Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple, Darshan Booking, How to Reach
The Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and an important pilgrimage destination located in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh. Perched on the banks of the Krishna River, the temple is known not only for its spiritual significance but also for its architectural grandeur and scenic surroundings.
Mythological Significance of Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
According to the Shiva Purana, Mallikarjuna is the form of Lord Shiva worshipped here, alongside Goddess Bhramaramba, a form of Parvati. The temple symbolizes the union of Shiva and Shakti and is believed to have been visited by Lord Rama and the Pandavas during their lifetimes.
Architecture and Features of Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
- This temple was built in the 7th century by Queen Trailokyamahadevi, who was the wife of King Vikramaditya II.
- Built in Dravidian style with intricate carvings
- Houses both Jyotirlinga (Shiva) and Shakti Peetha (Bhramaramba)
- The temple complex includes beautifully sculpted mandapas, gopurams, and sanctum
- The Dwajasthambam (flagpole) and Nandi Mandapa are key highlights of the temple premises
Best Time to Visit Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
- October to February is ideal due to pleasant weather
- Maha Shivratri and Navaratri are the most important festivals celebrated with grandeur
- Avoid peak summer due to high temperatures in the region
Darshan Timings and Sevas at Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
- Open daily from 4:30 AM to 10:00 PM, with a break in the afternoon
- Main sevas include:
- Suprabhata Seva
- Abhishekam
- Rudrabhishekam
- Kumkuma Archana (for Goddess Bhramaramba)
Darshan Booking and Contact Information
- Online Booking: Visit the official portal to book darshan, sevas, and accommodation
- Contact Number: +91-8514-288 521 / +91-8514-288 574 (Temple Administration Office)
- Email: info@srisailadevasthanam.org
How to Reach Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
- By Road: Well connected by APSRTC and private buses from Hyderabad (210 km), Vijayawada (230 km), Kurnool (190 km)
- By Train: Nearest station is Markapur Road (87 km). Taxis and buses are available for further travel
- By Air: Nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (195 km)
Suggested Itinerary for Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple Visit
Day | Activity |
---|---|
1 | Arrive in Hyderabad and travel to Srisailam |
2 | Early morning darshan and sevas; explore local sites like Pathala Ganga and Srisailam Dam |
3 | Return journey or extended visit to Nagarjuna Sagar or Akkamahadevi Caves |
Travel Tips for Visiting Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
- Carry valid ID for darshan bookings
- Dress conservatively; traditional Indian attire preferred
- Senior citizen and women queues are available
- Book accommodation in advance during festive seasons
- Use government-registered transport for safety in hill areas
Hotels near Mallikarjuna Temple Srisailam
Hotel Name | Price Range | Distance from Temple | Booking Link |
Srisaila Devasthanam Guesthouses | ₹300–₹1,200 | 500 meters | Book Here |
Haritha Resort (APTDC) | ₹1,000–₹2,500 | 400 meters | APTDC Official |
Grand Akkamahadevi Hotel | ~₹1,200 | 650 meters | Goibibo, MakeMyTrip |
Hotel DSR Grand | ₹1,400–₹2,000 | 800 meters | Booking.com |
Ganga Sadan Lodge | ~₹700 | 600 meters | Yatra, Cleartrip |
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple Nearest Railway Station
- Markapur Road Railway Station (Station Code: MRK) is the nearest major railhead, located approx. 87 km away
- Frequent taxi and APSRTC bus services are available from Markapur to Srisailam
Cultural and Spiritual Significance of Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
- The temple is not only a Jyotirlinga but also one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, making it one of the rare temples dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
- Devotees believe that visiting the temple during Maha Shivratri grants special blessings. Thousands gather for night-long worship and prayers.
- The temple plays a vital role in promoting Shaivism in South India and is mentioned in ancient scriptures like the Skanda Purana and Shiva Purana.
Related Temples and Nearby Attractions
- Bhramaramba Devi Temple: Adjacent Shakti Peetha of Goddess Parvati
- Pathala Ganga: Sacred bathing ghat on the Krishna River, accessible via ropeway
- Srisailam Dam: Popular tourist attraction and major hydropower project
- Akkamahadevi Caves: Natural caves associated with the saint Akkamahadevi, accessible by boat
- Sakshi Ganapati Temple: A small temple where Lord Ganesha is believed to keep a record of pilgrims visiting Srisailam
FAQs About Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
Q1. Where is Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga located?
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is located in Srisailam, in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh, nestled in the Nallamala forest range.
Q2. How to reach Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga?
You can reach Srisailam via:
- Road: Regular buses from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Kurnool
- Train: Nearest station is Markapur Road (87 km)
- Air: Nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (195 km)
Q3. How to reach Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga from Delhi?
Fly to Hyderabad Airport, then travel by bus or hire a cab to Srisailam (approx. 6 hours).
Q4. How to reach Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga from Hyderabad?
Drive or take a direct bus from Hyderabad to Srisailam (210 km / 5–6 hours).
Q5. How to reach Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga from Mumbai?
Fly to Hyderabad or take a train to Kurnool, then proceed to Srisailam by road (total travel time approx. 8–10 hours).