Dwaraka Tirumala Temple: Sacred 11th Century Chinna Tirupati

Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, located in Dwaraka Tirumala, West Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Andhra Pradesh, and is known as the “Chinna Tirupathi” (smaller Tirupati) due to its similarity to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati.

The history of the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Andhra Pradesh, India. According to the temple’s legend, the idol of Lord Venkateswara was discovered by a saint named Dwaraka in an ant hill. The temple is also mentioned in the Brahma Purana, which suggests that it was already a popular pilgrimage site in the Satya Yuga.

Chinna Tirupati is believed to have been built by the Chalukya kings in the 11th century, and it was later renovated by the Vijayanagara kings in the 14th century. The temple reached its peak of glory during the rule of the Vijayanagara kings, when it was one of the wealthiest temples in India.

In the 17th century, the temple was attacked by the Muslim invaders, and many of its treasures were looted. However, the temple was rebuilt by the local rulers, and it continued to be a popular pilgrimage site.

The Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is also known as “Chinna Tirupati” (Mini Tirupati), because it is similar to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, who is considered to be an incarnation of the Hindu god Vishnu.

The Dwaraka Tirumala Temple attracts millions of pilgrims from all over India every year. The temple is especially popular during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival, which is celebrated in the month of December.

Here are some of the important events in the history of the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

• 11th century: The temple is believed to have been built by the Chalukya kings.
• 14th century: The temple is renovated by the Vijayanagara kings.
• 17th century: The temple is attacked by the Muslim invaders.
• 18th century: The temple is rebuilt by the local rulers.
• 19th century: The temple becomes a popular pilgrimage site.
• 20th century: The temple is renovated and expanded.
• 21st century: The temple continues to be a popular pilgrimage site, attracting millions of pilgrims from all over India every year.

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Significance of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

The significance of the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is manifold. First, it is one of the most ancient Hindu temples in Andhra Pradesh, with a history dating back to the Satya Yuga, or Golden Age, of Hindu mythology. Second, Chinna Tirupati is home to a self-manifested idol of Lord Venkateswara, which is believed to be extremely powerful and auspicious. Third, the temple is located on a hilltop, which is considered to be a sacred place in Hinduism.

The Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is also significant because it is believed to be one of the few places where Lord Venkateswara appeared to his devotees in person. According to legend, the temple was discovered by a sage named Dwaraka Rishi, who was guided to the spot by a divine voice. Dwaraka Rishi then performed severe penance to please Lord Venkateswara, and the Lord eventually appeared to him and granted his wishes.

The Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over India. Devotees come to the temple to pray to Lord Venkateswara and to seek his blessings. The temple is also known for its many festivals, which are celebrated with great pomp and grandeur.

Here are some of the specific benefits that devotees believe they can obtain by visiting the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

• Fulfillment of wishes
• Removal of obstacles
• Cures for diseases
• Protection from harm
• Spiritual enlightenment
• Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death

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Legend of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

The legend of the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a fascinating one, and it is said that the temple itself is over 5,000 years old. The legend goes that a great sage named Dwaraka was meditating in a forest when he came across a self-manifested idol of Lord Venkateswara. Dwaraka was overjoyed, and he began to worship the idol with great devotion.

Over time, news of the idol spread, and people from all over came to Dwaraka Tirumala to worship Lord Venkateswara. Chinna Tirupati grew in popularity, and it became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India.

One of the most famous stories associated with the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is the story of Aja Maharaja. Aja was the grandfather of Lord Rama, and he was on his way to the swayamvara of his future wife, Indumati. On the way, he passed by the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple, but he did not stop to worship Lord Venkateswara.

Indumati garlanded Aja at the swayamvara, but he was then challenged to a battle by a number of other kings who had come to the swayamvara. Aja realized that he was facing this battle because he had not stopped to worship Lord Venkateswara on the way. He quickly prayed to Lord Venkateswara for forgiveness, and the Lord granted his prayer. Aja was victorious in the battle, and he and Indumati were married.

The Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a place of great spiritual significance, and it is visited by millions of devotees every year. Chinna Tirupati is known for its powerful vibrations and its miraculous healing powers. Devotees believe that Lord Venkateswara is always present in the temple, and that he is always ready to answer their prayers.

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Myths of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

Here are some myths associated with the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

• The temple is located on the tail of a giant serpent. According to legend, the serpent king Ananta manifested himself in the form of a hill to carry the gods Mallikarjuna and Venkateswara. Mallikarjuna is located on the hood of the serpent, and Venkateswara is located on the tail. This is why the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is often referred to as “Chinna Tirumala” (small Tirumala), as it is believed to be a miniature replica of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.
• The main idol of Venkateswara is self-manifested. According to legend, the sage Dwaraka found the main idol of Venkateswara in an anthill. The idol is said to be incomplete, as only the upper portion of the body is visible. The lower portion of the body is believed to be immersed in the earth.
• The temple is a gateway to moksha (salvation). It is believed that those who worship at the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple with a pure heart and mind will achieve moksha.
• The temple is home to a mysterious treasure trove. Some people believe that the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is home to a vast treasure trove hidden somewhere in the temple complex. This treasure trove is said to contain gold, silver, and precious jewels.

