Alampur Papanasi Temples, Telangana

Address

Alampur Papanasi Temples, Alampur town, Jogulamba – Gadwal district, Telangana 509152

Diety

Shiva

Introduction

The Papanasi Temples are a group of Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Alampur Town near Kurnool in the Jogulamba Gadwal District of Telangana, India. These temples are significant for their architectural and historical value and have a rich history associated with them.

• The temples were relocated to their current location near Alampur Navabrahma Temples due to the submergence caused by the Srisailam Hydro Electric Project.
• This cluster of temples, though mostly in ruins, is listed as an archaeological and architectural treasure by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Puranic Significance

• The main shrine, known as Papanaseswara, was built by the Chalukyas in the 6th century CE.
• The remaining temples in the group were constructed by the Rashtrakutas between the 9th and 11th centuries.
• These temples are related to the Kalamukha and Pasupatha sects of Shaivism, and they feature themes related to Vaishnavism and narrated texts in their artwork.

Special Features

Architectural Styles:

• The Papanasi Temples are built in various architectural styles, including Nagara, Dravida, and Phamsana styles.
• Despite their variations, the temples share a common architectural style, with a significant resemblance to the temples in Aihole.

Key Temples in the Group:

1. Papavinasesvara Temple: This is the largest temple in the Papanasi group. It consists of a large pillared Mukha Mandapam, Antrala, and a sanctum with a Shiva Lingam. The temple features a phamsana superstructure with a brahmachchanda griva sikhara. The outer walls are plain, but there are intricate carvings on the pillars, including scenes from the Ramayana, Lingodbhava, and more. The temple also has shrines for deities like Lord Vidya Ganapathy and Saptamatrikas.
2. Gurulingesawra Temple: This temple is the second largest in the complex and is located on the left side of the main temple. It consists of a Mukha Mandapam, Antrala, and a sanctum. The temple’s pillars are well-preserved and feature miniature carvings related to Hindu mythology and legends. The ceiling has relief work of Lord Shiva with Ashtadikpalakas and Lord Vishnu in different avatars.
3. Other Shrines: The remaining temples in the group are smaller and house Shivalingas. In total, there are 18 Shivalingas in the temple complex.

Century/Period/Age

9th and 11th Century CE.

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India.

Nearest Bus Station

Alampur

Nearest Railway Station

Alampur Road Railway Station

Nearest Airport

Hyderabad

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