Where the jaw of Sati fell and Chalukyan art flourished. Alampur is a unique destination that seamlessly blends Shakti worship (Jogulamba) with Shiva worship (Navabhrama temples). The Jogulamba Temple is the fifth of the 18 Astadasa Shakti Peethas – the upper jaw of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen here. The goddess is depicted in a fierce form, seated on a corpse, with a scorpion, frog, and lizard on her head. The original temple was destroyed in 1390 CE by Bahamani rulers and was relocated and reconstructed in 2005 after a gap of 615 years.
The Navabhrama temples (nine shrines dedicated to Shiva) are masterpieces of Badami Chalukyan architecture (c. 650–750 CE). They are named: Taraka Bhramma, Swarga Bhramma, Padma Bhramma, Bala Bhramma, Garuda Bhramma, Kumara Bhramma, Arka Bhramma, Vira Bhramma, and Vishwa Bhramma. Each temple has unique carvings, inscriptions, and historical value. Several were relocated to higher ground due to the Srisailam Hydro‑electric Project and are now under the Archaeological Survey of India.
🕉️ Jogulamba Temple – The 5th Shakti Peetha
Deities: Goddess Jogulamba (Shakti) and Balabrahmeshwara (Shiva).
Significance: The upper jaw of Sati fell here. It is the fifth of the 18 Astadasa Shakti Peethas.
Iconography: The goddess is depicted in a fierce form, seated on a corpse (pretasana), with a scorpion, frog, and lizard on her head – symbolising control over poison, disease, and evil.
History: Originally destroyed in 1390 CE by Bahamani rulers. After 615 years, the temple was relocated and reconstructed in 2005 near the original site. The new temple complex is built in a modern style while preserving the spiritual essence.
Timings: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 8:30 PM (daily).
🏛️ Bala Bhramma Temple & the 9 Navabhrama Temples
Bala Bhramma Temple is the principal shrine among the Navabhrama temples, dating back to 702 CE. Shivaratri is celebrated here with grandeur.
The nine temples (Navabhrama):
- Taraka Bhramma: Partly in ruins; Telugu inscriptions from 6th–7th century CE.
- Swarga Bhramma: Built by Lokaditya Ela Arasa (681–696 CE); finest example of Chalukya architecture.
- Padma Bhramma: Partly ruined; houses a Shivalingam of clear stone with a mirror‑like finish.
- Bala Bhramma: Principal shrine; dates to 702 CE.
- Garuda Bhramma: Badami Chalukya style carvings.
- Kumara Bhramma: Intricate carvings.
- Arka Bhramma: Notable for epigraphical inscriptions.
- Vira Bhramma: Historical significance and Chalukya style carvings.
- Vishwa Bhramma: Among the most artistic; depicts scenes from the epics (Ramayana and Mahabharata).
Architecture: Northern style (Nagara) Chalukyan architecture introduced by the Badami Chalukyas (AD 650–750). The temples feature curvilinear shikharas, ornate pillars, and intricate doorways. The temples were relocated due to the Srisailam Hydro‑electric Project and are now protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
September – March: Pleasant weather, ideal for temple visits and sightseeing. Avoid summer (April–June) when temperatures can exceed 40°C. The Tungabhadra river is fullest during the monsoon (July–September), but the heat and humidity can be high.
🧭 Suggested Itinerary (1‑Day Trip from Hyderabad)
Morning (7:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Visit Jogulamba Temple; attend morning rituals.
- 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Explore Bala Bhramma Temple and Taraka Bhramma Temple.
Late Morning (10:30 AM – 12:30 PM)
- 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Visit the remaining Navabhrama temples – Swarga, Padma, Vira, Vishwa Bhramma.
Lunch (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Local vegetarian cuisine near the temple complex (simple South Indian meals).
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Detailed exploration of Swarga Bhramma Temple (carvings and architecture).
- 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Walk along the Tungabhadra river banks; enjoy views of the Nallamala hills.
Evening (5:30 PM – 7:30 PM)
- 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Attend evening aarti at Jogulamba Temple.
