Pushpagiri Temple Complex

Pushpagiri Temple Complex is a cluster of historic Hindu temples located on the banks of the Penna River at Pushpagiri village in Vallur mandal, YSR Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh. Often called Dakshina Kasi, the complex includes Shaiva and Vaishnava shrines such as Chintalarayaswamy, Indranatha Swamy and Vaidyanatha Swamy temples. Built between the 10th and 13th centuries under Chola, Chalukya and Vijayanagara patronage, it is noted for its Dravidian architecture, riverfront setting and religious importance.

Visitors can expect a riverside temple cluster on the Penna River with multiple stone temples featuring Dravidian architecture, carved pillars, gopurams and shrines dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu. The complex is spread across both banks of the river connected by the landscape, with temple courtyards, mandapas and river ghats to explore. The setting is tranquil and rural, surrounded by agricultural fields and the river, offering temple darshan, architecture viewing and photography in an active pilgrimage environment.

The Pushpagiri Temple Complex comprises temples built between the 10th and 13th centuries with later additions during the Vijayanagara period. Patronized by Cholas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas and Vijayanagara rulers, the complex shows evolution of Dravidian temple architecture. Inscriptions found at the site record donations and renovations by various dynasties. The Chintalarayaswamy Temple is attributed to the 16th century Vijayanagara period.

Revered as Dakshina Kasi (Kashi of the South), the complex is an important pilgrimage centre where both Shaivism and Vaishnavism are represented. It hosts temples dedicated to Shiva as Indranatha and Vaidyanatha and to Vishnu as Chintalarayaswamy and Chennakesava. The Penna River is considered sacred by devotees, and festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and Vaikuntha Ekadashi draw large gatherings.