Sri Penusila Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Penchalakonda

Sri Penusila Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is located at Penchalakonda in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh. The presiding deity in this shrine is Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu along with His consort Goddess Chenchu Lakshmi. Lord Lakshmi Narasimha is a Swayambhu in this shrine.

History of the Temple Sri Penusila Lakshmi Narasimha Swami Temple is a very ancient sacred place. This temple is built according to Agama Shilpa Sastra. Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy also known as Somasila Narasimhaswamy is manifested Himself on a huge rock in Yoga Mudra or meditative posture. Hence the shrine acquired its name as Penusila as Lord is found on a huge rock. Later it became famous as Penchalakona. This shrine is one of Nava Narasimha Kshetras.

Beside the temple Kandaleru River flows which originates from the water falls of the mountain ranges. It is believed that Kanva Maharshi stayed here and did penance upon Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. So the river got its name as Kanvamukhi River. This river is also known as Kandaleru. This temple has beautiful rajagopuram with images of gods and goddesses carved on it. Lord Narasimha Swamy went to Bhairavakona to kill the demons those who were torturing Rishis. Rishis caught umbrellas for Lord, so this place is called as Chatravata. So Lord is also called as Chatravati Narasimha Swamy. As a reason Devotees offer silver and gold umbrellas to the Lord Narasimha Swamy.

Legend of the Temple Lord Vishnu took Narasimha avataram to kill the demon Hiranyakashipa. After killed the demon Lord moved to this forest in Ugra Rupa. In order to cool His anger, Goddess Sridevi came to Him as Chenchu Lakshmi. Cenchu Lakshmi is the daughter of King for Chenchu tribe. Lord married Chenchu Lakshmi and manifested Himself here as huge rock.

Sub-shrines in the Temple Lord Anjaneya Swamy have sub-shrine in this temple.

Added attractions Goddess Adi Lakshmi Devi Temple is located on the banks of the river Kandaleru which is an added attraction to Sri Penushila Lakshmi Narasimha Swami Temple.

Special Poojas and Festivals Apart from regular poojas and abhishekams, special poojas are performed on Dasara, Navartri Utsavalu is celebrated in a grand manner. In Vaisaka (mid-May to mid-June) Masam Brahmostavams are celebrated for 5 days on the occasion of Narasinha Swamy Jayanthi.

Temple Timings: 6.00 am to 7.30 pm

Temple Full Address: Sri Penushila Lakshmi Narasimha Swami Temple, Penchalakona, Rapur Mandal, Nellore, AP. Ph: 08621-221 604, 221 605.

How to reach Sri Penushila Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy TempleBy Bus: Govt RTC buses are available from all the places in Andhra Pradesh to reach the temple at Penchalakona which is 70 km from Nellore.

By Train: Nearest railway station is Gudur Junction which is 63 km away from the temple. Govt RTC buses are available from here to reach the temple.

By Flight: Nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, Renigunta which is 98 km from the temple. Bus and Taxi services are available from here to access the temple.