A pilgrim centre of national importance, Bhadrachalam on the Godavari is famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Rama. Surrounded by 24 smaller shrines,
the main temple is on a small hill. A large number of devotees flock to the place on the Rama-Navami Day in March-April. According to a legend, Gopanna, an officer of
the ruler of Golconda but a devotee of Rama, spent a huge amount from the government funds to renovate the temple. For such unauthorized expenditure he was imprisoned.
The Lord, disguised as a human being, paid up the amount Gopanna had spent—six lakhs—to the Golconda court, and secured His devotee's release.