Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli: Aarti, Darshan, History & Much More

Nestled in the serene village of Surutapalli on the Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu border, the Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli is a truly unique spiritual destination. From the origins of the Pradosham tradition to its stunning Dravidian design, this guide ensures a meaningful visit to Uthukottai Temple and its sacred reclining Shiva structure.

An Overview of Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli

• Location: 8VMF+QVV, Tirupati Rd, Suruttapalli, Andhra Pradesh 517588 

  Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple, Surutapalli

• Main Shrine: Lord Shiva in a reclining posture on Maa Parvati’s lap.

• Interesting Fact: The temple is extremely famous for Pradosha pooja, as it is believed to be where all the gods assembled to worship Shiva during his rest.

• Aarti & Darshan Timings: 
  1. Aarti (Morning & Evening): 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM and again at 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the morning and around 5:00 PM in the evening. 
  2. Darshan (Morning & Evening): 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the morning & 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM in the evening.

• Best Season to Visit: The best time to visit the Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy temple is the winter season (September to February).

• Dress Code: Wear traditional attire:
  1. Men: Wear a dhoti and a kurta.
  2. Women: Wear a saree or salwar suit.

Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli: History and Significance

The Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli is the only shrine in the world where Lord Shiva is depicted in a rare reclining posture (Sayana Shiva), resting his head on the lap of Goddess Parvati. It is located in the Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh, near the Tamil Nadu border, which encompasses many more such famous ancient temples. 

Surutapalli Temple History

The Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli, Chittoor, was built during the 14th century by Vijayanagara kings Harihara and Bukka (also known as Bukka Raya). The Kshetram is built in the Tamil architectural style. The layout includes shrines for Valmikeeswarar and Goddess Marahathambihai upon entering. It has undergone significant renovations in modern times, with added paintings and improved flooring to enhance its appeal.

Mythical Significance

Legend states that after consuming the Halahala poison during the churning of the Milky Ocean, Lord Shiva felt dizzy and rested his head on Parvati’s lap at this spot. He is worshipped here as Bhoga Sayana Shiva in a 16-foot silver idol. It is believed that all the Devas assembled here to witness the Lord’s well-being. This started the tradition of Pradosha worship.

Routes to Pallikondeswara Temple

To reach Surutapalli Temple, road travel is considered the most convenient way. However, there are certain other ways through which you can easily travel to the Pallikonda Sivan Temple. 

If you are travelling from other cities, the flights and train facilities might help you reach Suruttapalli. 

1. By Air

If you are planning to travel to the Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple, the most convenient way to reach it is by air. You can fly to Chennai International Airport (55 km to 60 km) or Tirupati Airport (55 km) from the major Indian cities. I have mentioned a few of them below:

1. Delhi: 
   • Direct flight from Indira Gandhi International Airport to Chennai. 
   • Might take 2 hours and 50 minutes.
   • Typically costs between ₹ 4,700 and ₹ 10,000.
2. Mumbai: 
   • Non-stop flights from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to Chennai. 
   • It takes roughly 2 hours.
   • Typically costs between ₹ 4,000 and ₹ 4,400.
3. Kolkata: 
   • Direct flights from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport to Chennai. 
   • It is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
   • Typically costs between ₹ 4,100 and ₹ 4,400.
4. Kerala: 
   • Direct flights are available from Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode to Chennai. 
   • It takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
   • Typically costs between ₹ 3,900 and ₹ 7,500+.
5. Bangalore: 
   • Direct flight from Kempegowda International Airport to Chennai. 
   • It takes a short flight of about 1 hour and 5 minutes.
   • Typically costs between ₹ 3,000 and ₹ 5,500.

2. By Rail

To reach the Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli by rail from major Indian cities, the primary strategy is to travel to a major hub like Chennai or Tirupati. There is no direct railway station in Surutapalli. You must use these nearby hubs and then travel by road.

