Somarama Temple, also known as Someswara Temple, is a Hindu temple located in Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras, a group of ancient Shiva temples in the region. The temple is believed to have been constructed in the 3rd century CE by the Chalukya dynasty.
The temple’s architecture exemplifies the Dravidian style, featuring intricate carvings and sculptures on its walls and pillars. The main sanctum contains a Shiva Lingam, the aniconic representation of Lord Shiva, surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to various deities. A large tank called Ksheerarama Pushkarini is part of the temple complex.
Somarama Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees. The annual Maha Shivaratri festival is a significant event celebrated at the temple, attracting numerous worshippers from across India. This ancient temple continues to be a center of religious and cultural importance in Andhra Pradesh.
Key Takeaways
- Somarama Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in Andhra Pradesh, India, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- The temple can be easily accessed by road, with well-maintained highways connecting it to major cities like Visakhapatnam and Rajahmundry.
- Travelers can also reach Somarama Temple by train, with the nearest railway station being in Bhimavaram.
- For those preferring air travel, the nearest airport to Somarama Temple is in Rajahmundry, with regular flights from major cities in India.
- There are several accommodation options available near Somarama Temple, ranging from budget hotels to more luxurious resorts.
Getting to Somarama Temple by Road
Route from Vijayawada
If you are traveling from the city of Vijayawada, you can take the NH16 highway towards Eluru and then continue on the NH216 towards Bhimavaram. The entire journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Route from Rajahmundry
Another popular route to reach Somarama Temple by road is from the city of Rajahmundry. You can take the NH16 highway towards Eluru and then continue on the NH216 towards Bhimavaram. The drive takes around 2-3 hours, offering scenic views of the countryside along the way.
Convenience and Flexibility
Once you reach Bhimavaram, the temple is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible from the main road. Traveling by road to Somarama Temple allows visitors to enjoy the flexibility of their own schedule and explore the surrounding areas at their own pace. There are plenty of parking facilities available near the temple for those traveling by car, making it a convenient option for visitors.
Taking a Train to Somarama Temple
For those looking for an alternative mode of transportation, taking a train to Somarama Temple is a convenient and scenic option. The town of Bhimavaram is well-connected by a network of railways, with regular train services operating from major cities and towns in Andhra Pradesh. If you are traveling from Vijayawada, you can board a train to Bhimavaram Junction, which is the nearest railway station to Somarama Temple.
The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, offering passengers a comfortable and affordable mode of transportation. The train ride also allows visitors to enjoy picturesque views of the countryside as they make their way to Bhimavaram. Another popular route to reach Somarama Temple by train is from Rajahmundry.
There are regular train services operating between Rajahmundry and Bhimavaram Junction, with the journey taking around 2-3 hours. Upon reaching Bhimavaram Junction, visitors can easily hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach Somarama Temple, which is located just a short distance away from the railway station. Traveling by train to Somarama Temple offers visitors a convenient and comfortable mode of transportation, allowing them to sit back and relax as they make their way to this ancient pilgrimage site.
Flying to Somarama Temple
For visitors coming from farther away or looking for a quicker mode of transportation, flying to Somarama Temple is an efficient option. The nearest airport to Somarama Temple is Rajahmundry Airport, which is located approximately 70 kilometers away from Bhimavaram. The airport operates regular domestic flights from major cities in India, including Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore.
Upon arriving at Rajahmundry Airport, visitors can easily hire a taxi or car rental service to make the journey to Somarama Temple. The drive takes around 2-3 hours, offering passengers scenic views of the countryside as they make their way to Bhimavaram. Another option for flying to Somarama Temple is through Vijayawada Airport, which is located approximately 100 kilometers away from Bhimavaram.
The airport operates regular domestic flights from major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. Upon arriving at Vijayawada Airport, visitors can hire a taxi or car rental service to make the journey to Somarama Temple, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. Flying to Somarama Temple offers visitors a quick and convenient mode of transportation, allowing them to reach this ancient pilgrimage site with ease and comfort.
