Sri Yaganti Uma Maheswara Temple is one of the most famous Shiva Temple in Andhra Pradesh state. The temple dates back to 5th and 6th centuries with contributions from Pallavas, Cholas, Chalukyas and Vijayanagara rulers.
The Uma Maheshwara Temple at Yaganti houses the idol of Shiva & Parvathi (Ardhanareeswara) carved out of a single stone. This is probably the only place where Lord Shiva is worshipped in an idol form instead of Shiva Linga. It is believed that Sage Agastya performed penance for Lord Shiva at this place and requested Shiva to appear in Ardhanareeswara form which is worshipped here. Another unique feature of the temple is Nandi statue which has been growing in the size.
History
On this location, the sage Agastya desired to build a temple for Lord Venkateswara. The statue, however, could not be mounted because the idol's toe nail was broken. The sage was upset and performed a penance for Shiva as a response. When Shiva appeared, he explained that the location is more suitable for Shiva because it resembles Kailash.
Agastya then demanded that Shiva create a Parvathi Goddess in the form of Lord Uma Maheswara in a single stone for the devotees, which Shiva did. and also one of the story also there , Chitteppa, a Shiva devotee, was worshiping Shiva when he saw Shiva as a tiger. Chitteppa recognized Lord Shiva in tiger form and exclaimed Neganti Shivanu ne kanti (meaning: I saw Shiva, I saw) while dancing joyfully. Nearby, there is a cave known as Chitteppa.
The best time to visit Yaganti is from October to March while the Peak Season is from February to March. Usually, it takes half a day to visit Yaganti.