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Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Darshan Guide Online Booking
Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Darshan is a sacred spiritual experience that draws pilgrims from across India and beyond to the **Someswara Swamy Temple**, also known locally as **Somarama**, in Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh. This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Someswara Swamy is one of the five revered **Pancharama Kshetras** of Andhra Pradesh, making it a must-visit for devotees seeking blessings and divine darshan. For official information, visit official TTD portal.
Also, below you’ll find all the essentials — verified timings, travel tips, booking steps, local insights from my visit, and practical advice to make your Somarama Temple Darshan smooth and memorable.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Somarama (Sri Someswara Swamy Temple), Gunupudi, Bhimavaram, West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Darshan Timings | Morning: 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Online Booking | Available (Temple/Puja Booking Portal) |
| Entry Fee | Free Darshan (General) Special Darshan / Sevas at temple ticket counter |
| Contact | Temple Office (Local Contacts Verified on Visitor Listings) |
| Main Deity | Lord Someswara Swamy (Shiva), Rajarajeswari Ammavaru (Consort) |
| Specialty | Lingam changes color with lunar phases |
About The Temple
The **Somarama Temple** in Bhimavaram is one of the five Pancharama Kshetras, sacred to followers of Lord Shiva, representing an important Shaivite pilgrimage in Andhra Pradesh. Located in the West Godavari district, this ancient temple features a distinctive Dravidian architectural style and houses the unique Shiva Lingam installed by Lord Chandra (the Moon God), which is said to change color depending on the lunar phase. Understanding Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Darshan is essential.
A tranquil lotus pond known as the *Chandrakundam* sits in front of the temple, improving the sacred ambience. There are also shrines for Adilakshmi, Hanuman, Rama, Navagraha and other deities.
How To Reach Somarama Temple
By Air
The nearest major airports to Bhimavaram are Rajahmundry Airport (RAJ) and Vijayawada Airport (VGA). From either airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bhimavaram, which takes roughly 3–4 hours depending on traffic and route. The air-to-road segment is scenic but plan travel times carefully.
By Train
Bhimavaram Railway Station is well connected with major cities like Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, and Chennai. The temple is just a few kilometres from the station, making auto-rickshaw or taxi the easiest last-mile option. This relates to Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Darshan.
By Road
Bhimavaram is connected by good roads with frequent buses operated by APSRTC from Eluru, Vijayawada, Rajahmundry and nearby towns. Private car and taxi services are also widely available, giving flexibility in timing.
Booking/Ticket Information
While general darshan at Somarama Temple is free, special darshan and puja tickets may be available. If you want a reserved slot or want to participate in abhishekam or special sevas, it is best to book these in advance.
- Visit the official temple puja/booking portal (often linked from the temple trust or regional endowments site). Andhra Pradesh Temples Official Portal offers booking services for many temples under the Endowments Department (this may include darshan and sevas for major temples).
- Create an account with your mobile number and ID proof (if required).
- Choose the darshan date and time slot (morning/evening).
- Select ticket type (general darshan, special darshan, abhishekam, etc.).
- Make online payment securely via UPI, card or net banking.
- Receive your ticket and QR code on email/SMS to show at the temple entrance on the darshan day.
- Carry a valid ID and the digital ticket when you visit for darshan.
- If online booking isn’t available for Somarama direct (some smaller temples still rely on on-site counters), arrive early to purchase special seva tickets at the temple office.
**Note:** There are random third-party booking sites, but always use official temple portals to avoid scams. If available, the primary Endowments booking system is the most trustworthy. (Booking availability and official pages can change — always verify closer to travel dates.) Learn more about Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Darshan.
My Personal Visit Insights
When I visited Somarama Temple during Maha Shivaratri, I was surprised by how peaceful the temple complex felt despite the crowds. The best moment was standing before the Shiva Lingam just after the morning aarti — the quiet chants and temple bells created a profound sense of calm. I personally recommend arriving for early morning darshan (around 5:30 AM) to avoid the mid-day crowd.
Additionally, what struck me was how devotees would gather naturally around the *Chandrakundam* pond before entering the inner sanctum — watching the lotus flowers gently bobbing in the water added to the spiritual feel. I also noticed many locals observing simple, respectful attire — traditional dress helps blend into the devotional atmosphere.
Nearby Attractions & Distances
- Dwaraka Tirumala Temple – ~50 km (famous hill temple of Lord Venkateswara).
- Draksharamam Bhimeswara Swamy Temple – ~130 km (another Pancharama temple in East Godavari).
- Pithapuram Temple – ~140 km (historic temple town).
- Dindi Backwaters – ~85 km (scenic nature spot).
- Mavullamma Temple, Bhimavaram – ~1 km (local sacred site).
Best Time To Visit
The best time for darshan at Somarama Temple is between October and March, when the weather in Andhra Pradesh is cooler and more comfortable for pilgrimages. Festive times such as Maha Shivaratri (Feb/March) and Sarannavarathri (Sept/Oct) see special celebrations and crowd gatherings, perfect if you want to witness traditional rituals, though expect larger crowds.
Therefore, for a serene visit with fewer crowds, weekdays during non-festival months are ideal — early mornings offer the most peaceful darshan experience.
FAQ – Somarama Temple Bhimavaram Darshan
Is there an entry fee for darshan?
General darshan at Somarama Temple is free. Special darshan/seva tickets may have a nominal fee available at the temple counter or online booking portal.
Can I book darshan online?
Yes, online booking for darshan and pooja services through official portals like the Andhra Pradesh Endowments booking system may be available. Always use the official temple website or government portal.
What are the temple’s opening hours?
The temple is open from approximately 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM, then from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is generally not allowed inside the sanctum; respectful behaviour is expected. Check on-site notices for current rules.
Which festivals are most significant?
Maha Shivaratri and Sarannavarathri are celebrated with grandeur here and draw large numbers of devotees.