- 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM: Stroll around the local market; buy souvenirs (small idols, religious items).
- 7:30 PM: Depart for Hyderabad (≈4‑5 hours drive) or stay overnight.
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address & Access
Alampur Temple Complex
Alampur, Jogulamba Gadwal District,
Telangana – 509126
On the Tungabhadra River
Nearest town: Gadwal (≈20 km)
📞 Temple Contact
Alampur Temple Board / Endowments Department
Phone: +91-8542-123456 (general – representative)
No online booking required; free entry.
🌐 Official Info
🕐 Timings & Best Season
Jogulamba Temple: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Navabhrama Temples: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (ASI timings)
Best Season: September – March
Entry Fee: Free (both temples)
⚠️ Important
Photography inside the Jogulamba sanctum is prohibited. Photography allowed in the Navabhrama temple complex (ask ASI staff). Dress modestly; remove footwear before entering shrines.
🚗 How to Reach Alampur
By Road: Alampur is on the Hyderabad–Srisailam highway (NH 765). From Hyderabad, it is approximately 220 km (≈4–5 hours) via Jadcherla, Wanaparthy, Gadwal. Regular TSRTC buses run from Hyderabad (MGBS) to Gadwal; from Gadwal, take a local bus or auto (≈20 km).
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Gadwal Junction (≈20 km), connected to Hyderabad, Kurnool, and Guntur. From the station, take a taxi or auto to Alampur.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈200 km).
🏨 Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation
- Haritha Hotel (TSTDC), Gadwal: Comfortable, budget stay.
- Private lodges in Alampur town: Basic guesthouses (limited options).
- Srisailam (≈90 km): Luxury options like Mrugavani Resort, Punnami Hotel.
- Kurnool (≈70 km): Full range of hotels.
Food & Tips
- Vegetarian meals available near the temple complex (simple South Indian thali).
- Carry water and snacks – limited packaged options.
- Gadwal town offers more restaurant choices.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
📝 Travel Tips & Temple Etiquette
⭐ Note: The Jogulamba Temple is a Shakti Peetha and has a distinct fiery energy. Women are advised to dress conservatively. The temple priests perform abhishekams and special pujas – enquire at the office. The Navabhrama temples are under ASI protection; avoid touching the carvings. The best time for photography is early morning (8–10 AM) when the light falls directly on the temple shikharas.
🙏 Conclusion – A Sacred Confluence of Shakti & Shiva
Alampur is a must‑visit for anyone interested in temple architecture, Shakti worship, or the cultural history of Telangana. The unique combination of the Jogulamba Shakti Peetha and the Chalukyan Navabhrama temples makes it a rare spiritual destination. The town’s location on the Tungabhadra River, surrounded by the Nallamala hills, adds to its serene beauty. Plan a one‑day trip from Hyderabad or combine it with Srisailam for a longer pilgrimage. Experience the fierce grace of Goddess Jogulamba and the timeless artistry of the Badami Chalukyas.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Alampur the same as Jogulamba Temple?
A: Alampur is the town; Jogulamba Temple is one of the main temples here, along with the 9 Navabhrama temples.
Q: How many Shakti Peethas are there in Telangana?
A: Alampur (Jogulamba) is the only Shakti Peetha in Telangana.
Q: Is there a dress code for Jogulamba Temple?
A: Modest traditional wear is recommended; women should cover their shoulders and legs.
Q: Are the Navabhrama temples free to enter?
A: Yes, entry is free. They are maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Q: How far is Alampur from Srisailam?
A: Approximately 90 km (≈2 hours drive).
Q: Is there accommodation in Alampur?
A: Basic lodges are available; for better comfort, stay in Gadwal or Srisailam.
📚 References & More Information
- Gadwal District Official – Jogulamba Devi Temple
- Religion World – Astadasa Shakti Peetham: Jogulamba Devi, Alampur
- Hyderabad Zone – Alampur Jogulamba Temple
- Wikipedia – Alampur, Telangana
- Telangana Tourism – Jogulamba Gadwal District