Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga – A Sacred Shiva Temple in Srisailam
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, is the 2nd Jyotirlinga among the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It is one of the most loved pilgrimage sites in South India, beautifully surrounded by the Nallamala Forests and the peaceful Krishna River.
According to ancient stories, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came to calm their sons Kartikeya and Ganesha. Shiva stayed here as Mallikarjuna (Mallika = Parvati, Arjuna = Shiva). This place has been worshipped since the time of the Mahabharata and later expanded by rulers of the Satavahana, Chalukya, and Vijayanagara empires.
The Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is deeply important because it is one of the few sacred places where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati bless devotees together. This powerful combination of Shiva and Shakti makes the temple a strong center for peace, protection, and spiritual healing. According to legend, Shiva came to comfort His son Kartikeya, showing that God reaches His devotees with love, wherever they are.
The Mallikarjuna Temple is unique because it is one of the only temples in India where Lord Shiva (Mallikarjuna) and Goddess Parvati (Bhramaramba Devi) are worshipped together in the same complex, making it both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha.
Popular Places to Visit Near Mallikarjuna
- Srisailam Dam: Famous for its massive structure and scenic river views, perfect for photography and relaxation.
- Pathala Ganga: A sacred point on the Krishna River where pilgrims take a holy dip for purification.
- Akkamahadevi Caves: Popular for spiritual meditation and natural limestone formations.
- Sikharam Viewpoint: Provides stunning hilltop views and the green Nallamala forests.
- Bhramaramba Devi Temple: One of the important Shakti Peethas located within the same temple complex.
- Ista Kameswari Temple: Known for its deep forest setting and peaceful atmosphere.
- Ropeway: Loved for adventure and breathtaking aerial views of the river and hills.
- Tiger Reserve: Popular among wildlife lovers for tiger sightings and forest trails.
- Lingala Gattu: A scenic hill loaded with mythological stories and peaceful vibes.
- Manannur Eco Park: Famous for nature trails, greenery, and family friendly activities.
Activities or Things to Do in Mallikarjuna
- Performing Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Darshan allows devotees to experience deep peace and spiritual energy.
- Joining Rudrabhishekam at Mallikarjuna Temple gives emotional healing and blessings.
- Exploring the temple architecture helps visitors understand ancient South Indian temple art.
- Taking a dip at Pathala Ganga is considered auspicious and purifying.
- Visiting the Bhramaramba Temple offers the rare chance to worship both Shiva and Shakti together.
- Boating at backwaters adds fun and scenic beauty to your trip.
- Trekking through Nallamala forests lets visitors enjoy nature near Mallikarjuna Temple.
- Shopping for local handicrafts supports regional artisans.
- Enjoying ropeway rides offers thrilling aerial views.
- Attending evening aarti brings a divine atmosphere with lamps, drums, and chants.
Where to Stay in Mallikarjuna Srisailam
- Haritha Hotel: A government hotel near the Mallikarjuna Temple known for clean rooms and easy access.
- Sunrise Hotel: Popular for spacious rooms and comfortable stay options for families.
- Pathala Ganga Residency: A budget friendly stay near Mallikarjuna Temple with basic facilities.
- Srinivasa Lodge: Known for simplicity and comfortable atmosphere.
- Reddy’s Homestay: A peaceful homestay offering homely meals and friendly hospitality.
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Darshan Timing
- Temple Opening: 4:30 AM
- Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Aarti Timing
- Suprabhatam: 4:30 AM
- Rudrabhishekam: Morning & Afternoon Slots
- Evening Aarti: 7:30 PM
Mallikarjuna Temple Dress Code & Rules
- Simple, traditional clothing recommended (No shorts or sleeveless tops).
- Maintain silence inside the temple.
- Photography inside the sanctum is not allowed.
- Follow queue discipline and temple instructions.
Mallikarjuna Temple Ticket or Darshan Fee
- General Darshan: Free
- Special Darshan: Approx ₹150–₹300
- Rudrabhishekam: Approx ₹500–₹1,500 depending on the type
Best Time to Visit Mallikarjuna Temple
- October to February: Best period due to cool weather and pleasant sightseeing atmosphere.
