According to tradition, Sage Agasthya Maharshi travelled from Kasi (Varanasi) to South India on a Dakshina Yatra. On his way, he halted on the banks of the Godavari at Chennur. Pleased by the serene and holy atmosphere, he installed a Shiva Lingam and performed intense penance and puja. The lingam thus became known as Agastheeswaram. The temple derived its name from the sage – Agastheeswara Swamy Temple. It is believed that the sage’s spiritual energy still permeates the site.

One of the most remarkable features of this temple is the Akhanda Jyothi (continuous, unbroken lamp). It was first lit by a Brahmin priest named Jakkepalli Sadashivayya approximately 410 years ago. After his death, his sons and grandsons took over the responsibility of maintaining the flame. Today, the fourth‑generation descendant, Himakar Sharma, continues the tradition. The lamp is housed in a niche within the sanctum and is kept burning with ghee or oil, never allowed to extinguish – a symbol of eternal devotion and continuity. Devotees consider it highly auspicious to see the Akhanda Jyothi.

The temple has a well‑documented history of reconstruction. In 1289 AD, during the Kakatiya reign, King Pratap Rudra rebuilt and expanded the temple. However, about 20 years later, the army of Alauddin Khilji led by Malik Kafur invaded the region and destroyed the pyramidal tower (gopuram) of the temple.

Later, the great Vijayanagara emperor Sri Krishnadevaraya visited Chennur and, moved by the sanctity of the site, ordered the reconstruction of the temple. The details of these events are inscribed in Telugu and Kannada languages on a stone slab in front of the temple. These inscriptions are valuable evidence of the temple’s historical importance and the royal patronage it received.

The Godavari River generally flows from west to east. However, at Chennur, the river takes a sharp northward turn and flows in that direction for a distance of 5 kos (approximately 15 km). This unique phenomenon is called “Panchkosha Uttara Wahini”. A north‑flowing river is considered exceptionally sacred in Hindu tradition – akin to the Ganga at Varanasi. Devotees perform ash visarjan (immersion of ashes) at this spot, believing it brings salvation to the departed souls. The sacred stretch is also ideal for ritual bathing and pinda daan.

Godavari Pushkaram is a festival celebrated once every 12 years when Jupiter (Brihaspati) enters the Leo sign (Simha rasi). The next Godavari Pushkaram will be held in 2027. The Maha Pushkaram (Great Pushkaram) occurs once every 144 years – the last was in 2015, and the next will be in 2159. During these periods, lakhs of devotees flock to the river for a holy dip. The 12 days when Jupiter enters the rasi and the last 12 days when it leaves are considered most auspicious.

Pranahita Pushkaralu (for the Pranahita River, a Godavari tributary) is also celebrated when Jupiter enters Pisces (Meena rasi). The last Pranahita Pushkaralu was from April 13–24, 2022.

People from different communities travel from far‑off places to Chennur to immerse the ashes of their deceased relatives in the holy Godavari River. This ritual, known as Ash Visarjan, is performed here due to the sanctity of the Panchkosha Uttara Wahini. After the ritual, devotees have darshan of Lord Agastheeswara Swamy. The temple priests assist in performing the necessary rites.

By Road: Chennur is well connected to Mancherial and Bellampalli by state highways.

• From Hyderabad: 270 km via NH363 to Mancherial (approx 5–6 hours). From Mancherial, drive 30 km to Chennur.
• From Mancherial town: 30 km – regular buses and autos to Chennur village.
• From Bellampalli: 30 km.

The temple is located right on the riverbank at the edge of Chennur village. Parking is available near the temple.

By Rail: Nearest railway stations – Mancherial (≈30 km) or Bellampalli (≈30 km). Both are on the Hyderabad–Nagpur line. From the station, take a taxi or bus to Chennur.

By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈270 km).

October – February (Peak): Pleasant weather (12°C – 28°C), ideal for temple visits and riverside walks. The Godavari water level is comfortable for bathing.
March – May (Summer): Very hot – early morning visits only (6–9 AM).
June – September (Monsoon): The Godavari swells, making the river majestic but risky. The temple remains open, but approach may be affected. Ideal for photography of the full river.
Special event: Maha Shivaratri (Feb/Mar) – nightlong celebrations, large crowds. Godavari Pushkaram (2027) – plan well in advance.