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Architecture of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

Gopuram (Entrance Tower): The temple has a tall and intricately sculpted gopuram at the entrance. The gopuram is typically a pyramidal tower adorned with colorful sculptures and ornate carvings depicting various mythological and religious themes.

Prakara (Enclosure Wall): The Chinna Tirupati is enclosed by a prakara or compound wall that defines its sacred boundaries. This wall is often adorned with sculptures and reliefs.

Mandapa (Hall): The temple features several mandapas or halls where devotees can assemble for prayers and rituals. These halls are often supported by carved pillars.

Vimana (Main Shrine Tower): The main sanctum sanctorum, which houses the deity of Lord Venkateswara, is crowned by a vimana, a tower-like structure with multiple stories. The vimana is typically ornate and decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and other divine beings.

Sculptures and Carvings: Dravidian temples are renowned for their intricate and detailed stone carvings. Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is no exception and features exquisite carvings on its walls and pillars, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, celestial beings, and various deities.

Pillars: Chinna Tirupati temple’s pillars are often richly carved and serve both structural and decorative purposes. They are usually made of granite and exhibit various motifs and designs.

Pradakshina Path: The circumambulation path, known as the pradakshina path, surrounds the sanctum sanctorum. Devotees walk around this path in a clockwise direction as part of their worship.

Shikara (Central Dome): The central dome, or shikara, is a prominent feature of the temple. It is often multi-tiered and crowned with a finial or kalasha.

Kalyana Mandapa: Many South Indian temples, including Dwaraka Tirumala Temple, have a separate hall called the Kalyana Mandapa, where the celestial wedding of the deity is reenacted during special religious ceremonies.

Temple Tank: Some South Indian temples, including Dwaraka Tirumala, have a sacred temple tank or pushkarini where devotees can take ritual baths before entering the temple.

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Specialty of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

The specialty of the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is the presence of two main idols of Lord Venkateswara in the same sanctum (under one Vimana Sikharam). One idol is a full and complete statue. The other is a half statue of the upper portion of the form of the Lord.

Another unique feature of the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is the combination of Shiva and Vishnu on Adisesha. The hill on which the temple is situated is said to be a serpent in form, and it is believed that Anantha, the serpent king, has taken up this terrestrial form of serpent hill and is carrying God Mallikarjuna on the hood and Lord Venkateswara on the tail. This creates a happy and harmonious compromise of Vaishnavism and Saivism at a single place.

The Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and its serene atmosphere. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world.

Here are some other special features of the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

• The temple is said to be over 5,000 years old.
• The temple is located on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• The temple is home to a number of other shrines, including shrines to Lord Hanuman, Garuda, and the Alwars.
• The temple is known for its elaborate rituals and festivals, including the Brahmotsavam festival, which is held every year in April or May.
• Chinna Tirupati is also known for its delicious prasadam, or temple food.

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Dwaraka Tirumala Temple Timing:

1. Morning Timings:
   • The temple usually opens in the morning around 4:30 AM.
   • Suprabhata Seva: 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM
   • Sarva Darshan: 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM
2. Afternoon Timings:
   • The temple typically closes in the afternoon for a few hours.
   • Sarva Darshan resumes in the afternoon around 1:00 PM and continues until 5:00 PM.
3. Evening Timings:
   • Evening Darshan usually begins around 6:00 PM.
   • Ekantha Seva: 8:00 PM

Places to visit near Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

Dwaraka Tirumala Temple: Start with the main attraction, the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple itself, and explore its beautiful architecture and religious significance.

Bhakta Kannappa Temple: This temple is dedicated to Bhakta Kannappa, a famous devotee of Lord Shiva, known for his unwavering devotion.

Bhairavakona: This is a serene natural area known for its waterfalls and lush greenery. It’s a lovely place for a peaceful retreat.

Seethamma Vari Alankara Patnam: A temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavati, it’s a popular spot for rituals and prayers.

Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary: Located nearby, this sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, jackals, and various species of birds. It’s an excellent place for nature enthusiasts.

Gopalakrishna Swamy Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is another place of worship in the vicinity.

Kondakamarla Reservoir: If you enjoy scenic beauty and boating, you can visit this reservoir, which is about 6 kilometers from Dwaraka Tirumala.

