The spectacular vistas of the river Godavari, the spiritual significance of the Ramayana, the unsolved mysteries of hot springs, and many other interesting features have made Bhadrachalam a celestial destination for both nature lovers and spiritualists. Many visitors throng to this landscape to immerse themselves in holiness and to capture the beauty of scenic nature. Today, on the auspicious day of ‘Sri Rama Navami’, we at Touringwala have brought to you this beautiful place, ‘Bhadrachalam‘, a sacred destination for all Hindus. Let’s take a look…
A Legend Surrounding the Sree Seetha Ramachandra Swamy Temple
Bhadrachalam, the abode of Lord Sri Rama, an epic character of the Ramayana, is revered by all. According to legend, Bhadra, an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu, performed penance atop the hill on the banks of the river Godavari in ‘Dandakaranya’. Pleased with the saint’s devotion, Lord Rama appeared before him, and the saint requested Rama to sit on his head. Later, the god bestowed virtue upon the saint and promised to settle atop the hill, which was hence named ‘Badradri’ after Bhadra.
Years later, Lord Rama appeared in the dream of a devotee named ‘Dammakka’ and revealed that the idols of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana were hidden in the vicinity of the hill, Badradri. The enthusiastic Dammakka searched for the idols and placed them in a locality, where they were worshipped.
Subsequently, ‘Kancharla Gopanna’, also known as ‘Bhakta Ramadas’, a great devotee of Rama, collected funds from the people and constructed the present temple.
Jewellery Museum
Within the temple premises, there is a museum showcasing the precious jewellery offered to Lord Rama, Seetha, and Lakshmana by Ramadas and others. Here, one can catch a glimpse of jewellery used by Rama and Seetha, such as ‘Chintaku Patakam’, ‘Rama Maada’, ‘Ravvala Molatradu’, ‘Pachala Patakam’, etc.
Parnasala
Parnasala, the picturesque locale where Lord Rama, along with his consort Seetha and brother Lakshmana, stayed during their exile, is another highlight. Visitors can admire the beautiful hermitage adorned with splendid idols of epic characters from the Ramayana. The serene ‘Seetha Vagu’ and the marks of Seetha’s saree on the riverbanks add to the charm. This enchanting locale is just 35 km away from the Bhadrachalam temple.
Ushnagundam at Gundala
Gundala, a small village now in Andhra Pradesh, just 5 km away from Bhadrachalam, attracts pilgrims and nature enthusiasts with its hot water springs. Located on the banks of the river Godavari, according to the Brahma Purana, Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara took their winter dips in these hot springs. Just dig a small pit on the riverbanks, and you will feel the warmth of the water.
Papikondalu and Perantalapalli
A pleasant cruise trip on the placid waters of the River Godavari amidst the Papikondalu renders unforgettable moments. To enjoy the cruise, one must reach Kunavaram, nearly 50 km away from Bhadrachalam. During the journey, visitors encounter the beautiful tribal village of ‘Perantalapalli’, where they can worship Lord Shiva in a serpent shade. The beauty of the village is indescribable; one must experience it firsthand.
How to Reach?
Numerous transport facilities are available to reach the temple, and there are a couple of trains from Hyderabad to Bhadrachalam Road, either via Badradri Kothagudem district (39 km away) or Khammam district (115 km away), Telangana, or Rajahmundry (178 km away) or Vijayawada (182 km away). The Governments of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh also provide bus facilities from every major station.
Where to Stay?
There is no need to worry about accommodation, as numerous facilities are available nearby the temple. One can stay at Government guest houses, Haritha tourist hotel, cottages, and many other private hotels.
Major Festivals
The temple celebrates festivals like Vaaggeyakara Mahotsavams, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, and Sri Rama Navami Brahmotsavams.
What are you waiting for? Immerse yourself in the pristine waters of the sacred river Godavari and capture the best moments of your life.
(PC: bhadradritemple.telangana.gov.in)