Rajahmundry is a city that has much to offer in terms of history, culture, food, and adventure. While popular attractions like the Godavari Bridge, ISKCON temple, and Kambala Park are well-known to tourists, the city also has several hidden gems that are lesser-known but equally worth exploring. Here are some of Rajahmundry's best-kept secrets:
Dowleswaram Barrage: Located about 10 km from the city center, the Dowleswaram Barrage is a beautiful engineering marvel that was constructed in the 19th century to regulate the flow of the Godavari River. The barrage has 175 gates and provides irrigation water to several districts in Andhra Pradesh.
Adurru Excavations: Just 22 km from Rajahmundry, the Adurru Excavations are an ancient Buddhist site that dates back to the 2nd century BCE. The site has several stupas, chaityas, and viharas, and is believed to have been a center for Buddhist learning.
Kotilingeswara Temple: Situated on the banks of the Godavari River, the Kotilingeswara Temple is a unique temple that has one crore (ten million) lingams installed within its premises. The temple is believed to have been constructed in the 10th century and is considered to be one of the most important Shiva temples in the region.
Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy Temple: Located about 60 km from Rajahmundry, the Annavaram Satyanarayana Swamy Temple is a popular pilgrim spot that attracts thousands of devotees every year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is believed to have been constructed in the 19th century.
Pattiseema: A scenic village located about 40 km from Rajahmundry, Pattiseema is famous for its natural beauty and the Sri Veerabhadra Swamy Temple. The village is situated on an island in the middle of the Godavari River and is accessible only by boat.
Sir Arthur Cotton Museum: Named after the British engineer who constructed the Dowleswaram Barrage, the Sir Arthur Cotton Museum is located in the nearby town of Dowleswaram. The museum has several exhibits on the history and engineering behind the Godavari River.
Markandeya Temple: Located about 30 km from Rajahmundry, the Markandeya Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Eastern Chalukyas in the 7th century and has several exquisite carvings on its walls.
Kadiyapulanka: A quaint village located about 16 km from Rajahmundry, Kadiyapulanka is famous for its handloom sarees and textiles. Visitors can take a tour of the weaving units and purchase exquisite sarees and dress materials at reasonable prices.
Draksharama Temple: Located about 40 km from Rajahmundry, the Draksharama Temple is an ancient temple that is believed to have been constructed during the 9th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its exquisite architecture and carvings.
Ryali: A small village located about 70 km from Rajahmundry, Ryali is famous for its Sri Jaganmohini Keshava Swamy Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has an exquisite idol of Lord Vishnu in his Mohini avatar. The village is also famous for its wooden toys and handicrafts.
