The Sri Puruhutika Devi Temple popularly known as Durga Temple stands as a beacon of divine energy and one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations. Recognized as one of the Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas (18 Shakti Peethas), this ancient temple is revered by millions who seek blessings from Goddess Puruhutika Devi, the powerful form of Shakti whose presence sanctifies this holy land. This guide provides a complete overview of the temple's significance, travel details, amenities, rituals, and nearby attractions to help devotees and tourists plan a meaningful visit.
About the Temple
According to sacred texts, the temple marks the spot where Sati Devi’s left hand fell during Lord Vishnu's intervention to pacify Lord Shiva. The deity Puruhutika Devi is worshipped as a powerful mother goddess who grants desires and removes obstacles. The temple exists within the premises of the Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, making it spiritually significant for both Shaivites and Shaktas.
Temple Description
Features classic South Indian architecture.
The sanctum holds a graceful idol of Sri Puruhutika Devi.
The temple complex includes Padagaya Tirtha, ideal for ancestor rituals (shraddha karma).
Temple Speciality
Part of the 18 Shakti Peethas.
Connected to Indra’s worship of the goddess.
Located alongside Lord Kukkuteswara Swamy and Padagaya Tirtha.
Hub for tantric practices, Durga worship, and shraddha rituals.
Location & Coordinates
Address:
Sri Puruhutika Devi Temple,
Kukkuteswara Temple Complex, Pithapuram,
Kakinada District, Andhra Pradesh – 533450, India
Latitude & Longitude:
17.1164° N, 82.2523° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Note: Timings may extend on festival days.
Sevas and Rituals
Daily Sevas: Archana, Kumkumarchana, Abhishekam
Special Rituals: Durga Sahasranama Archana, Chandi Homam, Navagraha Pooja
Ancestor Rites: Shraddha and Pinda Pradanam at Padagaya Tirtha
Festivals Celebrated:
Navaratri (Dasara) – 9-day grand celebration
Maha Shivaratri – Shiva rituals at Kukkuteswara shrine
Karthika Deepam, Ashada Fridays, Chaitra Pournami
Travel and Connectivity
Bus Routes
From Kakinada – 45 mins (frequent APSRTC buses)
From Rajahmundry – 1.5 hours via Samalkot
From Vijayawada – 6 hours via Rajahmundry
Train Routes
Pithapuram Railway Station (PPM) – 1.5 km
Well connected to Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad
Airways
Rajahmundry Airport (RJA) – 60 km
Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ) – 140 km
Taxis and buses connect both airports to Pithapuram
Facilities for Pilgrims
Travel
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available
Local tour operators for temple visits
Food
Nearby eateries offer Andhra vegetarian meals
Temple Annadanam during festivals
Stay
Basic temple guest houses
Hotels and lodges in Pithapuram, Samalkot, and Kakinada
Nearby Cities and Connectivity
Kakinada – 20 km
Samalkot – 12 km
Rajahmundry – 60 km
Visakhapatnam – 140 km
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Kukkuteswara Swamy Temple – within same complex
Padagaya Temple & Tirtha – sacred for shraddha karma
Draksharamam Temple – Pancharama Kshetra (30 km)
Samalkot Kumararama Temple – Pancharama Kshetra (15 km)
Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary – Eco-tourism (30 km)
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Cool and pleasant climate
Festive seasons: Navaratri, Shivaratri, Karthika Deepam
What to Shop For?
Brass and copper pooja items
Idols of Devi, framed photos, yantras
Local pickles, Andhra sweets, herbal oils
Kalamkari fabrics and religious souvenirs
Suggested 1-Day Itinerary
Morning:
Reach by 6:00 AM for early darshan
Worship Puruhutika Devi, Kukkuteswara Swamy, and Padagaya Tirtha
Midday:
Perform personal or ancestral rituals
Lunch at temple annadanam or nearby restaurants
Afternoon:
Shop for local religious items
Visit Draksharamam if time permits
Evening:
Attend Deeparadhana (Evening Aarti)
Depart or check-in for overnight stay
The Durga Temple in Pithapuram is not just a place of worship it’s a confluence of faith, history, and divinity. From being one of the most sacred Shakti Peethas to hosting ancient shrines like Kukkuteswara Swamy, this temple offers a deeply spiritual Aexperience that appeals to both devotees and heritage travelers. Whether you’re looking to perform rituals, seek blessings, or explore India’s mythological roots, this temple is a must-visit on your spiritual journey.
