Andhra Pradesh is home to several sacred temples dedicated to Lord Ayyappa (Sri Dharma Shasta) — the divine son of Lord Shiva and Mohini (an incarnation of Vishnu). Known as the “Harivarasanam deity,” Lord Ayyappa symbolizes discipline, devotion, and harmony.
Across Andhra, many temples emulate Kerala’s Sabarimala traditions — complete with the Pathinettam Padi (18 holy steps), traditional Kerala-style architecture, and age-old rituals. For devotees unable to visit Sabarimala, these shrines offer a similar spiritual experience steeped in devotion and serenity.
Here are five famous Ayyappa temples in Andhra Pradesh — each with unique significance, divine energy, and fascinating heritage.
1. Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple, Dwarapudi (East Godavari)
“The Andhra Sabarimala” or “Andhra Vaikuntam”
Located in Dwarapudi village, East Godavari, this magnificent four-tiered shrine is among the most revered Ayyappa temples in Andhra Pradesh.
Significance: It is believed that worshipping Lord Ayyappa here helps alleviate astrological afflictions, especially those linked to Lord Shani (Saturn). The temple’s serene environment, combined with towering idols of Harihara, Nataraja, Shiva Lingam, Anjaneya, and Nandi, makes it a divine spiritual complex.
The main panchaloha (five-metal) idol of Ayyappa was installed in 1989 by Sri Jayendra Saraswati, the Shankaracharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. The temple’s iconic 18 holy steps were consecrated during this period, representing Kerala’s Sabarimala tradition. The temple features four floors richly adorned with carvings and sculptures. Its gajaprishta (elephant-back) shaped pillars and colourful Ayyappa procession chariot stand out architecturally. The 60-foot statue of Harihara is a striking landmark. Makara Sankranti (Makara Jyothi) is the grandest celebration. On January 14th, thousands of devotees with Irumudi (sacred offerings) participate in the Swan-chariot procession and witness the symbolic lighting of the Makara Jyothi flame.
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Dwarapudi village, East Godavari district – about 20 km from Rajahmundry and accessible via NH-16 and Dwarapudi Railway Station.
2. Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple, Sheelanagar (Visakhapatnam)
A True Reflection of Kerala’s Sabarimala in Vizag
The Sheelanagar Ayyappa Temple in Visakhapatnam is one of the most visited shrines in coastal Andhra. Established in the 1980s by employees of Bharat Heavy Plates & Vessels (BHPV), this three-storeyed temple replicates Sabarimala’s rituals and architecture. Devotees refer to it as the “True Andhra Sabarimala”, as it follows authentic Kerala-style tantric pujas and houses the sacred 18 steps (Pathinettam Padi). Worship here is believed to bring peace, health, and divine protection.
Founded by the Ayyappa Devalaya Samithi in 1984, the temple’s consecration took place in June 1989, when the main 4-foot Ayyappa idol was installed. Every year, from June 15–20, devotees celebrate Pavithrotsavam to commemorate this event.
The temple has three levels —
- Ground floor: Ananta Padmanabha Swamy
- First floor: Lord Shiva and Parvati
- Second floor: Lord Ayyappa, Ganesha, and Subramanya
A Kerala-style sloping roof, traditional carvings, and a dwajasthambam (flagstaff) complete the sacred look.
Pavithrotsavam (June 15–20) and Makara Sankranti are celebrated with grandeur. The temple also observes Kartika Masam and Mandala Makaravilakku with traditional rituals and community annadanam.
Temple Timings: Morning and evening hours; follows Sabarimala-style puja timings including Usha Puja and Deeparadhana.
Location: Sheelanagar, beside NH-16, Visakhapatnam.
3. Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple, Gollapudi (Vijayawada)
A Spiritual Haven for Devotees in Krishna District
Situated on NH-16 near Ramavarappadu Junction, the Gollapudi Ayyappa Temple is a prominent pilgrimage site in Vijayawada.
The temple offers a peaceful space for spiritual seekers and Ayyappa devotees. Worship here is believed to bring prosperity, emotional balance, and inner strength. The temple actively encourages 41-day vratham and Irumudi rituals. Founded by local devotees several decades ago, the temple grew gradually into a well-organized spiritual center in Krishna district.
Built in Dravidian style, the shrine has a beautiful gopuram, intricately carved pillars, and a granite Ayyappa idol at the sanctum. Sub-shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga surround the temple, while landscaped gardens create a serene atmosphere. Makara Sankranti and Vishu are the main festivals, celebrated with lights, chants of Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa, and devotional processions. Mandala Puja (Nov–Dec) also draws large crowds.
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Gollapudi, Vijayawada city, Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh (PIN 521225).
4. Sri Manikanda Swamy Temple, Gollala Mamidada (Near Kakinada)
Nestled amid lush greenery about 25 km from Kakinada, this relatively new temple (built in the early 2000s) has quickly become a local favorite among Ayyappa devotees.
The 18 holy steps at the entrance replicate the Sabarimala experience. The temple is known for its massive deity statues and tranquil rural setting.
Built by community donations and efforts, the temple was consecrated around 2002–2003 under the guidance of local priest Narayana Swami. Dominated by two 30-foot-tall idols — Panchamukha Hanuman and Murugan (Subramanya Swamy) — the temple also features a dwajasthambam, serpent Shiva Linga, and Ayyappa sanctum with Karuppar (guardian deities) flanking the sacred steps. Makara Sankranti and Mandala Puja are celebrated with deepalankarana (lamp-lighting) and special abhishekams. Wednesdays and Kartika Masam also hold spiritual significance for devotees.
Temple timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Gollala Mamidada village, East Godavari district – near Samalkot Junction, about 25 km from Kakinada.
5. Sri Ayyappa Swamy Temple, Bhanugudi (Kakinada)
The Urban “Andhra Sabarimala” of Kakinada
Located at Bhanugudi Junction, this temple stands as one of the most active centers for Ayyappa worship in Kakinada city.
Revered as an urban Sabarimala, the temple’s 18 golden steps and evening camphor-light rituals recreate the divine atmosphere of Sabarimala.
Initially a small local shrine, it expanded over the years through the support of devotees and has become the city’s main Ayyappa temple. The temple complex includes multiple shrines — Ayyappa at the center, flanked by sub-shrines for Lord Ganesha and other deities. The golden steps and daily deeparadhana draw large evening crowds.
Makara Sankranti is the major festival, celebrated with grand pujas, lamp-lighting, and processions. The Mandala Makaravilakku season (Nov–Jan) and Kodiyetram (flag hoisting) are also observed annually.
Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Bhanugudi Junction, Kakinada (PIN 533003), near Police Quarters.
Each of these Ayyappa temples in Andhra Pradesh beautifully combines devotion, architecture, and local heritage. May the divine chant “Swamiye Saranam Ayyappa” resonate in every heart seeking peace, discipline, and divine grace.
