Agasthya Cave / Rokalla Guha - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 500 meters from Yaganti Bus Stand and 200 meters from Uma Maheshwara Temple, Agasthya Guha (cave), also known as Rokalla Guha is the cave where Sage Agastya performed the Penance for Lord Shiva. It is situated on eastern side of Venkateswara Guha.

While travelling in South India, Sage Agastya came across this place and he wanted to build a temple for Lord Venkateswara. However, the statue that was made could not be installed as the toe nail of the deity got broken. Sage Agastya was upset over this and he performed a penance for Lord Shiva. When Lord Shiva appeared, he asked the Lord the reason why he could not install Lord Venkateswara statue. Lord Shiva replied that the place suits Shiva better as the hills resemble Kailasha. Agastya then requested Lord Shiva to give the darshan to devotees along with Goddess Parvathi as Uma Maheswara in a single stone, which Lord Shiva obliged.

This cave can be reached by climbing very steep steps. There is a Shivalinga at the top of the cave which was believed to be installed by Sage Agasthya for his meditation. The path to cave also provides panoramic view of the temple complex and surrounding hills. The steps are very steep and kids and elders have to be very careful, especially, while climbing down the cave.