Draksharamam Temple, also known as Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, is a major pilgrimage site in Draksharamam, East Godavari district, Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the Pancharama Kshetras dedicated to Lord Shiva and also houses Goddess Manikyamba, one of the Ashta Dasha Shakti Peethas. Temple About
The temple was built between 802 CE and 902 CE by the Eastern Chalukyan King Bhima I, showcasing Chola and Chalukyan architecture. The Spatika Linga (Crystal Lingam) inside the sanctum is 2.6 meters tall, making it unique among Shiva temples. Temple Address & Location
Address:Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, Draksharamam, Ramachandrapuram Mandal, East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, PIN - 533262.
Coordinates: Latitude: 16.7928° N, Longitude: 82.0734° E Temple Timings & Sevas
Timings:
Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM Sevas & Pujas:
Suprabhatam: 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM
Abhishekam: 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Alankaram: 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Special Abhishekam: 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Aarti: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM, 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Sarva Darshan: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Seva bookings are available at the temple counter. Special Festivals & Events
Maha Shivaratri – Grand celebrations with night-long prayers.
Navaratri & Durga Puja – Special pujas for Goddess Manikyamba.
Karthika Masam (Nov-Dec) – Sacred rituals and deepam lighting.
Sivarathri Brahmotsavam – A 10-day festival with processions and cultural events. How to Reach Draksharamam
By Road (Bus Routes)
Draksharamam is well connected by APSRTC and private buses:
From Kakinada: 30 km via Pithapuram Road.
From Rajahmundry: 50 km via NH216.
From Amalapuram: 25 km via NH216.
Taxis, autos, and private cabs are available. By Train
Nearest Railway Station:
Samalkot Junction – 12 km
Kakinada Town Railway Station – 30 km
Train Connectivity: Regular trains from Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Chennai. By Air (Air Routes)
Rajahmundry Airport (RJA) – 45 km
Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ) – 185 km
From the airport, taxis and buses are available. Accommodation & Food Facilities
Stay Options
Temple Guesthouse: Budget-friendly AC & Non-AC rooms available.
Nearby Hotels & Lodges: Available in Kakinada, Rajahmundry, and Samalkot. Food Facilities
Temple Annadanam: Free food during major festivals.
Local Restaurants: Andhra meals available in Draksharamam town.
For More Options: Visit Kakinada or Rajahmundry for a variety of cuisines. Nearby Cities & Attractions
Nearby Cities
Kakinada (30 km) – Coastal city known for beaches.
Rajahmundry (50 km) – Famous for the Godavari River and boat rides.
Amalapuram (25 km) – A scenic town with coconut groves. Nearby Temples & Attractions
Pancharama Kshetras (Shiva Temples):
Amararama (Amaravathi) – 320 km
Daksharama (Draksharamam)
Kumararama (Samalkot) – 12 km
Somarama (Bhimavaram) – 90 km
Ksheerarama (Palakollu) – 100 km Shakti Peethas:
Puruhutika Devi Temple, Pithapuram (35 km)
Sri Bala Tripura Sundari Temple, Tuni (85 km) Other Attractions:
Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary – 40 km (Mangrove forests, rare birds)
Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy Temple – 85 km Best Season to Visit
October to March: Pleasant weather, best for travel.
April to June (Summer): Hot and uncomfortable.
Festival Season (Shivaratri & Karthika Masam): Best for spiritual seekers. Shopping & Local Handicrafts
Kalamkari Paintings – Traditional Andhra fabric art.
Handloom Sarees – Pochampally & Mangalagiri Sarees.
Coconut & Wooden Handicrafts – Available in Amalapuram.
Kakinada Kaja & Andhra Pickles – Must-try sweets and pickles. Summary
Draksharamam Temple is a spiritual and architectural marvel, drawing devotees, history lovers, and tourists. It offers a perfect mix of pilgrimage, culture, and heritage exploration.
How to reach: Well connected by road, rail, and air.
What to explore: Spirituality, architecture, and nearby attractions.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Shopping Highlights: Handicrafts, textiles, and famous sweets.
Draksharamam Temple, a revered pilgrimage site in Andhra Pradesh, is an architectural marvel and a spiritual landmark. As one of the Pancharama Kshetras and a Shakti Peetha, it holds immense religious significance. The temple, with its 2.6-meter-tall Spatika Lingam and beautifully carved structures, offers a divine and peaceful atmosphere for devotees.
