Lepakshi Temple – Timings, History & Hanging Pillar

Lepakshi is a place that can be described as one of the most visitable destinations in India. Lepakshi, for some reason, has not been on any major tourist circuit and has remained relatively unknown.

That has now changed. More and more people are getting to know of this gem tucked away in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. Lepakshi is on the border of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, just 120 km from Bangalore.

Lepakshi Temple History

Jatayu from the Ramayana fell at this spot while trying to save Sita Maa from Ravana.  He flew up in the sky as Ravana was fleeing in a chariot with Sita Mata. Jatayu fought valiantly but was no match for Ravana, who cut off his wings.

Sadly, Jatayu fell to the ground, grievously injured. Sri Ram, in pursuit of Ravana, found Jatayu lying on the ground, wounded and drawing on his last breaths.

Sri Ram said to Jatayu, “Le Pakshi,” which in Telugu means “Rise O Bird.” Jatayu rose for one final time and died in Sri Rama’s arms. Hence came the name Lepakshi. Faithful  Jatayu died, after which Sri Ram Himself performed the last rites, as he would have for a brother.

Lepakshi Temple Hanging Pillar

The Veerabhadra Temple here is an ancient architectural and engineering marvel. A courtyard lined with magnificent corridors with carved pillars leads to the main temple. The walls and roofs are covered with paintings glorifying our ancient culture and deities.

Inside the main temple, there are over 70 pillars and out of them, there is one that does not rest on the ground!  This is a mystery that engineers have no answer to! It is believed if you move that pillar, all the pillars move too.

The temple complex is located on a low-lying hill. The temple, enclosed by two walls, can be divided into three sections: the Natya Mandapa (dance pavilion), the Ardha Mandapa and the sanctum.

The ceilings of the Natya and Ardha Mandapa are covered with beautiful panels that depict scenes from epics like the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Puranas. The most impressive among all these panels is the one that depicts the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati Mata.

On one side of the temple is an unfinished Kalyan Mandapam (Wedding Hall). It is said the king stopped construction midway because of the excessive expenditure. At the back side of the temple is a huge Shivling (Nagalinga) with a hooded, multi-faced Naga (Cobra).

Giant Basavanna (Nandi) Statue

One km before the Veerbhadra temple is the Basavanna Temple dedicated to Nandi. There is a statue of Nandi 27 feet long and 15 feet tall, carved from single granite rock. It faces the Nagalinga in Veerbhadra temple. There is a small, but beautiful, pond on one side of the statue.

Lepakshi Temple Timings

Rules to Follow in Lepakshi Temple

While visiting the Lepakshi temple, don’t forget to wear decent clothes. And don’t carry leather bags or belts, etc. However, temple authorities permit photography inside this temple so one must carry a camera.

Moreover, one should prefer to wear a standard piece of clothing to the temple. Temple authorities prohibit clothing items like jeans, t-shirts, shorts and skirts etc within the temple premises.

Lepakshi Temple Footprint

A giant footprint known as Durga Padam can be seen here. Legend says it is Sita Maa’s. It is always wet as if being constantly washed. The source of water is a mystery. There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh on the premises. Chambers built for meditation can be accessed from the corridors.

There is a unique leafless tree in the compound that has reportedly been around for ages. Besides all this, there is a lot more to see in this temple. This temple is in fact a living tribute to the skills, mastery, and craftsmanship of the temple builders of ancient and medieval India.

Shopping in Lepakshi

Shopping in Lepakshi can be a great experience. Lepakshi is famous for its traditional crafts. You can shop for Banjara embroidery items, brass artefacts, Kalamkari paintings and Cherial scroll paintings, cotton and jute floor mats, and much more.  Kids will simply love the Kondapalli toys made from softwood.

Where to Stay in Lepakshi

There are several hotels and guest houses to suit all budgets in and around Lepakshi. One can also opt for a day trip from Bangalore.

Book Your Stay With YatraDham Click here.

How to Reach Lepakshi

By Train

Hindupur Railway Station, about 14 km from Lepakshi.

By Air

Bangalore Airport is about 100 km from Lepakshi.

Distances from Lepakshi