Temples

The Vadapalli Venkateswara Swamy Temple is one of the most revered and spiritually significant temples in East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. Situated in the peaceful village of Vadapalli, near Ravulapalem, this sacred shrine is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, also known as the preserver of the universe. The temple, often called the “Tirupati of East Godavari”, holds immense religious importance for devotees who cannot travel to the Tirumala Temple. According to legend, Lord Venkateswara manifested here to bless Sage Bhrigu and fulfill the prayers of devotees in the Godavari region. The temple stands beautifully on the banks of the Godavari River, surrounded by lush greenery, offering a tranquil and divine atmosphere. The main deity, Sri Venkateswara Swamy, is enshrined along with Goddess Padmavati and Goddess Lakshmi, radiating divine grace and serenity. The temple’s architecture showcases traditional South Indian design, with an ornate gopuram (tower) and intricately carved pillars that reflect the craftsmanship of ancient artisans. Devotees visit the temple in large numbers, especially on Saturdays, Vaikunta Ekadashi, and during Brahmotsavams, when the temple is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers. Special rituals like Kalyanam (divine wedding), Abhishekam, and Annadanam (food offering) are performed with great devotion. Pilgrims also take a holy dip in the nearby Godavari River before entering the temple, as it is believed to purify the mind and body. The Vadapalli Venkateswara Swamy Temple is not just a place of worship but also a center of faith, peace, and divine energy. Its serene surroundings and spiritual aura make it one of the most visited and cherished temples in East Godavari District, offering devotees an experience akin to Tirupati within their own region.

Ryali Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy Temple – A Divine Symbol of Dual Beauty The Ryali Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy Temple is one of the most unique and spiritually significant temples in East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. Located in the picturesque village of Ryali, between Ravulapalem and Atreyapuram, this temple stands as a remarkable example of divine artistry, devotion, and mythology. The temple is dedicated to Lord Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The main idol here is an extraordinary piece of sculpture — carved from a single block of black stone, it portrays Lord Maha Vishnu (Kesava) on the front and Goddess Mohini on the back. This rare dual form symbolizes the divine transformation of Lord Vishnu into Mohini, the celestial enchantress who distributed the nectar of immortality (Amrit) among the gods after the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan). The front side of the idol features Lord Vishnu holding the Shankha (conch), Chakra (disc), Gada (mace), and Padma (lotus), while the reverse side beautifully depicts Goddess Mohini with a graceful feminine form adorned with ornaments. This intricate and detailed craftsmanship is considered one of the finest examples of temple sculpture in South India. The temple’s serene surroundings, ancient architecture, and divine atmosphere attract thousands of devotees and art admirers every year. Special poojas and festivals are celebrated with devotion, especially Vaikunta Ekadashi, Sri Rama Navami, and Krishna Janmashtami, when the temple comes alive with lights, music, and spiritual fervor. The Ryali Jagan Mohini Kesava Swamy Temple is not only a place of worship but also a living testament to the district’s cultural heritage, artistic excellence, and deep-rooted spirituality — making it one of the must-visit temples in East Godavari District.

The Draksharamam Temple, also known as Sri Bheemeswara Swamy Temple, is one of the most revered and ancient temples in East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. Situated in the town of Draksharamam, near Ramachandrapuram, this magnificent temple is one of the Pancharama Kshetras, the five sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds immense spiritual importance and architectural grandeur, making it a must-visit pilgrimage site. According to legend, this temple was established by Lord Surya (the Sun God) and is believed to be the place where a portion of the sacred Shiva Linga from the demon Tarakasura’s body fell after being destroyed by Lord Kumara Swamy (Kartikeya). The Shiva Linga here is known as “Spatika Linga”, representing purity and power. The temple’s architecture is a splendid example of Chalukyan craftsmanship, built with massive stone walls, intricate carvings, and beautifully sculpted pillars. The sanctum (garbhagriha) enshrines Lord Bheemeswara Swamy and Goddess Manikyamba Devi, one of the Eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas, symbolizing the divine union of Shiva and Shakti. The temple complex also features inscriptions from ancient dynasties like the Eastern Chalukyas, reflecting its historical and cultural legacy. Devotees flock here throughout the year, especially during Maha Shivaratri, when grand rituals, abhishekams, and night-long prayers are performed, filling the air with divine energy. Surrounded by coconut groves and a peaceful ambiance, Draksharamam Temple stands as a timeless symbol of faith, devotion, and architectural brilliance — showcasing the spiritual heritage of East Godavari District.

The Annavaram Temple, dedicated to Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy, is one of the most renowned and sacred temples in East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. It is located on the picturesque Ratnagiri Hill, on the banks of the Pampa River, about 11 km from Tuni and easily accessible from Kakinada and Rajahmundry. The temple is famous for its spiritual significance, architectural beauty, and breathtaking surroundings. The presiding deity, Lord Satyanarayana Swamy, is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who symbolizes truth and righteousness (Satya). The temple is also known for the Satyanarayana Vratham, a popular ritual performed by devotees seeking blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness. Pilgrims from all over the country visit Annavaram to perform this pooja, believing that it fulfills their wishes and removes obstacles in life. The temple’s architecture reflects a harmonious blend of Dravidian and Orissan styles, with the main sanctum built in two tiers. The lower portion houses the sanctum of Lord Shiva, while the upper shrine enshrines Lord Satyanarayana Swamy along with Goddess Ananta Lakshmi and Lord Rama. The scenic backdrop of hills and the river adds a serene and divine aura to the temple. Every year, thousands of devotees visit the temple during the Kalyanam Festival and Ekadashi celebrations, when the entire hill is illuminated with lamps and echoes with chants and devotional music. The panoramic view from the hilltop offers a mesmerizing sight of the Pampa River, lush greenery, and surrounding villages. The Annavaram Temple stands as a symbol of faith, devotion, and peace — a sacred destination that captures the spiritual essence and cultural richness of East Godavari District.

The Anthervedi Temple, also known as Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, is one of the most revered and ancient temples in East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. Located in the serene coastal village of Anthervedi, near the confluence (Sangamam) of the Godavari River and the Bay of Bengal, this temple is often referred to as the “Dakshina Kashi” (The Kashi of the South) due to its immense spiritual significance. The temple is dedicated to Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to protect devotees from evil and grant prosperity. According to legend, the temple was built at the spot where Lord Narasimha appeared to bless Sage Rishi Vasishta after he performed a great yagna. The architecture of the temple features traditional Dravidian-style gopurams (towers) adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing the region’s artistic and cultural heritage. One of the unique attractions of Anthervedi is the “Chariot Festival” (Kalyanotsavam) held every year, where thousands of devotees gather to witness the grand procession of Lord Narasimha Swamy’s idol through the village streets. The festival reflects the faith, devotion, and unity of the local people. The scenic beauty surrounding the temple adds to its spiritual charm — with golden sands, calm waters, and the divine meeting point of the river and the sea, making it not just a place of worship but also a peaceful retreat for pilgrims and tourists alike. The Anthervedi Temple truly represents the spiritual essence of East Godavari, blending faith, history, and natural beauty into a divine experience.