Nestled in the serene town of Draksharamam in Andhra Pradesh’s Konaseema district, the Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple stands as a magnificent testament to ancient Dravidian architecture and deep spiritual significance. This sacred shrine holds the unique distinction of being both one of the five Pancharama Kshetras dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas where a part of Goddess Sati’s body is believed to have fallen—specifically, her left cheek . This rare combination makes it one of the most powerful pilgrimage destinations in South India.
Built during the 9th to 10th centuries CE by King Bhima of the Eastern Chalukya Dynasty, the temple showcases a remarkable blend of Chalukya and Chola architectural styles . The towering Shiva Lingam, standing approximately 2.6 meters (9 feet) tall and carved from a single crystal, is one of the largest in India and occupies a unique two-storey sanctum—devotees can view the lower part at ground level and the upper part from the first floor .
Known reverently as Dakshina Kasi (the Kashi of the South), Draksharamam attracts thousands of pilgrims annually who come to seek blessings from Lord Bhimeswara Swamy and Goddess Manikyamba Devi . The temple complex features four majestic gopurams facing the cardinal directions, intricately carved pillars, and the sacred Sapta Godavari Kundam—a pond believed to contain the waters of seven streams of the Godavari River .
Draksharamam Temple 2026: Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple (Draksharamam / Daksharamam) |
| Location | Draksharamam, Konaseema District, Andhra Pradesh – 533262 |
| Primary Deities | Lord Bhimeswara Swamy (Shiva) & Goddess Manikyamba Devi (Parvati) |
| Spiritual Significance | One of the Pancharama Kshetras & 12th of 18 Shakti Peethas |
| Built By | King Bhima of Eastern Chalukya Dynasty (9th–10th century CE) |
| Architectural Style | Dravidian with Chalukya-Chola influences |
| Entry Fee | Free (Sarva Darshan); charges apply for special sevas |
| Official Booking Portal | https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in |
| Temple Phone | 08857-252488 |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rajahmundry (approx. 50 km) / Kakinada (28 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Rajahmundry Airport (approx. 50 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March; Karthika Masam (October-November) |
Draksharamam Temple Darshan Timings 2026
The temple follows a consistent daily schedule with an afternoon break. Based on multiple sources, here are the confirmed darshan timings for 2026:
| Session | Timings | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 6:00 AM | Monday – Sunday |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Monday – Sunday |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Monday – Sunday |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Monday – Sunday |
| Temple Closes | 8:00 PM | Monday – Sunday |
Special Festival Timings
During auspicious occasions, the temple extends its hours to accommodate the increased number of devotees:
| Occasion | Special Timings |
|---|---|
| Masa Shivaratri / Maha Shivaratri | 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM (continuous darshan) |
| Karthika Masam | 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
Best Time for Darshan
- Early Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM): The most peaceful time with fewer crowds; ideal for quiet meditation and participating in Abhishekam
- Weekdays: Significantly less crowded than weekends
- Karthika Masam (October-November): Spiritually vibrant period with special decorations and rituals
Aarti and Pooja Schedule 2026
The temple follows a rich tradition of daily rituals that devotees can witness and participate in. Here is the complete pooja schedule for 2026:
Abhishekam (Holy Bath of the Deity)
| Occasion | Timings |
|---|---|
| Regular Days | 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Karthika Masam / Masa Shivaratri | 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
Kumkum Archana (Vermilion Offering to Goddess Manikyamba)
| Session | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Session | 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM |
| Evening Session | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
Aarti (Lamp Ceremony)
| Aarti Session | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning Aarti | 7:00 AM |
| Afternoon Aarti | 12:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 7:00 PM |
Visitor Tip: The Abhishekam is particularly significant for those seeking blessings for health and prosperity, while the evening aarti offers a serene and uplifting spiritual experience .
Sevas, Poojas and Price Offerings 2026
The temple offers various sevas and rituals at different price points. General darshan (Sarva Darshan) is completely free, while special sevas can be booked online or at the temple counter.
