The Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple, located in the Nallamala hills of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most sacred and ancient temples of India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Mallikarjuna and Goddess Parvati as Bhramaramba, this temple holds immense significance as it is both a Jyotirlinga and one of the eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas. The dual status makes it a unique and highly revered pilgrimage destination for devotees of both Shaivism and Shaktism.
| Temple Name | Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple (Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple) |
| Location | Srisailam, Nallamala Hills, Andhra Pradesh |
| Deities | Lord Shiva as Mallikarjuna and Goddess Parvati as Bhramaramba |
| Religious Importance | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva and one of the 18 Shakti Peethas |
| Historical Significance | Mentioned in Skanda Purana and Shiva Purana; patronized by Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Reddy kings, and Vijayanagara rulers |
| Architecture | Dravidian style with tall gopurams, carved mandapams, and fortified walls |
| Major Festivals | Maha Shivaratri, Kumbhothsavam, Navaratri, Ugadi, Kartika Masam |
| Special Rituals | Abhishekam, Giripradakshina (21 km circumambulation), pujas to Goddess Bhramaramba |
| Temple Timings | Morning: 4:30 AM – 3:30 PM Evening: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (pleasant weather, festival season) |
| Nearby Attractions | Srisailam Dam, Akkamahadevi Caves, Pathala Ganga, Sakshi Ganapathi Temple |
| How to Reach | – By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (230 km) – By Rail: Markapur Road (85 km) – By Road: Buses/taxis from Hyderabad, Kurnool, Vijayawada |
Historical Significance
The history of the Srisailam Temple dates back thousands of years. References to the shrine can be found in ancient texts such as the Skanda Purana and Shiva Purana, which describe Srisailam as a sacred kshetra where Lord Shiva himself manifested as Mallikarjuna. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati stayed here to bless devotees and liberate them from worldly sufferings.
Several dynasties, including the Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagara kings, and the Reddy rulers, contributed to the expansion and maintenance of the temple. The architectural grandeur, fortified walls, and beautifully sculpted gateways reflect the rich cultural heritage of South India.
Temple Timings
| Ritual / Darshan | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 4:30 AM |
| Suprabhatha Seva | 5:00 AM – 6:00 AM |
| Abhishekam to Mallikarjuna Swamy | 6:00 AM – 3:30 PM |
| General Darshan (Morning) | 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Mahamangala Aarti | 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM |
| Temple Break (Closed) | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM |
| General Darshan (Evening) | 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Alankara & Special Sevas | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Ekaanta Seva (Temple Closing) | 9:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
Religious Importance
The temple’s greatest distinction is being recognized as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, where Lord Shiva is worshipped in his radiant lingam form. At the same time, it is honored as one of the most powerful Shakti Peethas, where the upper lip of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. Thus, the shrine unites the divine masculine and feminine energies, making it a highly powerful and auspicious site of worship.
Pilgrims believe that a visit to Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple helps in attaining salvation, removing sins, and granting peace and prosperity. The temple is also considered a place where devotees can achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Architecture of the Temple
The Dravidian architectural style dominates the temple structure. The temple complex is surrounded by massive gopurams (entrance towers), intricately carved walls, and mandapams (halls) that depict stories from Hindu mythology. The Garbhagriha (sanctum) houses the sacred Shiva Linga, while the shrine of Goddess Bhramaramba is located nearby.
The temple also has several sub-shrines dedicated to deities such as Nandi, Subrahmanya, and Veerabhadra. The sculpted pillars and detailed carvings not only showcase the craftsmanship of ancient artisans but also make the temple an architectural marvel.
Major Festivals
The temple is a hub of cultural and religious activities throughout the year. Some of the prominent festivals celebrated include:
- Maha Shivaratri – The most significant festival where thousands of devotees gather to perform night-long prayers and special rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Kumbhothsavam – A grand annual celebration held with sacred rituals and processions.
- Ugadi – The Telugu New Year is celebrated with colorful decorations and prayers.
- Navaratri and Dasara – Devotees worship Goddess Bhramaramba with grandeur, offering flowers, lamps, and sweets.
- Kartika Masam – The entire temple complex glows with thousands of oil lamps, creating a divine atmosphere.
These festivals not only enhance the spiritual aura of the temple but also attract devotees and tourists from across the country.
Spiritual Practices and Rituals
Devotees perform a variety of rituals at the Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple. Many offer special Abhishekam (ritual bathing) to the Shiva Linga with milk, honey, ghee, and sacred water. Some devotees undertake Giripradakshina, a 21-kilometer circumambulation around the hill, as an act of devotion and penance.
Special pujas are also offered to Goddess Bhramaramba, who is believed to protect devotees from evil forces and grant them prosperity. The chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya” echoes through the temple corridors, filling the atmosphere with divine vibrations.
Location and Natural Beauty
The temple is situated on the banks of the Krishna River, surrounded by the scenic Nallamala hills. The location not only enhances the spiritual experience but also offers visitors a chance to enjoy nature’s beauty. The lush greenery, serene riverbanks, and fresh air provide an ideal setting for meditation and devotion.
How to Reach Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
- By Road: The temple is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Hyderabad, Kurnool, and Vijayawada. Hyderabad is around 213 km away.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Markapur Road, about 85 km from the temple. From there, buses and taxis are available.
- By Air: The closest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, approximately 230 km away.
Best Time to Visit
The temple can be visited throughout the year, but the best time is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. Visiting during Maha Shivaratri or Karthika Masam offers a unique spiritual experience, though these times attract larger crowds.
Nearby Attractions
Along with the temple, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as:
- Srisailam Dam – A massive dam across the Krishna River, offering breathtaking views.
- Akkamahadevi Caves – Natural caves with mythological significance, accessible by boat.
- Sakshi Ganapathi Temple – Devotees believe Lord Ganesha here keeps a record of their visit to Srisailam.
- Pathala Ganga – A sacred spot on the Krishna River, where devotees take a holy dip.
