Edupayala Jatara

Built-in 12th Century, Edupayalu Vana Durga Bhavani temple is one of the most famous and powerful pilgrim destinations in the region, dedicated to Goddess Kanakadurga. This is a picturesque shrine located amidst the lush green forest and natural stone formations inside a den. The location marks the confluences of seven rivulets into the Manjeera River and hence the name Edupayala, which means Edu (seven) and Payalu (streams). The temple is also famous for Jatara (fair), a three-day grand affair celebrated during Shivaratri in the month of February. With hundreds of devotees pitching up their makeshift tents around the Edupayala Vana Durga Bhavani temple, the stage is set for a three-day event attracting more than 5 lakh pilgrims. In the rainy season, the river water flows in heights and reaches the foot of the goddess. Edupayala Jatara is accorded as State Festival status and is the second largest congregation of devotees after the Samakka Saralamma Jatara.