Dwarapudi Ayyappa Temple is located at the Dwarapudi village in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Lord Ayyappa is the presiding deity of the temple. Dwarapudi Ayyappa Temple is also known as Andhra Sabarimala.This temple popular by the name “Andhra Vaikuntam”.
Shrine’s History
The Panchaloha Idol of Lord Ayyappa and the huge Idol of Harihara were installed in 1989 by Swami Jayendra Saraswati. The holy 18 steps lead to the Idol of Lord Ayyappa which resembles the tradition of Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. The temple complex has four floors and comprises of huge attractive shrines highlighted by architectural works and divine sculptures. It is believed that the negative influence of Lord Shani in the horoscope can be kept away by worshipping in Dwarapudi Temple. Notable among them includes Harihara Idol, Lord Nataraja, Shiva Linga, Lord Anjaneya Swamy, and Nandi. Devotees who cannot afford to go to Sabarimala to have Makara darshan throng here to Dwarapudi.
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By Road
Buses are available from all places in Andhra Pradesh to Kakinada and Rajahmundry which are 44 km and 20 km away from Dwarapudi Ayyappa Temple. Buses ply frequently from here to access the temple.
By Rail
The Nearest railway station is Dwarapudi Railway Station which is 600 meters away.
By Air
The Nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport which is 34 km away. Bus and taxi services are available to visit the temple.
Shrine Timings
6:00 am – 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Events Celebrated at This Shrine
On the day of Makara Nakshtra the Idol of Lord Ayyappa would be taken in a Swan-like-chariot from the temple complex to Medapadu Bridge. The rituals of the day start with Ganapathi Homam and after that Irrumudi Abhishekam is performed for the main Ayyappa Swamy idol. Thousands of devotees turn here to witness this festival.
Extra Information About this Shrine
There are many other temples located within the temple complex. There is a shrine for Lord Siva, Venkateswara Swamy and Saibaba. Huge Statues of Anjaneya, Ganesha, Nandi, Nataraja in the premises attracts devotees.