Exploring the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga in Srisailam

By Prakash Joshi 4 Min Read
complete travel guide of mallikarjuna jyotirlinga,

 

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Overview:

 

    •  The Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga on Srisailam Hills, located in the Nalla Malla forests, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh.
    • Srisailam Hills are also known as the Kailash of the Southern region.

 

Significance of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga:

 

    • It is the second Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, situated on the banks of the Krishna River.
    • Unique as the only Jyotirlinga where Lord Shiva’s marriage is reenacted daily.
    • Pilgrims, especially those facing difficulties in marriage, visit to seek blessings.

 

How to Reach Srisailam:

 

    • From Hyderabad

      • Distance: 250 km; travel time: 5-6 hours by SRTC bus.

      • Bus fare: Rs 400 to Rs 450.

    • From Markapuram Railway Station:

      • Distance: 90 km.
    • Best Route for North Indian Tourists:

      • Via Hyderabad to Srisailam.

 

Travel Tips:

 

    • The route to Srisailam is scenic, featuring mist-covered hills and well-maintained roads.
    • Important Note:
      • Srisailam is a dense wildlife area with restricted access from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
      • Toll gates close at 6:00 pm and reopen at 6:00 am.

 

Srisailam Dam:

 

    • Location: On the Krishna River, near the road to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga.
    • Specifications:
      • Length: 500 meters; Height: 150 meters.
      • India’s second-largest hydroelectric dam.
    • Activities:
      • A serene spot for relaxation and photography, offering beautiful views of the dam and surrounding greenery.

Accommodation in Srisailam:

 

    • Booking Tips:

      • Online booking is recommended due to limited availability, especially during peak times.
    • Available Options:

      • Ganga Sadan and Mallikarjuna Sadan: Non-A.C. rooms: Rs 250 to Rs 700; A.C. rooms: Rs 1000 to Rs 1200.
      • Andhra Pradesh Tourism’s Haritha Hotel: A.C. rooms: Rs 800; online booking available.
      • Dormitory: A.C. beds for Rs 200.
    • Parking:

      • Available 1 km from the temple.

 

Temple Entry and Darshan:

 

    • Darshan Options:

      • Free Darshan: 40-45 minutes (depends on crowd).
      • Quick Darshan: Rs 150.
      • Very Quick Darshan: Rs 300.
    • Security:

      • Cameras and mobile phones are not allowed inside the temple; a counter is available for deposit (Rs 5/- charge).

 

The Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga:

 

    • Temple Premises:

      • Features two main temples: Lord Shiva’s Jyotirlinga and the shrine of Goddess Parvati (Bhrambhrambha Devi).
    • Jyotirlinga History:

      • Origin story involves Lord Shiva and Parvati residing on Srisailam Hill after their son Kartikeya’s dispute over marriage.
      • Unique for the daily marriage ceremony of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati with their son Kartikeya present.
    • Mythological Significance:

      • Associated with multiple ancient scriptures like Shiva Purana, Skanda Purana, Padma Purana, and the Mahabharata.

 

Surrounding Pilgrimage Sites:

 

    • Sakshi Ganpati:

      • Located en route to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga; signifies Lord Ganapati as a witness to devotees’ visit.
    • Pataal Ganga (Krishna River):

      • Accessible via 852 steps or a ropeway; offers stunning views.
    • Other Sites:

      • Hathkeshwar, Paal Dhara, Panch Dhara, Srikeshwaram: Accessible via autorickshaw (Rs 500 to Rs 600).

Special Occasions:

 

    • Kartik Maas (Oct-Nov):

      • Celebrated with special rituals, including lighting lamps on Amla, known as “Amla Deep Jyoti.”
      • Thousands of devotees gather, especially during this auspicious month.

 

Historical Contributions:

 

    • Vijayanagara Empire:

      • 400 years ago, King Krishna Deva Rai built a gold-canopied structure over the temple.
    • Maratha Empire:

      • Chhatrapati Shivaji, a devout follower, received a sword from Goddess Bhrambhrambha and contributed to the temple’s upkeep.

 

Conclusion:

 

    • The Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is not just a pilgrimage site but a place rich in history, spirituality, and cultural significance.
    • Visiting this sacred location offers a profound spiritual experience, along with the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
    • Om Namah Shivaya!

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