Ranganatha Temple Nellore

Getting there

• By air

  Tirupati Airport (TIR) is the nearest domestic airport. Chennai International Airport (MAA) offers wider national and international flights.

• By train

  Nellore Railway Station (NLR) is the nearest railhead. It is well connected to major cities across Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states.

• By road

  The temple is easily reached by road from Nellore, Tirupati and Chennai, with regular buses and taxis.

Why devotees come here

Sri Talpagiri Ranganathaswamy Temple, also known as Ranganayakulu, is one of the oldest and most venerated temples in Nellore. It is dedicated to Ranganatha, a reclining form of Vishnu, and stands on the banks of the River Pennar.

Ranganatha is the principal deity, and he reclines on the serpent Adisesha in the Sanctum Sanctorum. The walls of the sanctum are inscribed with the Sri Vishnu Sahasranama, the thousand names of Vishnu. Devotees also call the temple Ranganayakulu.

The history goes back to the 7th and 8th centuries, when the Pallavas ruled this region. The main shrine and further extensions were built under the Cholas in the 12th century. The grand Raja Gopuram was added in the 1800s.

The main entrance is crowned by a seven-storied gopuram with carvings. The Gali Gopuram at the entrance rises 70 feet and is topped by seven gold-plated kalasams, each 10 feet tall. The Rath Yatra is celebrated here with grandeur. The government page says March and April are the best months to visit for it.

Festivals

• Around August 22Pavithrotsavams

  The festival begins with special rituals, followed by daily worship and homams.

Tips for your visit

• Attend the early morning or late evening aarti for a quieter visit outside the Rath Yatra season.
• Look up at the Gali Gopuram at the entrance, which rises 70 feet and is topped by seven gold-plated kalasams.

Questions people ask