Kumararama


Kumararama or Bhimarama is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras that are sacred to the Hindu god Shiva. The temple is located in Samalkota of East Godavari district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The other four temples are Amararama at Amaravati, Draksharama at Draksharama, Ksheerarama at Palakollu and Somarama at Bhimavaram. It is one of the centrally protected monuments of national importance.

Temple

The temple is 1 kilometer from Samarlakota City. The limestone Linga, installed in the shrine, is 16 feet tall that it rises from the pedestal on the ground floor and enters the second floor by piercing the roof, where the Rudrabhaga is worshipped. The temple has a mandapam that is supported by 100 pillars and is of great architectural importance. The temple has an Ekasila Nandi guarding the Shiva Lingam at the entrance of the temple. The temple resembles the other Pancharama temple at Draksharama which is also called Bhimeswara Alayam. To the East side, there is a mantap called Koneti. Pushkarni lake can be seen here.
The construction of the temple was started in AD 892 and was completed during 922.here the Linga is made of limestone and appears white. From 1340–1466 during Musunuri Nayaks the temple was reconstructed. Kakatiya style of architecture is adopted by Musunuri Nayaks. Here the Goddess is also known as Bala Tripura Sundari.

Festivals

During November–December months daily Abhisheka is carried out. There will be Utsavam during February–March time. Till Maha Shivarathri grand celebrations in the temple can be seen. Temple timings are from morning 6.00am to 12.00 noon and after noon 4.00pm to 8.00pm. Additional places of interest around Samalkot include Draksharama, Annavaram, Thalupulamma Thalli and Rajahmundry.

photo gallery