Draksharamam Bhimeswara Temple: Pancharama Kshetra and Shakti Peetham Guide

Location

Presiding Deities

Main Deity: Lord Shiva as Bhimeswara Swamy
Consort: Goddess Parvati as Sri Manikyamba Devi
The Shiva Lingam here is believed to have manifested from the Sudarshana Chakra, linking it to Vishnu’s energy

Subshrines and Temple Layout

The sanctum is two-storied, with the Shiva Lingam installed at a lower level and Manikyamba Devi shrine on the upper floor.
The temple also features Yagasala, Mandapas, and a large prakaram with sculptural detailing

Temple Significance

Pancharama Kshetra: One of five temples where Shiva Lingams are believed to have formed from the shattered Sudarshana Chakra used by Lord Vishnu to kill the demon Tarakasura.
Shakti Peetham: Considered the 12th of the Ashtadasha Shakti Peethas, where Sati’s left cheek is said to have fallen.
Historical Importance: The temple has inscriptions dating back to the Chalukya and Eastern Chalukya dynasties, showcasing its ancient legacy.
Festivals Celebrated:

Spiritual Belief: Worshipping Bhimeswara and Manikyamba together is said to grant moksha and protection from planetary afflictions.

History

The temple dates back to the 9th–10th century CE, built during the Eastern Chalukya dynasty, particularly under King Bhima I.
It has inscriptions in Telugu and Sanskrit, chronicling royal donations, temple expansions, and cultural patronage.
Draksharamam was once a major center of Vedic learning, attracting scholars and pilgrims from across South India.

Legends

Pancharama Origin: After Lord Vishnu destroyed the demon Tarakasura using the Sudarshana Chakra, the pieces of the demon’s Shiva Lingam fell in five places—Draksharamam being one. Hence, it’s one of the Pancharama Kshetras.
Shakti Peetham: It is believed that Sati Devi’s left cheek fell here, making it the 12th of the Ashtadasha Shakti Peethas, where she is worshipped as Sri Manikyamba Devi.
Daksha Yagna Connection: The name “Draksharamam” is linked to Daksha’s Yagna, where Sati self-immolated. The site is considered sacred for both Shaivites and Shaktas.

Architecture

Built in Dravidian style, the temple features a two-storied sanctum—a rare architectural trait.
The Shiva Lingam is massive and installed at a lower level, while Manikyamba Devi’s shrine is on the upper floor.
The temple complex includes:

The outer walls and gopurams are adorned with carvings of deities, sages, and mythological scenes, reflecting Chalukyan artistry.

Rituals

Daily Puja: Includes abhishekam to Bhimeswara Lingam with water, milk, curd, honey, and ghee, followed by alankaram and aarti.
Manikyamba Devi Worship: Special Kumkumarchana and Lalita Sahasranama recitation are performed in the upper sanctum.
Pancharama Rituals: As one of the Pancharama Kshetras, the temple follows specific Shiva Lingam worship protocols linked to the Sudarshana Chakra legend.
Shakti Peetham Offerings: Devotees offer turmeric, kumkum, and sarees to Manikyamba Devi, honoring her as the 12th Shakti Peetham.

Major Festivals Celebrated

Maha Shivaratri (Feb–Mar): Night-long abhishekam, bhajans, and special darshan of Bhimeswara Swamy.
Sarannavaratri (Oct): Nine-day celebration for Manikyamba Devi with cultural programs and Devi alankaram.
Kartik Masam (Nov): Month-long Shiva worship with early morning snanam, deepa daanam, and temple processions.
Bhishma Ekadashi Kalyanotsavam (Feb): Symbolic celestial wedding of Bhimeswara and Manikyamba.
Margasira Shuddha Chaturdashi (Dec): Celebrated as Bhimeswara Swamy’s birthday.
Shasti Festival (Dec): Dedicated to Subrahmanya, observed with special pujas and abhishekam.

Beliefs and Spiritual Benefits

Moksha Granting Shrine: Worshipping Bhimeswara and Manikyamba together is believed to liberate devotees from the cycle of birth and death.
Planetary Protection: Devotees seek relief from Navagraha doshas and karmic afflictions through temple rituals.
Fulfilling Desires: Couples pray for progeny, health, and prosperity, especially during Kalyanotsavam and Navaratri.
Dakshina Kashi Status: The temple is revered as Dakshina Kashi, offering the same spiritual merit as Varanasi.

Temple Hours

Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Abhishekam Timings: 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM
Special Days: Extended hours during Maha Shivaratri, Kartika Masam, and Navaratri

Getting Here

By Road:

By Rail:

By Air:

Tips

Best Time to Visit: Kartika Masam (Oct–Nov), Maha Shivaratri, and Navaratri for vibrant rituals and cultural programs.
Dress Modestly: Traditional attire is preferred. Remove footwear before entering the temple complex.
Carry Puja Items: Flowers, bilva leaves, turmeric, kumkum, and coconuts are available near the temple.
Stay Options: Budget lodges and dharmashalas are available in Draksharamam and Ramachandrapuram. For better amenities, stay in Kakinada or Rajahmundry.
Photography: Allowed in outer prakaram but restricted inside the sanctum.
Local Offerings: Don’t miss prasadam counters and stalls selling herbal oils, rudraksha malas, and devotional books.