Mallikarjuna Temple Srisailam – A Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva You Must Visit in South India

🕉️ Mallikarjuna Temple, Srisailam – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva in India

If you’re planning a spiritual journey to the most powerful Shiva temples in South India, the Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh must top your list. As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, it holds immense significance in Shaivism, and is a must-visit pilgrimage site in India. Nestled in the lush Nallamala hills, this temple offers not just divine energy but also breathtaking views and cultural richness.

Let’s explore why the Mallikarjuna Temple is considered one of the holiest places for Shiva devotees and how you can plan your visit to this sacred site.

---

📍 Quick Overview

• Location: Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh

• Deity: Lord Shiva (Mallikarjuna) & Goddess Parvati (Bhramaramba)

• Jyotirlinga: 6th among the 12

• Shakti Peeth: Yes – Bhramaramba Shakti Peeth

• Altitude: 457 meters above sea level

• Best Time to Visit: October to February

---

🛕 Historical Significance

The temple has been mentioned in ancient texts like the Shiva Purana and Skanda Purana. Legend says that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came here to pacify their son Kartikeya, and decided to stay in Srisailam forever, making it both a Jyotirlinga and Shakti Peeth — a rare combination.

Over the centuries, the temple was patronized by several dynasties, including the Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, and Vijayanagara Empire, leaving behind a treasure trove of architectural and cultural heritage.

people also watch : Brihadeeswarar Temple – The Majestic Chola

---

🌄 Architectural Features

The Mallikarjuna Temple showcases stunning Dravidian-style architecture:

• Towering Gopurams (temple towers)

• Beautifully carved mandapams (pillared halls)

• Intricate stone sculptures of deities, dancers, and animals

• A peaceful sanctum sanctorum that emanates divine energy

---

🧭 How to Reach Srisailam

• By Air: Nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (approx. 230 km)

• By Train: Markapur Road and Nandyal stations are the closest

• By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Kurnool

Tip: The scenic Srisailam Ghat Road through the Nallamala forest offers a breathtaking drive!

---

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

The temple is open year-round, but the most auspicious times include:

• Maha Shivaratri

• Karthika Masam (November)

• Shravan Maas (July-August)

Avoid peak summer (March-May) due to high temperatures.

---

🙏 Rituals and Offerings

Devotees can perform:

• Abhishekam

• Archana

• Rudrabhishekam

• Kalyanotsavam
  Special Poojas are also performed during full moon days and festival nights.

---

🌐 Nearby Attractions

• Pathala Ganga (holy dip in River Krishna)

• Srisailam Dam

• Akkamahadevi Caves

• Chenchu Lakshmi Tribal Museum

Whether you are a pilgrim, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, the Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam offers a rare blend of myth, devotion, and architectural beauty. It’s not just a temple — it’s an experience that elevates your soul and connects you to the ancient heartbeat of India.