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Andhra Pradesh Kanipakam Temple
In the Telugu language word “Kani” has the meaning of a wetland and “Pakam” carries the meaning of “Flower”. This temple is like a flower in the lake and thus called Kanipakam. This temple is exactly located in a small village of Irala revenue division of Chittoor district. This is a large temple and famous for its vast corridor and Gopuram. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesh is also called as Vinayaka and thus this temple is known as Kanipakam Vinayaka temple. This temple is located at 13 kilometers distance from Chittor city. People made a huge offering of coconuts and fruits when the idol of Lord Ganesh was wounded during the digging of a well. It is said that a quarter of acre area was filled with the water from coconuts. Then the curse of deity was cooled down and people find water. The well is filled with holy water and till date in rain season, water comes out from the well as a result of over flow. Original idol of Lord Ganesha is still in the well. The Bahuda River flow near the temple is also a sacred river and a dip in the water before entrance into the temple is enough to erase all the sin committed by human being.
History
The construction of this temple was done in 11th century as some of the records are evident from history. King Koluthunga of Chola dynasty was the constructor of this temple. The temple was renovated and given an expansion during the reign of kings of Vijayanagar Empire. It is believed by the local population that the idol of Lord Ganesh established in this temple always grew in the reign of every ruler. Initially this temple was quite small but the Vijayanagar kings gave it a large expansion. It is also evident from the history that all the temples built during the reign of Vijayanagar Empire were huge in sizes and amenities.
In recent past, this temple got a nationwide fame due to the government’s promotional programme of tourism. Tirupati, the world famous holy place is in the close vicinity of this temple. Reason being the fame and facilities of this temple increased accordingly. One amazing thing regarding the idol is that the size of the idol is increasing gradually. Presently the Lord Ganesh can be seen with the legs and abdomen while some years ago the situation was different. Only stomach and trunk was visible in the idol before 20 years.
How to Reach
This place is reachable through three types of transportation facility.
By Air
Tirupati is the nearest airport to reach this location and the same is well connected with other major cities of the country.
By Rail
Chittor is the nearest railway station and major trains of broad gauge are directly connected with the station. From Railway station, road conveyances are easily available.
By Road
Chittor is located 78 kilometers from this place. A.P.S.R.T.C. operates its bus services from all over the state. Beside it, private taxi and tour operators are also available to bring a visitor to this place on affordable charges.
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