Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

The Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage site located in Dharmapuri town on the banks of the holy River Godavari in Jagtial district, Telangana. As one of India's nine major Narasimha shrines (Nava Narasimha Kshetrams), this sacred temple houses three forms of Lord Narasimha and has been a center for Vedic studies since the Chalukya and Kakatiya periods.

Visitors can explore the main temple complex featuring three distinct forms of Lord Narasimha - a seated posture form, an angry Ugra form, and a peaceful Saumya avatar. The temple sits on the southern bank of the Godavari River which flows southward here. Visitors will encounter intricate Kakatiya-Chalukyan architecture, climb several hundred steps from the parking area to reach the temple, and can also visit the adjacent Yama Dharma Raja temple at the entrance.

The temple was originally built during the reign of the Chalukyas around 850-928 CE and later expanded by the Kakatiyas. Inscriptions indicate it was built in 1018 AD. The temple was demolished by Muslim rulers between 1422-1436 AD and rebuilt in the 17th century. It has been a major center for Vedic studies and manuscript preservation since antiquity.

As one of the nine Nava Narasimha Kshetrams, this temple holds exceptional religious importance for Vaishnavites. It represents rare Hari-Hara harmony between Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions. The temple hosts annual Brahmotsavam after Holi and the famous Dharmapuri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Aalaya Jatara in March-April. Mokshada Ekadashi celebrations in December attract large crowds.