Draksharamam Temple

Draksharamam Bhimeswara Swamy Temple Darshan Timings, History & Temple Info

Explore Draksharamam Bhimeswara Swamy Temple darshan timings, history, and significance as a Pancharama Kshetra. Plan your visit to the "Dakshina Kasi" of Andhra Pradesh.

Draksharamam Temple - Darshan Timings, History & Temple Information

Step into the sacred "Dakshina Kasi" (Varanasi of the South) at the Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple in Draksharamam. This ancient powerhouse of spirituality is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in India, holding the rare distinction of being both a Pancharama Kshetra (one of the five great Shiva temples) and an Ashta Dasha Shakti Peetha (one of the 18 sacred seats of Goddess Shakti).

The temple is a masterpiece of divine energy where Lord Shiva resides as Bhimeswara Swamy and Goddess Parvati as Manikyamba Devi. Its massive granite walls and two-storied architecture have stood the test of time, drawing millions of seekers who wish to witness the 14-foot-high crystal Linga that is said to have fallen from the sky.

Plan your Draksharamam Temple darshan with our guide to experience the architectural grandeur of the Chalukyan era and the profound peace of the Godavari delta.

Special Darshan Assistance Available

Draksharamam Temple – Quick Info

• ✦Location: Draksharamam, Konaseema District, Andhra Pradesh
• ✦Deity: Lord Bhimeswara Swamy & Manikyamba Devi
• ✦Significance: A dual Kshetra (Shiva & Shakti) and part of the Trilinga Desa.

The Story of Draksharamam – The Abode of the Crystal Linga

The history of Draksharamam is woven into the very fabric of the Puranas. It is believed that during the Tripurasura Samhara, a giant Shiva Linga held by the demon Tarakasura was shattered into five pieces by Lord Vishnu. The largest piece fell here, at Draksharamam, and was installed by Lord Surya himself. This makes it a primary Pancharama Kshetra.

Another powerful legend identifies this as the site of Daksha Prajapati’s Yagna. According to the Shiva Purana, it was here that Sati Devi sacrificed herself in the sacrificial fire. The temple of Goddess Manikyamba within the complex is considered the spot where the left cheek of Sati Devi fell, making it one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas.

Architecturally, the temple was expanded in the 9th century by the Eastern Chalukyan King Bhima I. The structure is unique, featuring two levels; the priests perform the main Abhishekam to the top of the 14-foot Linga from the first floor, while devotees can view the base from the ground floor. The temple walls are inscribed with hundreds of historical records in ancient scripts, serving as a stone library of the region's royal past.

Devotees believe that:

• ✦A visit to Draksharamam is equivalent to a pilgrimage to Kashi.
• ✦Darshan here brings balance between the energies of Shiva (strength) and Shakti (wisdom).
• ✦Performing "Laksha Patri Pooja" here is highly meritorious for health and longevity.

Draksharamam Temple Darshan Timings & Schedule

Best Time for Darshan: Early mornings during the "Abhishekam" are highly recommended to see the upper portion of the massive Linga.

Festivals & Best Time to Visit

The temple atmosphere is electric during:

• ✦Maha Shivaratri: A massive celebration where the temple stays open through the night.
• ✦Karthika Masam: A month-long festival of lights; Mondays are particularly crowded and auspicious.
• ✦Navaratri: Dedicated to Goddess Manikyamba with special Alankarams.

Best Time to Visit:

• ✦October to March: The weather in the Konaseema region is pleasant and cool.
• ✦Early Morning: To avoid long queues and witness the morning rituals.

How to Reach Draksharamam Temple

• ✦By Air: Nearest airport is Rajahmundry (RJY), about 50 km away.
• ✦By Train:Kakinada Town (COA) and Rajahmundry are the closest major stations (approx. 30-40 km).
• ✦By Road: Well-connected by APSRTC buses from Kakinada, Rajahmundry, and Ramachandrapuram.

Hotels & Nearby Places

Stay Options:

• ✦Temple Guest Houses: Basic accommodation available via the Devasthanam.
• ✦Kakinada/Rajahmundry: A wide range of luxury and budget hotels.

Nearby Places:

• ✦Kotipalli Someswara Swamy Temple: Another Pancharama Kshetra on the banks of Godavari (12 km away).
• ✦Samalkot Bhimeswara Temple: Known as Kumararama, also a Pancharama site (35 km away).
• ✦Konaseema Backwaters: For a peaceful boat ride through Andhra’s "Kerala."

Plan Your Darshan

Planning a spiritual journey to the Pancharama Kshetras?

You can book:

• ✦Special Darshan Passes
• ✦Special Abhishekam & Archana
• ✦Konaseema Temple Tour Packages
• ✦Prasadam Delivery Services

Visit our dedicated page for assistance: [Vandan Darshan - Draksharamam Temple Special Darshan & Seva Booking]

Info & FAQs – Draksharamam Temple

Why is the Shiva Linga so tall at Draksharamam?

The Linga is approximately 14 feet tall and spans two floors of the temple. It is believed to be a piece of the original crystal Linga of Tarakasura.

What is the significance of the "Dakshina Kasi" title?

Similar to Kashi, Draksharamam is situated on the banks of the Godavari (often called the Vridha Ganga) and is a site of immense liberation (Moksha).

Is there a dress code for the temple?

Devotees are expected to wear traditional Indian attire. Men in dhotis or kurtas and women in sarees or suits.

How many Pancharama Kshetras are there?

There are five: Draksharamam, Kumararama (Samalkot), Ksheerarama (Palakollu), Somarama (Bhimavaram), and Amararama (Amaravathi).

Can we perform rituals for ancestors here?

Yes, being a "Kasi" equivalent, many devotees perform Pitru Tharpanam and other rituals on the banks of the nearby Godavari river.

Are mobile phones allowed?

Mobile phones must be switched off or kept in lockers before entering the inner sanctum. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main shrine.