Kolanupaka Someshwara Temple

The Kolanupaka Someshwara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Chandikamba, located in Kolanupaka village in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, Telangana. Dating back to the 11th-12th century Chalukya period and later patronized by the Kakatiyas, it is renowned for its unique Sahasralinga shrine featuring over a thousand Shiva lingams. The temple houses a rare human-form murti of Shiva alongside a Swayambhu lingam and serves as a significant Shaivite heritage site with an on-site archaeological museum.

Visitors can explore the ancient temple complex featuring intricate stone carvings, pillared mandapas, and the distinctive Sahasralinga hall containing numerous small lingams. The main shrine houses a Swayambhu lingam and a rare human-form murti of Lord Shiva, along with Goddess Chandikamba. An archaeological museum within the temple premises displays sculptures and artifacts from the Chalukya and Kakatiya periods, including statues of Nandi, Mahavira, and various deities.

The temple dates back to the 11th-12th century CE during the Kalyani Chalukya period and was later patronized by the Kakatiya dynasty. It served as the second capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas. The present structure is approximately 800-900 years old and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

The temple is one of the oldest Shaivite temples in South India and holds significant importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. It is particularly revered for its Sahasralinga shrine and hosts major celebrations during Mahashivratri festival.