Matsyagundam

Matsyagundam is in the Valley of Araku, about 115 km from Vizag, which is in the Indian province of Andhra Pradesh. People often call it the "fish pool," many people go there. Many kinds of fish live in this small village. 

It is also famous for the Temple of Sri Matsya Lingeswara Swamy, an old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The stream is popular with tourists, and some exciting legends are connected to it. However, the Matsyagundam is worth visiting during the Araku tour packages.

Rocks block the river, and the stream goes into a big hole and disappears under the rocks, only to show again about 100 yards lower. Right where it comes out from under the wall, it makes a pool full of fish of all sizes. Now that steps are available, you can go straight up to the pool. The Matsyagundam is one of the best places to visit in Araku Valley.

Matsyagundam history

It's been around for about 100 years. This temple to Lord Shiva has a connection with so many stories. In Gemili, a fight has happened between the Singarajulu (snakes) and the Matsyarajulu (fish). During the battle, Mother Fish hid all the fish from the snakes and brought them all to this village. People say that the fish have lived here since then. This small village got its name Matsya Gundam because of this. Many people still think that Sri Matsyalingeswara Swamy is watching over the fishes.

Because of this belief, the people who live in the town don't hunt or eat fish. The people of this village get together for the three-day festival. The Maha Shivarathri holds pujas and other cultural events known as "jatara" in the area.

The best time to visit

Some say Maha Shivaratri is the best time to visit Matsyagundam in the Araku Valley. A hundred-year-old temple, Lord Shiva's Statue, and a waterfall make Matsyagundam a popular place for a walk. Many followers come to the area during the Shivaratri Festival and the Karthika Masam Festival Season. Some say that July through October is the best time to see the waterfalls and green hills.