Gundala Hot Water Springs

Gundala Hot Water Springs, also known as Ushnagundalu, are natural thermal springs located in the riverbed of the Godavari River near Bhadrachalam in Telangana. The springs are situated approximately 6 kilometers from Bhadrachalam town in Gundala village. These geothermal springs are believed to have healing properties due to sulfur deposits beneath the riverbed and hold religious significance for devotees who visit to bathe in the sacred waters.

Visitors can expect a natural hot spring experience in the Godavari River bed. A government bathing complex with multiple tanks has been constructed near the spring where visitors can take a dip. Visitors need to walk nearly half a kilometer in the riverbed to reach the Ushnagundalu. The hot water is stored in wells dug by locals when the river dries, and devotees often fill bottles to take home. The site attracts both tourists and religious pilgrims seeking the reputed healing properties of the sulfur-rich waters.

According to legend, during his exile, Lord Rama created the hot water spring by shooting an arrow into the riverbed when Goddess Sita wanted hot water for bathing. Another legend attributes the creation of the springs to the serpent king Adhi Sesha.

The hot springs hold religious significance for Hindu devotees who believe that Lords Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva visit the pools in winter to bathe. Taking a dip in the sacred spring is believed to wash away past sins and provide healing benefits.