Sri Vaidyanatheswara Swamy Temple Pushpagiri

Recognized as an ASI-protected monument, this temple is an important pilgrimage centre and is also known locally as Sri Kamakshi Vaidyanatha Swamy Temple, Madhya Kailasam, Second Kasi, and Dakshina Kashi.

The temple stands on the riverbank and is celebrated for its Dravidian architectural style, with origins tracing back to the Chola period and contributions from the Rashtrakutas, Cholas, Western Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, and the Vijayanagara Empire.

The temple complex houses not only the main deity, Lord Shiva, but also shrines for Goddess Kamakshi, Trikuteshwara, Indranatheswara, Bhimeshwara, and Lakshmi Chennakesava, making it a spiritually significant site for devotees.

Pilgrims can participate in various poojas such as Suprabhata Seva, early morning Abhishekam, Archana, and the evening Aarti or Sandhya Puja, conducted in Sanskrit and Telugu. Darshan at the temple is free of charge, allowing all devotees to seek blessings without any entry fee.

The temple is open daily from 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

The best time to visit is during the winter months (November to February), early mornings (5–8 AM), evening aarti, or during major festivals like Maha Shivaratri (February–March), Annual Brahmotsavam (March–April), and Karthika Masam (November–December).

A traditional dress code is strictly enforced: men are required to wear dhoti and kurta or full-length trousers with a tucked-in shirt, while women should wear sarees, half-sarees, or salwar kameez with a dupatta.

Reaching the temple is convenient from Kadapa city, which is well-connected by train, air, and road. From Kadapa, the temple is about 16 km away and can be accessed via local state roadways, taxis, auto-rickshaws, or APSRTC buses.

The nearest railway station is Kadapa (18 km), and the closest airports are Kadapa Airport (25 km) and Tirupati Airport (160 km). Parking is available near the entrance, with provisions for wheelchair access, though ancient stone steps may require assistance for some visitors.

Devotees can receive prasadam such as Vibhuthi, Kumkum, Pulihora, or sweet offerings after daily poojas. Annadanam is organized on festival days or through donor sponsorship. Photography is permitted in outdoor and architectural areas but not inside the main sanctum.

For accommodation, most visitors stay in Kadapa town, where a range of hotels and lodges are available. Nearby attractions include the Pushpagiri Temple Complex, Ontimitta (Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple), Gandikota Fort & Grand Canyon, and Devuni Kadapa (Sri Lakshmi Venkateswara Swamy Temple). For further information, visitors may contact the temple at +919000256996.