Incredible Gudimallam Oldest Shiva Linga History 2025: That Will Amaze You!
The temple we are visiting today is a place full of mystery and wonder: Gudimallam Temple, believed to be the oldest Hindu temple in the world, housing the oldest Shiva Linga ever discovered. This ancient structure, hidden underground, has nine secret passages leading to its main chamber. Every 60 years, a truly astonishing event occurs—the temple’s main chamber fills with water in a way that defies explanation.
Some believe this Shiva Linga was brought here by Lord Shiva himself, and local legends suggest the temple is over 12,000 years old. Let’s uncover the secrets of Gudimallam and explore its fascinating history.
How to Reach Gudimallam Temple
By Air: Nearest Airport, Tirupati International Airport (10 km from the temple). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
By Train: Nearest Railway Station, Tirupati Railway Station (20 km away). From Tirupati, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the temple.
By Bus: The temple is about 20 km from Tirupati Bus Stand. Regular buses and private taxis are available from Tirupati to Gudimallam.
Best Time to Visit
- Ideal Months: October to February (pleasant weather and ideal for exploration).
- Special Days: During July (between the 20th and 30th) to witness the Solar Illumination phenomenon.
History of Gudimallam Temple: The Oldest Shiva Linga Temple
According to legend, Gudimallam Temple holds a significant connection to Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that Parashurama worshiped the Purusha Linga here to atone for the sin of killing his mother, Renuka, as commanded by his father, Jamadagni. Obeying his father’s instructions as an act of dharma, Parashurama was told to find a Linga in the forest and worship it for 15 years to attain Moksha (liberation).
After a long search, Parashurama discovered the unique Purusha Linga and began his worship. He is also said to have dug a tank, which exists today, and planted a divine lotus in it. Daily, he performed rituals using the flower from this lotus. To protect the plant, he entrusted a Rakshasa (demon) to guard the temple and the sacred flower. Unknown to Parashurama, the Rakshasa was Lord Brahma in disguise, cursed to live in this form.
One day, the Rakshasa, curious about the rituals, performed the puja himself. When Parashurama returned and found the flower missing, he was enraged. A fierce battle ensued between them for 14 years. Their immense power caused the land to sink, forming a low-lying area, which was named “Gudipalam” (gudi meaning temple and palam meaning valley)or (Underground Temple in Ancient Indian Language). Over time, this evolved to “Gudimallam.”
During this battle, Lord Shiva appeared, revealing the divine unity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The unique Purusha Linga of Gudimallam depicts this unity: Parashurama is shown standing over the Rakshasa with a goat in his hand and a weapon on his shoulder, while Lord Shiva is represented in the form of the Linga.
Unique Features and Mysteries of the Temple
•Divine Rituals and Lotus Tank: Parashurama’s sacred lotus tank still exists, and his legacy of daily rituals remains a highlight of the temple.
•Sacred Underground Water: Every 60 years, water from the Swarnamukhi River flows through an underground passage to the temple’s sanctum, performing an automatic abhishekam (sacred bath) for the Trimurtis. The last occurrence was on December 4, 2005, and the next is expected in 2065.
•Solar Phenomenon: Between July 20th and 21st each year, sunlight directly illuminates the sanctum, bathing the Purusha Linga in natural light
Ancient Inscriptions: The temple walls contain seven ancient inscriptions, offering a glimpse into its rich history and cultural significance.
•Nine Underground Passages: Mysterious sealed underground passages inside the temple add to its allure, though they remain inaccessible.
Inscriptions and Surroundings
The temple walls feature ancient inscriptions, providing insight into its historical and cultural significance. Despite its age, the area around the temple is lush with greenery and surrounded by mountains, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting.
Nearest Attractions
- Sri Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala – One of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, about 25 km from Gudimallam.
- Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Tiruchanur – Dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, located around 15 km away.
- Chandragiri Fort – Historical fort near Tirupati, approximately 30 km from Gudimallam.
- Kapila Theertham – A scenic temple and waterfall at the base of the Tirumala hills, about 22 km away.
- Sri Kalahasti Temple – Also known as Dakshina Kailasam, located 35 km from Gudimallam, famous for its Vayu Lingam.
Travel Tip
It’s recommended to plan your visit early in the day to explore the temple and its surroundings comfortably. For added convenience, booking a local guide from Tirupati can enrich your experience with historical and spiritual insights.
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Conclusion
Gudimallam Temple is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and mystery. Its unique Vigraha, rare architectural style, and mystical events make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the Tirupati region. A visit here is believed to guide devotees toward Moksha (liberation) and leave them with memories of divine wonder.
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