The temple is architecturally modeled after the Sri Yantra, the sacred geometric pattern used in Tantric worship.
It contains 108 individual shrines distributed across its three-dimensional levels.
The design follows the 'Navavarana' ritual format, where the devotee climbs levels representing different layers of the goddess's consciousness.
The temple was founded in 1985 by Dr. N. Prahalada Sastry, a former scientist at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research.
Unlike many traditional Hindu temples, the inner sanctums are open for devotees to walk through, allowing direct access to the idols.
The site serves as a research and training center for Sri Vidya tantric traditions.
Devipuram is a spiritual center famous for the Sahasrakshi Meru Temple, which is uniquely built in the shape of a three-dimensional Sri Chakra. The temple complex is situated at the base of the Eastern Ghats near Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh. It was established by Amritananda Natha Saraswati as a site for Shaktism, specifically focused on the worship of the goddess Lalita Tripurasundari. The main structure features a base of 108 feet, with internal sanctums arranged to represent the nine levels of the Sri Chakra yantra. Visitors move through these levels, representing various aspects of the goddess, before reaching the innermost sanctum. The architecture utilizes concrete and sculpture to create a walk-through meditation experience rather than a traditional viewing-only temple layout. The grounds include smaller shrines dedicated to various deities and a dedicated space for homas or fire rituals.
The top level of the temple, which offers a vantage point over the symmetrical geometric layout of the structure and the surrounding landscape.
Wear slip-on shoes as you will be required to remove them frequently at the various shrine entrances within the complex.
Carry a water bottle, as the walk through the multiple levels can be physically demanding in the local heat.
Look for the volunteer guides or ashram residents, as they can explain the complex symbolism of each of the nine levels.
Avoid visiting during the height of the summer midday sun, as the concrete structure absorbs significant heat.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is strictly required. Always remove footwear before entering any of the internal shrine levels.
