Siddavatam Chenna Kesava Swami Temple

This temple is recognized as an ASI-protected monument and is often referred to as the “Second Hampi,” “Mini Hampi,” and “Madhya Ahobilam” due to its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.

The temple is part of the renowned Pushpagiri Temple Complex and stands out as a prominent pilgrimage centre in the region.

Dedicated primarily to Lord Vishnu, the temple also houses shrines for Lord Shiva and Trikuteswara Swamy, offering devotees a unique opportunity to worship multiple deities in one sacred location.

The temple showcases a mixed and renovated architectural style, reflecting its historical evolution from the Chola period, with further development by the Kakatiya and Vijayanagara rulers. Its hilltop setting and proximity to the river make it a tranquil spot for spiritual reflection and darshan.

Devotees can visit the Siddavatam Chenna Kesava Swami Temple between 8:30 AM and 1:00 PM, and again from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the winter months from November to February, especially in the morning hours or during the evening aarti.

The temple offers both free darshan and a special darshan option for a fee of INR 300, catering to the needs of all pilgrims. Poojas such as Abhishekam, Alankaram, and Arjitha Seva are performed in Telugu and Sanskrit, enhancing the devotional experience.

The temple is especially vibrant during festivals like Vaikunta Ekadashi, Dussehra (Vijayadashami), Sankranthi in January, and the Annual Car/Chariot Festival (Brahmotsavam). During these occasions, prasadam such as Pulihora or Laddu is distributed, and Annadanam is organized for devotees.

Reaching the temple is convenient from Kadapa city, which is 16 km away. Pilgrims can take the route toward Chennuru Town and then a local auto-rickshaw to the temple complex, with the Khajipet-Pushpagiri Road being the recommended drive.

Kadapa Railway Station is the nearest railhead, and Kadapa Airport is just 25 km away. Accommodation options are plentiful in Kadapa city, ranging from budget to premium hotels, with OYO rooms and a TTD dormitory near Vontimitta also available.

Visitors should adhere to the traditional dress code—dhoti or kurta for men, and saree or chudidar with dupatta for women. Photography is allowed in the exterior courtyard but is prohibited inside the inner sanctum.

Parking is available near the site, though travelers should be prepared for typical rural Andhra Pradesh road conditions.

Nearby attractions include the Pushpagiri Temple Complex, Devuni Kadapa Temple, Siddavatam Fort, Ameen Peer Dargah, Gandi Veera Anjaneya Swamy Temple, and Gandikota Fort, making this temple a central point for spiritual and heritage tourism in the region.