Introduction
Nestled in the sacred village of Kolanupaka (Kulpak) in Aler Mandal, Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri District, Telangana, the Sri Chandikamba Sametha Someswaraswami Temple—popularly known as Kolanupaka Sri Someswara Temple—is one of the oldest Shaiva temples in South India.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Someshwara Swamy) and Goddess Chandika, the temple is revered for its Sahasralinga (Veyi Lingala Gudi), meaning "temple of a thousand lingas." Just a short distance away lies the ancient Kulpakji Jain Temple, making Kolanupaka a living testament to India’s spiritual harmony.
History and Architecture
Believed to date back to the Chalukyan period (1070–1126 CE), inscriptions reveal that Kolanupaka was once the second capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas. The temple received generous patronage from rulers who donated land, gold, and cattle.
Over time, the Kakatiyas expanded and renovated the structure, leaving behind their signature architectural elements—square mandapa pillars, ornate gateways, and lotus-carved ceilings.
The complex houses shrines of Sri Renukacharya, Sri Mallikarjunaswami, Chandeshwari, Veerabhadraswami, Kumaraswami, and others. The temple’s artistic features—such as the 12th-century Ganapathi and Nataraja idols—reflect both Chalukyan refinement and Kakatiyan grandeur.
Legends and Religious Significance
According to local tradition, Lord Rama, Sage Narada, and Sage Agastya once worshipped Lord Shiva here.
It is also believed that Renukacharya, founder of the Veerashaiva sect, was born from the Swayambhu Linga found in this village and merged back into it after spreading Veerashaivism. A life-sized statue of Renukacharya stands beside the main sanctum.
The Nyaya Lingam located in the Pramana Mandapam was once a sacred court for dispute resolution—where villagers sought divine justice.
The Temple Complex
The temple complex also contains an Archaeological Museum, displaying sculptures and artifacts from the 10th to 14th centuries, including:
- Mahishasuramardini idols
- Uma-Maheswara statues
- Chalukyan and Kakatiyan era Nandis and Vajrapani figures
Researchers regard this museum as an invaluable resource for studying Deccan temple art.
Trilinga Desam Connection
Kolanupaka is one of the three sacred Shiva temples forming the legendary Trilinga Desam—the origin of the name “Telangana.”
The other two are:
- Srisailam Mallikarjunaswami Temple (Kurnool District, AP)
- Draksharamam Bhimeswara Temple (East Godavari District, AP)
Festivals and Traditions
The grandest celebration is Mahashivaratri, observed in February or March, attracting thousands of devotees.
Equally important is Renukacharya Jayanti, organized annually by the Rashtra Veerashaiva Dharma Prachara Sangham. Pilgrims from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra gather to honor the saint’s legacy.
Community and Harmony
Kolanupaka is home to 18 traditional mutts, representing various castes and communities—symbolizing spiritual inclusiveness. These include the Pedda Matam, Golla Matam, Padmashali Matam, Komati Matam, and many others. This co-existence makes the temple a model of social unity and cultural dialogue.
How to Reach Kolanupaka
- Location: Kolanupaka village (Kulpak), Alair Mandal, Telangana
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (All days, including holidays)
- Nearest Airport: Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (~85 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Aler / Warangal
- By Road: Well-connected via Hyderabad–Warangal Highway (NH-163)
Suggested One-Day Travel Itinerary
- 8:00 AM – Depart from Hyderabad or Warangal via NH-163
- 10:30 AM – Visit Sri Someswara Temple: Explore sanctums, Sahasralinga shrine, Renukacharya statue, and Nyaya Lingam
- 12:30 PM – Kulpakji Jain Temple: Admire 1,500-year-old Mahavir idol and architecture
- 1:30 PM – Lunch at a local eatery or dhaba
- 3:00 PM – Archaeological Museum: View ancient sculptures
- 5:00 PM – Optional Visit to Yadagirigutta Temple or return to Hyderabad
Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: October–March (pleasant weather)
- Dress modestly; traditional attire preferred inside sanctum
- Photography may be restricted in certain areas
- Carry water and light snacks; limited eateries nearby
- Combine visit with Kulpakji Jain Temple and Yadagirigutta for a complete heritage circuit
Nearby Attractions
| Place | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kulpakji Jain Temple | 1 km | 1,500-year-old Jain shrine of Mahavir |
| Yadagirigutta Temple | 25 km | Abode of Lord Narasimha |
| Warangal Fort | 82 km | Kakatiya architecture |
| Ramappa Temple (UNESCO site) | 115 km | 13th-century Kakatiya marvel |
Conclusion
The Kolanupaka Sri Someswara Temple is more than an architectural wonder—it’s a living link between Telangana’s spiritual roots and cultural evolution. With its harmonious blend of Shaivism, Jainism, and Veerashaivism, this temple stands as a symbol of faith, tolerance, and timeless artistry.
Whether you are a pilgrim, historian, or traveler, Kolanupaka offers a rare glimpse into the soul of the Deccan—where stone, devotion, and history speak together.
FAQs
Q1: Who built Kolanupaka Sri Someswara Temple?
A: The temple was built and patronized by the Kalyani Chalukyas (11th century) and later expanded by the Kakatiyas.
Q2: Why is Kolanupaka famous?
A: It is home to both the Sri Someswara Shiva Temple and the Kulpakji Jain Temple, showcasing Hindu-Jain unity.
Q3: How far is Kolanupaka from Hyderabad?
A: About 85 km (2–2.5 hours by road).
Q4: What is the best time to visit?
A: From October to March, when the weather is pleasant for travel and sightseeing.
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