Sufi Saint belonging to the 18th Century. Rahamathulla Nayab Rasool got absorbed in the higher selfhere. Every year the Sandal Festival is celebreated on the 26th of Rabi-UI-Aval month. The Hill of Udayagiri is also popularly known a Sanjeevi Hills as there are so many medicinal plants on the hill. This place can be developed on par with Golconda Fort of Hyderabad. It is possible to introduce attraction like Light and Sound Show etc.,

	Pulicat Lake: Pulicat Lake is the second largest brakish water lagoon in India spread over the two States of Andhra Pradesh and Tamilanadu adjacent to the Bay of Bengal. It extends over six hundred squire kilometers in Andhra Pradesh covering the five Mandals of Tada, Sullurupet, Doravari satram, Chittamur, Dugarajupatnam of Nellore District. It is a bird watchers paradise. Water birds and other birds like Flamingoes, Painted storks, Egrets, Grey Pelican, Grey herons, pintails, Black winged stilts, Shovelers, Terns etc., Visit this lake . These migratory birds visit during winter as the lake offers food and protection from predators. The lake was notified as a Bird Sanctuary in 1976. vide G.O.U/s 18 wild life (protection) Act. Further the lake is connected to the National High Way, and is only 80 Km. from Chennai. It is also very near to the Sriharikota Atomic Missile Range (S.H.A.R).

	Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary: Nelapattu bird sanctuary is one of the largest Pelicanary in South East Asia with more than 1500 pelicans and other birds visiting every year. The Sanctuary is very near to the National High way -5. The big fresh water tank of Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary and the presence of good number of “ Barringtonia Acutangula” trees which can tolerate inundation for longer periods in the tank bed and fore shore area make this sanctuary a heaven for a broad spectrum of Bird species for both breeding and roosting purposes. Many winter migratory birds from Siberian countries are visiting this sanctuary since & long time. It is a breeding ground for some of the rare and endangered species like Grey Pelicans, Open-billed storks, Little cormorants, Sponbills, white ibies, Night Herons etc., A wide variety of birds, like Egrets, Tern, Ducks, Waders etc., rest here. There is an Environmental Education Centre in the Sanctuary with a Museum, Library and Auditorium with audio Visual Equipment for screen slides, Films etc., on wild life watch towers are also aavailable to watch the birds at the Sanctuary.

	Sri Mulasthaneswara Swamy Temple: Nellore. The Temple of Sri Mulasthaneswara Swamy was built, 1400 years ago, to the west of Nellore. As the Lord manifested Himself under a “Nelli” tree, a temple was built there itself. Manumasidhi rulers constructed the “Raja Gopuram” (Royal tower of the temple). Legend goes that the poet Tikkana Somayaji translated Mahabhratam into telugu only after making his obeisance to the deity.

	Mallam – Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple: Malla village lies on the Nayudupeta – Duggarajupatnam road in the Chittamuru mandal and is 96 km away from Nellore. The temple was constructed by the Chola rulers of the 10th and 11th Centuries. The “Vasantala Mandapam” here is a shining example of sculpture of exllence. The “Vasantala Mandapam” is strikingly sculpted in the form of a chariot drawn by a pair of horses. Episodes and events from the epic of Ramayana and Siva puranam have been sculpted splendidly on the pillars of the Mandapam. The Veera Kallulu “ of the veera saivas are also found here. The 64 pillars of the Vasantha Mandapam are tastefully decorated with pictures pf creepers and tales from Ramayanam, Bharatham and Bhagavatam. Many lovely sculptures adorn the sides and lower part of the Mandapam. The temples of the consorts of Subramanyaswamy – Sri Valli, Her encourage abd Devaseba lie in the inner “Prakaram” (compound wall) and opposite the “ Dwaram” (entrance) of Subraanyaswami Idol.

