Pallikondeswara Temple Discover the Pallikondeswara Temple in Surutupalle, Andhra Pradesh – the only temple where Lord Shiva is seen in a reclining posture. Learn its rare legend, architecture & how to visit.
The Pallikondeswara Temple Surutupalle in Andhra Pradesh is a one-of-a-kind shrine where Lord Shiva is seen reclining on the lap of Goddess Parvati — a form rarely depicted anywhere in the world. Located near Tirupati, this temple is steeped in divine legend, exquisite Vijayanagara architecture, and deep spiritual symbolism. For pilgrims and temple enthusiasts alike, Surutupalle is a must-visit destination blending myth and devotion.
Contents
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Pallikondeswara (Lord Shiva in reclining form) |
| Location | Surutupalle, Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh |
| Deity | Lord Shiva (Pallikondeswara Swamy) with Goddess Parvati (Sarva Manga) |
| Built by | Vijayanagara Kings (~14th century CE) |
| Unique Feature | Only Shiva temple where the Lord rests in reclining position on Parvati’s lap |
| Festival | Maha Shivaratri – grand celebrations draw thousands of devotees |
| Managed by | Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) |
The Divine Legend of Pallikondeswara
According to Skanda Purana, after consuming the deadly poison Halahala during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan), Lord Shiva felt exhausted and rested his head on Parvati’s lap. The compassionate goddess pressed his temples to soothe him, giving rise to this rare “reclining” form of Shiva, known as Pallikondeswara or “the Lord who has lain down.”
Spiritual Meaning
This posture signifies Shakti Samhita — the union of Shiva and Shakti in perfect harmony. Devotees believe that a visit here helps restore mental balance, removes fatigue of the soul, and brings inner peace.
Architecture and Layout
The Pallikondeswara Temple displays classic Vijayanagara style architecture: large stone gateways (gopurams), wide courtyards, and elaborately carved granite pillars. The sanctum (garbhagriha) is small yet powerfully built — housing the reclining Shiva image that forms the temple’s spiritual core.
The Reclining Deity
Unlike the traditional vertical Lingam, the deity here depicts Lord Shiva in human form, lying on Parvati’s lap. His serene expression and gently resting posture symbolize cosmic rest after creation and destruction cycles.
Sculptural Highlights
- Beautifully carved representations of Nandi, Ganapati, Subrahmanya, and Dakshinamurthy.
- Outer mandapam includes detailed panels narrating episodes from Samudra Manthan.
- Ceiling carvings show planetary deities and serpentine motifs signifying the cosmic ocean.
Significance for Devotees
- Believed to heal physical exhaustion and mental anxiety.
- Couples worship here for harmony and long marital life.
- The temple is part of Pancha Narayana Kshetras (five Vishnu-Shiva unity shrines).
- The temple’s reclining Shiva is also said to bestow Santhana Prapti (childbirth blessing).
How to Reach Surutupalle
Location & Access
- By Road: Surutupalle is around 60 km from Tirupati and near the Tamil Nadu border.
- By Train: Closest station is Puttur (15 km away).
- By Air: Nearest airport is Tirupati Airport (60 km).
Temple Timings
- Morning 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
(Aarti at 6:30 AM & 7:00 PM)
(gotirupati.com)
Best Time to Visit
- Maha Shivaratri (Feb–Mar) and Karthika Deepam (Nov–Dec).
- Early morning darshan for peaceful atmosphere.
Nearby Temples & Pilgrimage Circuit
You can pair your Surutupalle visit with nearby sacred sites:
- Kalahasteeswara Temple (Srikalahasti) – the Vayu linga among Pancha Bhutas.
- Vedanarayana Temple (Nagalapuram) – the Matsya Avatar of Vishnu.
- Tirumala Venkateswara Temple (Tirupati) – world-famous Vishnu shrine.
FAQs
Q1. Why is the Pallikondeswara Temple unique?
Because it is the only temple where Lord Shiva is depicted in a reclining form resting on Parvati’s lap.
Q2. Who built this temple?
The temple was constructed during the Vijayanagara Empire (14th century CE) and expanded by local rulers.
Q3. What does “Pallikondeswara” mean?
The term translates to “Lord who has lain down.” Palli means to lie down in Tamil.
Q4. Is this temple part of the TTD network?
Yes – it is maintained by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams.
Q5. What is special about visiting this temple on Pradosham?
Devotees believe worship during Pradosha Kala (13th day of lunar fortnight) removes sins and grants peace.
Q6. Are there facilities for pilgrims?
Yes – basic accommodation and TTD guest houses nearby; ample parking available.
The Pallikondeswara Temple Surutupalle is a sacred jewel of South India — merging divine compassion and cosmic rest. It reminds us of the eternal balance of Shiva and Shakti, rest and creation, strength and serenity. If you wish to explore a temple unlike any other, plan a visit to this rare reclining Shiva shrine and experience a legend come alive in stone.
Useful Links
- Wikipedia – Pallikondeswara Temple, Surutupalle
- TTD Official Temple Page
- GoTirupati – Temple Timings & Details
- Andhra Pradesh Temples Guide
- Shaivite Temples in South India
Author Block
Author: TempleMap Blog Writer
Bio: Heritage and pilgrimage blogger documenting India’s sacred landscapes with authentic travel insights and SEO-optimized temple stories.
Last Updated: October 25, 2025