Sri Sita Ramachandraswamy Temple, Bhadrachalam

Sthala Puranam

In the Treta Yuga, a stone was given human form by Rama's grace. This was Bhadra, a devotee of Rama. Narada gave him a mantra, and he chanted it on the banks of the Godavari. Rama promised to visit him after finding Sita.

Rama did not keep that promise during his lifetime. Later Vishnu appeared before Bhadra in Rama's four-armed form to fulfil it. The hill is called Bhadrachalam, Bhadra's hill.

In the 17th century, Kancherla Gopanna, known as Bhadrachala Ramadasu, is remembered for building or repairing the temple and for his devotional songs. Popular stories about his life lack historical proof.

Speciality

• The Sri Sita Ramachandra Thirukalyana Mahotsavam is held around Sri Rama Navami and is the main event of the annual Brahmotsavam.
• On Vaikuntha Ekadashi devotees pass through the temple's northern gate, the Vaikuntha Dwaram.
• The temple is beside the Godavari river.

Festivals

• Sri Rama Navami Kalyanam (March–April)
• Vaikuntha Ekadashi

How to reach

Before you go

• Dress modestly. Leave footwear outside the temple.
• Timings, ticket rules and dress codes change. Check the temple's own notice or website before you travel.
• Book darshan, rooms and special poojas only at the official counter or website, not through agents.
• Rama Navami is extremely crowded. Book stay and travel a month ahead.

Prayers for this temple

• Rama Raksha Stotram
• Sri Rama Rama Rameti
• Ramaya Ramabhadraya