Nestled in the fertile Konaseema district of Andhra Pradesh, the Draksharamam Temple, dedicated to Lord Bhimeswara Swamy (Shiva) and Goddess Manikyamba, is a beacon of immense spiritual power and ancient heritage. This temple holds the dual distinction of being one of the five sacred Pancharama Kshetras and the 12th of the Ashtadasha Shakti Peethams, places where body parts of Goddess Sati are believed to have fallen. According to legend, the left cheek of Sati fell here, making the site exceptionally significant.
The temple’s name, derived from ‘Daksha’ and ‘Arama’, translates to the ‘Abode of Daksha’, linking it to the mythological sage. The main deity, Lord Bhimeswara, is worshipped as a towering 2.6-meter-tall “Spatika Linga” made of crystal, which is considered one of the tallest of its kind. Built between the 9th and 10th centuries by King Bhima of the Eastern Chalukya dynasty, the temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, sprawling over 12 acres with fortress-like walls, intricate carvings, and hundreds of historical inscriptions.
Temple Overview at a Glance
| Detail Category | Specific Information for Draksharamam |
|---|---|
| Primary Deity | Lord Bhimeswara Swamy (Shiva) and Goddess Manikyamba (Shakti) |
| Location | Draksharamam, Konaseema District, Andhra Pradesh – 533262 |
| Architectural Era & Style | 9th-10th Century CE; Dravidian (Chalukyan and Chola styles) |
| Spiritual Significance | One of the Pancharama Kshetras and the 12th Shakti Peetha (Left cheek of Sati) |
| Major Annual Festivals (2026) | Maha Shivaratri (Feb-Mar), Sri Swamyvari Kalyanam (Bhishma Ekadasi), Karthika Masam (Nov), Navaratri (Oct) |
| Official Online Booking Portal | https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in (Andhra Pradesh Temples Management System) |
| Official Contact Number | 08857-252488 |
| Entry Fee for General Darshan | Free of Cost |
Daily Darshan Timings and Ritual Schedule
The temple operates with a specific daily schedule, including an afternoon break. Timings are extended on special festival days. Below is the typical schedule for 2026:
| Activity / Session | Morning Timings | Afternoon Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 6:00 AM | — |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | — |
| Temple Break (Closed) | — | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | — | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | — | 8:00 PM |
Important Ritual Timings:
- Abhishekam (Holy Bath): 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM on regular days. During Karthika Masam and Masa Shivaratri, it starts earlier from 5:00 AM.
- Aarti Ceremonies: Morning Aarti at 7:00 AM, Afternoon Aarti at 12:00 PM, and Evening Aarti at 7:00 PM.
- Special Festival Days: On days like Maha Shivaratri, the temple often remains open for continuous darshan from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Sevas, Poojas, and Price Offerings (2026)
Devotees can participate in various sevas (ritual services) and poojas. While General Darshan (Sarva Darshan) is free, special rituals require tickets. Please note that prices are subject to change; always verify with the temple authorities or official website.
Note on Advanced Sevas: The temple also offers many other significant rituals like Ekadasa Rudram, Laksha Patri Puja, and Sahasra Kumkumarchana. For booking these and other specific sevas, check with the temple office or the official website.
How to Reach Draksharamam Temple
The temple is well-connected by road. Here are the main access points:
- By Air: The nearest airports are Rajahmundry Airport (approx. 50 km away) and Visakhapatnam Airport (approx. 200 km away). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Draksharamam.
- By Train: The closest major railway stations are Rajahmundry and Kakinada. Samalkot Junction is another nearby station. Draksharamam also has its own small railway station, which is about 2 km from the temple. From any of these stations, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are readily available.
- By Road: The temple town is connected by a good network of state and national highways. Regular bus services (both state-run APSRTC and private) operate from cities like Rajahmundry, Kakinada, Amalapuram, and Visakhapatnam directly to Draksharamam.
How to Book Darshan and Seva Tickets
To ensure a smooth experience, especially during festivals, advance online booking is highly recommended. The Government of Andhra Pradesh manages all bookings through a centralized portal.
Online Booking Procedure:
- Visit the official website: https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in.
- Create a devotee account using your mobile number and a password.
