Established
Darshan Timings
Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Note: Subject to change; confirm before visiting
Fee
General Darshan: Free
Special pooja or abhishekam tickets may be available at the temple counter.
Dress Code
Traditional attire is recommended:
Men: Dhoti or decent traditional clothing
Women: Saree or Salwar Kameez
Avoid shorts or sleeveless clothes.
About Temple
Sri Mulasthaneswara Swamy Temple is one of the oldest Shiva temples in Nellore, located in the Mulapeta area of the city. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Moolasthaneswara Swamy, with Goddess Bhuvaneswari Devi as the consort. The temple is considered an important Shaiva Kshetra attracting devotees throughout the year.
Architecture
The temple reflects South Indian Dravidian architectural style, with stone structures added during the Chola and later dynastic periods. The complex contains several mandapams, shrines, and sculptures depicting various deities and saints.
Key architectural highlights:
- Stone-built sanctum (Garbhagriha)
- Nandi Mandapam in front of the main shrine
- Temple gopuram built by the rulers of Nellore
- Sub-shrines for Vinayaka, Subrahmanya, Kalabhairava, and Navagrahas
Historical Background
According to temple legend, a miraculous event occurred when a cow regularly poured milk over a termite mound in the forest. When the mound was struck, a self-manifested Shiva Lingam (Swayambhu) appeared. Lord Shiva later appeared in the king’s dream and instructed him to build a temple at that spot.
The temple was later expanded during the Kakatiya and Chola periods, making it an important religious center in the region.
Prasad / Prasadam :
- Pulihora (Tamarind Rice)
- Laddu
- Coconut and fruits offered during Abhishekam
- Sacred vibhuti (holy ash)
Major Festivals
- Maha Shivaratri – The most important festival with special abhishekams and processions
- Karthika Masam celebrations – Lamps and special Shiva rituals
- Pradosham Puja – Regular special worship for Lord Shiva
- Arudra Darshanam festival dedicated to Lord Nataraja
Visitor Tips
Visit early morning for peaceful darshan
Mondays and Pradosham days are very crowded
Festival days like Shivaratri attract large devotees
Carry water during summer visits
Expectations for Pilgrims
- Maintain silence and spiritual discipline inside the temple
- Follow traditional dress guidelines
- Participate respectfully in temple rituals
- Avoid photography inside the sanctum area
How To Reach
Best Time to Visit
October – March (pleasant weather)
During Maha Shivaratri for grand celebrations
Location
Temple Gallery
