About Sangameshwara Temple
The Sangameshwara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, originally constructed by Chalukya ruler Pulakesi I around 540-566 CE. Initially located at Kudavelli village near the confluence of the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers, the temple was dismantled and reconstructed at its current site in Alampur between 1979 and 1990 to prevent submergence from the Srisailam Dam project. The temple showcases early Badami Chalukyan architecture in Nagara style with sandstone construction.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a well-preserved 7th-century Chalukyan temple built in Nagara architectural style on an elevated platform. The temple features a large hall with pillars, intricate stone carvings including depictions of Nagaraja, and a sanctum housing the Shiva linga. The structure measures approximately 68 x 41 feet and faces east. Visitors encounter authentic ancient architecture that was meticulously relocated stone-by-stone by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Key highlights
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One of the earliest Badami Chalukyan temples dating to 540-566 CE
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Meticulously relocated stone-by-stone by ASI to prevent submergence
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Built in Nagara architectural style with South Indian innovations
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Features intricate sandstone carvings including Nagaraja relief
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Originally situated at the sacred confluence of Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers
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Part of the historic temple complex at Alampur known as Dakshina Kashi
History of Sangameshwara Temple
The Sangameshwara Temple was constructed by Chalukya ruler Pulakesi I around 540-566 CE, making it one of the earliest Chalukyan temples. Originally located at Kudavelli village near the confluence (sangam) of the Krishna and Tungabhadra rivers for nearly 1,300 years, the temple was threatened with submergence due to the Srisailam Dam hydroelectric project. The Archaeological Survey of India undertook the monumental task of documenting, dismantling, and reconstructing the temple at its present location near the Navabrahma Temples in Alampur. The relocation work began in 1979 and was completed by January 1990.
Culture & Context
The temple holds significant religious importance as a Shiva shrine and is part of the sacred temple complex at Alampur, historically known as Dakshina Kashi. The name Sangameshwara derives from 'sangam' meaning confluence, reflecting its original location at the meeting point of two major sacred rivers. The temple represents the architectural grandeur of the Badami Chalukya dynasty and demonstrates their patronage of art and temple construction during the 6th-7th centuries CE.