Lower Ahobilam Temple, Ahobilam - Timings, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

At a distance of 250 m from Ahobilam Bus Stand, The impressive and beautiful 800 years old Prahladavarada Narasimha Temple in the town of Lower Ahobilam is the abode of the Prahladavarada Narasimha, the form of Lord Narasimha blessing Prahlada. It is among the top places to visit in Ahobilam.

The Lower Ahobila Temple lies in the center of three Praakaras built in Vijayanagara style. The main temple at the lower Ahobilam consists of a Sanctum, a Mukhamantapam and a Rangamantapam all of which are decorated with excellent sculptures on the pillars. The massive composite pillars in the Rangamantapam are carved with figures of Yakshas riding on Yalis and horses with their rear legs mounted on the Makaras. Large figures of musicians, sensuous women, divine figures of Rama and Laxmana are in good shape. The Narasa Nayaka figure of Vijayanagara Empire in the temple is attractive.

In lower Ahobila, Narasimha Swami can be seen in a peaceful form. The sanctum also houses the Utsava idols of Prahlada Varada, Pavana Narasimha and the processional idols of Jwala Narasimha endowed with ten hands and with Sreedevi and Bhoodevi on his either side. A small idol of the first Jeeyar, Sri Adivan Satakopa Swami is also kept here.

A shrine dedicated to Sri Venkateswara exists to the south west of this Narasimha temple and provides view to the episode that Lord Venkateswara obtained the blessings of Narasimha just before his marriage with Padmavathi.

There is a tall Jayasthambham erected in the spacious ground outside the temple walls to mark the victory of Krishna Devaraya. The Kakatiya Kings, especially Prathapa Rudra has also contributed towards additional structures and maintenance of this complex. There are also three smaller shrines for Lakshmi, Andal and Azhwars. Near by the temple, there is a drinking water lake called Alwar Koneru.

It is a common practice to worship the Prahlada Varada Narasimha in lower Ahobila before worshipping Eguva (upper) Ahobila Narasimha, who is situated 8 km away on a hilltop inside a cave. After worshipping the Lord, it is another practice to visit all Nava Narasimhas (nine Narasimhas) of Ahobilam.

The annual Brahmothsavam performed in February is a great attraction. All the lodging and shops of Ahobilam are located in Lower Ahobilam.

Timings: 6.30 AM - 1 PM and 3 PM - 8 PM