1. Delhi: 
   • The most direct way is to take a long-distance train from New Delhi or Hazrat Nizamuddin to Chennai Central or Tirupati. 
   • Popular trains are: Tamil Nadu Express, Grand Trunk Express, and MAS Duronto Express.
   • Typically ranging between ₹ 900 and ₹ 2,000.
2. Mumbai: 
   • Board trains like the Chennai Express or Dadar Chennai Egmore Express to Chennai.
   • Typically ranging between ₹ 600 and ₹ 1,600.
3. Kolkata:
   • Popular trains are: Coromandel Express and Howrah Chennai Mail.
   • Typically ranging between ₹ 750 and ₹ 2,300.
4. Kerala
   • Take the Kerala Express, Alleppey Chennai Express, or Trivandrum Chennai Mail.
   • Typically ranging between ₹ 400 and ₹ 1,100.
5. Bangalore
   • Board the Brindavan Express, Lalbagh Express, or SBC MAS Double Decker.
   • Typically ranging between ₹ 170 and ₹ 1,150.

3. By Road:

The Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple in Surutapalli is located on the Chennai-Tirupati Highway in Andhra Pradesh. The Tirupati to Surutapalli distance is 73 to 75 km, and the distance from Chennai is approximately 56 to 60 km.

Public transportation options:

1. Bus Services:
   • APSRTC buses traveling from Tirupati to Chennai usually stop at Surutapalli.
   • Local buses from Chennai to Uthukottai or Nagalapuram pass through this area.
2. Auto-Rickshaws: 
   • Auto rickshaws are readily available from Uthukottai for the short 2 to 5 km trip. 

Aarti and Darshan Timings of Surutapalli Sivan Temple

Surutapalli temple timings for darshan are typically from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM. However, the Surutapalli Temple timings for the aarti performed daily are at 6:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 5:00 PM.

Here’s a detailed description of the aarti and darshan timings:

Aarti Timings	Morning Abhishekam: 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM and again at 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
	Evening Abhishekam: Typically around 5:00 PM.
Darshan Timings	Morning: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM
	Evening: 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Certain other events to definitely not miss are:

•  Pradosha Kala Pooja is held during the 1.5 hours before and after sunset on Trayodashi days. 
• There are special Pradosham days, when the shrine remains open from 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM continuously. 
• It is customary to first visit Goddess Maragathambigai, then the Valmeeki Rishi, and finally the main deity, Pallikondeeswarar.

Top 5 Places Near Surutapalli Shiva Temple

The famous Shiva Temple is surrounded by places like Nagalapuram Vedanarayana Swamy Temple, Periyapalayam Bhavani Amman Temple, Ubbalamadugu Falls, Chandragiri Fort, and Kailasakona Falls. 

Here are the specifics for you to consider:

1. Nagalapuram Vedanarayana Swamy Temple

The Nagalapuram Vedanarayana Swamy Temple in Nagalapuram, Andhra Pradesh, is a unique Hindu temple dedicated to the Matsya Avatar (fish incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. It is one of the rare temples in India where Vishnu is worshipped in this specific form of half-human and half-fish. 

Here are the details for you to refer to:

• Location: 9QPW+XFW, Sannidhi St, Nagalapuram, Andhra Pradesh 517589

  Shri Veda Narayana Swamy Temple

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approx. 11 km, which takes around 19 minutes.

• Timings: 
  • Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:45 PM
  • Evening: 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM

• Best Time to Visit: The period from October to March is generally considered the best time to visit.

• Entry Fee (If Any): 
  • Free Darshan: No charge.
  • Parking: Approximately ₹ 30.
  • Abhishekam: ₹ 30.
  • Kalyanotsavam: ₹ 500.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.7/ 5

2. Periyapalayam Bhavani Amman Temple

The Periyapalayam Bhavani Amman Temple is a prominent Hindu garbhagriha located approximately 45 km from Chennai in the Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhavani, the deity who is traditionally identified as the sister of Lord Krishna, who escaped from King Kamsa.

