Srikurmam Temple

Srikurmam Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Kurma, the tortoise avatar of Lord Vishnu, located in Srikurmam village in Gara Mandal, Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the very few temples in India dedicated to the Kurma avatar and is notable for its west-facing deity, distinctive architecture, ancient inscriptions, and sacred tortoise-shaped temple tank, Kurma Pushkarini.

Visitors can expect a historic stone temple complex with an east-facing gopuram and west-facing sanctum housing the Kurma deity. The premises include pillared mandapas, intricate carvings, inscriptions, and the Kurma Pushkarini tank in front of the temple where tortoises are seen. The surroundings are rural and quiet, with prasadam counters, small shops, and open courtyards for circumambulation and prayer.

The temple is dated to the 11th century and is associated with the Eastern Ganga dynasty, particularly King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, with later contributions from Gajapati rulers. Inscriptions in the temple record endowments and renovations over centuries. Its architecture reflects Kalinga and Dravidian influences and it is protected for its epigraphical and sculptural heritage.

The temple is culturally significant as the principal shrine of Kurma, the second avatar of Vishnu, and is revered by Vaishnavites. The deity is worshipped as Sri Kurmanatha Swamy. The west-facing orientation, the sacred Kurma Pushkarini, and associated rituals and festivals such as Dolotsavam and Kalyanotsavam hold religious importance for pilgrims.