Seva Ticket Prices 2026
| Seva / Pooja Name | Price (INR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Suprabhatam | ₹50 | Early morning wake-up ritual |
| Abhishekam | ₹200 | Sacred bathing of the Shiva Lingam |
| Special Abhishekam | ₹500 | Elaborate ritual bath with sacred substances |
| Alankaram | ₹150 | Decoration of the deity |
| Aarti | ₹100 | Participation in lamp ceremony |
| Ekadasa Rudrabhishekam | ₹200 | Vedic chanting ritual with eleven priests |
| Mahanyasa Purvaka Abhishekam | ₹50 | Detailed abhishekam with Vedic hymns |
| Laghunyasa | ₹30 | Simplified Vedic ritual |
| Sahasra Kumkumarchana | ₹50 | 1,000 offerings of vermilion to Goddess |
| Astottara Kumkumarchana | ₹30 | 108 offerings of vermilion |
| Sarva Darshan | Free | General darshan for all devotees |
Weekly and Monthly Sevas
| Seva Name | Day | Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Special Abhishekam | Every Saturday | ₹15 |
| Kumkumarchana | Every Monday | ₹15 |
| Masa Shivaratri Abhishekam | Monthly (Shivaratri) | ₹15 |
| Masa Shivaratri Kumkumarchana | Monthly (Shivaratri) | ₹15 |
Long-Term Seva Options
| Seva Name | Price (INR) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Samuhika Nitya Pooja | ₹1,000 | Abhishekam and Kumkumarchana for one year; prasadam posted monthly |
| Saswatha Kalyanam | ₹10,000 | Kalyanam performed for 10 years with donor’s gotra |
| Saswatha Pooja | ₹5,000 | Abhishekam and Kumkumarchana for 10 years on selected day |
| Saraswathi Pooja | ₹5,000 | Special pooja for 10 years |
How to Book Darshan and Seva Tickets Online
Booking online is the most convenient way to secure your darshan or seva slot, especially during festivals. The temple is managed under the Andhra Pradesh Endowments Department, and all bookings are done through the official portal.
Step-by-Step Online Booking Guide
Step 1: Visit the official AP Temples portal: https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in
Step 2: Create an account using your mobile number and set a secure password
Step 3: Log in to your devotee dashboard
Step 4: Select the temple: Choose “Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, Draksharamam” from the list
Step 5: Choose your seva or darshan type, select your preferred date, and pick an available time slot
Step 6: Enter devotee details accurately, including name, age, and gender for all participants
Step 7: Make payment using debit/credit card, UPI, or net banking
Step 8: After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation via SMS and email. Keep this confirmation for entry
Important: While online booking is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam .
How to Reach Draksharamam Temple
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Rajahmundry Airport – approximately 50 km from the temple
- From the airport, taxis and buses are readily available
By Train
| Station | Distance | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rajahmundry Railway Station | Approx. 50 km | Well-connected to major cities |
| Kakinada Railway Station | Approx. 28 km | Alternative station with good connectivity |
| Samalkot Railway Station | Approx. 40 km | Another option |
By Road
- Regular state transport buses and private taxis connect Draksharamam to Rajahmundry, Kakinada, and other nearby towns
- The temple is located approximately 6 km from Ramachandrapuram and 28 km from Kakinada
Local Transport
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available from nearby towns to reach the temple directly.
Accommodation Options Near the Temple
| Accommodation Type | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Choultry | Beside temple compound | Basic rooms with toilet and bath facilities; average amenities |
| Lodges | Ramachandrapuram (6 km) | Better facilities than temple choultry |
| Mid-Range Hotels | Rajahmundry (50 km) | Comfortable stays with modern amenities |
| Luxury Hotels | Kakinada (28 km) | Premium accommodations with full facilities |
Accommodation Tips:
- Book in advance during festival seasons (Karthika Masam, Maha Shivaratri)
- For more comfortable stays, consider Rajahmundry or Kakinada, which offer a wider range of hotels
Important Visitor Instructions and Dress Code
Dress Code
To maintain the sanctity of the temple, traditional attire is recommended:
- Men: Dhoti with shirt, formal trousers, or traditional wear
- Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or long skirts
- Avoid: Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing
Temple Etiquette
- Footwear: Must be removed before entering the temple premises
- Photography: Not allowed inside the sanctum
- Mobile Phones: Not permitted inside; locker facilities are available
- Silence: Maintain peaceful conduct inside the sanctum
Facilities Available
| Facility | Availability |
|---|---|
| Drinking Water | Available |
| Restrooms | Basic facilities available |
| Wheelchair Access | Ramps available for physically challenged visitors |
| Locker Facility | For storing belongings |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to March offers pleasant weather
- Avoid: Summer months (April-June) due to heat; if visiting, come early morning
- Carry Cash: Smaller shops near the temple may not accept digital payments
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially during warmer months
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Sapta Godavari Kundam | Within temple complex | Sacred pond with seven streams of Godavari; holy dip considered purifying |
| Daksha Yagna Homa Kunda | Near temple | Site where Daksha performed yagna; small tank with Sati idol |
| Kakinada Beach | 28 km | Scenic beach for relaxation |
| Rajahmundry | 50 km | Cultural hub on Godavari River; ISKCON temple, Godavari Bridge |
| Samarlakota (Kumararama) | 40 km | Another Pancharama Kshetra |
| Bhimavaram (Somarama) | 80 km | Pancharama temple |
| Palakollu (Ksheerarama) | 90 km | Pancharama temple |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What makes Draksharamam Temple unique?
