Mahanandi
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Mahanandi is located to the east of Nallamala hill ranges in Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is a picturesque village surrounded by thick forests. About 15 km radius from Mahanandi, you can see nine Nandis known as "Navanandis" and Mahanandi is one of the Nava Nandis. The Mahanandiswara Swamy Temple, an important shrine, is located here. A famous festival is held here annually during February and March to celebrate Shivaratri.
The ancient temple dates back to over 1500 years. The inscriptions of 10th century tablets speak of the temple being repaired and rebuilt through successive ages by many kings.
The temple is famous for its fresh water pools. The main temple is surrounded by three pools. Two small pools at the entrance and one big pool inside the temple premise. This Holy tank is of sixty square feet with a Mantapa in the centre. The inlets and outlets of the tank are so arranged that the depth of the water is constantly kept at five feet, thus enabling all pilgrims to have a plunge. The source of supply of water to this tank has not been traced until now. The water is seen flowing into the tank through some inlets that have been built. But their exact location is still a mystery. The water is famous for it's crystalline pure and healing qualities and is ever tepid. The outlet of the water feeds 2,000 acres (8.1 km²) of fertile land surrounding the Mahanandi village. The surrounding areas are green and lively with rice fields, fruit, vegetable and flower gardens.
The specialty of the water source is, it has a constant flow irrespective of change of seasons. The water source originates at the Garbhagruha just below Swayam Bhu Linga. One can touch the water near the Shiva linga.
The best part is, the devotees can offer prayers and touch the Shiva Linga. (Traditionally at temples, the main deity will be kept out of touch for the devotees.)
Mahanandi is about 16 km from Nandyal. The nearest airport is at Hyderabad, which is about 219 km from Kurnool and the nearest railway station is at Nandyal.
Mahanandi has also inspired a food website called "Mahanandi" http://www.nandyala.org/mahanandi/, on Indian cuisine.
