Ahobilam

Ahobilam is a religious site with nine Hindu shrines in the Nallamala forest in India, divided into lower and upper sections. The shrines sit along a path that runs through dense woodland and rocky slopes, with some built into caves or beneath rock overhangs.

The site developed over several centuries as a pilgrimage destination and experienced raids in the 16th century that removed religious objects. Later rulers rebuilt some shrines and the site has remained a place of worship to the present day.

The name comes from Ahobala, a form of the god Narasimha, and the nine shrines lie scattered through the forest, each showing a different episode from sacred texts. Visitors often see pilgrims walking barefoot between the temples and stopping at natural springs.

The walk between shrines takes several hours and includes steep sections, so visitors should start early and wear sturdy shoes. Accommodation is found in surrounding towns, as the forest area offers only a few places to stay overnight.

Members of the Chenchu community perform specific rituals at the temples and act as guardians of some remote shrines. Their involvement links ancient forest traditions with the religious practices of pilgrims.