Manikyamba Temple

Manikyamba Temple (मणिक्यम्बा मंदिर) is a Shakti Peetha in Draksharamam, Andhra Pradesh.

Overview

The Manikyamba Temple at Draksharamam in East Godavari district enshrines the goddess Manikyamba and is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple is one of the two Daksha Kshetras (the other being Srisailam) in Andhra Pradesh.

History and Legend

According to tradition, the right cheek (ganda) of Sati fell at this site. The temple was built by the Eastern Chalukyas in the 8th-9th century CE. The temple is closely associated with the legend of Daksha’s sacrifice and Shiva’s burning of Sati.

Architecture and Features

The temple is built in the early Chalukyan architectural style with intricate carvings. The sanctum houses the goddess Manikyamba alongside a Shiva linga (Bheemeswara). The temple complex includes a large prakara (outer wall) and several mandapas.

Modern Status

The temple is managed by the Endowments Department of Andhra Pradesh and is an important pilgrimage site in the Godavari region. It is part of the Pancharama Kshetras circuit.

Verification Notes

• One of the 51 Shakti Peethas; Eastern Chalukyan temple documented by ASI.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).