The Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh, comprising East Godavari and West Godavari, are renowned for their deep spiritual roots, ancient temples, and rich religious traditions. Nestled along the sacred River Godavari, these districts have been important pilgrimage centers for centuries and continue to attract devotees from across the country.
In East Godavari, the most prominent temple is Annavaram Devasthanam, dedicated to Sri Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy. Situated on Ratnagiri hill, it is one of the most visited temples in the state. Another highly significant shrine is Draksharamam Sri Bhimeswara Swamy Temple, one of the revered Pancharama Kshetrams, known for its powerful Shiva Lingam. Kotipalli Someswara Temple, located on the banks of the Godavari, holds immense mythological importance. The Ryali Jaganmohini Kesava Swamy Temple is unique, as it houses Lord Vishnu in the front and Lord Shiva at the back. Rajahmundry also features ancient temples like Markandeya Temple and modern spiritual centers such as ISKCON Rajahmundry.
In West Godavari, Dwaraka Tirumala, popularly known as Chinna Tirupati, is a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Ksheerarama Temple at Palakollu, another Pancharama shrine, is an important center of Shaivism. The Panchakuta Parameswara Swamy Temple showcases remarkable Dravidian architecture. Mavullamma Temple in Bhimavaram is a highly revered goddess temple with strong local devotion, while Somarama Temple is yet another sacred Pancharama site.
Together, these temples make the Godavari region a spiritually vibrant landscape, reflecting centuries of devotion, architecture, and cultural heritage.