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All About the Temple / Cultural & Religious Festivals / Festival Calendar & Festival Alerts / Location Map / Hotel Booking / How to Reach / Air, Train, Bus & Taxi Booking / Visitors’ Reviews & Photos / Nearby Pilgrim Places & Other Places of Interest / Donations / Volunteers / Official Website / YouTube Videos
Introduction
Perched majestically on the Indrakeeladri Hill, overlooking the serene Krishna River, Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam—popularly known as the Kanaka Durga Temple—is one of the most revered Shakti temples in South India. Situated in Mallikarjunapeta, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, this ancient shrine draws lakhs of devotees every year, especially during the grand Navaratri festival.
The Legend of Indrakeeladri
According to legend, the sage Indra performed penance on this very hill to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga. Moved by his devotion, the Goddess manifested herself here as Kanaka Durga (Golden Durga) to vanquish the demon Mahishasura. Since then, the hill has been known as Indrakeeladri, and the temple has stood as a powerful symbol of divine protection and victory of good over evil.
The Presiding Deity
The temple enshrines Kanaka Durga Devi, depicted in a powerful form of Mahishasura Mardini, with eight arms carrying divine weapons and standing atop the demon Mahishasura. Alongside her is Lord Malleswara Swamy (Shiva), making this temple unique as it houses both Shakti and Shiva, symbolizing the union of divine energy and consciousness.
Temple Architecture
The temple architecture follows the Dravidian style, with a richly decorated gopuram (tower) that greets devotees. The sanctum radiates a powerful spiritual aura, with intricate carvings and colorful depictions of Devi’s various manifestations. The temple premises also offer a breathtaking panoramic view of Vijayawada city and the Krishna River flowing gracefully below.
Major Festivals and Celebrations
- Navaratri & Dussehra: The most important festival celebrated with grandeur. Each day of Navaratri, the Goddess is adorned in different alankarams (forms), such as Saraswati, Annapurna, Bala Tripurasundari, and Mahishasura Mardini. Lakhs of devotees flock to witness the unique darshans.
- Sankranti, Ugadi, and Kartika Deepotsavam are also observed with special rituals and festive processions.
- Theppotsavam (Boat Festival) on the Krishna River is a spectacular sight where the deity is taken in a decorated boat.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Vijayawada (Gannavaram) Airport, located about 17–25 km from the temple. Taxis and buses are available from the airport.
- By Train: The Vijayawada Junction Railway Station is just 4–5 km from the temple. Autos, taxis, and buses make the short journey convenient.
- By Road: Vijayawada is well connected by national highways. The temple can be accessed via local buses, taxis, and temple-run shuttle services.
Temple Timings
The temple is generally open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, though timings may vary during festivals and special pujas. Early morning darshan is ideal for those seeking a peaceful spiritual experience.
Facilities for Devotees
The temple provides cloakrooms, footwear stands, and queue systems for smooth darshan. Different types of darshan tickets are available, including free darshan, special darshan, and seva bookings. Online booking through the official temple website makes planning easier for pilgrims.
The Spiritual Experience
Visiting Kanaka Durga Temple is more than just a ritual—it is an uplifting spiritual journey. The climb up Indrakeeladri (by steps or road) fills devotees with devotion and anticipation, and the darshan of the radiant Goddess brings an overwhelming sense of peace, strength, and divine protection.
Conclusion
The Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy Varla Devasthanam in Vijayawada is not just a temple but a vibrant spiritual destination that blends mythology, devotion, and cultural grandeur. Whether you visit during the bustling Navaratri festival or on a quiet weekday morning, the aura of the Goddess will leave you deeply blessed and inspired.