Kanipakam is a village located in Irala mandal of Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh in South India.
"Kani" means wetland and "Pakam" means flow of water into wetland.
Kanipakam is home to a popular Hindu temple of Lord Ganesha called as Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple. It was constructed in the early 11th century CE by the Chola king Kulothunga Chola I and was expanded further in 1336 by the Emperors ofVijayanagara dynasty. Local legends claim that the idol of Ganesha continuously grows in size. The temple was too small to be patronized by Chola and Vijayanagara kings. The temples of Cholas and Vijayanagaras are normally magnificent in size and grandeur. Most of the present structures are of recent origin and the present major developmental and construction activities of the temple are well supported by offerings given to the temple by the devotees. Ganesha is popular.
This temple became widely known only in the past 10–15 years. Prior to this it was popular only in and around the Chittoor district, but the AP government has been promoting tourism. In addition, the number of buses which run between Tirupati and the local temples allows pilgrims greater transportation flexibility.
Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple Front View
Elephant's blessing at temple
Gajaraju (Elephant) at temple