Kanipakam Temple Timings, History, Festivals, and How to Reach
Kanipakam Temple, located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in South India. Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom, this temple attracts thousands of devotees every year. Situated on the banks of the Bahuda River, the temple is not only a spiritual hub but also a place of historical and cultural significance. In this guide, we’ll explore the temple’s timings, history, festivals, and how to reach Kanipakam Temple.
Kanipakam Temple Timings
The temple is open for darshan (worship) during the following hours:
- Morning: 6:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.
- Evening: 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Devotees are advised to plan their visit according to these timings. Special sevas (rituals) are performed at specific times, which are listed below.
Sevas and Rituals at Kanipakam Temple
The temple offers various sevas and ceremonies for devotees. Here’s a detailed list:
| Seva Name | Timings |
|---|---|
| Suprabatham & Bindu Teerthabishekam | 4:00 AM to 5:05 AM |
| Palabhishekam | 5.45 PM to 6.15 PM |
| Ganapathi Sahasra Namarchana | 6.00 AM |
| Panchamrutha Abhishekam | 5.30 AM to 6.00 AM, 9.00 AM to 10.00 AM, 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM |
| Ganapathi Homam | 9.00 AM to 12.00 PM |
| Nitya Kalyanotshavam | 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM |
| Ganapathi Modaka Pooja | Before 12.00 PM |
| Phodasa Ganapathi Pooja | Before 12.00 PM |
| Moola Mantraarchana | Before 12.00 PM |
| Unjala Seva | 6.30 PM to 7.30 PM |
| Pavalimpu Seva (Ekantha Seva) | 9.30 PM to 10.00 PM |
| Nijaroopa Darshan | 5.00 AM to 5.30 AM, 7.00 AM to 7.30 AM, 8.30 AM to 9.00 AM, 10.30 AM to 11.00 AM |
| Athi Seeghra Darshan | 5.00 AM to 5.30 AM, 7.00 AM to 7.30 AM, 8.30 AM to 9.00 AM, 10.30 AM to 11.00 AM, 4.30 PM to 5.00 PM |
| Poolangi Seva | Thursday Only |
History of Kanipakam Temple
The history of Kanipakam Temple dates back to the 11th century during the reign of the Chola king Kulothunga Chola I. The temple was later expanded and renovated during the Vijayanagara dynasty in the 13th century. The name “Kanipakam” is derived from two Tamil words: ‘kani’ (wetland) and ‘pakam’ (flow of water), reflecting its location near a water source.
According to legend, the temple’s deity, Lord Ganesha, is believed to be ‘Swayambhu’ (self-manifested). The idol was discovered in a well by three farmers – one blind, one deaf, and one mute. When they struck the idol while digging, it began to bleed, and the water turned red. Miraculously, the farmers’ disabilities were cured, and the temple was built around the idol.
Legend of Kanipakam Temple
The temple’s legend is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is said that two brothers, Sankha and Likhita, went on a pilgrimage to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. Likhita plucked a mango without permission and was punished by losing his hands. When they took a dip in the Bahuda River near Kanipakam, Likhita’s hands were miraculously restored. The river was then named Bahuda, meaning “human arm.”
Significance of Kanipakam Temple
Kanipakam Temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of justice and truth. Devotees believe that Lord Ganesha, known as Varasiddhi Vinayaka, grants heartfelt wishes. The temple’s holy water is said to have healing properties, and many devotees take a dip in the Pushkarini (sacred tank) to cleanse themselves of sins.
Festivals Celebrated at Kanipakam Temple
The temple celebrates several festivals with great enthusiasm, including:
- Ganesh Chaturthi: A 10-day festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha, celebrated with processions, rituals, and cultural programs.
- Brahmotsavam: A 20-day festival that includes daily processions, chariot rides, and special rituals.
- Deepotsava: A festival of lights celebrated during Kartik month (October-November).
How to Reach Kanipakam Temple
Kanipakam Temple is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here’s how you can reach the temple:
By Bus:
- From Tirupati: Take APSRTC bus number 12345 or 67890 to Kanipakam. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- From Chittoor: Buses are available every 30 minutes. The distance is 12 km, and the journey takes about 30 minutes.
By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Chittoor Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. From Chittoor, take a bus or taxi to Kanipakam (12 km).
- Popular trains include Chennai Express (12604) and Bangalore Mail (12658).
By Flight:
- The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, located 70 km from Kanipakam. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.
Nearby Places to Visit
- Manikanteswara Temple: A Shiva temple built during the Chola dynasty, known for its exquisite architecture.
- Varadaraja Swamy Temple: Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, this temple is part of the Kanipakam Temple complex.
- Veeranjaneya Swamy Kshetram: Located 15 km from Kanipakam, this temple is associated with Lord Hanuman and is believed to grant wishes to devotees who pray all night on a full moon night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the Kanipakam Temple timings?
A. The temple is open from 6:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Q. What is the history of Kanipakam Temple?
A. The temple was established in the 11th century by Kulothunga Chola I and later expanded during the Vijayanagara dynasty.
Q. Who is the main deity of Kanipakam Temple?
A. The main deity is Lord Ganesha, known as Varasiddhi Vinayaka.
Q. What is the dress code for Kanipakam Temple?
A. Traditional wear is recommended. Men can wear white pancha, dhoti, or kurta, while women can wear sarees.
Q. How is Brahmotsavam celebrated at Kanipakam Temple?
A. The festival lasts 20 days, with daily processions and rituals dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
