Ahobilam Nava Narasimha and Other Temples - A Complete Guide

Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama, and Mathura is the birthplace of Lord Krishna - all of us know very well. Similarly, Ahobilam is the birthplace of Lord Narasimha, another avatar of Vishnu. It is located in Nallamala hills at a distance of around 90 km from Cuddappah in the Andhra Pradesh state of India. The nearest town is Allagadda, situated at a distance of about 25 km. 

Ahobilam is one of the most revered Vaishnavite sites in India. It is one of 108 Divya Desam temples. The headquarters of Ahobilam Math is located in this village. Importantly, this is the only ancient site where Narasimha is found in nine different forms. 

Upper Ahobilam Temple

I am blessed by Narasimha Swami that I could write this detailed article. I have covered every aspect of this holy site - location, tradition, legend, history, architecture, heritage value, iconography, and more. It took about one month to write this single article. This article is equivalent to a 50+ page book in terms of volume. As of today (Aug 2019), no other internet source provides as much information as this article provides.

Ahoviryam Ahosauryam Ahobahu Parakramah |

Narasimham Param Daivam Ahobilam Ahobalam ||

Path amidst dense forest

Jeep Ride

Highlights: 

• One of the most important Vishnu temples in India.
• Considered the 74th Divya Desam temple.
• This is the only ancient site that exhibits nine different iconographical forms of Narasimha. 
• Ahobilam is the birthplace (Avatara Sthalam) of Narasimha.
• This place, in the form of a forest, hill and village, was once the city of Hiranyakasipu, the Asura King (as per the tradition).
• Ahobilam is the place where Narasimha killed the Asura Hiranyakasipu.
• Ahobilam is part of the Nallamala mountain range. Nallamala is considered as Adi Sesha. His head lies in Tirupati, his tail in Sri Sailam, and his middle portion in Ahobilam, as per the tradition.
• It was called Singavel Kundram in Tamil Sangam literature. 
• Apart from Adi Lakshmi, Chenchu Lakshmi, a tribal woman, is also considered the consort of Narasimha. 
• Three other Avatars of Vishnu, namely Rama, Parasurama, and Balaji, have worshiped another Avatar of Vishnu (Narasimha) here.
• Other Names - Ahobala, Vobula, Vedadri, Diguva Tirupati, Garudadri, Virakshetra, Achalachaya Meru, Nidhi and Nagari
• There are two major parts of this village - Upper Ahobilam and Lower Ahobilam.
• God - Jwala Narasimha, Ahobila Narasimha, Malola Narasimha, Kroda Narasimha, Karanja Narasimha, Bhargava Narasimha, Yogananda Narasimha, Chatravata Narasimha, Pavana Narasimha, Lakshmi Narasimha
• Goddess - Amritavalli, Chenchu Lakshmi
• Teertha (holy water) - Bhairava Gundam, Narasimha Teertha, Varaha Gundam, Chuta Teertha, Sudarshana Teertha, Vinayaka Teertha, Dara Teertha, Shanku Teertha, Gajendra Gundam, Rama-Lakshmana Teertha, Bheema Teertha and Rakta Gundam.

Trekking

Historical Records

There are about 27 inscriptions found on all the temples of Ahobilam together. One of those inscriptions is in Sanskrit, and the others are in Telugu. It is said that many copper plates kept in a room near the Chenchu Lakshmi shrine in Upper Ahobilam were destroyed for the sake of copper. It is a significant loss of historical evidence.

The earliest inscription that references Ahobilam belongs to the period of Chalukya King Kirtivarman II (744 - 755 CE). It is found in Peddapeta in the Anantpur district. 

The earliest inscription within Ahobilam is from Reddy King Anavema in 1378 CE. 

The latest inscription belongs to the period of the Vijayanagara King Venkatapati Raya II (1609 CE). One inscription was from Krishnadeva Raya (1515 CE). 17 out of 27 inscriptions are from the Vijayanagara King Sadasiva Raya, and they all are dated to the mid-16th century CE.

Literary References

Tirumangai Alwar who belonged to the 8th century CE had sung 10 Pasurams on Ahobilam. Hence, this holy site is one of 108 Divya Desams. 

Narasimha Purana and Brahmanda Purana have references to Ahobilam. There is also a medieval period Sthala Purana of Ahobilam, in Sanskrit. The Telugu Narasimha Purana also mentions this holy site. 

Saluva Narasimha Deva Raya, the Vijayanagara Emperor, had authored the Sanskrit work Rama Bhudayam in the 15th century CE. This work has references to Ahobilam. 

The seventh Jeeyar of Ahobilam Math, Van Satagopa Yatindra Mahadesika, authored a Sanskrit drama Vasantika Parinayam in the 16th century CE. This work talks about the divine wedding of Lord Narasimha with a tribal girl Chenchu Lakshmi. 

The great saint and poet, Annamacharya of the 15th/16th century visited Ahobilam and sang the glory of Narasimha. 

There are more such literary works that talk about Ahobilam. 

Near Prahlada Mettu

Legend and History:

It is difficult to separate history from legend when it comes to Ahobilam. Hence, I call this section "Legend and History". The tales and historical records are mostly interconnected. For example, it is accepted that the Alwars were there; but there is no agreement between the religious people and the historians on their dates. Similarly, there are many characters and legends associated with a few historical incidents. They are recorded in the chronicles, but there is no historical evidence. 

It is up to the reader to decide if the content of this section given in the following few paragraphs is legendary or historical.

