Arasavalli Sun Temple

Arasavalli Sun Temple Darshan Timings, History & Surya Deva Temple Info

Explore Arasavalli Sun Temple darshan timings, history, and the miracle of sun rays. Plan your visit to this ancient Surya Kshetram and experience divine energy.

Arasavalli Sun Temple - Darshan Timings, History & Temple Information

Experience the radiant energy of the Sun God at the Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple in Arasavalli, one of the ancient and most significant Sun temples in India. Built in the 7th century, this temple is a powerful center of spiritual healing and solar energy, where the deity is worshipped as the source of all life and health.

This is not just a place of worship—it is an astronomical marvel. Arasavalli is famous for a unique phenomenon where, twice a year, the early morning sun rays travel through the temple entrance and fall directly at the feet of the Lord.

Plan your Arasavalli Sun Temple darshan with proper guidance to witness the golden glory of Surya Deva and experience the peace of this sacred coastal pilgrimage.

Special Darshan Assistance Available

Arasavalli Sun Temple – Quick Info

• ✦Location: Arasavalli, Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh
• ✦Deity: Lord Suryanarayana Swamy (Sun God)
• ✦Unique Feature: Only Sun temple in India where rituals have continued uninterrupted since the 7th century.

The Story of Arasavalli Sun Temple – The Radiant Healer

The history of Arasavalli is rooted in the celestial era of the Puranas. According to local legend, the temple was established by Lord Indra, the King of Gods. It is said that Indra once attempted to enter the temple of Lord Shiva at midnight. He was stopped by Nandi, and in the ensuing struggle, Indra was thrown into the distance. Weak and injured, Indra performed penance to the Sun God. Pleased by his devotion, Surya Deva appeared and granted him health and strength. In gratitude, Indra installed the idol of the Sun God at this very spot.

Historically, the temple was constructed by King Devendra Varma of the Kalinga Dynasty in the 7th century AD. The architecture is designed with such precision that during the months of March and September, the morning sun rays enter the five entrance gates and illuminate the feet of the main deity.

The idol itself is a masterpiece, carved from a single block of black granite. It depicts Lord Surya standing on a chariot driven by seven horses, symbolizing the seven days of the week and the seven colors of light. Surrounding the Lord are Padmapani (the lotus bearer), and his consorts Usha and Chhaya, creating a divine tableau of solar power. For centuries, devotees suffering from skin ailments, eye problems, and chronic illnesses have flocked here, believing that the "Surya Namaskaram" and the holy water (Theertham) of this temple possess miraculous healing properties.

Devotees believe that:

• ✦Offering prayers here cures skin diseases and improves eyesight.
• ✦"Aditya Hridayam" chanting in this temple grants immense mental clarity.
• ✦The Sun God provides "Arogya" (health) and "Aishwarya" (prosperity) to all who seek his rays.

Arasavalli Sun Temple Darshan Timings & Ritual Schedule

Best Time for Darshan: Sunday mornings are considered most auspicious for Surya Deva. Arriving by 5:30 AM allows you to witness the peaceful morning rituals.

Festivals & Best Time to Visit

The temple is most vibrant during:

• ✦Ratha Saptami: The biggest festival, celebrating the birth of the Sun God (Jan/Feb).
• ✦Kalyanotsavam: Annual marriage ceremony of the Lord.
• ✦Sundays: Every Sunday is special, with large crowds seeking the Lord's blessings.

Best Time to Visit:

• ✦March & September: Specifically during the equinox dates to witness the sun rays touching the idol.
• ✦Winter (October to February): Ideal for coastal travel in Andhra Pradesh.

How to Reach Arasavalli Sun Temple

• ✦By Air: Nearest airport is Visakhapatnam (VTZ), approximately 105 km away.
• ✦By Train: Srikakulam Road Railway Station (CHE) is just 9 km from the temple and well-connected to major cities.
• ✦By Road: Srikakulam is on the NH-16 highway. Regular buses and private taxis are available from Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram.

Hotels & Nearby Places

Stay Options:

• ✦Temple Guest Houses: Basic rooms available near the temple.
• ✦Srikakulam Town: Budget and mid-range hotels available within 3 km.
• ✦Visakhapatnam: Luxury stays for those taking a day trip.

Nearby Places:

• ✦Srimukhalingam Temple: Famous Shiva temple with 8th-century architecture (50 km away).
• ✦Kalingapatnam Beach: A serene spot where the Vamsadhara River meets the sea (25 km away).
• ✦Salihundam: Ancient Buddhist stupas and hillock (18 km away).

Plan Your Darshan

Ready to bask in the divine light of Arasavalli?

You can book:

• ✦Special Darshan Entry
• ✦Special Surya Namaskara Pooja
• ✦Annadanam (Food Offering)
• ✦Travel & Stay Assistance

Visit our dedicated page for assistance: [Vandan Darshan - Arasavalli Sun Temple Special Darshan & Booking Services]

Info & FAQs – Arasavalli Sun Temple

Is Arasavalli the same as the Konark Sun Temple?

No. While Konark is a famous historical monument in Odisha, Arasavalli is a living temple in Andhra Pradesh where daily worship has been performed for over 1,300 years.

What is the significance of Sunday at this temple?

Sunday (Ravivar) is the day dedicated to the Sun (Ravi). Devotees believe offerings made on this day carry the highest spiritual merit.

What is the phenomenon of sun rays falling on the idol?

Due to the temple's unique orientation, sun rays fall on the Lord's feet twice a year (around March 9-11 and October 1-3). It is a major event drawing thousands of people.

Is there a specific dress code?

Traditional Indian wear is recommended. Men in dhotis or kurtas and women in sarees or suits are preferred to maintain the sanctity of the temple.

Are there any special food offerings?

"Ksheerannam" (sweet milk rice) is a popular Naivedyam offered to the Sun God here.

How can I reach the temple from Visakhapatnam?

It is a 2 to 3-hour drive via the National Highway. You can also take a train from Visakhapatnam to Srikakulam Road station.