The Kanaka Durga Temple, a radiant jewel nestled amidst the vibrant city of Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, beckons devotees with its rich history, spiritual aura, and architectural splendour. Dedicated to the mighty Goddess Durga, the temple is a revered pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees annually. With a fascinating past and mythological and historical significance, the story behind the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamyvarla Devasthanam is one to talk about.
History and Mythology of Kanaka Durga Temple
The Kanaka Durga temple’s history dates back centuries, with its roots intertwined with rich mythology and folklore. Keeping aside the history, there is a deep-rooted legend that depicts the significance and power that resides within the temple.
Popular legends suggest the temple symbolises Goddess Durga’s triumph over the demon king Mahishasura. But there is a back story to it. It surrounds the tale of Sage Indrakila, who meditated and practised penance to summon the goddess. The reason was to put an end to the turmoil instigated by the demons in the area.
Satisfied with Indrakila’s penance, when Goddess Durga appeared before him, he pleaded to her to reside on his head and keep an eye out for the demon and his activities. Following Indrakila’s wish, Goddess Durga killed the demon, making Indrakila her permanent abode. This explains why the Kanaka Durga Temple is atop the Indrakeeladri hill beside the Krishna River.
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Best Time to Visit the Temple
The Kanaka Durga Temple welcomes devotees throughout the year. However, specific periods hold particular significance. Dussehra witnesses the temple adorned in its festive best, with special pujas and vibrant celebrations attracting many pilgrims.
Since Goddess Durga resides in the temple and visits during Navaratri, the nine nights dedicated to Durga Maata are auspicious. Devotees also visit during Saraswati Puja and Theppotsavam to seek blessings, strength and power from Goddess Durga.
Essential Information for the Devotees Visiting Kanaka Durga Temple
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If this is your first time visiting the Kanaka Durga Temple, familiarise yourself with the basic information regarding timing, ticket prices, dress codes, etc. This will enable you to follow the basic decorum and etiquette akin to the area’s culture.
Timings
The Kanaka Durga temple timings are from 05:00 AM to 09:00 PM on all days except Thursday. The temple’s operation stops Thursday from 01:00 PM to 5:00 PM. You can also opt for a personalised puja experience with separate timings. You’d have to clarify tickets for special darshan and timings from the administrative office around the temple.
Entrance fees
The temple offers free entry for general darshan (viewing the deity). However, special pujas and sevas (services) may incur nominal fees. There are two special darshan passes that you can purchase. So, while the Kanaka Durga temple ticket price is none, devotees can pay ₹20 per person for Mukha Mandapam and ₹300 per person for Antaralayam Dharshanam.
Dress code
You must dress modestly, covering your shoulders, limbs, and legs. Traditional Indian attire is usually the best option for both men and women. So, you will often see most devotees wearing sarees, salwar kameez, kurtas, etc. Some men even wear veshti during their visit.
Etiquettes and rules
Like with any temple and religious place, there are certain standard instructions and rules that the devotees should follow. This includes maintaining silence inside the temple. Ensure that your mobile devices are turned off during the puja or aarti. Photography isn’t allowed inside the sanctum, so avoid clicking pictures without permission. The same can lead to a hefty fine. Additionally, shoes and leather items aren’t allowed inside the temple premises. You must deposit all your essentials at the lockers for a nominal fee outside the temple.
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What to Do in Kanaka Durga Temple?
The main purpose of visiting the Kanaka Durga temple in Vijayawada is to seek blessings. So, start by seeking the blessings of Goddess Durga. Depending on your budget and accessibility, you can opt for free darshan or special darshans for an additional ticket price.
After seeking blessings, step outside and explore the temple premises. The temple’s architecture showcases a fascinating blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles. Intricate carvings and sculptures depict scenes from Hindu mythology adorn the walls.
You can also marvel at the towering gopurams (gateway towers) and the serene atmosphere within the temple complex. Furthermore, the daily rituals performed by the priests are a unique experience. The chants and mantras while offering the prayers create a highly spiritual ambience inside the temple’s premises.
Highlights of the Kanaka Durga Temple
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Stepping inside the Kanaka Durga temple opens up a world of beautiful and alluring sights beyond the temple’s and the Goddess’s beauty.
Perched atop the Indrakeeladri hill, the Kanaka Durga Temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding city and the Krishna River. If you are around the area during the sunrise and sunset, don’t miss out on catching the beautiful sight.
A unique feature of the complex is the Malleswara Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and located adjacent to the Kanaka Durga temple. The Indrakeeladri hill itself holds religious significance. Legend has it that Lord Indra, the king of Devas (celestial beings), once visited this spot. So, take a stroll around the temple’s perimeters too.
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Places to Visit Around Kanaka Durga Temple
After offering your prayers and seeking blessings, various spots are worth exploring. Adding these to your itinerary enables you to explore the best spots around Vijayawada:
1. Undavalli Caves
Located around 5.5 km from the Kanaka Durga Temple, the Undavalli Caves are a group of ancient rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 3rd century BC. The insides of the caves feature intricate sculptures and inscriptions, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
2. Amaravati
The greenfield capital of Andhra Pradesh is located around 15 km from the Kanaka Durga Temple. The ancient city is known for its magnificent Buddhist monuments and sculptures. Its historical and cultural significance is best explored when you scope it yourself. Don’t forget to try the local delicacies and street food in the capital city.
3. Bhavani Island
Accessible by boat, Bhavani Island is a serene getaway amidst the Krishna River. This island houses temples dedicated to Bhavani Devi and Subramanya Swami, providing a tranquil escape for devotees seeking a spiritual retreat.
These are a few places near the Kanaka Durga temple that you can consider exploring. Vijayawada boasts many more scenic spots you can explore beyond these three spots.
How to Reach Kanaka Durga Temple?
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Due to the central location of the Kanaka Durga Temple, there are multiple ways to reach the temple premises once you are in Andhra Pradesh.
By road – Located in Vijayawada, the temple is accessible by car, public bus, or taxi. You can plan your road trip at your convenience and choose the mode of transportation.
By train – The nearest railway station from the Kanaka Durga temple is Vijayawada Railway Junction. Regular train services connect the station to various parts of the country. You can take a taxi or public bus from the station to the temple.
By air – The nearest airport to the temple is Vijayawada Airport, which is 22.5 km away. You can hire a taxi or take public transport to reach the temple.
Further Read: Meenakshi Temple
Further Read: Meenakshi Temple
Kanaka Durga Temple stands as a symbol of faith, devotion, and spiritual fervour, drawing devotees from far and wide to seek the divine blessings of Goddess Kanaka Durga. With its rich history and immense spiritual power, the temple truly offers a profound spiritual experience for its visitors. The next time you book a trip to Andhra Pradesh, don’t forget to stop and seek blessings at the temple.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kanaka Durga Temple
Are there any accommodation facilities near the temple?
Multiple accommodation options are available near the Kanaka Durga temple. Within a few kilometres of the temple, there are budget hotels and luxurious resorts.
Is photography allowed inside the temple?
You can snap photographs of the general areas in the temple. However, photography is strictly prohibited at the sanctum and inside the important parts of the temple premises.
What are the timings for special pujas and sevas?
The Kanaka Durga temple darshan timings are usually the same as the timings of the temple’s operation. Any changes to the timings are specifically published on the temple’s official website.
What can one bring inside the temple?
Leather items and shoes are not allowed inside the main sanctum. Lockers are available for safekeeping belongings.
How many steps are there in Kanaka Durga Temple?
The temple has 400 steps, and climbing them to reach the sanctum is an experience in itself.
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