Here are the details for you to refer to:

• Location: Periyapalayam, Tamil Nadu 601102

  Periyapalayam Bhavani Amman Temple

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approximately 19.2 km, typically taking about 40 minutes by car.

• Timings: 
  • Monday to Saturday: 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Sunday: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
  • Ritual Timings: Angapradakshinam (5:00 AM to 9:00 AM); Vaepanjalai (5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM).

• Best time to visit: October to March offers the most pleasant climate for travel.

• Entry Fee (If Any): 
  • General Entry: Free.
  • Special Darshan: typically costing ₹ 5 or ₹ 25.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.6/ 5

3. Kailasakona Falls

Kailasakona Falls is a natural, perennial waterfall located in the Nagari Hills of the Chittoor (Tirupati) district in Andhra Pradesh. Falling from a height of approximately 30 meters (100 feet), the water is known for being crystal clear and rich in minerals. 

Here are the details for you to refer to:

• Location: 9JQM+868, Chittoor, Boppa Raju Palem, Andhra Pradesh 517581

  Kailasa Kona falls

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: The falls are approximately 32.4 km, which is about a 45 to 55-minute drive.

• Timings: Open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

• Best time to visit: October to January is considered the best time to visit.

• Entry Fee (If Any): There is a nominal entry fee of approximately ₹ 5 to ₹ 10 per person. Parking fees are around ₹ 50 for cars.
• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.1/5

4. Chandragiri Fort

Chandragiri Fort is a historic hill fortress near Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, known for its significant role in the Vijayanagara Empire and its stunning architecture. 

Here are the details for you to refer to:

• Location: TPT Road, Chandragiri, Andhra Pradesh 517101

  Chandragiri Fort

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approximately 86.5 km, taking about 1 hour and 55 minutes to drive.

• Timings:
  • Fort & Museum: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday).
  • Weekly Holiday: Closed on Fridays.
  • Light & Sound Show: Typically starts after sunset, around 6:30 PM (Telugu) and 7:30 PM (English).

• Best time to visit: The winter months from December to March offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor ruins.

• Entry Fee (If Any): 
  • Indian Adults: ₹ 20 to ₹ 30.
  • Foreign Nationals: ₹ 100 to ₹ 200.
  • Children: Free for those under 15 years old.
  • Light & Sound Show: Approximately ₹ 45 for adults and ₹ 35 for children.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.2/ 5

5. Ubbalamadugu Falls

Ubbalamadugu Falls, also widely known as Tada Falls, is a scenic natural attraction located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. It is a popular destination for trekking and nature photography. 

Here are the details for you to refer to:

• Location: Andhra Pradesh 517541

  Ubbalamadugu Waterfalls

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approximately 53.1 km, taking approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours to drive.

• Timings: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

• Best time to visit: The ideal season is from October to February.

• Entry Fee (If Any): 
  • Per Person:₹ 50.
  • Four-wheeler Parking:₹ 300 to ₹ 500.
  • Two-wheeler Parking: ₹ 50.
  • Camera Fee: ₹ 50.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.4/5

You may also visit temples like Srikalahasti Temple, Kanaka Durga, and many more. Apart from these places to visit, certain culinary spots are also popular in the area.

Popular Culinary Spots in Suruttapalli Andhra Pradesh

Popular culinary spots near the Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli include Amaravathi Family Restaurant, Satyavedu Naidu Mess, Hotel Shree Balajee Bhavan, and many more. Let’s find out the extensive list of popular culinary spots.

1. Hotel Shree Balajee Bhavan

Hotel Shree Balajee Bhavan in Suruttapalli is a well-known pure vegetarian restaurant located opposite the famous Shivam Temple (Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli).

Here’s everything you need to know:

• Location: 1, Tirupati Rd, Suruttapalli, Andhra Pradesh 517588

  Hotel Shree Balajee Bhavan

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approximately 59 meters, less than a 1-minute walk.