Narasimha Avatar

Hiranyakasipu, the Asura King, got a unique boon from Lord Brahma. As per his boon, he could not be killed by a Deva, Asura, beast, serpent, or a man; he could not be killed during the daytime or night; he could not be killed inside his residence or outside his dwelling; he could not be killed on the ground or in the sky; he could not be killed by any weapon.

The invincible Asura began to persecute the devotees of Lord Vishnu, as he had considered Vishnu as his enemy. However, he got a son named Prahlad, who turned out to be a great devotee of Vishnu. The Asura tried to kill his own son multiple times, but Prahlad was protected by the mystical power of Vishnu.

Ugra Stambha

At last, pointing out a pillar in his palace, the Asura asked his son if Vishnu was present in that pillar too. As the son replied positively, the furious Asura tried to smash the post. Now, Vishnu took the ferocious form of Narasimha and emerged by breaking the pillar into two pieces. (Narasimha is partly lion and partly human.) Narasimha tore down Asura's chest using his nails and killed him.

Ahobilam mountain is the site where Hiranyakasipu's palace was located initially. The pillar from where Narasimha appeared is still in Ahobilam and is called Ugra Stambha. 

Name of the Site

As per the legend, the Devas who witnessed Narasimha tearing apart the Asura Hiranyakasipu explained in wonder, "Ahobala" (meaning the stupendous strength). Hence, this site is called Ahobalam or Ahobilam. 

Upper Ahobilam

Garuda

As per Kashyapa Rishi's advice, his son Garuda performed penance towards Lord Vishnu and became his vaahana. Hence, a hill in this mountain range is called Garudadri. Even the entire Ahobilam is sometimes referred to as Garudadri. 

Garudadri

After several years, Garuda again performed penance for many years in this mountain and ultimately got the darshan of Jwala Narasimha. 

Vedas

Somaka, an Asura, stole away all four Vedas from Brahma. They were restored by Vishnu. All the Vedas performed penance in Ahobilam and got a boon from Narasimha that they would be stolen away thereafter. Hence, Ahobilam is also called Vedadri. 

Srinivasa

Before marrying Padmavati, Lord Srinivasa (Balaji of Tirumala) came to this site and got the darshan of Lord Narasimha. 

The First Jeeyar

Srinivasacharya was born on 18th August 1379 CE at Melkote in the Karnataka state of India. His father sent him to Ghatikasantham Anmal at Kanchipuram for his studies. He later became the disciple of Vedantaka Desika, and he followed the Vadakalai tradition of Vaishnavism.

Srinivasacharya got the divine darshan of Lord Narasimha in his dreams. Based on the divine order, he went to the banks of the river Bhavanasini (at Ahobilam). It is believed that Narasimha appeared in the form of an old man and offered sannyasa to Srinivasacharya. Then, he started Ahobila Math and became its first Jeeyar. After becoming Jeeyar, he was referred to as Sri Adivan Satakopan. Thus, Ahobilam became an important Vaishnavite center. 

Ashtabuja Narasimha, Lower Ahobilam

Pratapa Rudra

It is said that Pratapa Rudra, the last Kakateeya King (1289-1323 CE), after visiting Shiva Sailam, halted in Rudra varam, a village near Ahobilam. He wanted to cast a Shiv Linga; however, the figure always emerged as Lord Narasimha. He was worried as he saw that as a bad omen. Narasimha appeared in his dream and talked about the oneness of Shiva and Vishnu. As per Narasimha's direction, the king visited Upper Ahobilam and got darshan of Narasimha. Apart from gifting a lot of plots for Ahobilam temples, the king also gifted a gold murti of Narasimha to the then Jeeyar of Ahobila math. Even now, this murti is present in Ahobila math. 

Invasion

In 1579 CE, Ibrahim Ali Kutub Shah, the Golkonda Sultan, invaded Ahobilam and destroyed the temple structures. After his demise, his son Kuli Kutub Shah became the Sultan. The Vijayanagara empire was declining, and it could not challenge the Sultan's supremacy. The seventh Jeeyar of Ahobila Math visited Sriranga Raya, the Vijayanagara King, and persuaded him to restore the glory of Ahobilam. He fought with Sultan's army and drove them out of Ahobilam. He erected a pillar (Jaya Stambha) in front of the Lower Ahobilam temple in 1584 CE to commemorate his victory. 

Many such legends and historical details, along with their corresponding temple, are covered below. As I don't want to repeat them, they are not covered under this section. 

Nava Narasimha Kshetram:

Ahobilam is known as Nava Narasimha Kshetra. There are nine ancient and religiously significant Narasimha temples. As stated already, Ahobilam is the only ancient site that exhibits Narasimha in nine different forms. 

The below sloka lists down all the nine Narasimha temples and their order:

Jwala Ahobila Maha Lola |

Kroda Karancha Bhargava |

Yogananda Kshatravata |

Pavaneya Nava Moorthayah ||

Ugra Stambham

Ahobilam has two major divisions, namely Upper Ahobilam and Lower Ahobilam. All nine temples are located in Upper Ahobilam, and the Ahobilam Math and the Vijayanagara period Lakshmi Narasimha temple are situated at Lower Ahobilam. Some temples are located on the plains and can be accessed by foot or by vehicle. Some temples are located amidst the forest that needs to be traversed through rough rocky terrain by Jeeps. Few temples can be reached only after hours of trekking. The Dholi option is available for aged and physically challenged people who cannot trek. (As on August 2019, the charge for a dholi is Rs. 3,000, and the cost for one jeep, which can accommodate up to six people, is also Rs. 3,000). It is advisable to arrange for a local guide, if not to explain the sites, to ensure that the priests are available at the temples, and to help us with the exact location. (I visited Ahobilam with the help of Chennai-based "Mantra Yatra" run by a gentleman Mr. Balaji Davi by name. It is advisable to visit this holy site with the help of such reliable and experienced travel agents.) 

