Parnasala – a remote village in Dummugudem mandal, Bhadradri Kothagudem district, Telangana, situated 32 km from the temple town of Bhadrachalam. Accessible by road and boat, this site holds immense significance in the Ramayana. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana spent a part of their 14‑year exile in the Dandakaranya forest. Here, the evil king Ravana abducted Goddess Sita.
The village features beautifully sculpted panels depicting the key events: Rama's rock throne (Rathi Simhasanam), Sita Vaagu (the stream where Sita bathed), the golden deer episode, and the footprints on Radhagutta. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM (closed Fridays). A must‑visit for devotees, history lovers, and families exploring the Ramayana circuit.
Where mythology meets the forest. Parnasala is not just a village – it is a living chapter of the Ramayana. Nestled deep in the Dandakaranya forest on the banks of the Godavari, this remote spot is believed to be the exact location where Ravana disguised as a sage abducted Sita. The journey to Parnasala itself is an adventure: a bumpy ride through countryside and dense forest, followed by a walk to the sacred sites. The first stop is Lord Rama's Rathi Simhasanam – a rock throne where Rama held court during his exile.
Nearby, Sita Vaagu is a small stream where Sita is said to have bathed daily. The footprints imprinted on Radhagutta rock are believed to be hers. Beautifully sculpted panels depict the golden deer (Maricha), Ravana's arrival as a hermit, and the abduction. This is a place of deep devotion and natural beauty – a perfect offbeat pilgrimage from Bhadrachalam.
The Epic Comes Alive – Ramayana Legends
Parnasala is considered the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana resided in the Panchavati area of Dandakaranya. The most significant event that unfolded here is the abduction of Sita by Ravana. The site brings this part of the Ramayana to life with:
- Rama's Rathi Simhasanam (Rock Throne): A large flat rock where Rama is believed to have held court and rested. Devotees offer prayers here.
- Sita Vaagu (Sita's Stream): A small perennial stream where Sita used to bathe. The water is considered sacred.
- Radhagutta – Sita's Footprints: Imprints on a rock believed to be Sita's feet. Local tradition holds that these are natural markings left by the goddess.
- Golden Deer (Maricha) episode: It is believed that Maricha, the demon, transformed into a golden deer here to lure Rama away, after which Ravana kidnapped Sita.
- Beautiful sculptures: Modern sculpted panels depict Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, and Ravana in the key scenes of the abduction.
For devotees, visiting Parnasala completes the Ramayana pilgrimage circuit starting from Bhadrachalam temple.
Visitor Information
Address & Access
Parnasala
Dummugudem Mandal, Bhadradri Kothagudem District,
Telangana – 507101
Distance:
≈32 km from Bhadrachalam
≈280 km from Hyderabad
≈130 km from Warangal
Enquiries
Haritha Hotel, Bhadrachalam: +91-8743-232123
Bhadrachalam Temple office: +91-8743-232124
Free entry; no ticket required
Official Info
Timings & Best Season
Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Closed: Fridays.
Best season: October – February (pleasant weather, forest is lush).
Summer (Mar–May): Very hot (38°C–44°C); carry water, hat.
Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Heavy rains – roads become difficult; Parnasala may be inaccessible. Avoid.
Note: It is advisable to start from Bhadrachalam early morning (by 9 AM) to reach Parnasala by 10 AM.
Accessibility
The village is remote. The last stretch is a single road through countryside. Vehicle must be sturdy (SUV preferred). There are no public buses directly to Parnasala; hire a taxi from Bhadrachalam. The site involves some walking on uneven ground – not wheelchair‑friendly.
How to Reach
From Bhadrachalam: The most convenient base is the temple town of Bhadrachalam. From there, Parnasala is 32 km away.
- By road: Take the Bhadrachalam – Dummugudem road. The drive takes about 1–1.5 hours through countryside and forest. The last few kilometres are a single-lane bumpy road – an SUV is recommended. Private taxis are available for hire at Bhadrachalam (approx ₹1500–2000 round trip).
