Kumararama

[1] Its architecture reflects the Dravidian style, featuring intricate designs and elements that highlight its historical and cultural significance.

The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) organizes a circular tour that includes all five temples—Draksharamam, Samalkota, Amaravathi, Palakollu, and Bhimavaram—within 24 hours.

The inscription mentions that Chalukya Bhima constructed a shrine dedicated to Lord Siva near Samalkot in Kakinada District.

The presence of a sculptural panel depicting a royal couple at the temple, believed to represent Chalukya Bhima I and his queen, adds weight to the view that he was the founder.

[5] According to Hindu legend, the demon Tarakasura performed intense penance and was granted the Atmalinga as a boon by Lord Siva.

Empowered by the Atmalinga, which he placed in his throat, Tarakasura began to terrorize the gods, forcing them to seek refuge with Lord Vishnu.

[2] The fragments of the Atmalinga are believed to have fallen at various locations in Andhra Pradesh, where they became the sacred Siva Lingas worshipped at the Pancharama Kshetras.

Additionally, the Eastern Chalukyas employed soft sandstone in the construction, combining durability with intricate design elements to enhance the temple's aesthetic and structural integrity.

The outer prakara wall is notably high, featuring a plain cornice on the exterior and lotus and bead garland decorations on the inner side.

The mandapa, supported by pillars with square bases and octagonal shafts, exhibits exquisite carvings, including lotuses and decorative bands.

Similarly, the southern and western entrances mirror the eastern structure but with unique decorative motifs, such as figures of dvarapalakas in dvibhanga poses holding tridents and damarus.

Additionally, the northeastern corner features the "Uyala Mandapa," an engineering marvel that oscillates with minimal force, showcasing the Chalukyan architects' ingenuity.

[4] The Tiruchuttumala, a cloistered walkway around the shrine, includes 67 pillars adorned with intricate sculptures of dancers, musicians, and mythical figures.

Inside the temple, there are several sub-shrines dedicated to various deities, including Kala Bhairava, Maha Kali, Veerabhadra, Vinayaka, Saneswara, and the Navagrahas (nine planets).

Temple inscriptions
Temple view from south
Dhwaja-stambha