The temples can be covered in the order of their locations or proximity from a central point. However, I will cover them based on the order given in the above sloka. I will provide a detailed write-up later in this article on practically the order that needs to be followed to see every temple. I will also cover this town's other important sites and temples in the later part.

Jwala Narasimha:

The temple of Jwala Narasimha is the first among the Nava Narasimha Kshetras. This cave temple is located about 4 km from the Yeguva Ahobila Narasimha Temple (also called Upper Ahobilam Temple) in Upper Mahobilam. 

The elevation of Ahobilam is around 1073 feet (327 meters). Among the nine temples, Jwala Narasimha temple is located at the highest point. It is situated atop a hill called Achalachaya Meru. Although it is merely 4 km, trekking, it takes 1.5 hr to 2 hrs depending upon one's energy and age as well as the climatic conditions. The path to this temple includes rocky terrains and steep steps. We also must cross two bridges and a few easy-to-pass plain surface areas. In between, we also get to see some waterfalls and streams.  

Jwala Narasimha Temple

Jwala Narasimha

We have to cross through a waterfall to reach the final destination of this cave temple, which is a pleasant experience. Also, from here, we would get a good view of Garudachalam hill. This hill appears in the form of Garuda. We would also get the breathtaking aerial view of lower Ahobilam from here.

In the cave, there are five deities found. The presiding deity is Ashtabhuja Narasimha, also named Jwala Narasimha. He is seated on Garuda peetha, with his right leg hanging down and his left leg folded. He has eight arms. His uppermost arms hold Hiranyakasipu's intestine as garland. The next two arms hold conch and discus. The third set of arms hold the Asura tightly. The last set of arms tear open the entrails of Asura. Asura has a shield on his left arm, and he must have a sword in his right arm, which is not visible. A small figure of Prahlada with folded hands is found near the left foot of Lord Narasimha. The icon appears to be from the Vijayanagara period.

Jwala Narasimha Temple

To the proper right side of Ashtabhuja Narasimha, Stambhodbhava Murti is found. This form of Narasimha is also called Kevala Narasimha or Sthanu Narasimha. Narasimha is found in the standing posture with four arms. His upper arms hold conch and discus. His lower arms appear as if piercing the entrails of Asura, but the Asura is not found. Narasimha is seen emerging by breaking the pillar into two pieces. Near his right foot, Lakshmi is found seated, and on the other side, Prahlada is found standing. This murti appears to be the oldest among all murtis in this shrine. This probably belongs to 7th or 8th century CE.

Waterfalls near Jwala Narasimha

To the true left side of Ashtabhuja Narasimha, Narasimha is found advancing towards the Asura. Asura holds a sword and shield. Both of them are in the standing posture. This form of Narasimha is called Veera Narasimha. This icon may be dated to the 10th or 11th century CE.

To the true left side of Veera Narasimha, Shukracharya is found in the seated posture. Vishnu is found with arms and in a standing posture. These two idols appear to be from a later period.

Ugra Stambha

As per tradition and belief, this cave was the entrance to the palace of Hiranyakasipu. Lord Narasimha came out of one of the pillars in the palace. That holy site is found in the name of Ugra Stambha. (I will write about this site later in this article). In the exact spot where Jwala Narasimha cave is today, Narasimha killed the Asura. A small pond is found in an open cave near this temple. It is called as Raktha Kunda. The water in this pond is slightly reddish in color. It is believed that Narasimha washed his hands in this pond after killing the Asura.

Ahobila Narasimha (Upper Ahobilam Temple):

This is one of the two most famous temples of the entire Ahobilam. The distance from the Lower Ahobilam to this site is around 8 km. The Upper Ahobilam hills start from this temple. Those who could not do trekking visit only this temple in Upper Ahobilam. We could reach this temple in our vehicle, and from there, merely a 0.5 km walk up a slightly sloppy area. 

Upper Ahobilam Udyoga Mandapa

This is considered the Divya Desam temple among the nine Narasimha shrines. Tirumangai Alwar has sung ten Pasurams (hymns) on Narasimha of this temple. When searching for his abducted wife, Sita, Rama came to this site and worshiped Lord Narasimha. It is said that he sang five songs praising the Lord, which are called Panchamruta Stotrams. The sixth Ahobilam Jeeyar went inside a cave for darshan in this temple and never returned (16th century CE). 

Udyoga Mandapa

The overall layout of the temple is rectangular. There are two entrances, one at the east and another and the west direction. Both entrances have gopura. The western entrance is used by the devotees to enter the temple. The sanctum, a natural cave, faces the north direction, but the main deity inside the shrine faces the east. Ardha mandapa is also part of the cave.