Bodhikonda: This ancient hill is known for its historical and archaeological significance, and it offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Vedadri Narasimha Swamy Temple: Located around 20 kilometers away, this temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Gopinath Temple: Situated in a nearby village, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

Perupalem Beach: If you’re willing to take a short road trip, Perupalem Beach, located approximately 85 kilometers away, offers a scenic coastal escape.

Nellapattu Bird Sanctuary: Located about 70 kilometers from Dwaraka Tirumala, this sanctuary is home to a wide variety of bird species and is a great place for birdwatching.

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FAQ:

Q: What is Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

A: Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Vishnu. It is located in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is said to be the southern counterpart of Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, which is located in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh.

Q: Where is Dwaraka Tirumala Temple located?

A: Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is located in the village of Dwaraka Tirumala, which is about 42 kilometers from the city of Eluru, Andhra Pradesh. The temple is situated on the banks of the Krishna River.

Q: What is the best time to visit Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

A: The best time to visit Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is during the dry season, from November to April. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, and the Chinna Tirupati is less crowded.

Q: How do I get to Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

A: There are a number of ways to get to Dwaraka Tirumala Temple, including by bus, train, or taxi. The nearest bus station is located in the town of Bhimadole, which is about 15 kilometers from the temple. There are regular buses from Bhimadole to Dwaraka Tirumala.

The nearest train station is located in the town of Eluru, which is about 42 kilometers from the temple. There are regular trains from Eluru to Dwaraka Tirumala.

You can also take a taxi or rickshaw from Eluru to Dwaraka Tirumala. The journey takes about an hour.

Q: What are the best things to see and do at Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

A: Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a vast complex, and there is something for everyone to see and do. Some of the most popular attractions include:

• The main temple, which is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara
• The Govardhanagiri hill, which is located behind the temple
• The Krishna River, which flows past the temple
• The surrounding villages, which are home to traditional Telugu culture

In addition to visiting the Chinna Tirupati, you can also take a boat ride on the Krishna River, visit the nearby villages, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Q: What are some tips for visiting Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

• Dress respectfully, as Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is still a religious site. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially if you are visiting during the dry season.
• Be aware of your surroundings and take care of your belongings. Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a popular tourist destination, and there have been reports of thefts.

Here are some additional FAQs about Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

• What is the history of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

The history of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is not well-documented. However, it is believed to have been built in the 12th century by King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire.

• What are the religious significance of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

Dwaraka Tirumala Temple is a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is believed that Lord Venkateswara appeared to the sage Atri and his wife Anasuya in the form of a child. The sage then built a temple to worship the child, which is said to be the origin of Dwaraka Tirumala Temple.

• What are the festivals celebrated at Dwaraka Tirumala Temple?

Dwaraka Tirumala Temple celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year, including:

• Srivari Brahmotsavam: This is the main festival of the Chinna Tirupati, and is celebrated over a period of 10 days in the month of May.
• Bhadrapada Ekadasi: This festival is celebrated on the eleventh day of the waxing moon in the month of Bhadrapada.
• Krishna Janmashtami: This festival celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna, and is celebrated on the eighth day of the waxing moon in the month of August.

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How to reach Dwaraka Tirumala Temple:

1. Travel to Eluru, Andhra Pradesh:
   • If you are traveling from a different city or state, you’ll need to reach Eluru, which is the nearest major city to Dwaraka Tirumala. You can choose to travel to Eluru by road, rail, or air.
   • By Road: You can take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Vijayawada or Rajahmundry to reach Eluru. National Highway 16 (NH16) connects Eluru to other major cities in Andhra Pradesh.
   • By Train: Eluru has a railway station, and it is well-connected to various cities and towns in India. You can check train schedules and book tickets to Eluru.
   • By Air: The nearest airport to Eluru is Vijayawada International Airport (approximately 65 kilometers away). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Eluru.
2. Travel from Eluru to Dwaraka Tirumala: Once you have reached Eluru, you can proceed to Dwaraka Tirumala from there. Dwaraka Tirumala is located about 42 kilometers away from Eluru. You have several options for traveling from Eluru to Dwaraka Tirumala:
   • By Bus: You can take a bus from Eluru to Dwaraka Tirumala. There are regular bus services that operate on this route.
   • By Taxi or Auto-rickshaw: You can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach Dwaraka Tirumala. Taxis can be more comfortable and convenient for the journey.
3. Arrival in Dwaraka Tirumala: Once you arrive in Dwaraka Tirumala, you can proceed to the temple. The temple is situated on a hill, and you can either walk up to the temple or take a shared jeep service that is available for pilgrims.
4. Visit Dwaraka Tirumala Temple: Explore the Dwaraka Tirumala Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. It is a significant pilgrimage site, and you can participate in darshan (sacred viewing) and other religious rituals.

For any enquery please visit the official temple website http://www.dwarakatirumala.org/

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