• Famous Food Items: 
  • Kanchivaram Idlis 
  • Gadapa Karam Dosa and Ghee Roast.
  • Crispy Vada, Pongal, and Filter Coffee.
  • Traditional South Indian Meals

• Average Price: Approximately ₹ 200 per person.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 3.8/5

2. Surutapalli Thirumala Bhavan

Surutapalli Thirumala Bhavan is a dining establishment located near the Surutapalli Temple, offering vegetarian food and adequate, kid-friendly options for visitors.

Here’s everything you need to know:

• Location: Suruttapalli, Andhra Pradesh 517588

  Surutapalli Thirumala bhavan

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approximately 250 metres (about a 1-minute drive or 3-minute walk)

• Famous Food Items: 
  • Mysore Masala Dosa
  • Tirumala Special Dosa
  • Idli with Sambar, Medu Vada, and Rava Dosa.

• Average Price: Typically ranges from ₹ 125 to ₹ 250 per dish.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 4.7/5

3. Hotel Tirupathi Srinivasa Bhavan

Known for its tea, coffee, and cold drinks at reasonable prices, Hotel Tirupathi Srinivasa Bhavan is a point of relaxation after a long drive or an exhausting tour of the Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy. 

Here’s everything for your reference:

• Location: 8RXQ+FX2, Karani, Andhra Pradesh 517589

  Hotel Tirupathi Srinivasa Bhavan

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: It’s approximately 5 km from the sanctum, situated on the highway, making it a 8 minute drive.

• Famous Food Items: 
  • Raw Banana Bhaji
  • Gobi Noodles
  • Masala Dosa
  • Payasam

• Average Price: Approximately ₹ 200 per person.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 3.6/5

4. Chandoos Restaurant & Bakery

Chandoos restaurant and bakery is a popular eatery located in Sullurupeta, known for its authentic South Indian cuisine. It is a cherished culinary haven known for its blend of tradition and innovation.

Here’s everything you need to know:

• Location: Shar Rd, Venkateshpuram, Sullurupeta, Andhra Pradesh 524121

  Chandoos Restaurant & Bakery

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approximately 58.4 km (about a 1-hour 21-minute drive).

• Famous Food Items : 
  • Chicken dum biriyani.
  • Chicken fried rice.
  • Paneer Biriyani.

• Average Price: ₹ 200 to ₹ 400 per person.

• Google Reviews: ⭐3.9/ 5

5. Amaravathi Family Restaurant

Amaravathi Highway Family Restaurant is a popular pit stop for travelers on the Chennai-Nellore Highway (NH 16). It specializes in authentic Andhra cuisine, serving both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Here’s everything you need to know:

• Location: Mandal, Gudur, 1, Writersatram, Chillakur, Muthyalapadu, Andhra Pradesh 524410

  Amaravathi family Restaurant (Highway)

• Distance from Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple: Approximately 106 km (roughly a 2-hour and 30-minute drive).

• Famous Food Items: 
  • Andhra Veg Thali
  • Idli with special chutney
  • Ghee Karam Dosa
  • Onion Uthappams
  • Pongal

• Average Price: Approximately ₹ 200 to ₹ 400 per person.

• Google Reviews: ⭐ 3.8/5

Surutapalli Temple Photos

Witness the only ‘Sleeping Shiva’ in the world at the sacred Surutapalli Temple through the images attached below.

Dos and Don’ts to Consider in Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple

Visiting the Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh requires following specific traditional, cultural, and spiritual protocols to respect the sanctity of the site. Here’s all you need to know: 

Here are some additional tips to consider while travelling to Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli. 

1. Ensure offering an Aruhampul garland (Dhruva grass) and Kapparisi (sweet dish) to Nandi (the bull), which is considered very sacred.

2. To witness the most auspicious time, visit during Pradosha Kala.

Bottom Line

Everything you need to know for your visit to Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Surutapalli, is right here in this complete guide. This ancient shrine is significant for its association with Pradosham rituals, the legends of Lava and Kusha, and the Dampatya Dakshinamurthy deity for marital blessings, offering a blend of devotion and historical reflection.