Upper Ahobilam Temple - Western Entrance

Udyoga Mandapa

The presiding deity, Ugra Narasimha or Ahobila Narasimha, is facing the east direction. He is about 2 inches high and is very small in size. He is found in a fierce form. Lakshmi is found in the form of Srivatsa on his right chest. He has four arms with conch and discus in his upper arms while his lower arms tear apart the chest of Asura. Asura is found lying down on Lord's lap. He holds sword and shield in his arms. Asura's face is towards the right side of Narasimha. Prahlada is found near Narasimha. Garuda is found on the other corner facing Narasimha in the same cave.  

The concrete roof above the sanctum and the life-size Dwarapalas at the entrance are later additions. There is a vimana above the shrine. 

Udyoga Mandapa

The small shrine near the right side of the cave has Ugra Narasimha and Shiv Linga facing each other. Narasimha is in Sambhanga pose with his right leg folded and left leg dangling down. It is said that Narasimha gave darshan to Shiva on this site. The images of Ganesha, Lakshmi and Vishnu in Bhogasana posture are also found in this shrine. However, the current setup does not allow the devotees to enter the shrine, and we cannot see these three images. (Some believe this portion of the temple was originally a Shiva temple).

The shrine on the left side of the cave has Sudarsana. Only the Sudarsana Yantra, not the usual image with multiple arms, is depicted here.

The next shrine has the image of Goddess Chenju Lakshmi. She is seated in Padmasana; she has four arms; the upper arms hold lotus buds; the lower arms are in Abhaya and varada mudras. It might belong to the 10th or 11th century CE. The utsav icon of the Goddess is also found in the same shrine.

Udyoga Mandapa

There is a small shrine near the sanctum which has a few bronze icons such as Ahobila Narasimha (Narasimha with Lakshmi on his left lap, which is not the replica of the stone image of Ahobila Narasimha), Prahlada Varada Narasimha in the standing posture with two consorts, Lakshmi Narasimha (processional image of Pavana Narasimha), Viswaksena, Jwala Narasimha, Nammalvar, Kulasekhara Alwar, Ramanujar, Desika and Adivan Satakopa Jeeyar holding Narasimha. The stone image of Ramanuja is also found here. 

Ganesha's icon is found in a niche. The relief images on the pillars and walls are fascinating. Some of them even depict Bhairava, Buddha, and Dakshinamurti.  

Mahamandapa has 16 pillars, and the entrance has two big Dwarapalas. Dhwajastambha and bali peetha are found. It was constructed by Harihara II in the late 14th century CE. A few mandapas, such as Vahana mandapa, Kalyana mandapa, and Uyyala mandapa, are not accessible to us due to the current setup done to manage the crowd. 

Opposite the temple, about at a distance of 200 meters, an architecturally beautiful late Vijayanagara period 16 pillared Udyoga Mandapa is found. The images on the pillars of this mandapa are beautiful.

Udyoga Mandapa

Walking further up from the temple, Kalakshepa mandapa is found. It probably belongs to the early Vijayanagara period. It has 116 pillars, mostly plain, but the frontside wall and pillars have a few interesting sculptures. 

Ahobila Narasimha

Malola Narasimha:

Malola Narasimha temple is the third among Nava Narasimha Kshetrams. From Jwala Narasimha, if we trek down and pass through the wooden bridge, there are two paths. One path takes us back to Upper Ahobilam temple, and another, with steep steps and rocky terrain takes us to Malola Narasimha temple. It takes around 45 minutes to one hour to reach this temple from Jwala Narasimha. The beautiful bridge in between is the best spot to get a good view of Garadadri hill and the Ugra Stambha. 

Malola Narasimha

The temple is small. The sanctum and the Ardha Mandapa are old, and the other portions are in concrete which has been extended recently. Narasimha has Lakshmi on his left lap. He is seated in Sukhasana posture, his left leg folded and right leg dangling down. He has four arms; his upper arms hold conch and discus; his lower arms are in Abhaya and varada mudras. Lakshmi has her leg resting on a Padma flower, which appears to have sprouted from the earth. Her left hand is in kataka mudra, whereas her right arm is in prasaritha vamahasta (hanging down).

Malola Narasimha Temple

This shrine, where Narasimha is in peaceful form, is also called Markonda Lakshmi Kshetra. Malola means one who is beloved to Lakshmi. Here, as Narasimha is with his beloved consort, he appears peaceful. 

The sanctum enshrines two stone images of Malola Narasimha. Both look more or less alike. The image installed on a higher platform is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested), and the one in the base is believed to be installed. The below stone image stands atop Garuda (Garuda peetha), which in turn is found atop Kurma peetha.

Malola Narasimha

Iconographically, the stone images can be dated to the 12th or 13th century CE.

In Ardha Mandapa's entrance, one pair of big Dwarapalas are found. Also, a relief image of a king and queen is found in Maha Mandapa. Bhairava and a village Goddess are seen facing the Narasimha's shrine. These images, which were found in the forest, are kept here by the locals.

Kroda Narasimha:

Kroda Narasimha temple is the fourth among Nava Narasimha Kshetrams. Kroda Narasimha is also called as Varaha Narasimha. It is a small cave temple that was extended by Vijayanagaras. The sanctum enshrines two small images, Varaha Narasimha with Bhoo Devi and Lakshmi Narasimha. Varaha Narasimha has the head of a boar, a human torso, and the tail of a lion. He is found in the standing posture in the tribhangi posture. He has two arms and holds Bhu Devi on his left side. 

Narasimha is found seated with Lakshmi on his left lap. It is a much smaller image.

Next to this shrine is a cave with the icon of Ramanuja. It is believed that he performed penance in this cave.