- By boat: During the rainy season, boats operate from Bhadrachalam to Parnasala via the Godavari river. The journey takes about 2–3 hours and offers scenic views. Check with Telangana Tourism for boat schedules.
From Hyderabad (≈280 km): Drive via Warangal – Mahabubabad – Bhadrachalam (approx 6–7 hours). Stay overnight in Bhadrachalam and visit Parnasala the next morning.
Local transport: No public buses directly to Parnasala. Hire a taxi or auto from Bhadrachalam. The site is not serviced by regular public transport.
Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary (Bhadrachalam + Parnasala)
- 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Morning darshan at Bhadrachalam Temple.
- 9:00 AM: Depart from Bhadrachalam by taxi towards Parnasala (32 km, 1‑1.5 hrs).
- 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Explore Parnasala – Rock Throne, Sita Vaagu, Radhagutta, sculpted panels, and meditation.
- 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Packed lunch (no restaurants at Parnasala).
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Return to Bhadrachalam.
- 3:00 PM onwards: Relax at Haritha Hotel or visit local handicraft markets.
- Evening: Attend evening aarti at Bhadrachalam Temple.
Tip: If you have a second day, combine with Papikondalu cruise or Bogatha Waterfall.
Sacred & Scenic Attractions Nearby
Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation (Bhadrachalam)
- Haritha Hotel, Bhadrachalam: Telangana Tourism property – comfortable, good food, near temple.
- Hotel Sara International: Mid‑range, clean rooms, multi‑cuisine restaurant.
- TSRTC Guest House: Budget option, basic amenities.
- Many private lodges near the temple (₹500–1500/night).
Food & Tips
- Haritha Hotel offers delicious vegetarian meals.
- Several restaurants near Bhadrachalam bus stand (Annapurna, Sai Krishna).
- At Parnasala: no shops – carry your own food and water.
- Local sweets (pullihora, laddu) available as prasadam at Bhadrachalam temple.
Essential Visitor Tips
Important: Parnasala is in a remote forest area. There are no food or water stalls at the site – come fully prepared. Mobile network (Jio/Airtel) is weak but may work intermittently. It is advisable to hire a local guide from Bhadrachalam for deeper mythological context. The site has no restroom facilities – use facilities before leaving Bhadrachalam. Respect the sanctity of the place – avoid loud music and littering.
Best Time to Visit Parnasala
October – February (Peak): Pleasant weather (12°C – 28°C), ideal for visiting. The forest is green and the stream (Sita Vaagu) has water. The road condition is better after monsoon repairs.
March – May (Summer): Very hot (38°C–44°C). Visit early morning (by 9 AM) and carry ample water. The forest becomes dry.
June – September (Monsoon): Heavy rains make roads treacherous and often wash away the last stretch. The site is usually inaccessible. Avoid monsoon.
Tip: Ramanavami (March/April) sees special prayers and small gatherings at Parnasala – check with Bhadrachalam temple for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No. Entry is free.
Q: Is Parnasala open every day?
A: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM. Closed on Fridays.
Q: Can we take a bus from Bhadrachalam?
A: No direct bus. Hire a taxi or private vehicle.
Q: Is there a restroom at Parnasala?
A: No. Use facilities in Bhadrachalam before starting.
Q: How long does it take to see Parnasala?
A: About 1.5–2 hours for the main sites.
Q: Is it safe for children?
A: Yes, with adult supervision. The site has open rocks and a stream – watch children near water.
Q: Are there guides at Parnasala?
A: Occasionally local villagers act as informal guides for a small fee. Better to request a guide from Bhadrachalam.
Q: Can we stay overnight at Parnasala?
A: No. No accommodation available. Return to Bhadrachalam.
Q: Is the road suitable for a sedan car?
A: The last 2–3 km stretch is rough. An SUV is recommended. Sedans can manage with caution in dry season.