Jyotirlinga #2 of 12

Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple

मल्लिकार्जुन स्वामी मंदिर

Second Jyotirlinga, also one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas making it doubly sacred

Srisailam, Andhra PradeshLord Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Goddess Bhramaramba
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Temple Timings

4:30 AM to 10:00 PM

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Best Time

November to February

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Location

Andhra Pradesh

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Dress Code

Traditional

📖 About Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple

Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple, located in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, is unique as it houses both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha. The temple complex is spread over acres and is surrounded by dense forest along the Krishna River. It is considered one of the most ancient and powerful Shiva shrines in South India.

🏢 History & Legend

The temple has references in ancient texts including the Skanda Purana and Mahabharata. It was patronized by various dynasties including the Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, Pallavas, Chalukyas, and Vijayanagara rulers. The Vijayanagara kings contributed significantly to the current temple structure.

Temple Architecture

Built in Dravidian style with tall gopurams and intricately carved pillars. The main temple has four entrances with massive gateways. The thousand-pillar mandapa and Mukha Mandapa showcase excellent craftsmanship.

How to Reach Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple

By Air

Nearest airport is Hyderabad (213 km). Regular flights from all major Indian cities.

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By Train

Markapur Road Station (90 km) and Nandyal Station (175 km) are nearest. Buses available from both stations.

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By Road

APSRTC buses available from Hyderabad (213 km), Vijayawada (228 km), and Kurnool (180 km). Ghat road - plan for extra travel time.

Major Festivals

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Mahashivratri (Feb/Mar)
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Ugadi (Mar/Apr)
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Karthika Masam (Nov)
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Brahmotsavam

Nearby Places to Visit

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Srisailam Dam
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Akka Mahadevi Caves
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Sikharam Viewpoint
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Pathala Ganga
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Kadali Vanam
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Octopus Viewpoint

Tips for Visitors

1

Book TTD accommodation in advance

2

Visit Pathala Ganga for a holy dip

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Carry warm clothes in winter - hills can be cold

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Check for wildlife on roads - tiger reserve area

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Plan 2 days to cover temple and nearby attractions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Why is Srisailam Temple unique?

A:Srisailam is unique as it houses both a Jyotirlinga (Mallikarjuna) and a Shakti Peetha (Bhramaramba), making it doubly sacred.

Q:What are the Srisailam Temple timings?

A:The temple opens at 4:30 AM for Suprabhatam and closes at 10:00 PM. Timings may vary during festivals.

Q:How to reach Srisailam from Hyderabad?

A:Srisailam is 213 km from Hyderabad. APSRTC buses, private buses, and taxis are available. Journey takes 4-5 hours via ghat road.

Plan Your Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple Pilgrimage

Book pandit services, plan temple visits, and shop for puja items - all in one place