Ahobilam Ramanuja Cave

This shrine is at a distance of around 1 km from the Upper Ahobilam temple. Trekking to this shrine is relatively easy.

As per the legend, Narasimha, after killing Hiranyakasipu, was very angry with Brahma, as he was the one who had offered a boon to the Asura. When Brahma was summoned by Narasimha, out of fear, the Vedas slipped off from the hands of Brahma. Bhooma Devi took them with her and went underground. As per the request from the Devas, Narasimha took the form of Varaha and went to Patala. He came back with Bhumi Devi and Vedas. Thus, Narasimha is found in Kroda form in this site.

Kroda Narasimha

After Narasimha's anger subdued, Brahma approached him and requested to return the Vedas. Narasimha refused to give Vedas to Brahma. He wanted to give it to a more responsible person. As per the suggestion from Brahma, he handed over the Vedas to Lakshmi. Hence, he is also found in the form of Lakshmi Narasimha. 

Karanja Narasimha:

Karanja Narasimha temple is the fifth among Nava Narasimha Kshetrams. From Upper Ahobilam temple, it is hardly one km, and it is located on a motorable road on the way to Lower Ahobilam.

Karanja Narasimha

Vijayanagara Period pillar

It is believed that Lord Narasimha gave darshan to Hanuman to prove that he was Rama too. In this temple, Narasimha is seated with his two lower arms in a dyana posture; his upper right arm holds the discus, whereas his upper left arm holds a bow. He is also called Saranga Narasimha. He has a third eye on his forehead. Adi Sesha is seen spreading its hood above Narasimha. As the shrine was under the Karanja tree, the deity is named Karanja Narasimha.

As per the legend, Gobila Rishi, who had angered Durvasa Rishi, came here. With the blessing of Karanja Narasimha, he got rid of his sin. 

The temple is simple, with just one shrine. A few dilapidated pillars of the Vijayanagara style are found outside the temple. The entire shrine has been reconstructed in concrete in recent times. The murti can be dated to the 10th or 11th century CE based on iconography.

Bhargava Narasimha:

Bhargava Narasimha is the sixth among Nava Narasimha Kshetrams. It is located in Lower Ahobilam on a small hill. Trekking the incline and taking the flight of 127 steep steps bring us to this holy shrine. The distance from the Lower Ahobilam temple is about two km. It needs to be covered by the jeep as it is rocky terrain amidst the thick forest. Going to this site in regular motor vehicles should be avoided.  

The north-facing Narasimha is found seated with Hiranyakasipu lying down on his lap. The Asura's head is on the right side of Narasimha. Narasimha has four arms; his upper arms hold conch and discuss; his lower arms tear apart the intestines of Asura. Asura is seen holding a sword. A small figure of Prahlada in Anjali mudra is found near the left foot of Narasimha.

Steps to Bhargava Narasimha Temple

A critical feature of the Murti is Prabhavali, where the images of Dasavatar are sculpted. The icon can be dated to the 10th or 11th century CE. 

The holy pond Akshaya Teertha or Bhargava Teertha is found on the way to this temple. Historically, this tank was constructed by Parankusa Van Satakopa Jeeyar in 1564 CE. Traditionally, it is believed that it was installed by Parasuram, who got the darshan of Narasimha tearing apart the Asura in this site in Treta Yuga. Hence, Narasimha is named as Bhargava Narasimha. (Bhargava is another name for Parasuram). It is believed that the sages Vishwamitra and Bhrigu, too, got darshan of Narasimha on this site.

Bhargava Teertha

Yogananda Narasimha:

Yogananda Narasimha is the seventh among Nava Narasimha Kshetrams. This temple is easily accessible and is located at a distance of 2 km from Lower Ahobilam temple on a motorable road.  

Yogananda Narasimha

It is believed that Narasimha taught yoga to Prahlada on this site. Hence, he is in Yogic posture here and is named Yogananda Narasimha. The south-facing Narasimha is seated in a yogic posture on the Garuda pedestal. He has four arms; he holds discus and conch in his upper arms; his lower arms rest on his knees. His legs are crossed and tied with a Yogapatta. Iconographically, the icon can be dated to the 9th or 10th century CE. 

Yogananda Narasimha Temple

Another Yogananda Narasimha is found on a high-raised platform in the sanctum. This Narasimha is said to be swayambhu murti, whereas the other Narasimha was installed.

It is said that Brahma visited this shrine and got the darshan of Narasimha. Initially, the murti was in a tunnel that was not easily accessible. It was moved to the current site so the devotees could easily get darshan.

Chatravata Narasimha:

Chatravata Narasimha is the eighth among Nava Narasimha Kshetrams. It is located on a motorable road at a distance of 4 km from the Lower Ahobilam temple. 

Narasimha is around 6 feet high. He has a smiling face. He is found seated with his upper arms holding conch and discuss. His left arm is tala mudra, which cannot be seen anywhere else. As per the legend, Narasimha, when seated under the Chatravata (peepul tree), two Gandharvas, Haha and Huhu, came here and pleased him with their songs. Narasimha blessed them to become the best singers in all three worlds. 

Chatravata Narasimha 

Based on the style of the pillars in the shrine, the temple could be dated to the 12th century CE. The icon of the presiding deity can be dated to the early Vijayanagara period. However, the temple is completely renovated with a concrete structure now.

