Nestled in the tranquil village of Gudimallam in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district, the Gudimallam Parasurameswara Temple stands as one of India’s most ancient and architecturally significant Shiva shrines. Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, this temple houses a unique lingam that combines the forms of Lord Shiva and Lord Parasurama, making it a rare and spiritually powerful site.
If you’re planning a visit in 2025, this comprehensive guide provides all essential details, including temple timings, rituals, historical significance, festivals, and travel tips.
Gudimallam Temple Timings 2025
The temple follows a daily schedule for darshan (viewing the deity), poojas (rituals), and special ceremonies. Below are the standard timings for 2025:
Regular Darshan Timings
| Day | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Monday-Sunday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
Special Pooja Timings
| Pooja | Timing | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Suprabhatha Seva (Morning Wake-up Ritual) | 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM | Waking the deity with chants |
| Abhishekam (Sacred Bath) | 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM | Milk, honey, and water poured on the lingam |
| Alankara Darshan (Deity Adornment) | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Shiva Lingam decorated with flowers |
| Mahanyasa Pooja | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Vedic chanting and worship |
| Evening Deeparadhana (Lamp Offering) | 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Grand aarti with lamps and bells |
| Ekanta Seva (Night Ritual) | 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Final prayers before temple closure |
Important Notes for 2025
- Mondays & Pradosham Days: Special Rudrabhishekam performed.
- Mahashivaratri (Feb 26, 2025): 24-hour darshan with extended rituals.
- Full Moon (Pournami) Days: Special abhishekams and homams.
Historical Significance of Gudimallam Temple
Unique Features of the Temple
- Oldest Shiva Lingam in India: The 2,300-year-old lingam is carved with a standing image of Lord Parasurama on its front, making it one-of-a-kind.
- Dravidian Architecture: The temple showcases early South Indian temple design.
- Mythological Connection: Believed to be where Lord Parasurama worshipped Shiva after cleansing his sins.
Why is the Temple Important?
✔ Archaeological Marvel: The lingam is studied by historians for its ancient craftsmanship.
✔ Spiritual Power: Devotees believe prayers here remove obstacles and grant wisdom.
✔ Offbeat Pilgrimage Site: Less crowded than major temples, offering a peaceful experience.
Poojas & Rituals at Gudimallam Temple
1. Daily Poojas
- Abhishekam (6:00 AM) – Milk, curd, and panchamrit offered.
- Archana (8:00 AM) – Chanting of Shiva’s names.
- Naivedyam (12:00 PM) – Sacred food offering.
2. Special Poojas (By Donation)
- Rudrabhishekam – ₹500 (Mondays & Pradosham)
- Sahasranama Archana – ₹300 (Chanting 1008 names)
- Ganapathi Homam – ₹1000 (For success)
3. Festive Rituals
- Mahashivaratri (Feb 26, 2025): Night-long chanting, abhishekam, and meditation.
- Karthika Deepam (Nov-Dec 2025): Lighting of 1000 lamps.
Major Festivals in 2025
| Festival | Date (2025) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Mahashivaratri | Feb 26 | All-night worship, special abhishekam |
| Karthika Deepam | Nov-Dec | Grand lamp lighting ceremony |
| Pradosham (Bi-monthly) | Every 13th/14th day of lunar cycle | Special Shiva worship |
| Ugadi (Mar 30) | Mar 30 | New Year celebrations |
How to Reach Gudimallam Temple?
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport (90 km)
- Alternate Option: Chennai Airport (150 km)
By Train
- Nearest Station: Renigunta Junction (30 km)
- From Chennai/Bangalore: Regular trains available.
By Road
- From Tirupati: 50 km (1.5 hrs via NH716)
- From Chennai: 130 km (3 hrs via NH716)
- From Bangalore: 200 km (4.5 hrs via NH44)
Local Transport
- Buses & Autos available from Tirupati/Renigunta.
- Temple is in Gudimallam village, easily accessible by road.
Tips for Visiting in 2025
✔ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6 AM) for a peaceful darshan.
✔ Dress Code: Traditional attire preferred (dhoti/saree recommended).
✔ Photography: Allowed in outer areas, prohibited near sanctum.
✔ Accommodation: Limited lodges in Gudimallam; stay in Tirupati for more options.
✔ Prasad: Try the panchamrit (holy offering) distributed after poojas.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What are the Gudimallam Temple timings in 2025?
A: Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Q2: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, but special poojas require donations.
Q3: When is Mahashivaratri in 2025?
A: February 26, 2025 (all-night celebrations).
Q4: Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
A: Yes, all are welcome, but maintain decorum.
Q5: What makes the Gudimallam lingam unique?
A: It’s the oldest Shiva lingam in India, featuring a carved image of Parasurama.
Q6: Are there guided tours available?
A: Yes, local priests explain the temple’s history upon request.
Q7: Is photography allowed inside?
A: Only in outer areas; not near the sanctum.
Conclusion
The Gudimallam Parasurameswara Temple is a hidden gem of spirituality and history. With its ancient lingam, serene atmosphere, and powerful rituals, it offers a deeply enriching pilgrimage experience. By following this 2025 guide, you can plan a seamless visit to this sacred site.
“May Lord Shiva bless you with peace, wisdom, and divine grace in 2025!” 🙏