A place replete with history and beautiful architecture, Alampur in Mahabubnagar district is a delight for both historians and travel enthusiasts. Falling under the aegis of Indian Archeological Department, it is home to the famous Jogulamba temple, a Shakthi Peetha and the Nava Brahmas temple constructed on the bank of Tungabhadra river. Sangameswara Temple, Swarga Brahma Temple, Papanasi Temples and Bala Brahma temples are located within the radius of the main temple.

A day’s journey from Hyderabad, it’s best to start early in the morning around 5 a.m. if you want to return the same day. To reach Alampur, one has to take the bypass from Kurnool, which is 22 km from the place. It is considered to be the western gateway to the pilgrim town of Srisailam, in fact some locals say that there is a secret tunnel from the garbhalaya of Bala Brahma temple leading to Srisailam. There are several inscriptions dating back to 7th and 16th century.

Dynasties like Satavahanas, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Bahamani Sultans, Vijayanagara kings ruled this place before it finally came under Hyderabad. Lore has it that after Lord Brahma lost his powers due to a curse by a saint, he performed penance to Lord Shiva. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared in nine different forms as a result and nine temples were constructed to celebrate each form. The shivalinga in the main temple of Bala Brahma temple is seen in the form of footprint of a bull.

The ancient Jogulamba temple is one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas of Goddess Shakti or Sati and represent the upper teeth of the goddess. The current temple of Jogulamba was rebuilt in 2005 when the original temple was destroyed by Mughal invaders in 1390. To stop the plunder, Vijayanagara king Harihara Raya sent his army to fight the Bahamani Sultan’s army and fortified the temple complex to stop further attacks.

The temples at Alampur haven’t been preserved that well, primarily due to encroachments, lack of space and religious activity of Jogulamba and Bala Brahma temples.  To visit the temples, one has to walk around the area which can be difficult for those not used to walking long distances barefoot. It’s best to wear socks here. Carry caps, umbrella, food and water along with you as there are no proper restaurants nearby. It takes about three-four hours to visit all the places in Alampur.

Places nearby

All within one km radius of Alampur Bus Station.

Vishwa Brahma Temple

The temple is another well preserved shrine after the Bala Brahma temple. One can see wonderful carvings throughout the structure here.

Archaeology Museum

The museum is situated at the entrance of the Bala Brahma Temple complex. It houses a wonderful collection of sculptures and inscriptions recovered from the Navabrahma Temples and surroundings of Alampur.

Kudala Sangameswara Temple

The most magnificent among the temples at Alampur, it was built in 740 AD by Chalukya ruler Pulakesi II. The Kudala Sangame-swara temple was originally located at the meeting point of Tungabhadra and Krishna river, 10 km away from the current site. It was built again in 1979 when the original site got submerged due to the construction of Srisailam dam. Pillalamarri/Big Banyan Tree (Near Mahabubnagar) Khilla Ghanpur/Ghanpur Fort (Near Mahabubnagar).

Distance from Hyderabad: 218 km

Best Time to Visit: September to March

Peak Season: September to October and January to February