Keesara Gutta Temple, located in the Keesara village of Telangana, India, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
The temple is known as Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple.
The temple is situated on a small hill called Keesara Gutta, which gives it its name. It is a popular pilgrimage site and attracts devotees from all over the country.
The temple’s history dates back to the Kakatiya dynasty, which ruled the Telugu-speaking regions of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana from the 12th to the 14th century.
It is believed that the temple was built during this time, and its architecture reflects the Kakatiya style.
However, the temple has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries, including during the reign of the Qutb Shahi dynasty and the Nizams of Hyderabad.
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Quick Facts
- Address: Keesara Village, Medchal-Malkajgiri District
- District: Medchal-Malkajgiri
- Affiliation: Hinduism
- Date established: 100 BCE
- Timings: 6:00 am – 12:45 pm and 3:00 pm – 7:30 pm
- Deity: Lord Shiva
- Entry Fee: Free
- Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Dress Code: decent outfit recommended
- Festivals: Mahashivaratri , Karthika Masam
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
History of Keesara Gutta Temple
The temple also has several legends associated with it. According to one such legend, during the Kakatiya era, a shepherd discovered a Shiva lingam on the hill.
The king was informed of the discovery and ordered the construction of a temple in the same place.
Another legend tells the story of a devotee who prayed to Lord Shiva to help him overcome a difficult situation. It is said that the devotee’s prayers were answered, and he subsequently built the temple as an expression of his gratitude.
Lord Sri Rama installed Shiva Lingam here to redeem The sin of killing Ravana, a Brahmin. He had chosen Keesaragutta, the beautiful valley with hills and verdant greenery. Rama ordered Hanuman to bring a Shiva Lingam from Varanasi to install it there. Hanuman arrived late with the Shiva Lingams.
Lord Shiva appeared in Sri Rama and presented a Shiva lingam for installation as the Special hour neared. The Shiva Lingam here is Swayambhu Lingam and Ramalingeshwara Swamy, as Sri Rama had installed the Lingam.
Hanuman returned from Varanasi with 101 Lingams for selection. He felt angry after seeing the Shiva Lingam installed and throwing the idols everywhere in that region. We can find several Lingams even now outside the temple.
Architecture of Keesara Gutta Temple
The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, who is worshipped in the form of a lingam. The lingam is situated in a sanctum sanctorum and is surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to various deities such as Lord Ganesha, Goddess Parvati, and Lord Hanuman. The temple also has a large Nandi statue, the sacred bull of Lord Shiva, at the entrance.
The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings, which are a testament to the skill of the artisans of the time. The temple’s pillars, in particular, are an impressive sight, with each one featuring intricate carvings and designs.
The temple’s location on a hill also provides a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for photography.
Festival Celebrated
The temple’s annual festival, Mahashivaratri, is a significant event that draws thousands of devotees to the temple.
The festival is celebrated in February or March and lasts for a day and a night. Devotees fast and offer prayers to Lord Shiva, and the temple is decorated with flowers and lights.
Keesaragutta Temple Pooja Timings:
- Suprabatha Seva: 6 AM to 06.30 AM
- Mahayana Poorvaka Rudrabhishekam: 6.30 AM to 07.30 AM
- Maha Aarathi: 7.45 AM
- Abhishekams: 8 AM to 12.45 PM
- Aarathi, Mahanivedana, Dwarabandhanam: 12.45 PM to 1 PM
- Archana and Abhishekams: 3 PM to 7 PM
- Nivedana, Mantra Pushpam, Aarathi, and Pavalipu Seva: 7 PM to 07.30 PM
How to reach Keesara Gutta Temple?
By Air
The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi international airport. It is 42 km away from the temple.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Secunderabad railway station at a distance of 30 km. Taxi/cabs are available for last mile connectivity.
By Road
The nearest bus stop to reach the temple is Keesara bus station located at a distance of 5.2 km. Direct buses to the temple are available from Secunderabad Junction.
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