Pavana Narasimha:

Pavana Narasimha is the ninth among Nava Narasimha Kshetrams. It is located on the banks of the river Pavani. It is at a distance of around 6 km from Upper Ahobilam temple. It can be reached either through trekking from the Upper Ahobilam or by a one-hour Jeep drive amidst forest from the Lower Ahobilam.  

Pavana Narasimha Temple

Iconographically the image of Pavana Narasimha can be dated to the 6th or 7th century CE. Narasimha is seated in Sukhasana posture. His right leg is dangling down while his right leg is folded. He has four arms; his upper arms hold conch and discus; his lower right arm is in Abhaya mudra; his lower left arm embraces Chenchu Lakshmi, seated on his left lap. Lakshmi's right arm embraces Narasimha. The seven-hooded Adisesha is found spreading like an umbrella above Narasimha.

Chenchu Tribal tradition

The image mentioned above is said to be installed, whereas a similar image is found on a slightly higher platform, which is believed to be Swayambhu. A Saligrama, which appears like Narasimha with his mouth open, is also found in the sanctum.

In the prakara, a Shiv Linga and Nandi are found.

Animal sacrifice in Pavana Narasimha Temple

Opposite the sanctum, two Garudas' icons, one behind the other, and a tall Garudastambha are found. The relief images of Hayagriva, Hanuman, Garuda and a devotee are seen on this pillar.

The tribals of this forest, Chenchus, consider Chenchu Lakshmi as their daughter. (Chenchu Lakshmi was born in this forest; Narasimha fell in love with her and married her). They perform animal sacrifices in this temple even nowadays. Some of their unique tribal rituals are also done in this temple. 

Chenchu Tribals

Other Temples:

Ugra Stambham:

At around 8 km from the Upper Ahobilam temple, we can find a clear cleft of the mountain dividing itself into two parts. There is also a small iron pillar on the cleavage of this mountain. This cleft is called Ugra Stambham or Ukku Stambham. It is believed that this part of the mountain was originally part of the palace of Hiranyakasipu. From a large pillar, Narasimha appeared and killed the Asura. This cleft of the hill is believed to be the spot from where Narasimha appeared. Thus, this becomes the Avatara Sthalam of Lord Narasimha. 

Ugra Stambha

Atop Ugra Stambha, there is an impression of the lotus feet of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. It is believed that he had visited this holy site.

The path to reach this site is located near the Jwala Narasimha shrine. It is tough to trek this path, and only some devotees attempt to visit this site. The stambha is visible from the path leading to Jwala Narasimha temple.

Ugra Stambham

Prahlada Mettu:

A cave shrine is located around 0.4 km from the Malola Narasimha Temple in Upper Ahobilam. This cave shrine is called Prahlada Mettu or Prahlada Badi. The path is much more problematic as it traverses a narrow cliff path. 

Narrow entrance of Prahlada Mettu cave temple

The rocky place around the cave is believed to be the Paatshala (school) where Prahlada studied. A small waterfall is also found near the cave. The cave is very short, and the entrance is too narrow. Only 7-8 people can sit inside the cave.

Paatshala of Prahlada

There is a cavern inside the cave shrine. It is said that Hiranyakasipu's soldiers threw Prahlada from the hill, and he fell through this rock cavern. Ultimately, he was held by Vishnu inside this cave.  

Prahlada Mettu Cave Shrine

The cave shrine is very serene and gives a divine feel, which cannot be experienced even in the nine great Narasimha temples of this holy site. The murtis of Yoga Narasimha, Sudarsana and Prahlada, are enshrined here. The iconography is similar to that of Yogananda Narasimha, about which I have written above. Yoga Narasimha is a small image with four arms seated in a Yogic posture. Sudarsana is standing and has four arms; he holds conch and discus.

Yoga Narasimha

Nava Narasimha Temple and Ashram:

Near Yogananda Narasimha temple, a Swamiji has set up a big ashram. A few temples and structures of this Ashram surround the Yogananda Narasimha temple. 

The samadhi of Swamiji is located above a small hill that can be reached through a flight of 60-70 steps. An image representing God, Goddess or demi-God is found at every step.  

Nava Narasimha Temple

A small shrine enshrining Yoga Narasimha and another shrine enshrining Rama-Sita-Lakshmana are located next to the Yogananda temple.

At the base of the hill is a unique temple, which enshrines all nine forms of Ahobilam Narasimha along with Nava Grahas. Traditionally, Navagrahas have nothing to do with Vishnu. Only Shiva temples have been associated with Navagrahas. However, in the last two or three decades, some of the Vishnu temples in South India started claiming to have an association with Navagrahas. Similarly, in Ahobilam, the belief of Nava Narasimhas pacifying the Navagraha doshas (flaws in the placement of planets in the horoscope of individuals) is new. Nowadays, the priests of Nava Narasimha temples talk about the significance of worshiping Nava Narasimhas to get rid of Navagraha doshas. Based on this belief, this shrine was built. Navagrahas, and behind each Navagraha, the respective form of Narasimha on a higher pedestal are found. The list of each Navagraha and the respective Narasimha form who would cure that particular graha's dosha is given below:

Surya - Bhargava Narasimha
Chandra - Karanja Narasimha
Angaraka - Jwala Narasimha
Budha - Pavana Narasimha
Guru - Ugra Narasimha (Ahobila Narasimha)
Shukra - Malola Narasimha
Shani - Yogananda Narasimha
Rahu - Kroda Narasimha
Ketu - Chatravata Narasimha

Nava Narasimha Temple

Those who could not travel to all the nine Narasimha temples can visit this modern-day temple to get an idea of the iconography of the nine forms of Narasimha. The walls of this temple have many bas-relief images of various deities. The vimana has images of all nine Narasimhas.

