Somasila
Somasila is one of the most enchanting destinations in Nagarkurnool, renowned for the Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple. This ancient temple complex consists of 15 individual temples, all dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is believed to date back to the 7th century. Originally located in the old Somasi la village, the entire complex was meticulously relocated to a higher elevation in the 1980s to save it from the rising backwaters of the Srisailam Dam. This move preserved a priceless piece of heritage that would have otherwise been lost to the river. Today, the temples sit on the banks of the Krishna River, creating a serene atmosphere that resembles an island retreat. The spiritual vibration here is palpable, with the sound of the river waves and temple bells blending harmoniously. Somasila is not just a pilgrimage site; it has evolved into a premier eco-tourism destination. The Telangana Tourism Department has developed the Haritha Resort here, offering cottage stays with breathtaking views of the river. One of the highlights of a visit to Somasila is the boating experience. Large pontoon boats take visitors on a long cruise across the backwaters, sometimes even reaching the Srisailam dam area. The surrounding Nallamala forest and the vast expanse of water make it a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts. During the Kartika Masam, the temple and the riverbanks are illuminated with thousands of lamps, creating a divine spectacle. Whether you are seeking spiritual solace, a peaceful getaway, or an adventurous boat ride, Somasila offers an unparalleled experience in the heart of Telangana.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 Full DayPlace Type:
Category: Pilgrimage / Eco-Tourism / HeritageTiming:
Regular Timings:
Temple: 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
Boating: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning for the sunrise and evening for the temple lamps. ...Regular Timings:
Temple: 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
Boating: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning for the sunrise and evening for the temple lamps.Special Events:
Event Name: Maha Shivaratri.
Details: Celebrated in February or March, the temple sees a massive influx of devotees for 'Jagaranam' (night vigil) and special 'Abhishekams' of the Shivalingas. ...Event Name: Maha Shivaratri.
Details: Celebrated in February or March, the temple sees a massive influx of devotees for 'Jagaranam' (night vigil) and special 'Abhishekams' of the Shivalingas.Best Photo Spots:
The Temple Cluster: Capturing multiple temple towers in one frame.
Haritha Resort Balcony: For a wide-angle view of the entire backwater.
The River Ghats: Capturing devotees and the sacred river at dawn. ...The Temple Cluster: Capturing multiple temple towers in one frame.
Haritha Resort Balcony: For a wide-angle view of the entire backwater.
The River Ghats: Capturing devotees and the sacred river at dawn.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Temple Darshan: Visit all 15 Shiva temples and the main Lalitha Devi shrine.
River Boating: Take the long-distance boat ride offered by TSTDC to enjoy the Nallamala forest views.
Stay at Haritha: Book a cottage to experience the sunrise over the Krishna river.
Photography: The temple silhouettes against the blue water are a photographer's dream.
Holy Dip: Take a ritualistic bath in the Krishna River, especially during auspicious days.
Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding trails that lead into the foothills of the Nallamala range.
Bird Watching: Spot river birds and eagles that frequent the backwater area.
Stargazing: The clear ...Temple Darshan: Visit all 15 Shiva temples and the main Lalitha Devi shrine.
River Boating: Take the long-distance boat ride offered by TSTDC to enjoy the Nallamala forest views.
Stay at Haritha: Book a cottage to experience the sunrise over the Krishna river.
Photography: The temple silhouettes against the blue water are a photographer's dream.
Holy Dip: Take a ritualistic bath in the Krishna River, especially during auspicious days.
Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding trails that lead into the foothills of the Nallamala range.
Bird Watching: Spot river birds and eagles that frequent the backwater area.
Stargazing: The clear skies over the river make for excellent night-sky viewing.
Information
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Why Famous:
Relocated Heritage: Famous for the successful relocation of 15 ancient temples to save them from dam waters.
Backwater Beauty: Known for the vast, sea-like backwaters of the Krishna River.
Spiritual Significanc...Relocated Heritage: Famous for the successful relocation of 15 ancient temples to save them from dam waters.
Backwater Beauty: Known for the vast, sea-like backwaters of the Krishna River.
Spiritual Significance: A highly revered site for Shaivites and devotees of Goddess Lalitha. -
Architecture:
Architecture Styles: Classic early medieval Hindu temple architecture with stone carvings.
Dimensions and Structure: The temple complex covers an area of roughly 2 acres. Each of the 15 shrines features a square 'Garbhagriha' of 8x8 feet. ...Architecture Styles: Classic early medieval Hindu temple architecture with stone carvings.
Dimensions and Structure: The temple complex covers an area of roughly 2 acres. Each of the 15 shrines features a square 'Garbhagriha' of 8x8 feet. The main Someswara Swamy shrine is slightly larger, with a height of 35 feet. The relocation was done by numbering each stone, ensuring the original dimensions were maintained perfectly. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) is 175 KM away.
By Train: Nearest major station is Mahabubnagar, about 105 KM away.
By Road: Regular buses from Nagarkurnool and Kollapur.
Read MoreBy Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) is 175 KM away.
By Train: Nearest major station is Mahabubnagar, about 105 KM away.
By Road: Regular buses from Nagarkurnool and Kollapur.
By Local Transport: Private taxis and autos are available from Kollapur (10 KM away).Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Near Tourist Places:
Nearby Tourist Places: 1. Kollapur Palace (9 KM), 2. Jetprole (18 KM), 3. Singotam (20 KM), 4. Mallela Theertham (75 KM), 5. Srisailam (Accessible by boat/road), 6. Nagarkurnool (55 KM), 7. Wanaparthy (60 KM), 8. Beechupally (65 KM), 9. Uma Maheshwaram (70 KM), 10. Alampur (90 KM).Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Follow safety instructions during boating; wear life jackets.
Packing: Carry light cotton clothes, sunblock, and personal medicines.
Accommodation: Haritha Resort (TSTDC) is the best and o...Health & Safety: Follow safety instructions during boating; wear life jackets.
Packing: Carry light cotton clothes, sunblock, and personal medicines.
Accommodation: Haritha Resort (TSTDC) is the best and only reliable option in the village.
Cash: ATMs are not available in the village; withdraw cash at Kollapur.
Connectivity: Signal is decent, but Wi-Fi is only available at the resort lobby.
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