Lepakshi, is a small laid back village located in the Anantapur District, in Andhra Pradesh about 120 km (75 miles) north of Bangalore. Built in mid-16th century, Lepakshi is a perfect example of the Vijaynagar style of architecture and is a treat to the eyes. There is a very interesting story on how this village got its name - Lord Rama found the mythical bird Jatayu lying wounded here, its wings were cut off by Ravana when he abducted Sita. After Ravana had cut the wing of the bird, Lord Rama said "le pakshi"(rise bird) and the bird rose. Hence, this sacred place was named as Lepakshi.
The visitors are greeted by a huge Nandi bull made out of a single stone of granite measuring 15 feet tall and 27 feet long. This awe creating structure is surrounded by lush green garden and a small pool of beautiful lotuses. On a hillock known as Kurma Saila (tortoise shaped hill) lies the main temple consisting of three principle shrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Veerabhadra and many small ones of other deities such as Durga/Mahakali, Papanatheswara… This is perhaps one of the very few temples containing idols of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
There is a small garden maintained around the premises and many small charming shops at the feet of the temple. In all Lepakshi is a blend of mythology, architecture and beauty.
The visitors are greeted by a huge Nandi bull made out of a single stone of granite measuring 15 feet tall and 27 feet long. This awe creating structure is surrounded by lush green garden and a small pool of beautiful lotuses. On a hillock known as Kurma Saila (tortoise shaped hill) lies the main temple consisting of three principle shrines dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Veerabhadra and many small ones of other deities such as Durga/Mahakali, Papanatheswara… This is perhaps one of the very few temples containing idols of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
Legend has it that the Naga of the Nagalinga was carved out of a single stone by sculptors while they waited for their lunch.
One more famous spot in this temple is "Eyes of Virupakshanna". History says, due to king's misunderstanding with the temple's builder, king ordered to make him blind. Hearing this, the builder plucked his own eyes and threw at the temple walls. Till date one can find those blood scars on that particular wall. The builder of the temple did not survive long after this and hence the Kalyanamantapa was left unfinished.
On the walls of this temple we find many sculptures which were created by the artisans of Vijayanagara Empire depicting various deities and also several stories like Mahabharatha and Ramayana. In the same theme, the roof is adorned by many beautiful paintings of natural colour mixtures.
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