🏛️ Navabhrama Temples: The 9 Chalukyan Shiva Shrines of Alampur
7th–8th Century Badami Chalukyan Architecture | ASI Protected | Telangana
Masterpieces of early Chalukyan art. The Navabhrama temples are among the finest examples of Nagara‑style (North Indian) temple architecture found in South India. Built between 650 and 750 CE, they predate the famous Dravidian temples of the later Chalukyas and Vijayanagara. Each temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a distinct name, with Bala Bhramma being the principal shrine (dated to 702 CE). The temples are small, but their carvings – floral motifs, mythological scenes, and geometric patterns – are extraordinarily detailed.
The temples were originally located closer to the Tungabhadra River but were relocated to higher ground during the construction of the Srisailam Hydro‑electric Project to prevent submersion. They are now neatly arranged in a park‑like complex, making it easy to visit all nine in a couple of hours. The site is maintained by the ASI and is a must‑see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
📜 The Nine Temples – Names & Significance
🏛️ Architecture – Badami Chalukyan Nagara Style
The Navabhrama temples follow the Nagara (North Indian) style, characterised by:
- Curvilinear shikharas (towers) – typical of northern temples
- Ornate doorways with figures of Ganga and Yamuna
- Latina (single spire) and Phamsana (stepped) roof types
- Carved pillars with floral and geometric patterns
- Mythological panels – Vishnu, Shiva, and scenes from epics
The temples are built of sandstone and were originally plastered. The ASI has conserved them, but some are partially ruined. The Bala Bhramma temple is the most complete and is actively worshipped. The Swarga Bhramma temple is considered the finest example, with a beautifully carved doorway and shikhara.
📜 Relocation – Saved from Submersion
When the Srisailam Hydro‑electric Project was built on the Krishna River in the 1970s–80s, the backwaters threatened to submerge the original location of the Navabhrama temples (which were closer to the riverbank). The Archaeological Survey of India, in collaboration with the government, carefully dismantled and relocated the temples to a higher ground within Alampur town. Each stone was numbered and reassembled. This remarkable feat of heritage preservation saved these 1,300‑year‑old monuments for future generations.
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address
Navabhrama Temple Complex
Alampur, Jogulamba Gadwal District,
Telangana – 509126
Near Jogulamba Temple (≈1 km)
📞 ASI / Tourism Contact
ASI Hyderabad Circle – for heritage queries
Alampur Temple Office: +91-8542-123456 (representative)
🌐 Official Info
🕐 Timings & Entry
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (daily)
Entry Fee: Free (ASI monument)
Best Season: September – March
Photography: Allowed for personal use (no flash inside shrines)
🕯️ Festivals
Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with grandeur, especially at the Bala Bhramma temple. A large fair attracts devotees from nearby districts.
🧭 Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary (Navabhrama + Jogulamba)
- 7:00 AM: Depart from Hyderabad (≈220 km, 4–5 hours).
- 10:30 AM: Arrive Alampur, visit Jogulamba Shakti Peetha (1 hour).
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM: Explore the Navabhrama Temples – take your time to admire each shrine.
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Lunch at Alampur (vegetarian thali).
- 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Walk along the Tungabhadra backwaters (2 km away) – relax, take photos.
- 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Optional visit to Swarga Bhramma temple for detailed architecture study.
- 5:30 PM: Depart for Hyderabad.
- 9:30 PM: Return to Hyderabad.
🏨 Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation
- Gadwal (≈20 km): Haritha Hotel (TSTDC), budget lodges.
- Alampur: Limited basic guesthouses.
- Srisailam (≈90 km): Luxury resorts and Haritha Hotel.
Food & Tips
- Vegetarian meals available near the Jogulamba Temple complex.
- Carry water and snacks – no permanent food stalls inside the ASI complex.
- For a picnic, enjoy packed food by the Tungabhadra backwaters.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
🚗 How to Reach Navabhrama Temples
By Road: Alampur is on NH 765 (Hyderabad–Srisailam highway). From Hyderabad, take the route via Jadcherla, Wanaparthy, and Gadwal (≈220 km, 4–5 hours). Buses from Hyderabad (MGBS) to Gadwal are frequent; from Gadwal, take a local auto or bus to Alampur (≈20 km). The temple complex is near the Jogulamba Temple – easily accessible by auto or walking.
By Train: Nearest railway station is Gadwal Junction (≈20 km), connected to Hyderabad, Kurnool, and Guntur.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈200 km).
📝 Travel Tips & Etiquette
⭐ Note: The Navabhrama temples are still used for worship, particularly Bala Bhramma and Swarga Bhramma. Remove footwear before entering any shrine. The ASI has placed signboards with historical information – do read them. The site is peaceful and less crowded than major temples, making it a favourite for heritage lovers.
🙏 Conclusion – A Hidden Jewel of Chalukyan Heritage
The Navabhrama temples at Alampur are a testament to the artistic brilliance of the Badami Chalukyas. Their intricate carvings, unique Nagara architecture, and historical inscriptions make them a must‑visit for anyone interested in early Deccan temple architecture. Combined with the nearby Jogulamba Shakti Peetha and the serene Tungabhadra backwaters, Alampur offers a complete cultural and spiritual experience. A day trip from Hyderabad is entirely feasible, but an overnight stay allows a more relaxed exploration.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does “Navabhrama” mean?
A: “Nava” means nine, and “Bhramma” refers to the divine – the nine forms of Shiva worshipped in these temples.
Q: Are all nine temples still active for worship?
A: Bala Bhramma and Swarga Bhramma are actively worshipped. Others are preserved as ASI monuments.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, entry is free. Donations are accepted for maintenance.
Q: How much time is needed to see all nine temples?
A: About 2–3 hours if you take time to study the carvings.
Q: Are the temples wheelchair accessible?
A: The complex is mostly flat, but there are steps into each temple. The pathways are paved.
Q: Is photography allowed inside?
A: Yes, for personal use. No flash or tripods without ASI permission.
📚 References & More Information
- Gadwal District Official – Alampur Temples
- Archaeological Survey of India – Alampur Group of Temples
- Wikipedia – Alampur, Telangana
- Telangana Tourism – Alampur
- Trawell – Navabhrama Temples Guide
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