Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple | Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh- Highlights

 


The Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, located at Srisailam in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Mallikarjuna and Goddess Parvati as Bhramaramba, the temple holds exceptional importance as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas. Nestled on the banks of the holy Krishna River, the temple is a powerful confluence of Shaiva and Shakta traditions.

History in Detail

Mythological Origins

According to legend, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came to Srisailam to pacify their son Kartikeya (Murugan), who was upset after losing a divine contest to Lord Ganesha.

Pleased by Kartikeya’s devotion, Shiva manifested here as Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, while Parvati appeared as Bhramaramba Devi.

Scriptural References

The temple is mentioned in ancient texts such as the Skanda Purana, Shiva Purana, and Padma Purana, emphasizing Srisailam as a sacred Shaiva kshetra.

It is also praised by several Shaiva saints and poets in classical literature.

Historical Development

The temple flourished under the patronage of the Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, Eastern Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, and Vijayanagara rulers.

Inscriptions dating from the 7th to 15th centuries record grants of land, gold, and cattle for temple rituals.

The Vijayanagara kings, particularly Krishnadevaraya, contributed significantly to the temple’s architectural expansion.

Later Period

During medieval times, the temple continued to receive royal patronage and remained a major pilgrimage centre.

Today, it is managed by the Srisailam Devasthanam, ensuring preservation and organized worship.

Significance

One of the 12 Jyotirlingas

Mallikarjuna Swamy is among the most powerful manifestations of Lord Shiva.

One of the 18 Shakti Peethas

Goddess Bhramaramba is worshipped here, making the temple uniquely significant to both Shaiva and Shakta devotees.

Spiritual Liberation

It is believed that worship at Srisailam grants moksha (liberation) and relief from sins.

Sacred Geography

The temple’s location amidst dense forests and the Krishna River enhances its spiritual aura.

Temple Details (Full Description)

Presiding Deities

Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy (Shiva Jyotirlinga)

Goddess Bhramaramba Devi (Parvati)

Architecture

Built in classic Dravidian style

Massive stone walls, towering gopurams, and intricately carved pillars

Key Structures

Garbha Griha

Houses the sacred Jyotirlinga of Mallikarjuna

Bhramaramba Devi Shrine

Located within the temple complex

Mukha Mandapam & Maha Mandapam

Used for rituals and festivals

Veerasiromandapam

Known for detailed carvings

Temple Prakarams

Enclose the sacred complex

Major Festivals

Maha Shivaratri

Brahmotsavam

Navaratri

Karthika Masam

Ugadi

Temple Timings

Activity

Timings

Temple Opening

4:30 AM

Morning Darshan

6:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Evening Darshan

6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Temple Closing

10:30 PM

Timings may vary on festival days and during special rituals.

Connectivity

By Road

Well connected by road from Hyderabad (approx. 215 km) and Kurnool

APSRTC buses and private taxis are available

By Rail

Nearest railway station: Markapur Road or Kurnool City (around 85–90 km)

Further travel by road

By Air

Nearest airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (about 220 km)

Legacy

The Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple at Srisailam stands as a timeless symbol of divine union, spiritual power, and sacred tradition. Revered for centuries by saints, scholars, kings, and common devotees alike, the temple continues to be a beacon of faith. Its dual significance as a Jyotirlinga and Shakti Peetha, combined with its serene natural surroundings, ensures its enduring legacy as one of India’s most profound pilgrimage destinations.

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