Bhadrachalam, a serene town located on the banks of the sacred Godavari River in Telangana, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in South India. It is most famous for the Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, making it a spiritual epicenter for millions of devotees.
The legend of Bhadrachalam is deeply rooted in the Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, spent part of their 14-year exile in the nearby forests, specifically in a place called Parnasala. This deep mythological connection makes Bhadrachalam an important stop in the Ramayana trail.
The main temple was constructed in the 17th century by Kancherla Gopanna, famously known as Bhakta Ramadasu, a devotee of Lord Rama and a revenue officer under the Qutb Shahi kings. He was imprisoned for using government funds to build the temple. According to legend, Lord Rama appeared in the king’s dream to repay the money, leading to Gopanna's release.
The temple’s Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and gold-plated sanctum stand as a testament to both religious devotion and architectural beauty. It is especially famous for celebrating Sri Rama Navami, the birth and celestial wedding of Lord Rama, with grandeur and devotion.
Apart from the temple, Bhadrachalam is surrounded by lush greenery, river ghats, and religious spots like Parnasala, believed to be the site of Sita's abduction by Ravana. The town is also a gateway for Sabarimala pilgrims from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Whether you are a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a nature lover, Bhadrachalam offers a peaceful yet vibrant cultural and spiritual experience.
🔍 15 Interesting Facts About Bhadrachalam
- Located on the banks of the Godavari River.
- Home to the famous Sri Sita Ramachandra Swamy Temple.
- Temple built by Kancherla Gopanna (Bhakta Ramadasu).
- Believed that Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana lived here during exile.
- Nearby Parnasala is linked to Sita’s abduction.
- Celebrates Sri Rama Navami with grandeur.
- Features Dravidian-style architecture.
- Also called Dakshina Ayodhya (Southern Ayodhya).
- Lord Rama here is in Kodanda Rama form.
- Gold-plated sanctum attracts thousands of visitors.
- State government offers silk clothes to Rama annually.
- Important destination for Sabarimala devotees.
- Boat rides and river ghats are popular with tourists.
- Accessible from Khammam, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad.
- Part of the official Ramayana heritage circuit.