- July to September: Good for monsoon greenery but travel may be slow.
Festivals & Cultural Traditions of Mallikarjuna
- Maha Shivaratri (February-March): The biggest celebration with night-long worship and special poojas.
- Karthika Deepotsavam (November): Famous for lakhs of lamps lighting up.
- Navratri (September-October): Celebrated with special rituals for Goddess Bhramaramba.
- Ugadi (March-April): Marks the Telugu New Year with colorful temple decorations.
Best Local Food & Famous Restaurants in Mallikarjuna
- Andhra Meals: Loved for spicy curries, rice, rasam, and wholesome thali style meals.
- Tiffin Center: Known for idli, dosa, vada, and hot filter coffee.
- Haritha Restaurant: Famous for simple South Indian meals with good hygiene.
- Rayalaseema Ruchulu: Popular for spicy regional dishes and traditional flavors.
- Local Sweet Shops: Famous for laddu, boondi and jaggery based sweets.
Best Trip Plans & Travel Itineraries for Mallikarjuna
- 1-3 Days – Short Spiritual Trip: Perfect for darshan, Pathala Ganga visit, ropeway ride, and Bhramaramba Temple exploration.
- 4-5 Days – Family Trip: Covers wildlife sanctuary, caves, dam visit, and temple sightseeing.
- 6-7 Days – Extended Temple Trip: Includes nearby places like Nagarjuna Sagar, Mahanandi Temple & Ahobilam.
- 8-10 Days – Complete Temple Circuit: A full South India pilgrimage including Kanchipuram, Rameshwaram & Tirupati.
How to Reach Mallikarjuna Temple
- By Air: The nearest airport is Hyderabad (230 km). From the airport, taxis and buses go directly through scenic forest routes.
- By Train: Nearest major railway station is Markapur Road. From there, buses and taxis take visitors to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga in around 3 hours.
- By Road: Srisailam is well connected by APSRTC and TSRTC buses; the journey is scenic with ghat roads and forests.
Suggested Travel Routes to Mallikarjuna
- Hyderabad -> Srisailam (230 km / 5 hours): Via NH765 through Amarabad Tiger Reserve, scenic and popular.
- Kurnool -> Srisailam (180 km / 4 hours): Via SH24 through peaceful countryside roads.
- Bangalore -> Srisailam (530 km / 10 hours): Via NH44 and NH765, good for road trip lovers.
Popular Pit Stops Along the Route
- Dindi Reservoir: A peaceful stop for photos and natural views.
- Peerla Marri Tree: Famous ancient banyan tree, good for a short break.
- Mannanur Checkpost: Entry point to the tiger reserve, scenic and refreshing.
Tips & Warnings
- Carry Warm Clothes: Evenings can get chilly on the hills.
- Book Rooms Early: Gets busy during festivals.
- Follow Ghat Road Rules: Drive slow and avoid night travel in monsoon.
- Stay Hydrated: Weather can be dry.
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is one of the most sacred temples of Lord Shiva and the second Jyotirlinga among the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is located in the peaceful Nallamala Hills and is also home to the powerful Bhramaramba Shakti Peeth, making it a rare holy combination. The temple’s beauty, traditional Dravidian architecture, and natural surroundings create a special spiritual atmosphere. The history of Mallikarjuna Temple comes from ancient stories of Lord Shiva, Parvati, and their sons Ganesha and Kartikeya. The temple is believed to bring peace, happiness, and relief from difficulties to everyone who visits with devotion.
Travelers enjoy nearby places such as Pathala Ganga, wildlife sanctuary, and ropeway rides. It is well connected by road from Hyderabad, making it easy for families and pilgrims. The best time to visit is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant. Mallikarjuna Temple festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Deepotsavam attract thousands of devotees. Whether you want a short trip or a long temple circuit tour, Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga offers a peaceful and memorable experience filled with divine blessings.
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Image Source: Srisailam Tourism. All rights belong to the respective owners