Khadri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Getting there

• By air

  Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is the nearest airport.

• By train

  Kadiri Railway Station is on the Dharmavaram-Pakala branch line. Daily express trains run from Kadiri to Tirupati, Vijayawada, Nellore and Ongole.

• By road

  Kadiri sits on NH-42, which links it with Hyderabad, Tirupati, Anantapur, Chennai and Kurnool. APSRTC state buses run to Anantapur, Hindupur, Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad.

Why devotees come here

Khadri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple stands in Kadiri, a major town in Sri Sathya Sai district, Andhra Pradesh. Hindu legend says Narasimha emerged from the roots of the Kadiri tree here. Devotees from several states come for the chariot festival.

Hindu legend says Narasimha emerged as Swayambhu, self-manifested, from the roots of the Kadiri tree, to kill Hiranyakashyap, the father of Prahlada. Kadiri is a pilgrimage hub for Hindu devotees, and the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Brahmotsavams is celebrated here with great fervour every year.

The Brahmotsavams includes a chariot festival, the Rathotsavam, locally called Theru. Devotees from several states come to see the deity on the chariot. During the chariot festival, devotees sprinkle pepper, fruits and davan on the deity.

The chariot is considered the third largest in the country. It was built 130 years ago, weighs 540 tons and stands 37.5 feet high, with a pedestal 16 feet wide. Kadiri is surrounded by hills on its north and east sides.

Festivals

• Annual; 2024 ran from 19 March to 2 AprilSri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Brahmotsavams

  An annual festival at Kadiri, celebrated with great fervour and devotion.

• During the BrahmotsavamsRathotsavam (Theru)

  The chariot festival, which draws devotees from several states.

Tips for your visit

• The chariot day draws millions of devotees, so expect large crowds.
• APSRTC buses from Kadiri also serve Madanapalle, Pulivendula, Rayachoti and Puttaparthi.

Questions people ask