Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple Srisailam: Jyotirlinga, Shakti Peetha

Srisailam Temple is located On top of the Nallamala Hills in Andhra Pradesh, the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, also known as the Srisailam Temple, is one of India’s most revered shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.Recognized as both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha, this temple unites two of the most powerful divine energies — making it a rare and sacred pilgrimage destination for devotees.

Spiritual Significance

The temple is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy (Shiva) and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi (Parvati).
According to legend, when Kartikeya, son of Shiva and Parvati, distanced himself to this forest after a dispute, his parents followed him here — symbolizing parental love, forgiveness, and eternal togetherness.

Srisailam is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, making it a site of immense spiritual power where Shiva and Shakti coexist.

Temple Architecture

Built in majestic Dravidian style, the Srisailam Temple features intricately carved gopurams, ornate mandapams, and stone sculptures depicting ancient tales from Shaivite mythology.

• Raja Gopuram: Stands 210 feet tall, symbolizing the temple’s grandeur.

• Garbhagriha (Sanctum): Houses the self-manifested Swayambhu Lingam.

• Bhramaramba Devi Shrine: Adjacent to the main temple, representing Shakti’s divine energy.

• Kshetrapala Nandi: Guarding the entrance as the sacred vahana of Lord Shiva. 

Divine Harmony in Nature

Located on the banks of the Krishna River, surrounded by dense forests and deep gorges, Srisailam is both a spiritual retreat and a nature lover’s paradise.

Top Scenic Spots Around the Temple

• Pathala Ganga: Take a ropeway down to this sacred ghat and bathe in the holy Krishna River.

   

• Srisailam Dam: Enjoy panoramic views of the backwaters and the Nallamala Hills.

   

• Akkamahadevi Caves: Reachable via a serene boat ride, these caves are associated with the mystic saint Akkamahadevi.

   

• Sakshi Ganapati Temple: Pilgrims stop here to mark their attendance before proceeding to Srisailam.

  

• Srisailam Ropeway: Offers stunning aerial views of the river valley. 

   

The Nallamala Forest surrounding Srisailam is one of South India’s richest biodiversity zones and home to the Srisailam Tiger Reserve — the largest in Andhra Pradesh.
It’s a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions Around Srisailam

1. Srisailam Tiger Reserve: Spread over 3,700 sq km, it shelters tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and rare birds.

2. Ishta Kameshwari Temple: A mystical shrine hidden deep in the forest — reached via a jeep trail through lush valleys.

3. Hatakeswaram Viewpoint: Offers mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views over the Krishna River.

4. Lingala Gattu: A spiritual hill offering trekking opportunities and panoramic landscapes.

5. Octopus Viewpoint: A stunning viewpoint near the dam shaped like an octopus, ideal for photography.

🌳 Pro Tip: Visit during early mornings or evenings to spot wildlife and enjoy mist-covered valley views.

Festivals and Celebrations 

• Maha Shivaratri: Grand celebrations with special pujas and all-night vigils.

• Karthika Masam: Devotees light lamps and perform Rudrabhishekams.

• Navaratri & Dasara: Dedicated to Goddess Bhramaramba with colorful rituals.

• Ugadi & Sankranti: Marked with devotional music and temple processions.

Temple Timings

Activity	Time
Temple Opens	4:30 AM
Abhishekam	5:00 AM – 7:00 AM
General Darshan	6:00 AM – 3:30 PM & 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Temple Closes	10:00 PM

How to Reach Srisailam 

• By Road: 213 km from Hyderabad, 180 km from Kurnool, 250 km from Vijayawada.

• By Rail: Nearest railway station — Markapur Road (85 km).

• By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (195 km).

Regular APSRTC buses, taxis, and private tours connect Hyderabad to Srisailam.

2-Day Weekend Pilgrimage from Hyderabad

🗓️ Day 1: Hyderabad → Srisailam

• Depart early morning and stop at Sakshi Ganapati Temple and Hatakeswaram Viewpoint.

• Check-in by noon; visit Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple for evening Aarti.

• Explore Pathala Ganga via ropeway at sunset.

🗓️ Day 2: Srisailam → Hyderabad

• Early morning Abhishekam and darshan at Bhramaramba Devi Temple.

• Visit Srisailam Dam, Akkamahadevi Caves, and Tiger Reserve Viewpoint.

• Return to Hyderabad by evening.

FAQs

1. What makes Srisailam unique?
It’s the only temple recognized as both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha.

2. Can we book seva or darshan online?
Yes, visit srisailadevasthanam.org

3. Is photography allowed?
Photography is restricted inside sanctums but allowed in open temple areas.

4. How far is the Tiger Reserve from Srisailam Temple?
The main gate is about 15 km from the temple complex.

5. Are accommodation options available?
Yes — temple guesthouses, Devasthanam cottages, and hotels for all budgets. 

Conclusion

The Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam is a divine fusion of spiritual heritage and natural grandeur.
Whether you come seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings, Goddess Bhramaramba’s grace, or the calm of the Nallamala wilderness — Srisailam promises a soul-stirring journey of faith, beauty, and peace.

With its blend of sacred legends, serene forests, and breathtaking views, Srisailam stands as a timeless reminder that nature and divinity truly coexist in harmony.