Lakshmi Narasimha (Lower Ahobilam Temple):

None of this holy site's nine important Narasimha temples is as big as the gigantic Lakshmi Narasimha temple in Lower Ahobilam. This temple is called the Lower Ahobilam Temple, Diguva Ahobilam, or Prahladavarada Narasimha Swami Temple. This temple and the Upper Ahobilam Temple are the only two temples in Ahobilam that hundreds of devotees visit daily. The distance to various other temples of Ahobilam is calculated from this temple as the center. Most people who could not trek or take jeep rides visit only this temple. 

Koluvu Mandapa, Lower Ahobilam Temple

Let me start my description with the sanctum of this vast temple. The east-facing sanctum enshrines Lakshmi Narasimha. Narasimha is seated on Garuda peetha, his left leg folded and right leg hanging down. He has four arms; his upper arms hold conch and discus; his lower right arm is in Abhaya mudra; his lower left arm is in varada mudra. Adisesha is found spreading its hoods as an umbrella above Narasimha.

Lower Ahobilam Jaya Stambha

The vimana above the sanctum belongs to a very later period. In Ardha Mandapa, there is a shrine where the stone image of Vishvaksena and the bronze images of Vishvaksena, Ramanuja, a few Alwars, Malola Narasimha, Lakshmi Narasimha, Yogananda Narasimha, and Jwala Narasimha are found. 

The bronze icons of Narasimha in the standing posture with his two consorts on either side are placed in the main shrine. He is named as Prahlada Vardan.

Jaya Stambham

The shrine of Goddess Amritavalli is found next to the main shrine. Amritavalli is in the sitting posture (padmasana). She has four arms. Her upper arms hold lotus buds. Her bronze image is also placed in the same shrine.

In the prakara, Andal's sub-shrine and Rama-Sita-Lakshmana's shrine are found.

All outside mandapas and Jaya Stambha

Narasimha with Chenchu Lakshmi

Maha Mandapa has few pillars. Next to Maha mandapa, the Ranga Mandapa is located. It is the most ornate part of the entire temple. There are 82 pillars in this mandapa. Each post is intricately carved with many beautiful sculptures. The mandapa's outer walls also have so many minutely carved interesting bas-relief images. A few notable sculptures on the pillars include Narasimha romancing Chenchu Lakshmi, Narasimha slaying the Asura, and Narasimha fighting the Asura. This whole mandapa is an excellent gift to all of us from the Vijayanagara.

There are two towers for this temple. The inner gopura, which is named Mahadwara Gopura, has four tiers. The door jambs and the side structures are adorned with many beautiful sculptures. The outer entrance has no tower, only the base. It is called as Mondi Gopura. The exterior walls that run over this prominent area of the temple are massive, like fortress walls.  

Mondi Gopura and Mahadwara Gopura

The tall flag staff, bali peetha, and Garuda's shrine are located in the open yard between these two towers. They all face toward the temple. 

There are a few more structures in this open yard, such as the Kalyana mandapa with 50 pillars, the Satagopayathi shrine, and Ramalayam with 50 pillars. They all look great, and many interesting sculptures are found on the pillars of those Vijayanagar period mandapas. 

Unjal Mandapa

After crossing the outer tower, we can find the Jayastambha. It is the tower of victory, built to commemorate the victory of Rangaraya against Ibrahim Qutbshahi. It is a magnificent tall column of monolithic sandstone. 

Proceeding further in the east, we could find the Sannidhi Pushkarani (temple tank). It is believed that this tank was built by King Krishnadevaraya. Few dilapidated structures near the temple tank were the Vedic schools in those days. In the opposite direction of the tank is a very big shrine with artistic beauty. It is the shrine of Ramanuja. The shrine is very big with the maha mandapa in the front side. The mandapa has pillars with many interesting carvings. The entire shrine is surrounded by massive stone walls.

Beyond this site, if we proceed further in the east direction, there are multiple mandaps and a Hanuman temple at the end along the entire stretch of the street. Vasanta Mandapam, a four-pillared mandapa, was constructed in 1548 CE by Narasamma, wife of Mahamandalesvara Goburi Vobaya. The next mandapa also has four pillars. It is artistically beautiful with a typical Vijayanagara style. It is called as Unjal Mandapa. A few yards away, there is a bigger mandapa called Koluvu mandapa. On the other side of the Main Road that vertically crosses the street, there is a beautiful four-pillared mandapa with many sculptures. It is called as Vishvaksena mandapa. Near this, we have Mrutasangrahana mandapa. Towards the end of the street, there is Bigala Anjaneya Temple. The temple keys are deposited at the feet of Anjaneya after the poojas are over every day. In the Telugu language, the word "bigala" means keys.

Ahobila Math:

Ahobila Math is a Sri Vaishnavism Vadakalai religious institution established in the early 1400s in Ahobilam. Srimad Athivan Satagopan started this math and is considered the first Jeeyar. The present Jeeyar is 45th in succession. The math has several branches across India.
Malola Narasimha is the presiding deity in Math. A small image of Narasimha with Lakshmi seated on his left thigh is found in the main shrine. His left leg is folded, and his right leg is dangling down. He has four arms and holds conch and discus in his upper arms. The utsav icons of Rama-Sita-Lakshmana are also located in the main shrine.

