Most convenient nearest rail head to Hemavathi, Anantapur District, AP, A temple town and The 10th Century capital of Pallavas. This historical town is 70 kms to the west of Hindupur via Parigi & Madakasira. Actual nearest railhead is at CHKE, Challakere in bordering Chitradurga Distrct of Karnataka at 63 kms on the JRU-GTL line.
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Alight at HUP, goto Parigi busstand and take any bus going to Madakasira or to Hemavathi.
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siddheswara Swamy temple at Hemavathi was constructed by Pallavas and then improved by Cholas and hence depicts both architectural styles. The temple is dedicated to Shankara (The human form of Shiva who is usually found in the form of Linga across india) and is the ONE & ONLY such Temple in INDIA. Pic 1.
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The reminants of Hemavathi fort built in the 10th century can also be seen. Pic 2.
There is a museum inside which has a display of rare idols of historical importance. Some distance away are the Gorantla Temples which are all of worth visiting.
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The temple town of Hemavathi is famous for the Doddeswara Swamy temple built during the Pallava reign. The stone used in making the idols sounds like metal when struck and is also remarkably polished. A Nandi made of black basalt granite 8 feet in length and 4 feet in height, sits at the entrance.
There is a 6 feet tall Lingam installed inside the sanctum sanctorum. The temple area houses and two other temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva, called the Siddeshwara Swamy Temple and Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple.
Pic 1 Source: click here
Pic 2: click here