Arasavalli Temple is a well-known Hindu pilgrimage site in Andhra Pradesh that worships Lord Surya, the Hindu Sun God. Sometimes called Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple, this ancient temple is located in Arasavalli village near Srikakulam. Arasavalli Temple is regarded as one of the most important Sun temples in India and is visited by pilgrims all through the year. The temple is famous not only for its unique architecture and worshiping traditions but also for the amazing phenomenon of sunlight when the sun rays reach the feet of the main deity in certain periods of the year. Thousands of pilgrims come to the Arasavalli Temple to pray for good health, happiness, and prosperity. If you are going to visit this beautiful place, it will be helpful to find out about the Arasavalli Temple timings.
Arasavalli Temple Timings Today
The temple generally operates in morning and evening sessions, with a break during the afternoon. Sunday timings may differ from the regular weekday schedule.
| Temple Activities | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Rituals | Around 5:00 AM |
| Nitya Archana | Around 5:30 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Maha Nivedana | Around 12:30 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:30 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | Around 8:00 PM |
Arasavalli Temple Morning Darshan Timings
The time of morning darshan is very much preferred by many devotees due to the calmness of the surroundings. The morning prayers commence at about 5:00 AM, and thereafter the Nitya Archana takes place around 5:30 AM. The general darshan begins at 6:00 AM. Those visitors desirous of offering morning prayers need to reach the place in advance.
Arasavalli Temple Evening Darshan Timings
Evening darshan generally begins at 3:30 PM after the afternoon break. Devotees can visit the main shrine, offer prayers and participate in available religious services. The evening session usually continues until 8:00 PM. Arriving before the closing time is recommended, especially during busy festival periods.
Arasavalli Temple Location
Arasavalli Sun Temple is located in Arasavalli village, near Srikakulam town in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is situated approximately 1 km east of Srikakulam town and is easily accessible by road. Srikakulam Road Railway Station is around 9 km away, while Visakhapatnam Airport is approximately 117 km from the temple. Visitors can reach Arasavalli Temple by private vehicle, taxi, or local transport from Srikakulam.
Arasavalli Temple Pooja Timings
Daily rituals at Arasavalli Temple are performed according to traditional worship practices dedicated to Lord Suryanarayana Swamy.
| Pooja and Ritual | Approximate Timings |
|---|---|
| Suprabhatam | 5:00 AM |
| Nitya Archana | 5:30 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM onwards |
| Maha Nivedana | 12:30 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:30 PM onwards |
Special poojas and religious services may be arranged according to the temple calendar.
Arasavalli Temple Darshan Ticket Price
Devotees can generally have regular darshan without purchasing a special ticket. The temple may also provide paid darshan facilities for visitors who prefer a separate arrangement.
| Darshan Category | Information |
|---|---|
| General Darshan | Regular entry |
| Antharalayam Darshan | Special paid darshan, subject to availability |
| Sunday Special Darshan | Special arrangements may be available |
| Special Sevas | Charges depend on the selected service |
Some published temple information lists special darshan tickets at ₹100 and other Sunday darshan categories. Prices and facilities can change, so confirm the current ticket rates at the temple counter.
About Arasavalli Sun Temple
The Arasavalli Sun Temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, which is offered reverence here as Sri Suryanarayana Swamy. The principal god here is depicted in the form of a celestial chariot driven by seven horses. The temple is located in an ancient village near Srikakulam, which has significance from a religious point of view, along with its unique architecture. The believers have faith that offering reverence to Lord Surya can help generate positive energy and prosperity.
Arasavalli Temple History
Arasavalli Temple has its history associated with mythology in Hindu religion and worship of the Sun God. As per the Sthalapurana of the temple, it was Lord Indra who built the temple after a particular incident took place between Lord Shiva and his vehicle Nandi. The temple is known to be related to Sage Kashyapa in the context of setting up the idol of the Surya deity. There have been records which claim that the temple was constructed by the King Devendra Varma of the Kalinga dynasty in the 7th century.
Special Sunlight Phenomenon at Arasavalli Temple
The most interesting aspect of Arasavalli Temple is its architectural configuration in connection with the presence of sunlight. At some points of the year, sunlight falls into the temple and touches the feet of the main god. It is usually connected with the months of March and October. It brings devotees, historians, and people who are interested in the old architectural configuration. It is one of the most important aspects which make the Arasavalli Temple a unique Sun temple in India.
Arasavalli Temple Sevas and Special Poojas
Devotees can participate in different religious services to express their devotion to Lord Suryanarayana Swamy.
1. Surya Namaskarams
Surya Namaskarams are among the important worship practices associated with the temple. These prayers are dedicated to the Sun God and are performed to seek blessings for health and well-being.
2. Ksheeranna Bhogam
Ksheeranna Bhogam is a traditional food offering associated with the temple’s religious practices.
3. Tiruveedhi Seva
Tiruveedhi Seva is a special religious service traditionally conducted on Sundays in the evening.
4. Nitya Archana
Nitya Archana is a daily worship ritual performed by priests in honour of Lord Suryanarayana Swamy.
5. Ksheerabhishekam
Ksheerabhishekam is a milk-based ceremonial offering performed as part of special worship arrangements on designated occasions.
Devotees should check the current seva schedule and charges before booking.
Arasavalli Temple Festivals
Several religious festivals are celebrated at the temple every year. These occasions bring together devotees from different places.
Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami is the biggest festival celebrated at Arasavalli Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Surya and is observed on the seventh day of the bright fortnight in the Hindu month of Magha.
Devotees consider this day especially auspicious for worshipping the Sun God. Special rituals, prayers and darshan arrangements are organised during the celebration.
Annual Kalyanotsavam
Kalyanotsavam is an important annual religious celebration associated with the temple. Devotees participate in the ceremonies and seek divine blessings.
Teppotsavam
Teppotsavam is a traditional float festival celebrated as part of the temple’s annual religious calendar.
Vaikunta Ekadashi
Vaikunta Ekadashi is observed with special devotion. Temple activities and religious ceremonies may be organised for devotees.
Best Time to Visit Arasavalli Temple
Visitors can visit Arasavalli Temple at any point in time because regular worship takes place each day. However, it is advisable to travel to Srikakulam from October to March due to the relative comfort of the weather during this time of the year. People who want to experience religious festivities can visit the temple in the month of Ratha Saptami. But note that there will be many people visiting the temple on this particular occasion.
Arasavalli Temple Dress Code and Rules
Visitors should follow the temple’s traditions and maintain proper discipline inside the premises.
- Wear decent and respectful clothing.
- Maintain cleanliness inside the temple.
- Follow instructions given by temple staff.
- Avoid disturbing other devotees.
- Do not litter the temple surroundings.
- Follow photography restrictions.
- Keep mobile phones silent during worship.
- Follow special entry arrangements during festivals.
Arasavalli Temple Facilities
The temple provides basic arrangements to help devotees complete their pilgrimage comfortably.
Some facilities available for visitors include:
- General darshan arrangements.
- Special pooja services.
- Religious offerings and prasadam, subject to availability.
- Drinking water facilities.
- Parking arrangements.
- Local transportation.
- Nearby accommodation options.
Visitors should check the availability of specific facilities during major festivals.
How to Reach Arasavalli Temple?
The Arasavalli Temple can be found in the Arasavalli village, which lies about 1 km away from the town of Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is approachable via road through the town itself. One can make use of an auto-rickshaw, taxi or public transport to reach the temple. The nearest railway station, Srikakulam Road Railway Station, is about 9 km away from the town of Srikakulam, and Visakhapatnam Airport lies about 117 km away from the town of Srikakulam.
By Road
Srikakulam is connected to nearby cities through road transportation. Visitors can reach Srikakulam by bus, taxi or private vehicle and continue to the temple using local transport.
By Train
Srikakulam Road Railway Station is the nearest major railway station. From the station, visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Arasavalli.
By Air
Visakhapatnam Airport is the nearest major airport, approximately 117 km from Srikakulam. From the airport, visitors can travel by road to reach the temple.
Famous Places to Visit Near Arasavalli Temple
Travellers visiting Arasavalli can also explore several historical, religious and natural attractions around Srikakulam.
Srikurmam Temple
Srikurmam Temple is a famous shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Kurma incarnation. It is known for its unique religious history and traditional architecture.
Srimukhalingam Temple
Srimukhalingam Temple is an ancient Shiva temple famous for its beautiful stone carvings and historical importance.
Salihundam
Salihundam is an important Buddhist archaeological site. Visitors can explore ancient stupas, sculptures and historical remains.
Kalingapatnam Beach
Kalingapatnam Beach is a peaceful coastal destination where visitors can enjoy sea views and natural surroundings.
Important Tips for Arasavalli Temple Visitors
- Check temple timings before starting your journey.
- Arrive early for morning darshan.
- Confirm special darshan ticket availability.
- Plan ahead for Ratha Saptami.
- Follow the temple dress code.
- Carry cash for small expenses.
- Arrange accommodation in advance during festivals.
- Respect the religious traditions of the temple.
Conclusion
Arasavalli Temple is one of the major pilgrim places of Lord Surya in Andhra Pradesh. Its rich heritage, traditional poojas, architectural significance, and unique phenomenon of sunlight make it an interesting place for its devotees. The typical published darshan timings of the temple are 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM during morning and 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM during evening. On Sundays and other occasions, these timings can be different. Before you go to the temple, please verify the current timings of the temple.
FAQs
1. What are the Arasavalli Temple timings today?
The commonly published regular timings are 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Special schedules may apply on Sundays and festivals.
2. At what time does Arasavalli Temple open?
Early morning rituals generally begin around 5:00 AM, while regular darshan commonly starts at 6:00 AM.
3. What is the evening darshan time at Arasavalli Temple?
Evening darshan generally starts at 3:30 PM and continues until 8:00 PM.
4. Who is the main deity of Arasavalli Temple?
The main deity is Lord Suryanarayana Swamy, a form of Lord Surya, the Hindu Sun God.
5. Which festival is most famous at Arasavalli Temple?
Ratha Saptami is the most important festival celebrated at the temple. It is dedicated to Lord Surya.
6. Is Arasavalli Temple open on Sundays?
Yes, the temple generally remains open on Sundays, with extended darshan arrangements that may differ from weekday timings.
7. What is the nearest railway station to Arasavalli Temple?
Srikakulam Road Railway Station is the nearest major railway station, approximately 9 km from Srikakulam town.
8. When do sunlight rays fall on the deity?
The special sunlight phenomenon is associated with particular dates around March and October.
10. Where is Arasavalli Temple situated?
The temple is located in Arasavalli village near Srikakulam town in Andhra Pradesh.
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