Telangana state needs no special introduction for its temples, which have a great legacy associated with them. There are several such historic shrines dotting the region, which attract devotees from all over. One such Hindu temple is that of Sri AnanthaPadmanabha Swamy, which is located in the beautiful, hilly region of the Ananthagiri hills in Vikarabad district of Telangana, India. This temple located in the midst of Ananthagiri hill range is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

According to Hindu Mythology of Skanda Purana, it is believed that this Sri AnanthaPadmanabha Swamy temple was built by sageMarkandeya in dwaparayuga on Ananthagiri hills. The sage Markandeya came here for yoga sadhana every day due to the verdant greenery and pleasant atmosphere of Ananthagiri hills which attracted him. After his meditation, sage Markandeya used to go to the local stream to take a holy bath, through a cave.

During the dwadasi season, Markandeya couldn't make it to the stream in the early hours of the day. He was very upset with this and after seeing the sage’sconcerns, it is sad Lord Vishnu himself appeared in Markandeya's dreams and arranged water from the river for the rishi's bath. Markandeya was blessed to take a permanent place in the world as a river by lord Krishna who disguised himself as Sri AnanthaPadmanabha Swamy. This river which is now popularly known as the river Musi flows through Hyderabad.

Markandeya initially took dharshanam of Sri AnanthaPadmanabha Swamy and converted a charka into Swamy. It is said that for the more than four hundred years, the Nizam Nawabs had been visiting Ananthagiri hills for its peaceful atmosphere, for rest and rejuvenation. The main temple of Lord Padmanabha Swamy was built by the Hyderabad Nawab as Sri AnanthaPadmanabha Swamy appeared in his dreams and asked him to build a temple for him. The historic shrine is known for its extensive architecture and sculptures, that attracts explorers.

How to Reach

This temple is situated in the village of Ananthagiri at a distance of about 80 kilometers from Hyderabad and five kilometers from Vikarabad. There are regular private transport operators and frequent buses between Vikarabad and Ananthagiri hills. Vikarabad is the nearest railway station.

Where to Stay

Haritha Valley View Resort, Ananthagiri operatedby Telangana Tourism has modern A/C suites and rooms, offeringhigh-end accommodation for a wonderful experience. Located close toHyderabad, it is quite popular with revelers, looking for a relaxingstay in the midst of nature!