There are many other processional icons in the math, which cannot be seen by the devotees regularly. I assume they can be seen only on special occasions. The metal icons include Swarna Narasimha, presented to the first Jeeyar by King Prataparudra, Panaka Narasimha, Krishna, Ranganatha and others.

Outside the math, some Vijayanagara period broken pillars are found. The posts have some excellent sculptures.

Shiva Temple:

In a site where Narasimha rules everywhere, there is a temple for Lord Shiva too. This temple is believed to be as old as the Lower Ahobilam temple. It is located in a small lane at a distance of 1 km behind the gigantic Lower Ahobilam temple. It is a small temple that is completely renovated. Except for Nandi, all other icons, including the Shiv Linga, are new. There is a temple tank nearby.

Shiva Temple

Chenchu Lakshmi

List of Narasimhas in Ahobilam:

Let me give you the list of all the stone images of Narasimhas in Ahobilam. (I haven't included the metal icons).

1.  Ashtabhuja Narasimha in Jwala Narasimha Temple
2. Stambhodbhava Murti in Jwala Narasimha Temple
3. Veera Narasimha in Jwala Narasimha Temple
4. Ugra Narasimha in Upper Ahobilam Temple
5. Ugra Narasimha in  shrine along with Shiv Linga in Upper Ahobilam Temple
6. Malola Narasimha 
7. Malola Narasimha - the second idol in the same sanctum
8. Kroda Narasimha
9. Lakshmi Narasimha along with Kroda Narasimha
10. Karanja Narasimha
11. Bhargava Narasimha
12. Yogananda Narasimha
13. Yogananda Narasimha - the second idol in the same sanctum
14. Chatravata Narasimha
15. Pavana Narasimha
16. Yogananda Narasimha in a small temple near the old Yogananda Temple
17. Yoga Narasimha in Prahlada Mettu
18. Lakshmi Narasimha in Lower Ahobilam
19. Malola Narasimha in Ahobilam Math
20. Bhargava Narasimha along with Surya in Nava Narasimha Temple
21. Karanja Narasimha along with Chandra in Nava Narasimha Temple
22. Jwala  Narasimha along with Angaraka in Nava Narasimha Temple
23. Pavana Narasimha along with Budha in Nava Narasimha Temple
24. Ugra Narasimha along with Guru in Nava Narasimha Temple
25. Malola Narasimha along with Shukra in Nava Narasimha Temple
26. Yogananda Narasimha along with Shani in Nava Narasimha Temple
27. Kroda Narasimha along with Rahu in Nava Narasimha Temple
28. Chatravata Narasimha along with Ketu in Nava Narasimha Temple

Puranic Events in Chronological Order and the Related Sites in Ahobilam:

1. Garuda gets a boon from Vishnu to become his vaahana - Garudadri
2. Hiranyakasipu's rule and his palace - Jwala Narasimha Temple
3. Prahlada's schooling - Near Prahlada Mettu
4. Prahlada being thrown down - Prahlada Mettu Cave
5. Narasimha's Avatar - Ugra Stambha
6. Narasimha kills Hiranya - Jwala Narasimha Temple
7. Narasimha cleans his hands after killing the Asura - Rakhta Gunda near Jwala Narasimha Temple
8. Narasimha still in anger - Ugra Narasimha Temple (Upper Ahobilam)
9. Shiva gets darshan of Ugra Narasimha - Upper Ahobilam Temple
10. Narasimha becomes peaceful due to a tribal girl Chenchu Lakshmi - Pavana Narasimha Temple
11. Narasimha with Lakshmi poses in peaceful form - Malola Narasimha Temple
12. Narasimha teaches yoga to Prahlada - Yogananda Narasimha Temple
13. Narasimha listens to the music of Gandharvas - Chatravata Narasimha Temple
14. Narasimha takes the form of Varaha to bring back Vedas - Kroda Narasimha Temple
15. Parasuram gets darshan of Ugra Narasimha - Bhargava Narasimha Temple
16. Rama sings Rama Panchamruta Stotram - Upper Ahobilam Temple
17. Narasimha gives darshan to Hanuman - Karanja Narasimha
18. Srinivasa (Balaji) gets darshan of Narasimha - Upper Ahobilam Temple
19. Tirumangai Alwar sings on Narasimha - Upper Ahobilam Temple
20. First Jeeyar starts Matha - Ahobilam Matha

Suggested Itinerary:

Two days would be ideal for covering all the temples of Ahobilam.

Day 1 Morning - By Jeep:

1) Pavana Narasimha

2) Bhargava Narasimha

Day 1 Evening - By Car/Rickshaw:

1) Chatravata Narasimha

2) Yogananda Narasimha

3) Nava Narasimha

4) Lower Ahobilam Temple

5) Ahobilam Math

6) Shiva Temple

Day 2 - By Trekking

1) Upper Ahobilam Temple

2) Kroda Narasimha

3) Jwala Narasimha

4) Ugra Stambha

5) Malola Narasimha

6) Prahlada Mettu

7) Karanja Narasimha

Bibliography:

• "Ahobilam Sri Narasimha Swamy Temple" book authored by Prof. R. Vasantha - TTD publications.
• "108 Vaishnavite Divya Desams" book authored by Miss M.S. Ramesh - TTD publications.
• The official website of Ahobila Muth

Happy travelling.

Visit my site, krishnakumartk.com, to know more about the travel guides and other books that I have written.