It serves as the headquarters of the Bhadradri Kothagudem district of the Indian state of Telangana.

It has an average elevation of 89 metres (295 ft) above sea level.

[5] The North of Kothagudem borders Chhattisgarh state which is approximately 120 km from the town.

Kothagudem is known for its record high temperatures during summer, often crossing 48 °C (118 °F) mark.

The jurisdiction of the civic body is spread over an area of 16.10 km2 (6.22 sq mi).