Bhadrachalam
Bhadrachalam is a proud, renowned temple city located on the banks of sacred River Godavari, Khammam district of Andra Pradesh and closely related to the great epic Ramayana. Throughout the year, it is flooded with thousands of devotees. The glistering festoon of this city is river Godavari which straps and adds the serene ambiance of this growing city and houses tremendous temples and sacred shrines. One can take a pleasant walk on the riverbanks. It is 312 km from Hyderabad. Boat journey from Burgampad and Rajamundry through River Godavari is an alluring voyage. Crystal clear water which mirrors the surrounding greenery, itinerant sand coupled with frisky wind promising 8 hours of enchanting, refreshing and lively journey. Astonishingly, there is no other mean to reach this destination. An overnight stay in tents on the banks of river is thrilling and stamps its uniqueness in the heart of every tourist. Sri Ramanavami, a holy wedding of Lord Rama and Sita is the glorious festival celebrated here. Tourists can also enjoy trekking at Papikonda ranges.
Many legends claims that this is the place where Sita is abducted by Ravana and Lord Rama crossed the majestic River Godavari to save Sita. It acquired its name from the sage Badra, a great devotee of Lord Rama, who did penance on the hillock of this place and became enlightened.
TOURIST PLACES IN BHADRACHALAM
Parnasala: Parnasala, a popular picnic village located where river Sabari and Godavari meets. It is the place of great historical and religious significance, located 32 km from Bhadrachalam. According to legends, it is the place where Lord Rama spent some years during his 14 years of exile and killed the golden deer Maricha. The river Godavari flows at the foot of its elevated land where Lord Rama temple stands. A small model hut shows lively paintings of Lord Ram, Lakshman and Sita and portrays events happened at this place. A rock displays foot print of Lord Rama and Sita. Chariot wheel marks, hoof marks of golden deer are easily seen in this place. Apart from its sacredness, one can enjoy the lush paddy fields and extensive greenery. Parnasala stood proud as a holy and rejoicing tourist destination.
Sri Sitaramachandra Swamy Temple: Most popular, 17th century shrine dedicated to Lord Rama, located in Khammam district of Andra Pradesh. This sacred temple is fabulously carved walls depicts incarnations and avatars of Lord Vishnu. One of the busiest temple of south India where Lord Ram found with bow and conch, creates impressions of Lord Vishnu is the characteristic attribute. The name of this temple acquired by an intimate idol of Sitaram where Sita devi is seated on the lap of Lord Rama is another prominent attraction of this temple. Festivity months are March and April. During this time, serene atmosphere of this temple turns to place of pomp and gaiety for the holy matrimony of a Lord Ram and Sita.
Abaya Anjeneya Temple: This temple is recently originated, constructed in 1998 and becoming popular among tourists and devotees. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the intense disciple of Lord Rama and swarmed by devotees during Tuesdays, which is considered sacred and holy for Lord Anjeneya. Located 2 km from Bhadrachalam bus stop. Several carved images and sculptures of god and goddess, marble floor and tidy temple walls and premises are definitely makes devotees and tourists to the temple spellbound.
Bhadrachala Rama Temple: Another popular temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. This temple comprises of several smaller temples. Among them Lord Shiva and Narasimha temples are most famous. It is located 35 km from Bhadrachalam. Within the complex of this temple, there is a small museum, displays ancient jewels of deities.
Dummuguedem: It is an island connected by a bridge, believed to be built with ash of 14000 demons killed by Lord Rama and has history of more than 100 years and one of the two barrages used for transportation by British government. A famous festival called Muthylamma Jathara, conducted once in every 2 years. It is worth to visit for its relaxing picturesque beauty and tranquil surroundings.
Other Places: Sabari where a woman devotee of Lord rama took the form of river and joined with River Godavari, Jatayu Paaka where fight between Jatayu, a holy bird and Ravana took place.
Excursions are available from Bhadrachalam to Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajahmundry, Guntur, Nellore, Eluru, Srisailam and Warangal.
HOW TO REACH BHADRACHALAM
By Air: Rajamundry Domestic Airport, Hyderabad and Chennai International Airports are the nearest Airports, located 325 km from Bhadrachalam. These airports are well connected with major cities of India.
By Train: Bhadrachalam Road Station is the nearest railway station, known as Kothagudem, located 40 km from Bhadrachalam.
By Road: District Khammam, 120 km from Bhadrachalam and State capital Hyderabad, 325 km from Bhadrachalam are well connected by private and state owned buses.
Weather: Average temperature ranges from low as 20 °C to maximum of 38 °C
March to October months are ideal to plan visit. Temples are best viewed in the month of April to June.