An ancient Narasimha shrine with a unique octagonal tank. The temple’s presiding deity is Lord Lakshmi Narasimha (Narasimha with Goddess Lakshmi seated on his lap), a fierce yet benevolent form of Vishnu who destroyed the demon Hiranyakashipu. The temple’s pillared hall reflects the architectural styles of multiple dynasties – the Rashtrakutas (8th–10th century), Western Chalukyas, and later the Kakatiyas. The most distinctive feature is the Ashtamukhi Pushkarini – a sacred water tank with eight sides, built on the hilltop. The tank is believed to have purifying properties, and a dip in it is considered highly meritorious, especially on new moon days.
Shaniwar Amavasya – a day of special significance. Whenever Amavasya (new moon) falls on a Saturday (Shaniwar), thousands of devotees from Telangana, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh flock to Jankampet. They take a holy dip in the Ashtamukhi Koneru and offer prayers to Lord Narasimha, seeking relief from Shani Dosha (the malefic effects of Saturn). The belief is that the combined power of Narasimha (who is beyond planetary afflictions) and the sacred waters neutralises Saturn’s negative influence. The annual temple festival on the full moon day (Pournami) also attracts large crowds.
History: Rashtrakutas to Kakatiyas
The temple’s original construction is attributed to the Rashtrakuta dynasty (8th–10th century CE), known for their rock‑cut cave temples at Ellora. The pillared mandapa and the octagonal pushkarini display the distinctive style of that era. Later, the Western Chalukyas and Kakatiyas (11th–14th century) renovated and expanded the temple, adding decorative pillars and the inner sanctum. The Ashtamukhi Pushkarini – an engineering marvel for its time – is carved from the natural hill rock and collects rainwater, providing a perennial water source for rituals. The temple’s architecture blends early Deccan rock‑cut elements with later medieval additions.
Spiritual & Architectural Highlights
Nearby Pilgrimage & Sightseeing
Basara Saraswati Temple (27 km): One of India’s two famous Saraswati temples, located on the banks of the Godavari. A must‑visit for seekers of knowledge and education.
Nizamabad Fort (12 km): An ancient hill fort with historical significance, offering views of the city.
Ali Sagar Lake (≈15 km): A scenic reservoir and garden, ideal for a picnic after temple visit.
Sarangpur Hanuman Temple (≈8 km): Another hilltop Hanuman shrine, also associated with Samarth Ramdas.
Kanteshwar Temple (≈10 km): A 12th‑century Shiva temple on the Manjira riverbank.
Pochera Waterfalls (≈75 km): A stunning seasonal waterfall in the Sahyadri range.
One‑Day Pilgrimage Itinerary (Nizamabad – Jankampet – Basara)
Morning – Jankampet Temple & Ashtamukhi Pushkarini
- 7:00 AM: Start from Nizamabad town (12 km, 20 min). Arrive at Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Jankampet.
- 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Climb the hill (gentle slope), take a holy dip in the Ashtamukhi koneru, offer prayers at the sanctum, and circumambulate the pillared mandapa. Spend time enjoying the hilltop views.
- 10:00 AM: Participate in the morning abhishekam and aarti (usually around 10:30 AM). Collect prasadam.
Late Morning – Basara Saraswati Temple (27 km)
- 11:30 AM: Drive to Basara (approx. 45 min).
- 12:15 PM – 1:30 PM: Darshan at Sri Gnana Saraswati Temple – the deity of knowledge. Write your child’s name on a slate for blessings.
- 1:30 PM: Lunch at Basara (temple canteen or local restaurants).
- 3:00 PM: Return to Nizamabad. Visit Ali Sagar Lake for sunset (optional).
- 6:00 PM: End of day.
Visitor Information – Jankampet Temple
Timings & Entry
Darshan hours: 6:30 AM – 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM (daily).
Special closing: The temple closes for a few hours in the afternoon. Plan accordingly.
Aarti / Abhishekam timings: Morning abhishekam ~10:30 AM, evening aarti ~7:00 PM.
Entry fee: Free. Donations accepted.
Best time to visit: October – March (cool weather). Shaniwar Amavasya dates – check Hindu calendar.
Location & Access
Address: Jankampet village, Nizamabad district, Telangana – 503003.
Distance landmarks: 2.5 km from Jankampet Bus Stand, 12 km from Nizamabad Bus Station, 27 km from Basara, 186 km from Hyderabad.
By road: Nizamabad is on NH44. From the city, take the Jankampet road – the temple is on a hill, well‑signposted.
Parking: Ample free parking at the base of the hill.
Facilities & Travel Tips
Available Facilities
- Clean restrooms (near base).
- Drinking water (RO and well water).
- Prasadam counter – pulihora, chakkera pongali, laddu.
- Small shoe stand (nominal).
- Sheltered seating areas for elderly.
- Flower and offering shops at the base.
Essential Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – the hill climb involves stone steps and slopes.
- Carry a change of clothes if you plan to bathe in the pushkarini (water is considered sacred; changing rooms are basic).
- Visit early morning or late evening to avoid harsh sun.
- On Shaniwar Amavasya, expect large crowds and long queues – arrive early.
- Combine with Basara temple for a full spiritual day.
- Photography allowed in the mandapa and pushkarini; ask before photographing the sanctum idol.
🙏 Insider tip: The Ashtamukhi Pushkarini is not just a pond – its eight sides are aligned with cardinal directions and are said to represent eight forms of Lakshmi (Ashta Lakshmi). When you take a dip, circumambulate the tank once before entering. If you cannot bathe, sprinkling a few drops of its water on your head is also considered purifying. Also, look for the ancient stone steps leading down into the water – they are original Rashtrakuta period work.
A Hill of Divine Protection and Sacred Waters
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Jankampet offers a unique combination of ancient architecture, natural beauty, and powerful spiritual traditions. The octagonal pushkarini, the fierce yet benevolent Narasimha deity, and the belief in relief from Shani Dosha draw devotees across state lines. A visit here – especially on a Shaniwar Amavasya – is a deeply fulfilling experience. The proximity to Basara Saraswati Temple makes it an ideal twin‑shrine pilgrimage from Nizamabad or Hyderabad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the temple open daily?
Yes, with a break from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM.
Can non‑Hindus enter?
Yes, the temple welcomes all.
What is the significance of the octagonal tank?
It is believed to be a self‑purifying sacred water body, and a dip on Amavasya (especially Saturday) removes Saturn’s malefic effects.
Is accommodation available near the temple?
There are no temple guest houses. Nizamabad town (12 km) has several budget hotels and lodges.
How long does it take to see the temple?
1–2 hours for darshan, bath, and circumambulation. Add time for meditation on the hilltop.
What is the best way to reach from Hyderabad?
Take NH44 to Nizamabad (approx. 180 km, 3.5–4 hours). From Nizamabad, drive 12 km to Jankampet. Buses and trains are also available.
Are there any restrictions on photography?
Outside the sanctum, photography is permitted. Inside the garbhagriha, it is generally not allowed. Ask the priest.
References & Further Reading
- Trawell – Sri Laxmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Jankampet
- Telangana Today – Large number of people visit Jankampet temple
- Nizamabad District Tourism