Kanipakam in Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh, the Sri Vara siddhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple is a timeless symbol of devotion, miracles, and divine grace. Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, this temple is not only an architectural marvel from the Chola period but also a spiritual beacon that attracts devotees from across India and abroad. Known for its self-manifested (Swayam) idol that grows over time and remains submerged in water, the temple has earned the reputation of being a “Temple of Truth”, where justice prevails and prayers are fulfilled. About the Temple
Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha, where the deity's idol is naturally formed and considered self-manifested (Swayambhu). The temple has been a spiritual hub since the 11th century, built by Chola king Kulothunga I and later developed by the Vijayanagara kings. The sanctum is unique as the idol sits in a well and is submerged in water, a sign of divine origin and continuous growth.
Description:
Built in the 11th century by the Chola King Kulothunga Chola I, the temple was later expanded by the Vijayanagara rulers. The idol of Lord Vinayaka is believed to be growing in size, and the temple tank is considered sacred. Many people testify that their sins and disputes are resolved after taking a dip in the tank and offering prayers.
Temple Speciality
Swayambhu (naturally formed) Ganesha idol
Idol grows in size and remains submerged in water
Disputes are resolved in the presence of the deity — “Temple of Truth”
Fulfillment of vows and wishes Temple Address & Coordinates
Address: Sri Varasiddhi Vinayaka Swamy Temple, Kanipakam, Irala Mandal, Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh – 517131, India
Coordinates: 13.2277° N, 79.1004° E Temple Timings & Sevas
Timings
Open daily: 4:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Suprabhatha Seva: 4:30 AM
Nijaroopa Darshanam: 5:00 AM
Abhishekam: 5:30 AM – 7:30 AM
General Darshan: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM Sevas
Abhishekam, Archana, Sahasranamarchana, Ganapathi Homam, Kumkuma Pooja
Lakshmi Ganapathi Vratham
VIP/Special Darshan
Daily Annadanam (free meals) Reaching Kanipakam
Road
Frequent buses from Chittoor (12 km) and Tirupati (70 km)
Well-connected to Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad Train
Nearest station: Chittoor (12 km)
Alternate: Tirupati (70 km) Air
Nearest airport: Tirupati International Airport (75 km) Facilities
Food
Free Annadanam inside temple
Local vegetarian hotels available Stay
Devasthanam guest houses
Hotels and lodges in Chittoor and Tirupati
Online booking available Travel Connections
Bus Routes
Direct buses from Tirupati, Chittoor, and other regional towns
Connect from Bangalore/Chennai via Chittoor Train Routes
Reach Chittoor/Tirupati by express trains
Use taxi, auto, or local bus to temple Airways
Fly to Tirupati, then hire a cab or board a bus Nearby Cities & Attractions
Nearby Cities
Chittoor, Tirupati, Vellore, Bangalore, Chennai Nearby Temples & Places
Tirumala Balaji Temple
Sri Kalahasti Temple
Horsley Hills
Talakona Waterfalls
Golden Temple (Vellore) Festivals & Best Time to Visit
Vinayaka Chavithi (August/September): Grandest festival
Annual Brahmotsavam: 21-day festival with Rathotsavam and poojas
Best Season: September to March – pleasant weather and festive energy Shopping Highlights
Brass and copper Ganesha idols
Temple prasadam (coconut, laddu, kumkum)
Local snacks, jaggery sweets, tamarind, and mangoes
Wooden toys, handcrafted baskets Pilgrimage Tips
Visit early morning for peaceful darshan
Book darshan/sevas/accommodation online during peak seasons
Wear traditional attire and maintain decorum
Carry water and light snacks, especially for elderly or children
Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple is more than just a pilgrimage site; it is a place where faith meets history, and where divinity reveals itself through natural miracles. Its rich heritage, spiritual ambiance, and the ever-growing idol of Lord Ganesh make it a must-visit destination for devotees, travelers, and seekers alike. Whether you seek blessings, spiritual peace, or a soul-stirring experience, a visit to Kanipakam will leave you with faith renewed and heart fulfilled.
