Pathala Vinayaka Temple

At a depth of 35 feet, Pathala Vinayaka Temple is located at the northern door of Srikalahasti Temple. At the door to Sri Kalahasti Temple is the Pathala Ganapathi Temple. One stretch only lets ten people in at a time. This small shrine is unique. It was built about 30 feet below the ground. The temple is about 20 steps away. It's also not easy to get in through the first hole. 

The steps are too small and steep. Pathala Ganapathi isn't huge, and there isn't a priest there. Instead, people worship him with Karpura Harati. People who want to pray to Pathala Vinayaka have to wait in line for a long time. The Pathala Vinayaka Temple is one of the best places to visit in Srikalahasti.

The history of Pathala Vinayaka Temple

There wasn't a lot of water at Srikalahasti in the early days of Vayu Lingam's creation. There isn't enough water for the daily Pooja at the Temple, for Sages and Pilgrims to bathe in front of Lord Siva, and for Gnana prasoon Ambika darshan. The wise asked Maharishi Agastya to figure this out.

Sage Agasthya was sitting near the temple after getting to know Lord Vinayaka. He is taking it easy at Pathala Cave, northwest of Vayu Lingam. He did this after winning the big battle with Gajasura. Sage Agasthya prayed to Vinayaka with all his heart so that he could fix the water problem in this holy place.

Sage Agastya's sincere prayers have made Lord Vinayaka so happy that he has chosen to live at Pathala Cave. Lord Vinayaka then removed the sand from this spot so Pathala Ganga could be born. The Pathala Ganga water began to flow, quickly turning into a river. At that point, Lord Vinayaka told Sage Agastya to bathe in the Pathala Ganga. He said anyone who did so would have no problems completing their job.

What is the significance of the Temple?

The temple is essential for people. It is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. According to the local people, once a man forgot to pray to Lord Ganesha. Later, the river dried up. Later, the men prayed to the Lord, and Ganesha appeared deep underground. This is the reason the temple was built below. People visit the temple to get blessings and success. The Pathala temple is a must-visit during the Srikalahasti tour package.