Kumararama Bhimeswara Temple Samarlakota Timings Travel Guide

Kumararama Bhimeswara Temple Samarlakota Timings are essential for anyone planning a visit to this sacred Pancharama Kshetra dedicated to Lord Shiva in Samarlakota, Andhra Pradesh. In this travel guide, you’ll find up-to-date timing details, how to reach the temple, booking information, insider travel tips, nearby attractions, best times to visit, and frequently asked questions to help plan your pilgrimage or sightseeing trip. For official information, visit Incredible India.

Quick Facts

Temple Overview

The Sri Chalukya Kumararama Bhimeswara Swamy Temple is one of the five sacred Pancharama Kshetras of Lord Shiva, located in Samarlakota, Andhra Pradesh. It dates back to the 9th-10th century and is a major pilgrimage site, with a towering Shiva Lingam and traditional Dravidian architecture that draws devotees and travelers alike.

Temple Timings Details

Understanding the exact kumararama bhimeswara temple samarlakota timings is key to planning your visit. The temple follows a split schedule for daily darshan:

• Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Afternoon Break: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

These timings are consistent on regular days, but festival days like Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam see extended darshan hours without a break.

Daily Puja & Ritual Timings

If you plan to partake in specific rituals:

• Suprabhata Seva and Abhishekam: ~6:30 AM – 8:00 AM
• Archanam & Harati: ~7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
• Evening Deepa Aradhana: ~6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

These timing slots can vary during festival days or special occasions. Always check locally upon arrival.

How To Reach Kumararama Bhimeswara Temple Samarlakota

By Air

The closest airports are Rajahmundry Airport (about 50-55 km away) and Visakhapatnam International Airport (~150 km). From either airport you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Samarlakota, then a short auto-rickshaw ride to the temple.

By Train

Samalkot Junction Railway Station is the most convenient railhead for temple visitors. It lies on the Howrah–Chennai main line and is well-connected by trains from major cities including Hyderabad, Chennai, Vijayawada, and Visakhapatnam. From the station, the temple is easily reachable by autorickshaw or taxi.

By Road

Samarlakota is connected by national and state highways to cities like Kakinada (~12 km), Rajahmundry (~50 km), and Visakhapatnam (~150 km). APSRTC buses run frequently, and private taxis are readily available. Roads are generally in good condition, making it easy to include this temple in a South India temple tour.

Booking & Ticket Information

Here’s how you can manage your visit:

General Darshan

General darshan of the shrine is free for all devotees. No advance booking is required; just arrive within the temple timings above. This makes planning spontaneous visits easy if you’re in the region.

Special Pooja/Seva Booking

If you want special poojas like Abhishekam or Suprabhata Seva, follow these steps:

1. Visit the temple counter during open hours (preferably morning).
2. Ask for available pooja offerings and their costs (e.g., Abhishekam fees).
3. Pay the requisite fee at the counter and get a receipt.
4. Arrive back at the designated puja time for your service.

In most cases, advance online booking is not provided. It is best to consult the temple office or local guides before your visit for the latest details.

Insider Tips From My Visit

When I visited the temple early in the morning, I was struck by the peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrived. The cool morning air and the chanting created a serene experience. I personally recommend arriving by 7:00 AM during peak festival months to participate in Suprabhata Seva. The afternoon break was a good time to explore nearby spots or grab a quick meal in Samarlakota town.

What surprised me most was the sheer size of the Shiva Lingam visible across two floors – it’s more impressive in person than in pictures. The pathway to the first floor offers a unique perspective of the sanctum and is often less crowded early in the morning.

Nearby Attractions (with Approx. Distance)

• Draksharamam Temple – ~60 km: One of the Pancharama temples, known for its scenic surroundings.
• Kakinada Beach – ~15 km: A popular seaside spot for sunsets and local snacks.
• Rajahmundry Kovvada Beach – ~55 km: Ideal for a late afternoon visit.
• Dowleswaram Barrage – ~50 km: Historic engineering marvel near the Godavari River.

Best Time To Visit

For most travelers, the best time to visit the Kumararama Bhimeswara Temple Samarlakota is the cooler months from October to February. During this period, temperatures are pleasant for exploration and darshan. Festival months like Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam bring vibrant celebrations and extended temple hours, but also larger crowds. Plan to reach early if visiting during festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The Temple Opening Hours?

The temple is generally open for darshan from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. On special festival days, hours may be extended.

Is There A Darshan Fee?

General darshan is free, but there may be small charges for certain services or access to elevated parts of the sanctum.

Can I Book Online?

Online booking is not usually available. Special poojas are booked at the temple counter on the day of visit.

Are Dress Codes Required?

Traditional and modest attire is recommended. Footwear must be removed before entering temple premises. (Confirm details locally.)

What Festivals Are Celebrated Here?

Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam are celebrated with great enthusiasm at this temple, attracting large numbers of devotees.