The Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple located in Draksharamam in Andhra Pradesh is one of the most powerful and historically significant Shiva temples in South India. The temple is famous for being both a Pancharama Kshetra and one of the Ashtadasa Shakti Peethas, making it a rare and highly revered pilgrimage destination.
The presiding deity Bhimeswara is worshipped alongside Manikyamba Devi, the divine form of Goddess Parvati. Because of its immense spiritual significance, the temple is often referred to as Dakshina Kashi, meaning the “Varanasi of the South.”
Built during the Eastern Chalukya period, the temple stands as a masterpiece of medieval South Indian architecture. Its towering stone structures, inscriptions, and rare two-story sanctum make it a remarkable spiritual and historical monument.
Even today thousands of devotees visit Draksharamam every year to seek blessings, perform Abhishekam, and witness the powerful presence of the sacred Shiva Lingam.
1. Daily Draksharamam Temple Timings
The temple follows a traditional schedule with a break in the afternoon.
Darshan Timings
| Session | Timing |
| Temple Opening | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break (Closed) | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | 8:00 PM |
Special Note
On Masa Shivaratri and during the holy month of Karthika Masam, the temple often remains open continuously from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM without the afternoon closure.
These days attract thousands of devotees.
2. History and Spiritual Significance
Draksharamam has deep mythological and spiritual roots connected with ancient Hindu legends.
The Legend of Daksha
The name Draksharamam is believed to come from Daksha-Arama, meaning the place connected with Daksha Yagna.
According to Hindu mythology, King Daksha organized a grand sacrifice but insulted Lord Shiva by not inviting him. Unable to bear the insult, Sati immolated herself in the sacrificial fire.
Later, when Vishnu cut Sati’s body with his Sudarshana Chakra to calm Lord Shiva’s grief, her left cheek is believed to have fallen at this sacred site.
This is why the temple is considered a powerful Shakti Peetha, where Goddess Manikyamba is worshipped.
Installation of the Lingam
According to temple legend, the towering Shiva Lingam of Bhimeswara was installed by Surya, the Sun God, to reduce its immense fiery energy.
The Lingam is believed to be made of crystal and stands around 14 feet tall, making it one of the tallest Shiva Lingams in India.
Royal Construction
The current temple structure was built during the reign of Bhima I in the 9th century CE.
The temple walls contain nearly 800 ancient inscriptions, which provide valuable information about the history of the region.
3. Daily Sevas and Pooja Schedule
Several sacred rituals are performed every day inside the temple.
Ritual Schedule
| Ritual | Timing | Ticket Cost |
| Abhishekam (Main Deity) | 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM | ₹60 – ₹300 |
| Kumkum Archana (Goddess) | 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM | ₹30 – ₹100 |
| Morning Aarti | 6:00 AM | Free |
| Evening Aarti | 6:30 PM | Free |
| Annadanam | 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM | Free |
Two-Level Darshan
Since the Shiva Lingam spans two floors, devotees can worship:
- the base of the Lingam from the ground floor
- the upper portion from the first floor.
This architectural feature makes the temple extremely unique.
4. Architectural Significance
Draksharamam Temple is a classic example of Dravidian temple architecture.
Two-Tiered Sanctum
The temple sanctum is built across two levels, a rare design in Indian temple architecture.
Devotees move between floors to view different portions of the massive Lingam.
Temple Walls and Inscriptions
The temple walls are covered with hundreds of inscriptions in multiple ancient scripts.
These inscriptions provide valuable historical records about temple donations, kings, and rituals.
Sapta Godavari Kundam
The temple tank called Sapta Godavari Kundam is believed to contain water from seven sacred rivers.
According to legend, the Sapta Rishis (seven sages) brought water from these rivers to perform the first Abhishekam for the Shiva Lingam.
The Incomplete Wall Legend
Local legend states that celestial beings known as Gandharvas built the temple wall overnight.
However, they had to stop when the sun rose, leaving one section of the wall permanently incomplete.
5. Major Festivals in 2026
Maha Shivaratri
The temple hosts grand celebrations with night-long worship and special Abhishekams.
Karthika Masam (Nov–Dec)
This holy month attracts thousands of pilgrims for Shiva worship.
Navaratri
Special rituals are conducted for Goddess Manikyamba during this festival.
6. Best Time to Visit Draksharamam Temple
Ideal Season
October to March is the best period to visit due to pleasant weather.
Best Darshan Time
Early morning 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM offers a peaceful spiritual atmosphere.
The temple is designed so that sunlight falls directly on the Shiva Lingam during early hours, creating a beautiful sight.
7. Dress Code and Visitor Guidelines
Traditional attire is recommended for temple visits.
For Men
- Dhoti or formal trousers
- Shirts must be removed for certain Abhishekam rituals.
For Women
- Saree
- Salwar Kameez with dupatta.
Temple Rules
- Photography is prohibited inside the sanctum.
- Footwear must be left outside the temple entrance.
- Devotees should maintain silence inside the prayer halls.
8. How to Reach Draksharamam Temple
The temple is located in the East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.
By Air
Nearest airport: Rajahmundry Airport
Distance: about 45 km.
By Train
Nearest railway station: Kakinada Town Railway Station
Distance: around 28 km.
By Road
Draksharamam is well connected by road.
Distance from nearby cities:
- Kakinada – 28 km
- Rajahmundry – 50 km
- Amalapuram – 40 km
Regular buses and taxis are available.
9. Where to Stay Near Draksharamam
Pilgrims can find accommodation in nearby towns.
Temple Guest Houses
Temple trust accommodations are available for devotees.
Nearby Hotels
Most visitors prefer staying in Kakinada or Rajahmundry, where several hotels and lodges are available.
FAQs
Q1. Why is Draksharamam Temple famous?
Ans: It is both a Pancharama Shiva temple and a Shakti Peetha.
Q2. How tall is the Shiva Lingam here?
Ans: Approximately 14 feet.
Q3. Is the temple sanctum two-storied?
Ans: Yes, devotees worship the Lingam from two different floors.
Q4. How long does darshan usually take?
Ans: About 30–60 minutes on normal days.
