Penusila Lakshmi Nrusimha Swamy Temple, Penchalakona

This is a very ancient sacred place (pilgrim centre). Lord Narasimha manifested Himself here as in 'Yoga mudra' (in an entwined contemplative posture) and hence it acquired the name of 'Penusila' (huge rock) and in course of time became famous as 'Penchalakona'. Legend has it that after slaying the demon Hiranya Kasipa, Lord Narasimha bathed in Penchalakona and withdrew that 'Avatar' (incarnation) of Narasimha, shedding His anger and ferocity. The Lord here goes by the name of Somasila Narasimhaswamy and has become one of the  Nava Narasimhas (nine manifestations). People believe that because the sage Kanva resided in this area in the past, the river flowing here acquired the name Kanva Nadi and that with efflux of time it became Kandaleru. It is also learnt that the temple was renovated in the 10th century.