Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple, Srisailam: A Sacred Abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati

Located in the beautiful Nallamala Hills on the banks of the sacred Krishna River, Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is also one of the 18 Shakti Peethas, making it a rare and highly sacred place where both Lord Mallikarjuna (Shiva) and Goddess Bhramaramba (Parvati) are worshipped together.

Every year, millions of devotees from across India visit this holy temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Surrounded by peaceful hills and natural beauty, the temple offers a spiritual atmosphere where visitors come to pray, find inner peace, and experience divine grace.

About Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is the second among the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located in Srisailam, approximately 220 km from Hyderabad and 180 km from Kurnool. Surrounded by dense forests and scenic hills, the temple offers an ideal atmosphere for meditation and devotion.

The name “Mallikarjuna” is derived from:

Mallika – Goddess Parvati
Arjuna – Lord Shiva

Together, they symbolize the eternal union of Shiva and Shakti.

Mythological Significance Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati came to Srisailam to console their son Kartikeya (Kumara Swamy) after he left Mount Kailash following the marriage of Lord Ganesha. To remain close to their beloved son, Shiva manifested here as Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, while Parvati appeared as Bhramaramba Devi.

This sacred place is believed to grant liberation (Moksha) and remove sins of devotees who worship here with sincere devotion.

Temple Architecture

The Mallikarjuna Temple showcases magnificent Dravidian architecture with:

Grand Gopurams (Temple Towers)
Beautiful stone carvings
Massive entrance gateways
Ancient sculptures depicting Hindu mythology
Spacious courtyards and mandapas

The temple complex reflects centuries of devotion and artistic excellence.

Spiritual Importance

Mallikarjuna Temple is one of the few temples where devotees can receive blessings from both Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti at the same place.

Devotees believe that visiting Srisailam:

Removes negative karma
Brings prosperity and happiness
Fulfills wishes
Grants peace of mind
Leads towards spiritual liberation

Major Festivals Celebrated at Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple

The temple witnesses grand celebrations throughout the year, especially:

Maha Shivaratri
Karthika Masam
Ugadi
Navaratri
Shravana Month Celebrations
Brahmotsavam

During these festivals, thousands of devotees participate in special rituals and processions.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is:

October to March – Pleasant weather for sightseeing and pilgrimage.
Maha Shivaratri – Experience the temple’s grand spiritual celebrations.
Karthika Masam – One of the most auspicious periods for Lord Shiva devotees.

Temple Timings

Typical temple timings are:

Morning: 4:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Evening: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Timings may vary during festivals and special occasions.

How to Reach Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple, Srisailam

By Air

The nearest airports are:

Hyderabad
Vijayawada

By Train

Nearest railway stations include:

Markapur Road
Nandyal
Kurnool

By Road

Srisailam is well connected by buses and private vehicles from:

Hyderabad
Vijayawada
Kurnool
Tirupati
Bengaluru

The drive through the Nallamala Forest offers breathtaking scenic views.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Srisailam, don’t miss:

Bhramaramba Devi Temple
Srisailam Dam
Pathala Ganga
Sakshi Ganapathi Temple
Shikaresvara Temple
Hatakeswaram
Akkamahadevi Caves
Mallela Theertham Waterfalls
Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

Travel Tips

Wear modest and traditional clothing.
Visit early morning to avoid long queues.
Carry comfortable footwear (to be left outside the temple).
Stay hydrated, especially during summer.
Book accommodation in advance during festival seasons.
Follow temple rules and maintain the sanctity of the premises.

Why You Should Visit Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is not just a temple—it is a place where spirituality, history, mythology, and nature come together. The serene surroundings of the Nallamala Hills, the divine presence of Lord Mallikarjuna and Goddess Bhramaramba, and the sacred atmosphere make Srisailam one of India’s most cherished pilgrimage destinations. Whether you seek divine blessings, inner peace, or a deeper connection with India’s spiritual heritage, a visit to Srisailam is a truly transformative experience.

Read origin stories of all 12 jyotirlings

Somnath – Gujarat
Mallikarjuna – Andhra Pradesh
Mahakaleshwar – Madhya Pradesh
Omkareshwar – Madhya Pradesh
Kedarnath – Uttarakhand
Bhimashankar – Maharashtra
Vishveshwar/Vishwanath – Uttar Pradesh
Triambakeshwar – Maharashtra
Baidyanath – Maharashtra
Nageshwar – Gujarat
Rameshwaram – Tamil Nadu
Ghrishneshwar – Maharashtra

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Which Jyotirlinga is located in Andhra Pradesh?
Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga at Srisailam is the only Jyotirlinga located in Andhra Pradesh.

Q2. Why is Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple famous?
It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and also one of the 18 Shakti Peethas, making it one of the holiest temples in Hinduism.

Q3. What is the best time to visit Srisailam?
October to March offers the most pleasant weather, while Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam are ideal for experiencing major religious festivities.

Q4. Can devotees touch the Shivling?
The temple’s darshan and abhishekam policies may vary depending on temple regulations and festival periods. Visitors should follow the latest guidelines announced by the temple authorities.

Q5. How many days are enough for a Srisailam trip?
A 2–3 day trip is generally sufficient to visit the temple and nearby attractions.