A: Draksharamam is unique because it is both a Pancharama Kshetra (one of five Shiva temples) and a Shakti Peetha (one of 18 goddess shrines)—a rare combination . The Shiva Lingam is also one of the tallest in India, standing approximately 2.6 meters (9 feet) tall .
Q2: What are the Draksharamam Temple darshan timings for 2026?
A: Morning darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM; Evening darshan: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM. The temple is closed from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM daily .
Q3: Is there an entry fee for Draksharamam Temple?
A: No, general darshan (Sarva Darshan) is completely free. Charges apply only for special sevas like Abhishekam, Alankaram, and Aarti .
Q4: How can I book Draksharamam Temple sevas online?
A: Visit the official AP Temples portal at https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in, create an account, select Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, choose your seva, and complete payment .
Q5: What is the significance of Goddess Manikyamba at this temple?
A: Goddess Manikyamba is one of the 18 Shakti Peethas, where the left cheek of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen . She is worshipped as the consort of Lord Bhimeswara Swamy.
Q6: What is the best time to visit Draksharamam Temple?
A: The best time is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Karthika Masam (October-November) is spiritually vibrant but crowded. Early morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) offers the most peaceful experience .
Q7: What is the nearest railway station to Draksharamam Temple?
A: The nearest major railway station is Rajahmundry (approx. 50 km). Kakinada (28 km) and Samalkot (40 km) are also convenient options .
Q8: What is the dress code for Draksharamam Temple?
A: Traditional Indian attire is recommended. Men should wear dhoti or formal trousers; women should wear saree, salwar kameez, or long skirts. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops .
Q9: What festivals are celebrated at Draksharamam Temple?
A: Major festivals include Maha Shivaratri, Karthika Masam, Navaratri, Vinayaka Chavithi, Varalakshmi Vratham, and Sri Swamyvari Kalyanam on Bhishma Ekadasi .
Q10: Is photography allowed inside the temple?
A: No, photography is generally not allowed inside the sanctum. Photography may be permitted in outer areas, but always check with temple staff .
Q11: How tall is the Shiva Lingam at Draksharamam?
A: The Shiva Lingam is approximately 2.6 meters (9 feet) tall and is housed in a unique two-storey sanctum. Devotees can view the lower part at ground level and the upper part from the first floor .
Q12: Are there facilities for elderly or differently-abled visitors?
A: Yes, most Pancharama temples, including Draksharamam, have ramps and other facilities to accommodate physically challenged visitors .
Temple Contact Information
| Purpose | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Executive Officer, Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, Draksharamam, East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh – 533262 |
| Phone Number | 08857-252488 |
| Official Booking Portal | https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in |
| Nearest City | Ramachandrapuram (6 km) / Kakinada (28 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Rajahmundry Airport (50 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rajahmundry (50 km) / Kakinada (28 km) |
Conclusion
The Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple at Draksharamam is not just a place of worship—it is a living testament to India’s rich spiritual heritage and architectural brilliance. As one of the rare temples that serves as both a Jyotirlinga-equivalent (Pancharama Kshetra) and a Shakti Peetha, it offers devotees a unique opportunity to seek the combined blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti.
For your 2026 visit, plan your trip during the pleasant months of October to March, arrive early morning for a peaceful darshan, and consider booking your sevas online through the official AP Temples portal to avoid long queues. Whether you are performing Abhishekam to Lord Bhimeswara, offering Kumkumarchana to Goddess Manikyamba, or simply soaking in the divine energy of this ancient shrine, Draksharamam promises a deeply transformative spiritual experience.