Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple

Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple Darshan Timings, History & Nandi Miracle

Explore Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple darshan timings, history, and the mystery of the growing Nandi. Plan your visit to this ancient cave temple in Andhra Pradesh.

Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple - Darshan Timings, History & Temple Information

Experience the mystical charm of Sri Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple, an ancient sanctuary nestled in the Yerramala hills of Nandyal district. This temple is world-renowned not just for its stunning rock-cut architecture, but for its living mysteries—most notably the Growing Nandi and the absence of crows within its premises.

This is not just a temple; it is a spiritual marvel where nature and divinity converge. Built according to the Vaishnava traditions but dedicated to Lord Shiva, Yaganti stands as a unique symbol of religious harmony and archaeological brilliance from the Vijayanagara era.

Plan your Yaganti Temple darshan with our expert guide to witness the miraculous stone Nandi and explore the sacred caves where saints once meditated.

Special Darshan Assistance Available

Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple – Quick Info

• ✦Location: Yaganti, Nandyal District, Andhra Pradesh
• ✦Deity: Lord Shiva (Uma Maheswara) & Goddess Parvati
• ✦Unique Feature: A monolithic Nandi idol that is scientifically documented to be increasing in size.

The Story of Yaganti Temple – The Mystery of the Growing Nandi

The story of Yaganti is steeped in fascinating legends. According to the Puranas, the sage Agastya wanted to build a temple for Lord Venkateswara at this site. However, during the installation, the toe of the idol broke. Disappointed, Agastya performed a penance for Lord Shiva. Shiva appeared and suggested that the site was more suited for a Shaivite temple. Agastya then requested Shiva to manifest there with Goddess Parvati in a single stone, leading to the creation of the Uma Maheswara idol.

The Miracle of the Growing Nandi:

The most talked-about feature of Yaganti is the stone Nandi (the divine bull). Local devotees noticed that the Nandi was outgrowing its original space. According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the rock used for this idol has a natural property of "expanding." It is said to grow by 1 inch every 20 years. Legend says that when the Kali Yuga ends, this Nandi will come to life and bellow.

The Curse on Crows:

Another unique phenomenon is the total absence of crows in Yaganti. It is believed that while Sage Agastya was meditating, crows disturbed him. He cursed them, saying they could never enter the temple premises. Since the crow is the vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shani, it is believed that Shani Dev cannot trouble devotees within the sacred boundaries of Yaganti.

The present grand structure was built in the 15th century by King Harihara Raya Bukkarraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple is famous for its "Pushkarini" (sacred pond), where water flows from the mouth of a stone Nandi year-round, regardless of the season, maintaining a constant level of purity and freshness.

Devotees believe that:

• ✦A dip in the Agastya Pushkarini washes away all sins and skin ailments.
• ✦The growing Nandi is a living sign of Lord Shiva’s presence.
• ✦Praying here provides relief from the negative effects of Lord Shani (Saturn).

Yaganti Temple Darshan Timings & Ritual Schedule

Best Time for Darshan: Early morning before 9:00 AM is ideal to enjoy the natural spring water and the cool atmosphere of the caves.

Festivals & Best Time to Visit

Yaganti is at its spiritual peak during:

• ✦Maha Shivaratri: Celebrated with grand fervor, attracting lakhs of devotees.
• ✦Karthika Masam: Special deepotsavam (festival of lights) in the temple caves.

Best Time to Visit:

• ✦October to March: The weather is pleasant for exploring the caves and hills.
• ✦Monsoon: The surrounding greenery and waterfalls make the site incredibly scenic.

How to Reach Yaganti Temple

• ✦By Air: Nearest airport is Kurnool (Uravakonda), about 80 km away.
• ✦By Train: Nearest railway station is Nandyal (55 km) or Banaganapalle.
• ✦By Road: Well-connected by road from Nandyal, Kurnool, and Banaganapalle. Regular APSRTC buses are available.

Hotels & Nearby Places

Stay Options:

• ✦Temple Choultries: Managed by the Devasthanam for budget stays.
• ✦Banaganapalle: Nearby town with decent lodge options.
• ✦Nandyal/Kurnool: For more comfortable or luxury hotel stays.

Nearby Places:

• ✦Belum Caves: The second-largest cave system in India (45 km away).
• ✦Banaganapalle Nawab Palace: A historic site nearby.
• ✦Ahobilam: The sacred Nava Narasimha Kshetram (85 km away).

Plan Your Darshan

Ready to witness the mystery of Yaganti?

You can book:

• ✦Special Darshan Tickets
• ✦Special Abhishekam Seva
• ✦Guided Cave Exploration Tours
• ✦Travel & Accommodation Packages

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

Info & FAQs – Yaganti Temple

Is it true that the Nandi idol is growing?

Yes, the Archaeological Survey of India has confirmed that the stone idol has increased in size over decades, likely due to the nature of the silica-based rock.

Are there caves to visit in Yaganti?

Yes, there are three main caves: Agastya Cave, Venkateswara Cave, and Veera Brahmam Cave. Each has its own spiritual significance and requires a short climb.

Why are there no crows in Yaganti?

According to legend, Sage Agastya cursed the crows for disturbing his penance. Scientifically, some believe the unique acoustics or magnetic properties of the hills keep them away.

Can we bathe in the temple pond?

Yes, the Agastya Pushkarini is open for devotees. The water is considered holy and flows from the hills through a stone carving.

What is the dress code?

Devotees are requested to wear traditional Indian attire. Men in dhotis or trousers and women in sarees or suits.

How much time is needed to visit the entire complex?

To cover the main temple, the Nandi, the Pushkarini, and all three caves, you should plan for at least 3 to 4 hours.