The earlist name of Pithapuram was Peetikapuram.The Area passed into the hands of the Vishnukundina during the rule of Vikramendravarma I. They ruled for over two centuries from the first quarter of the 5th Century A.D. The records discovered indicate that their dominion extended over Vishakhapatnam, West Godavari, Krishna and Guntur besides the present East Godavari district. Ranadurjaya, a member of the Durjaya family, ruled pistapuram or Pithapuram as a Vassal of Vikramendravarma in recognition of his services to the State. Another Vishnukundina ruler Indrabhattaraka, defeated the rulers of Vasishta Gotrikas and re-established his authority over this region. His success was, however, short-lived. The early Gangas of Kalinga with the support of some petty rulers, completely routed Indrabhattaraka's army. This resulted in Vishnukundin's power suffering a severe set-back. Indrabhattaraka was followed on the throne by a few others belonging to the same family. madhavavarma III was the last important ruler of this family. Madhavavarma III was, however, killed in a battle. He was succeeded by his son, Manchannabhattaraka who strove hard to maintain his hold over the ancestral dominion without much success.
Later, the western Chalukya ruler of Badami, Pulakesin II, with the help of his brother Kubjavishnu, attacked Pistapura and emerged victorious. Kubjavishnu was given the newly acquired territories in the east, in token of appreciation of the services rendered by him.
The rulers of Eastern Chalukya dynasty founded by Kubjavishnu, ruled first from Pistapura, next from Vengi and then from Rajamahendri (Rajahmundry). Chalukya Bhima I, who ruled furing A.D.892-921, built a temple in honour of Siva at Draksharama. In the subsequent period which marked a civil war for power, Amma I, son of Vijayaditya IV, came out victorious and ruled the kingdom for seven years. He was succeeded by his son Vijayaditya V, who was ousted from power within a fortnight of his accession. He was compelled to take refuge in the fort of Pithapuram, where he founded a dynasty.
After this Koppula Prolaya Nayaka of the Kapu Caste ruled Pistapuram under the Kakateeya rulers and when the Kakateeyas were defeated. He was part of the Confederation of Nayaks who revolted against the Sultans and drove them out of Warangal. His descendants are still in various villages in East Godavari District. He became independent rulers one the Musunuri Nayaks were eastablished on the throne of Warangal.
Pithapuram was also ruled by Velogoti family of the Velama Caste and was a samasthanam during the British rules they were closely linked to the Venakatagiri Velama Families..
Pithapuram Raja(King) is a Freedom fighter
