Keesaragutta Temple, Secunderabad Overview

Keesaragutta Temple is a Hindu temple situated on the hill of Keesaragutta in Secunderabad. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his companions Bhavani and Shivadurga. Lord Laxmi Narsimha and Lord Rama with his wife Sita have different shrines dedicated to them. A huge pristine Hanuman idol stands right beside the temple.

The Temple has a Veda Pathshala where the students learn shlokas, rituals and Hindu scriptures. Thousands of devotees travel to visit the temple every year during Mahashivratri, there is a grand celebration of 5 days and the temple is absolutely packed during that time.

Daily Rituals at the Temple

6:00 AM - 6:30 AM : Suprabhata Seva
6:30 AM - 7:30 AM : Mahayana Poorvaka Rudrabhishekam
7:45 AM : Maha Aarti
8:00 AM - 12:45 PM : Abhishekam
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM : Temple is closed
3:00 PM - 7:00 PM : Darshan, Abhishekam
7:00 PM - 7:30 PM : Aarti, Mantra Pushpam

Architecture of the Temple

Keesaragutta Temple sports Dravidian architecture which dominates a Gopuram a typical example of Southern Architecture of Gopuram Gates. Archaeological excavations were done around the temple. It was found that the Shiva lingas and brick remnants belonging to the Chalukyan Empire were found on a hill north of the temple and near the hill’s water reservoir. Proof that Jainism and Hinduism co-existed during the reign of Vishnukundins in 4th and 5th century A.D. was also found. Prayer Halls, Yagya Shala and Fortification walls were unearthed on Keesaragutta hill.

Legend of the Keesaragutta Temple

There are no records as to when the temple was built, but there is a fascinating story leading to the formation of the temple. Legend has it that Lord Rama wished to absolve his sins for killing Ravana, a Brahmin. He decided to establish a shivalinga on the beautiful hill of Keesaragutta. Rama ordered Hanuman to bring a shivalinga from Varanasi. Hanuman was a little late in arriving with the Shivalinga and the auspicious hour was close by so Lord Shiva himself brought a Shivalinga to install. Hence the Shivalinga is Swayambhu and is called Ramalingeswara, which means Shivalinga established by Rama.

Devastated that he couldn’t reach in time to provide Shivalinga, Hanuman threw them in the valley. Even today many Shivalings can be seen scattered around the temple. Seeing this, Lord Rama placated Hanuman and promised him that he would be the first god worshipped in the temple. Lord Rama also named the hill after Hanuman, Kesargiri which was later changed to Keesaragutta.

How To Reach Keesaragutta Temple

Keesaragutta temple is located in Keesara Village, Telangana.
By Bus
The nearest bus stop to reach the temple is Keesara bus station located at a distance of 5.2 km. Direct buses to the temple are available from Secunderabad Junction.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Secunderabad railway station at a distance of 30 km.
Other Local Transport
To travel within the city buses, rickshaws and taxis are available.