	Kasumuru – Masthana vali Dargah: The tomb of Syed karimulla Khadiri lies in Kasumuru village, which is situated on the west of Venkatachalam Mandal 35 km.away from Nellore. Devotees refer to him as kasumuru Msthanayya, agreat : Fakir” supposed to have belonged to 18th century. The ailing, the planet harassed, and the childs, worship at the fakir’s tomb. Every year, on the 26th day of the auspicious period of “kabbiul-aval”, “Urusu” (fair) is celebrated with fervour. One can reach the place by bus from Nellore.

	A.S.Peta – Dargah: It is located at about 60 km. from Nellore City. A.S.Peta Stand for Anuma samudram Peta. There is a big Dargah here which is ancient and is known to be Khaja Rahamatulla Dargah. It is one of the unique place where Hindus and Muslims blend together and stand as an illustration of National integrity. Devoties from different parts of the Country used to come to this place without distinction. The ornamental work of thhe dome is worth to seen. Every year Urusu celebrated where large number of devoties gather here for blessings.

	Golagamudi: Bhagavan Sri Venkaiahswamy Mandiram It is located at abovt 15 Km. from Nellore City which belongs to Venkatachalam Mandal. One of the Sage called Venkaiah lived earlier during middle of the 20th Century and got Mahasamadhi at this place. People worshiped them as Venkaiah Swamy or Baghavan Venkaiah Swamy, every Saturday there is a gathering to worship the Swamy. Similarly, during August every year “ Aradhana” or Annual function be celebrated where large number of devoties used to gether for the purpose of getting blessed. Devotees are provided free catering those who visited the Samadhi. It became one of the popular Pilgrim centre in the district.

	Krishnapatnam: Nellore District has 165k.m coastal line. Krishnapatnam, Ramayapatnam, Ramatheertham, Kodur, Mypadu, Thupilapalem etc., are some of the beaches. From out of which Krishnapatnam the port located place in the district. It is not a new port earlier it was flurished and famed but gradually becomes less importance due to some of factors. How ever, it is once again expected to emerge to its crown. There are Stratagic Plans to be develop industrial port City. Apart from this Dharmal power Station to be established, As a result and also due to lanching of various projects, the port city is expected to flurish in the near future as was seen in the olden day. It is located at about 25km. towards east form Nellore City.

	Prabhagiri Patnam: The ruins of Prabhagiripatnam lie on the Podalakuru Mohammadapuram at a distance of 45km. away from Nellore. The ruins of the temple of Lord Siva and Perumallaswamy, which belonged to 1512A.D., remind the tourists of their former glory and excellence. An inscription denoting the royal gift(1512AD) of the Vijayanagara king Venkataryalu, is gathering dust at a place close to the temple of Perumallaswamy. This inscription enjoins that the income derived from the agricultural lands of the neighborhood should be spent for the upkeep of the temple. The sculptural and artistic pieces strewn around here have been recognised as the idols of Veerabhadraswamy, and Shanmugaswamy is that six heads, instead of being in a row are sculpted differently –there in the front and three in the rear.

	Sriharikota: Sriharikota is an island, situated on the National Highway No.5 to Chennai, Kolkata and a forest –like area to the east of Sullurupet in between Pulicat Lake and Bay of Bengal. The ancient residents of this island were Toorpu Reddis and Challa Yanadis. Who led a primitive way of life. Their staple diet was what Nature bestowed on them – Veduru biyyam (bamboo Manna), honey and different varieties of fruit and their homes were nest – like huts. This is the pictuare of people who lived there three centuries ago. In order to facilitate the construction of SHAR, all those people of bygone time had been rehabilitated in a little far away area and given special facilities Sulurupet area in the district has seen great development in the last 40 years after the advent of SHAR near by. Under the stewardship of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai of the Indian Space Research Organisation of rocket lauching space Centre was Established at Sriharikota in 1968. The launching of a missile helps streamlining the study of tele-communications, TV, lights and environmental relationsships. The possibilities of a good harvest, how snowfall and clouds disappear, the information relating to impending floods and storms and similar natural calamiatiesm locating the mountains – the missile provides us with fore knowledge of all these happenings and enables us to take precautionary steps beforehand.