Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple is one of South India's most mystical and historically rich temples. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Ardhanareeswara form, this ancient shrine draws pilgrims, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike. From its miraculously growing Nandi idol to the timeless cave sanctuaries, Yaganti is not just a temple it's a journey into divine mysticism, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.
About the Temple
The temple, built in the 15th century by King Harihara Bukka Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire, is known for its rock-cut Dravidian architecture and natural spring-fed pond. The deity, Uma Maheswara, symbolizes the divine union of Shiva and Parvati, offering a rare and spiritually potent darshan.
Temple Specialities
Ever-growing Nandi Idol
No Abhishekam to main deity (unique in Shaivite temples)
Year-round flowing Pushkarini (natural spring)
Surrounded by sacred caves with links to ancient sages
Basic Details
Temple Name: Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple
Location: Yaganti, Banaganapalli Mandal, Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh – 518124
Coordinates: 15.3716° N, 78.1324° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Rudrabhishekam
Archana
Harathi
Special rituals during Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam
How to Reach
Bus Routes
APSRTC buses from Hyderabad, Kurnool, Nandyal, Kadapa → Banaganapalli
Autos or local buses from Banaganapalli → Yaganti (~11 km)
Train Routes
Nearest stations:
Banaganapalli (~11 km)
Kurnool (~100 km)
Air Travel
Kurnool Airport (KNL) – ~80 km
Kadapa Airport (CDP) – ~110 km
Travel Facilities
Stay: Lodges and guesthouses near temple; better hotels in Kurnool
Food: Local eateries near temple; restaurants in Banaganapalli
Transport: Well-connected via road and rail, modest facilities at temple area
Nearby Cities & Attractions
Nearby Cities: Banaganapalli (11 km), Nandyal (55 km), Kurnool (100 km)
Nearby Attractions:
Belum Caves (~35 km)
Ahobilam Temple
Mahanandi Temple
Banaganapalli Fort
Festivals Celebrated
Maha Shivaratri – Grandest celebration with night-long pujas
Karthika Masam – Month of lamps and devotion
Amavasya & Purnima – Ritual significance
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Ideal weather and spiritual ambience
Trekking & Caves
Agastya Cave, Venkateswara Cave, and Veera Brahmam Cave
Mild trekking trails – perfect for pilgrims and nature lovers alike
Photography Tips
Allowed outside temple and near caves
Prohibited inside sanctum
Scenic spots around Pushkarini and hills
Visitor Tips
Do’s:
Dress modestly
Carry water and essentials
Start early to avoid heat
Don'ts:
Don’t litter or use plastic
No photography inside sanctum
Don’t climb on sacred structures
Local Shopping
Brass idols, Rudraksha malas, Herbal products, and local handicrafts
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrive at Banaganapalli/Kurnool
Evening darshan at Yaganti
Visit Pushkarini and Nandi idol
Day 2:
Explore caves
Visit Belum Caves
Return via Banaganapalli
Useful Contacts
Temple Office: Available onsite
Kurnool Tourism Dept: For guides and transport
The Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple is not just a destination; it's a divine retreat into the harmony of nature, mythology, and architecture. With its fascinating legends, spiritual ambience, and tranquil surroundings, it offers a timeless experience for every devotee and traveler.Whether you're seeking spiritual fulfillment, architectural beauty, or simply a serene getaway, Yaganti warmly welcomes you with its ancient wisdom and divine energy.
