Bhadrachalam town has a clearly documented history of Lord Sri Rama temple, which was constructed in the 17th Century CE. According to mythology, the present town was once part of the Dandakaranya forest, which Lord Sri Rama, Sita and Lakshmana had visited during their exile. The jungle, which is now in the vicinity of the temple, was the place for Rama’s retreat and a place called Parnasala, which is 32 km away, was the location where Rama built a dwelling for himself and Sita. It was here that Sita was abducted by Lanka ruler, Ravana. The famous temple at Bhadrachalam is home to the Archa Murthy’s of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana and their idols are believed to be swayambhu i.e. self-manifested ones.