Srisailam, located in the Nallamala Hills of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, is not only a scenic wonder but also a place of immense religious significance. Known for the Bhramaramba Mallikarjunaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga sites in India – making it a must-visit pilgrimage spot. However, the charm of Srisailam doesn't end with its spirituality. It's a place that also offers a wealth of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical sites.
Spiritual Sites
Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
The centerpiece of Srisailam is undoubtedly the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, one of the most sacred Shiva shrines in the world. The temple's architecture is a stunning example of the Vijayanagara style, and its intricate carvings and sculptures are a testament to the craftsmanship of ancient Indian artisans. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in spirituality and witness centuries-old rituals.
Bhramaramba Devi Temple
Adjacent to the Mallikarjuna Swamy is the Bhramaramba Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati. It is one of the 18 Shakti Peethas in India and a prime example of Shakta tradition. The temple exudes a divine energy that is palpable to those who visit.
Natural Attractions
Srisailam Dam & Reservoir
Not just an engineering marvel but also a spot of great natural beauty, the Srisailam Dam on the Krishna River is the second-largest working hydroelectric station in the country. The reservoir created by the dam is a sight to behold, especially when the gates are opened during the monsoon season.
Pathala Ganga
Down the hill from the temple is the Pathala Ganga, a stretch of the Krishna River considered extremely holy. Pilgrims often bathe here before visiting the temple. The ghats offer a panoramic view of the river, and the boat ride here is a peaceful experience.
Akkamahadevi Caves
Accessible by a boat ride on the Krishna River, the Akkamahadevi Caves are named after a famous philosopher and ascetic. Inside the caves, there is a naturally formed Shiva Lingam. The journey to the caves and the caves themselves present an adventurous exploration.
Wildlife and Nature Excursions
Srisailam Tiger Reserve
The Srisailam Tiger Reserve, part of the larger Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, is the largest tiger reserve in India. It is rich in flora and fauna and offers a chance to spot not just tigers but also other wildlife like deer, sloth bears, and various species of birds.
Nallamala Forest
The Nallamala Forest surrounding Srisailam is dense and rich in biodiversity. It's a great place for treks and witnessing untouched nature. Bird watching is also a popular activity here.
Mallela Theertham
A beautiful waterfall in the Nallamala Forest, Mallela Theertham is about 58 kilometers from Srisailam. It's a perfect spot for a day trip to enjoy the picturesque waterfall and the lush greenery surrounding it.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Srisailam Ropeway
The ropeway offers a thrilling ride with spectacular views of the Krishna River and the surrounding forest. It is a popular way for pilgrims and tourists to reach Pathala Ganga.
Shikaresvara Temple
At the highest point of Srisailam, the Shikaresvara Temple provides an exceptional view of the entire hill town. The temple itself is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its significance in granting the wishes of the devotees.
Sakshi Ganapati Temple
It is believed that visiting the Sakshi Ganapati Temple before the main Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is auspicious. The temple's deity, Lord Ganesh, is said to keep a record of all the pilgrims.
Phaladhara Panchadhara
This is the spot where Adi Shankaracharya is said to have composed his famous Sivanandalahari. The stream here is believed to have medicinal properties due to the herbs it passes through in the Nallamala Forest.
Hemareddy Mallamma Temple
Associated with a local saint, this temple has an interesting backstory and is considered a symbol of devotion and the miraculous.
Adventure Activities
Trekking and Camping
The terrain around Srisailam is ideal for trekking and camping, especially in the Nallamala Forest. There are designated spots where one can experience the wilderness safely.
Boating
Boating in the Krishna River gives a different perspective of the sanctuary and the holy city, with boats taking you close to the wildlife and nature spots like the Akkamahadevi Caves.
Festivals and Events
Maha Shivaratri
Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with great fervor in Srisailam. During this time, the town is bustling with pilgrims and various spiritual activities, making it an ideal time to experience local culture and traditions.
Navaratri
During Navaratri, the Bhramaramba Devi Temple is beautifully decorated, and different forms of the Goddess are worshipped. This is also a period of vibrant festivities and cultural programs.
Tips for Travelers
- Accommodation: There are various options ranging from government-run guesthouses to private hotels and lodges. Booking in advance, especially during festival times, is advisable.
- Travel: Srisailam is well-connected by road. The nearest airport is in Hyderabad, about 213 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is at Markapur Road, about 85 kilometers from Srisailam.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February is considered the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather.
- Clothing: Light cotton clothes are ideal for summer, while winters require light woolens.
- Local Cuisine: Try the local Andhra cuisine, known for its rich flavors and spices. However, most of the food available near the temple is vegetarian.
- Respect Local Customs: As a place of religious importance, it is important to dress modestly and respect local customs and practices.
Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh is located in the southeastern part of India, bordered by Telangana to the north, Odisha to the northeast, Tamil Nadu to the south, Karnataka to the west, and the Bay of Bengal to the east. It has a coastline of around 974 kilometers and is known for its beautiful beaches.The state has a rich history and was ruled by various dynasties such as the Satavahanas, the Cholas, the Kakatiyas, the Vijayanagara Empire, and the British. Andhra Pradesh was formed in 1956 by merging the Telugu-speaking areas of the erstwhile Madras State, Hyderabad State, and the princely state of Mysore.Andhra Pradesh has a diverse culture and is known for its classical dance form Kuchipudi, which originated in the Krishna district. The state is also famous for its handicrafts such as Kondapalli toys, Etikoppaka toys, and Nirmal paintings.The economy of Andhra Pradesh is primarily based on agriculture, with the state being one of the largest producers of rice, sugarcane, and tobacco. The state is also rich in mineral resources such as bauxite, limestone, and coal. Andhra Pradesh is also one of the major IT hubs in the country, with many software companies setting up their operations in cities like Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam.
Srisailam
Situated on the Nallamala Hills, surrounded by dense forests, Srisailam or Srisailam is an important pilgrimage centre in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. Srisailam is a small temple town, about 212 km from the city of Hyderabad and 180 km from Kurnool. Situated on the banks of the Krishna River, the city boasts of the classical temple of Lord Mallikarjun at the top of the Nallamala hills of the Eastern Ghats. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the oldest free temples in India. Apart from being a sacred place, Srisailam has natural landscapes and the Krishna River flows. The work done in Srisailam will certainly tempt us.
Srisailam Dam
located on the Krishna River, this dam is an important source of hydroelectric power for the region. The dam is also a popular tourist destination and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Srisailam Sanctuary
located in the town of Vijayawada, these caves are named after the famous Kannada poet and saint, Akka Mahadevi. The caves are believed to be around 2,000 years old and are an important historical and cultural site.
Akka Mahadevi Caves
located in the town of Vijayawada, these caves are named after the famous Kannada poet and saint, Akka Mahadevi. The caves are believed to be around 2,000 years old and are an important historical and cultural site.