Amararama

Traditional Amararamam is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Siva, located in Amaravathi of Palnadu district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.

[3] The temple's foundation reflects early Buddhist influence, featuring elements like a white marble lotus medallion and a cylindrical mula virat in the sanctum.

Additionally, a life-sized, intricately decorated Nandi statue from the Satavahana era, found near the temple, reflects the craftsmanship of that period and suggests the early prominence of Saivism in Amaravathi.

A 1184 CE inscription by Kota chief Keta II describes the Buddhist stupa as "chaityam-atyunnatam yatra nānā chitra suchitritam" (magnificent and adorned).

[4] The primary deity in the Amareswaraswamy Temple is a large Sivalinga, notable for its height, which requires priests to stand on a platform to perform daily rituals and the Abhisheka, a ceremonial anointment.

According to temple lore, the Sivalinga once began to grow continuously, prompting devotees to drive a nail into its top to halt its expansion, resulting in a red mark where it is said blood emerged.

[8] Legend attributes the origins of the temple to events involving the demon king Tarakasura, who, after receiving a boon from Lord Siva, defeated the gods.

[5] The Amararamam temple complex is surrounded by four towering gopuras in the Dravidian style, with a central vimana reflecting the same architectural design, enhancing its impressive structure.

[1] The temple hosts several major Hindu festivals, including Maha Sivaratri, which falls on Magha Bahula Dasami, and Navaratri, along with various Kalyana Utsavas.

[12] The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates regular bus services from Guntur, Vijayawada, and Mangalagiri to Amaravathi.

Amareswara Swamy temple during Rathayatra