Kalahasti Vayulingam, Kālahasti, Andhra Pradesh

The Vayulingam temple is located in Kālahasti an important religious town in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is part of the 5 shiva temples known as Pancha-bhuta-sthalam, where each temple is dedicated to the 5 basic elements (fire, water, air, ether & earth). kālahasti is the Vāyu Sthalam i.e. it represents air. The temple and its main deity – Kālahastishwara, are praised in several Thevaram (Ancient Tamil devotional songs) composed by Nayanmars (Tamil Shaiva saints).

Legend
According to the Hindu epics, once Vāyu (devata of wind) performed a strict penance at this very spot for 1000 years continuously. He made a special Shivalingam made with Karpura(camphor) that resembles an elephant’s trunk. Astonished by Vāyus devotion, Shiva appeared before him and asked him if he wants any boons. Vāyu asked for three boons – 1. That he (Vāyu) will be present everywhere 2. That he will be present in the core of any Jīva (individual), and 3. That the camphor Shivalingam made by Him would become famous by His name ( this
the name Vāyulingam). On hearing these wishes, Shiva instantly bestowed them.

Architecture of Kalahasti Vayulingam, Kālahasti, Andhra Pradesh

History
The inner parts of the temple were constructed in the early 5th century. Its present outer structure was made by the Chola kings in the 11th century. Several other dynasties like the Vijayanagara dynasty patronized this temple and granted a huge amount of lands, riches, and cattle for its maintenance. King Krishnadevaraya built the famous 100 pillared halls here.

How to reach Kalahasti Vayulingam, Kālahasti, Andhra Pradesh?

By Train: Nearest railway station – Kalahasti

By Air: Nearest airport – Tirupati

By Bus: Buses are available from Chennai.