Accommodations near Somarama Temple
There are several accommodation options available near Somarama Temple, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of visitors. The town of Bhimavaram offers a range of hotels, guesthouses, and lodges that provide comfortable and affordable stay options for pilgrims and tourists visiting the temple. For those looking for luxury accommodations, there are several upscale hotels and resorts located in and around Bhimavaram that offer modern amenities and personalized services.
These hotels provide spacious rooms, fine dining restaurants, swimming pools, spa facilities, and other recreational activities for guests to enjoy a relaxing stay during their visit to Somarama Temple. Alternatively, there are budget-friendly guesthouses and lodges available near the temple that provide clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates. These accommodations are ideal for pilgrims and budget travelers looking for a simple yet convenient place to stay during their visit to Somarama Temple.
In addition to hotels and guesthouses, there are also homestay options available near Somarama Temple, allowing visitors to experience local hospitality and immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of the region. Staying in a homestay provides an authentic and personalized experience for guests, offering them a glimpse into the daily life of the local community.
Local Transportation options near Somarama Temple
Auto-Rickshaws: A Convenient and Affordable Option
Once you arrive in Bhimavaram, auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation to get around the town and reach Somarama Temple. You can easily hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple from your accommodation, the railway station, or the bus stand. This is a convenient and affordable way to travel within the town.
Taxis and Car Rental Services: Comfort and Flexibility
Another option for local transportation in Bhimavaram is hiring a taxi or car rental service. Taxis provide a comfortable and private mode of transportation, allowing you to explore the town and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Car rental services are also available for those who prefer to drive themselves around Bhimavaram and visit nearby attractions.
Exploring on Foot or by Bicycle
If you prefer to explore the town on foot or by bicycle, Bhimavaram has plenty of walking and cycling paths that allow you to enjoy the local sights and sounds at a leisurely pace. Many accommodations near Somarama Temple also offer bicycle rental services for guests who wish to explore the town on two wheels.
Tips for Visiting Somarama Temple
When visiting Somarama Temple, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, as it is a sacred place of worship. Visitors are advised to wear conservative clothing that covers their shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for the religious significance of the temple. It is also recommended to remove your footwear before entering the temple premises as per Hindu customs.
There are designated areas for leaving your shoes or sandals outside the temple complex, so visitors can explore the temple barefoot as a mark of reverence. Visitors should be mindful of their behavior while inside the temple complex and refrain from loud talking or disruptive behavior out of respect for other worshippers and the sanctity of the place. Additionally, it is customary to offer prayers and make offerings at the main sanctum of the temple as a sign of devotion and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva.
Visitors can purchase flowers, coconuts, or other traditional offerings from vendors outside the temple complex before entering. Lastly, it is important to be mindful of local customs and traditions while visiting Somarama Temple and show respect towards the religious practices observed by devotees and priests at the temple. By following these tips, visitors can have a meaningful and respectful experience while visiting this ancient pilgrimage site.
If you are planning a trip to Somarama Temple, you may also be interested in visiting other important religious sites in India. One such place is Kedarnath Dham, which is known for its spiritual significance and natural beauty. To learn more about the places to visit in Kedarnath Dham, check out this article for a comprehensive guide.
FAQs
What is Somarama Temple?
Somarama Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras, which are the five ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Andhra Pradesh region.
How do I reach Somarama Temple?
To reach Somarama Temple, you can travel by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport, which is approximately 80 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is Bhimavaram Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in India. You can also reach the temple by road via the National Highway 16.
Are there any accommodations near Somarama Temple?
Yes, there are several accommodations available near Somarama Temple in Bhimavaram, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose from a variety of options based on their preferences and budget.
What are the visiting hours of Somarama Temple?
The temple is open for darshan from early morning to late evening. The exact visiting hours may vary, so it is advisable to check the temple’s official website or contact the temple authorities for the current schedule.
Is there an entry fee to visit Somarama Temple?
There is no entry fee to visit Somarama Temple. However, donations are welcome for the maintenance and upkeep of the temple.