Location:
13-km From Narasaraopet, Guntur District
Presiding Deity: Trikoteswara Swami
Originally Known As: Kondakavuru Or Trikutaparvatam
Kotappa
Konda is one of the important pilgrim centres of Andhra Pradesh. It is
located 13-km south- west of Narasaraopet in Guntur district. Original
name of this village is Kondakavuru, but is more popularly known as
"Kotappakonda" or "Trikutaparvatam" (three-peaked
hill). The deity on this hill is named Trikoteswara.
A Three Peaked Hill
It has got a three-peaked hill nearby. The Kotappa Konda or hill is at
a height of 1587ft. The three hills, also known by the names of "Trikutachalam"
or "Trikutadri", can be distinctly seen from a distance from
any direction. These three peaks are named after the Hindu 'Triumverate',
Brahma, Vishnu and 'Maheshwara'.
Sri Trikoteswara Swami Temple was in existence even before 1000 AD. A
steep flight of steps leads to the hill at the height of 600ft, where
the Temple of Sri Trikoteswara Swami is situated. The deity is
established in the shape of Shiva Linga known as 'Trikuteswara' or 'Trikoteswara'.
A Scared Place
At this sacred place, Lord Shiva, as "Dakshana Murthy"
imparted the divine knowledge of "Brahma" to Lord Brahma and
other Gods. Since Lord Shiva who converted himself as a twelve years
boy observing strict celibacy and known as Dakshana Murthy, devotees
do not perform any marriages at these hills.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
View Point: A number of ponds are found on the hill of which
eight are located in front of the temple. A "View Point" is
erected on the corner of the hill to provide a breathtaking overall
view of the surroundings. To enable the pilgrims take in and enjoy
nature's bounty in its full splendour and also to accommodate the
growing number of visitors a 'ghat' road was constructed.
Deer Park & Kaleeya Mardana: A Deer Park is also developed
on the way. A small lake called "Kaleeya Mardana" is
created, with the statue of Lord Krishna dancing on the head of 'Kaleeya'
(a venomous snake). It is placed with special lighting effects in the
middle of the lake. An artificial Jurassic park with mobile dinosaurs
of monstrous size is another attraction of this place.
The Sanctuary: Another attraction for the tourists is the
Sanctuaries for peacocks, doves, and parrots developed by the Forest
Department.
Yaga Shala: A meditation center called "Yaga Shala"
is constructed on the lines of the Mount Abu, on the top of the hill
and is exclusive used for conducting 'homam' (holy fire) with a
sprawling dining hall.
This temple is very sacred. Trikoteswara Swami blesses the devotees
who religiously worship him.
FESTIVAL
Maha Shivaratri is the important festival celebrated here with great
devotion and fervour. Kotappa Konda comes alive on this eve, which
falls during February-March every year
