Inheritage Foundation
Preserving Our Past, Enriching Our Future
Documenting and digitizing India's architectural heritage, one site at a time
Bhadrachalam Temple
Bhadrachalam (Bhadradri Kothagudem District), Telangana, India, Telangana
Temple
South Indian Temple Style
Qutb Shahi Period / Medieval
Major Pilgrimage Site (Rama), managed by Endowments Dept./Trust.
Year Built
1674
Built By
Kancherla Gopanna (Bhakta Ramadasu) - Rebuilt/expanded in 17th century
Patronage
Golconda Sultanate (funds arranged by Ramadasu), Later rulers, Devotees
Bhadrachalam Temple
overview
Overview data: 0% complete
Heritage Overview
Temple
Bhadrachalam Temple
Situated on the banks of the Godavari River in Bhadrachalam, Telangana, this prominent temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Known as Sri Sita Ramachandraswamy Temple, it holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, particularly associated with events from the Ramayana. The temple complex showcases intricate carvings and attracts legions of devotees, especially during Sri Rama Navami celebrations. It's a key pilgrimage destination in South India, revered for its spiritual ambiance and connection to Lord Rama's legendary life.
Location
Bhadrachalam (Bhadradri Kothagudem District), Telangana, India(Telangana)
Year Built
1674
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
Approx. 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
General entry free; fees apply for specific sevas (e.g., Kalyanam).
Heritage Status
Major Pilgrimage Site (Rama), managed by Endowments Dept./Trust.
Preservation Status
Good, ongoing maintenance for active temple.
Historical Context
While local lore connects the site to Rama's exile, its prominence surged in the 17th century due to Bhakta Ramadasu (Kancherla Gopanna). Appointed Tahsildar by Abul Hasan Qutb Shah ('Tana Shah'), the last Golconda Sultan, Ramadasu used state funds for temple renovation, leading to his imprisonment. The legend of Rama and Lakshmana miraculously repaying the Sultan secured his release and cemented the temple's fame. This history reflects the complex interactions between Hindu devotional traditions and Deccan Sultanate rule.
Archaeological Survey
Endowments Department, Telangana Govt. / Temple Trust.
Location Map
Architectural Details
South Indian Temple Style
Qutb Shahi Period / Medieval
Built by
Kancherla Gopanna (Bhakta Ramadasu) - Rebuilt/expanded in 17th century
Materials
Stone (primarily), Stucco
Dimensions
Height46m
Featured Image
Excavation Details
No major excavations reported. Significance based on Ramayana connections and historical accounts of Kancherla Gopanna (Bhakta Ramadasu) rebuilding the temple in the 17th century.
Restoration Work
Periodic renovations and maintenance by Endowments Dept./Trust.
Patronage
Golconda Sultanate (funds arranged by Ramadasu), Later rulers, Devotees
Construction Technique
Stone masonry, Stucco work, Carving
Architectural Influences
2 items
Building Techniques
Gopuram construction, Pillared halls, River bank construction
Coordinates
17.666900, 80.882800
Accessibility Info
{"notes":"Large temple complex requiring walking. Steps likely present to access different levels or sanctum. Potential crowding.","restrooms":"Available, variable condition","wheelchair_accessible":"Limited/Partial (assistance needed)"}
Visitor Facilities
8 items
Best Visit Times
Winter (November to February) provides the most comfortable climate. Summers (March-May) are extremely hot. Sri Rama Navami period is highly auspicious but draws massive crowds. Visiting early morning helps avoid peak rush.
Seasonal Events
3 items
Visitor Restrictions
Traditional Indian attire strongly preferred (Dhoti/Kurta for men, Saree/Chudidar for women). Footwear removed. Photography inside the main sanctum is prohibited. Be mindful of Godavari river conditions, especially during monsoon.
View Count
7
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
67
Completion Status
in-progress
Created By
68408625-44a5-46e3-b746-71290aac1079
Created At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00
Updated At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00