Somaramam is also known as Sri Someswara Janardhana Swamy Temple located at Gunupidi near Bhimavaram of West Godavari district. It is one among the famous Pancharama Kshetras in Andhra Pradesh. The presiding deity is Lord Shiva in the form of Sri Someswara Janardhana Swamy. The consort of Lord Someswara is Sri Rajarajeswari Ammavaru.
Shrine’s History
The main contribution for temple construction was made by the King Chalukya Bhima during the 4th century. As per Puranas the Sivalinga at this place is installed and established by Lord Chandra and hence the temple is called Somarama, as Sanskrit word soma means Chandra (God Moon). It is believed that the colour of the Sivalinga changes according to the Lunar-rays. In a month the statue brightens to white for 15 days gradually day by day and turns into black gradually for another 15 days.
The temple is situated on the bank of Godavari River. Over and above the Garbhalayam, Goddess Annapurna temple is situated., which is the speciality of this temple and cannot be seen anywhere else in India. This resembles the fact that Lord Siva holds the Goddess Ganga on His head. To the South of the Garbha Gruham, Goddess Adilakshmi can be seen. There was a wedding hall at a ground and first floor. Mass marriages, especially during Shivarathri, are conducted at this temple premises.
The local people say that couples getting married at this Pancharama place have a peaceful understanding married life. Marriages are conducted both in the new hall and also in Goddess Annapurna Mantapam. To the East side of this temple, there is a Pushkarini pond which is also called Chandrakundam. Inside the temple, Lord Anjaneya Swamy, God Kumara Swamy, Navagraha, Sun God, Lord Ganesha can also be seen.
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By Road
Government and Private Bus services are available from all major places in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to reach Sri Someswara Swamy Temple in Bhimavaram. The nearest bus station is Bhimavaram.
By Rail
By Train: Nearest railway station to Sri Someswara Swamy Temple is Bhimavaram Railway Station. Bus and Auto services are available to access this temple.
By Air
The nearest airport is Rajahmundry Airport which is 83km away. Bus and Taxi services are available to reach Sri Someswara Swamy Temple.
Shrine Timings
From 5.00am to 11.00am and 4.00pm to 8.00pm.
Events Celebrated at This Shrine
Maha Shivaratri and Devinavarathris are the main festivals celebrated grandly at this temple. Rudrabhishakam and bilvarchana are performed in the early hours from 4 a.m. They give their prayer by reading Vishnu Sahasra Nama and Akasadeepam is lighted throughout all month.