Draksharamam Bhimeswara Swamy Temple
Draksharamam temple is the famous temple and it is the one the temple of Pancharamalu. Draksharamam is the famous for both dieities Lord Bhimeshwara swamy and goddess Manikyamba. Draksharamam temple is also known as Dakshina Kasi.
Draksharamam is the most frequented pilgrim centre of South India. This temple is one of the Shiva Pancharamas and one of 18 Shakti Peethas. Thus, it is famous as both Shiva kshetra and Shakti kshetra.
The interesting legend about the name of this place and existence of Lord Shiva in this place is, during Tarakasura vadha, the Shiva Linga which was in the throat of Tarakasura broke into five pieces and one of the pieces fell here. Thereafter, it came to be known as Draksharamam.
The Shiva Lingam in this Draksharama temple is nearly 9 feet. A flight of steps leads one to the upper level of the Sanctum where one can see the upper part of Lord Bheemeswar Swamy. The Shiva Linga of Draksharamam temple has a unique feature. The early morning tender Sun light falls on the Shiva Linga.
The Shiva Linga is of a crystal texture. We can see black stripes on the upper part of the Shiva Linga. These are said to be the markings of the tiger skin worn by Lord Shiva when He was in disguise of a Hunter when he fought with Arjuna.