Explore Khammam
Khammam district has a special place in Telangana since it is well known for its heritage monuments, wildlife spots, divine destinations and other places of tourist attraction. Khammam fort is one such hill fortification and a heritage monument which overlooks Khammam town, and is a significant one not just for this town but also for the state of Telangana. Occupying an area of nearly 4 sq.km, this majestic fort of historical prominence represents the pride of past rulers depicting a blend of various architectural styles. Khammam fort was initially believed to have been constructed during the 12th century by Kakatiya rulers, followed by Velama Kings and also the Qutub Shahi kings who also contributed to the Khammam Fort. The fort was eventually repaired and renovated by the Asaf Jahis with assistance from French Engineers.
Parnasala is a small village located nearly 32 kilometers from the holy temple town of Bhadrachalam. According to legend, Lord Shri Rama spent some part of his fourteen-year exile period at this place. Here there is a little stream where it is believed that Sita, wife of Lord Shri Rama, took her bath and is hence called Sita Vaagu. It is also believed to be the place where Maricha Rakshasa were reportedly killed by Rama, when he had come disguised as a golden deer to deceive Sita.
Nelakondapalli is a town in Khammam district, located nearly 21 km from Khammam town. Nelakondapalli is home to a historic site, where archaeologists discovered the foundations of viharas, cisterns, wells, Mahastupa, a bronze idol of Lord Buddha, terracotta idols, and a miniature stupa that was carved in limestone, and other historic artefacts belonging to third and fourth centuries. Archaeological sites of historical prominence right from Mahabharata days such as Virataraju Dibba and Keechaka Gundam are located near Nelakondapalli. Nelakondapalli is also known for its ancient Shiva temples and Vaishnava temples.
Bhadrachalam is a key pilgrimage town famous as the abode of Lord Rama. As per Mythology, this town was once part of Dandakaranya forest, that hosted Lord Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana during their exile, also called as vanavasa. The town shares its historical significance right from the Ramayana Era. The famous temple at Bhadrachalam is known for the Archa Murthy’s of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana and these idols are considered swayambhu i.e. they are self-manifested ones. Bhadrachalam is also called as the Ayodhya of the South where Sri Ramanavami is performed with fervor. Devotees from all over India visit the temple town of Bhadrachalam.