- Log in and select “Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, Draksharamam” from the list of temples.
- Choose the type of Seva or Darshan you wish to book, select your preferred date and time slot.
- Fill in the required devotee details (name, age, gender).
- Proceed to make the payment securely using debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking.
- You will receive a confirmation SMS and email. Carry this e-ticket and a valid photo ID to the temple.
On-Site Booking: Tickets for many sevas can also be purchased directly at the temple counter, which opens early in the morning. However, availability for popular rituals during festivals may be limited.
Nearby Attractions to Visit
The region around Draksharamam is culturally rich. After your temple visit, you can explore these nearby places:
- Other Pancharama Temples: Since Draksharamam is one of the five, you can plan a pilgrimage to the other four: Amararama, Somarama, Ksheerarama, and Kumararama.
- Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near Kakinada, it is a beautiful mangrove forest. You can see different birds, crocodiles, and other wildlife. It is a nice place for a boat ride in nature.
- Rajahmundry: A major city on the banks of the Godavari River. You can see the famous Godavari Bridge, visit the ISKCON temple, or take a scenic boat cruise on the river.
- Kakinada: A port city known for its beaches like Kakinada Beach and Uppada Beach, famous for its handloom silk saris.
- Sapta Godavari Kundam: A sacred pond located within the Draksharamam temple complex itself, believed to be formed by the confluence of seven underground streams of the Godavari River.
Important Instructions for Visitors
Following temple etiquette ensures a respectful and hassle-free visit for everyone.
- Dress Code: Traditional and modest attire is expected and respected. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti, pancha, or kurta-pyjama. Women should wear a saree, salwar kameez, or half-saree. Avoid shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops.
- Footwear: Removing footwear is mandatory before entering the temple complex. Paid shoe-keeping facilities are available outside.
- Photography: Photography is generally not allowed inside the main sanctum (garbha griha) of the temple. You may take pictures of the outer architecture, but always look for signs or ask for permission.
- Security and Belongings: The temple can get very crowded. Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your personal belongings at all times.
- Silence and Decorum: Maintain a calm and respectful silence inside the temple premises, especially near the sanctums. Follow the instructions of the temple staff and security personnel.
- Festival Visits: If you plan to visit during major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, expect massive crowds. Plan your journey well in advance, book accommodation early, and be prepared for longer waiting times.
Accommodation Options in and around Draksharamam
Various accommodation options are available to suit different budgets, from simple temple lodgings to private hotels in nearby towns.
Dos and Don’ts at the Temple
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Do dress in clean, modest, and traditional attire. | Don’t wear leather items (like belts, wallets) into the inner sanctum. |
| Do join the queue patiently and follow the designated path for darshan. | Don’t push or rush, especially in crowded areas. |
| Do make your offerings and donations at the official Hundi (donation box). | Don’t hand over cash or valuables to unauthorized persons claiming to be priests or guides. |
| Do participate in rituals with sincere devotion and follow the priest’s guidance. | Don’t try to touch the main idol or enter restricted areas. |
| Do maintain the sanctity of the temple by keeping the premises clean. | Don’t litter; use the designated trash bins. |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Temple
What is so special about the Draksharamam Lingam?
The primary deity, Lord Bhimeswara, is a Swayambhu (self-manifested) Spatika Lingam made of crystal. It is extraordinarily tall at 2.6 meters and is believed to have unique, natural black stripes. On Maha Shivaratri, the cloth covering it is removed for a special darshan.
Can I perform a seva on behalf of my family?
Yes, you can book and perform most sevas on behalf of your family members. You will need to provide their names and details (like Gotra, Nakshatra) during the booking process.
Is there a best time to visit?
The winter months (October to March) offer the most pleasant weather. For a grand spiritual experience, visit during Maha Shivaratri or Karthika Masam, though these are also the most crowded times.
What is the significance of the Sapta Godavari Kundam?
This sacred pond within the temple complex is believed to be formed by seven underground streams of the Godavari River. Its water is considered holy and is used in temple rituals.
Are there facilities for senior citizens or the differently-abled?
While the temple has many old structures and steps, basic assistance is usually available. It’s advisable to inform the temple office in advance or seek help from the staff present at the entrance.