Mallikarjuna Temple Srisailam | History, Timings & Travel Guide

The Mallikarjuna Temple, also known as Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Varla Devasthanam, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Srisaila, Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and one of the eighteen Mahashakti Peethas, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Shaivism and Shaktism. The temple is renowned for its unique housing feature, including a jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha, which is dedicated to Goddess Bhramarambha under one roof. The temple is unique; it houses a jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva and a Shakti Peetha of Goddess Parvati (Bhramaramba). The temple complex includes holy springs believed to have medicinal properties, and is also known for its caves and intricate carvings. While you are planning to visit the temple and are keen to grab the other essential details further, go through the information as mentioned and get updated on the different accommodations.

Information About the Timings of the Rituals at the Mallikarjuna Temple

The Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam has specific rituals and darshan timings, which vary slightly depending on the day of the week and the time of the year. Generally, the temple opens for darshan in the early morning around 4:30 AM and closes late evening around 9:00 PM. There are also specific timings for rituals like Mangala Aarti and the evening Aarti. The details about the Specific rituals and the Darshan timings are mentioned below.

• Darshan: The temple generally opens for darshan from 4:30 AM to 3:30 PM and again from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. 
• Managala Aarti: The morning aarti, or the Managala Aarti, takes place at 4:30 AM. 
• Evening Aarti: The evening aarti is typically at 6:00 PM.
• Protocol Darshan: Protocol darshan with the special recommendations letters is allowed twice daily, from 5:00 AM to 6:15 PM and 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM. 
• Shayan Aarti: The last darshan of the day is before 9:00 PM, before the deities are put to rest at night.

See also: Somnath Temple

The Best Time to Visit the Mallikarjuna Temple

When planning to visit the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga temple in Srisailam, it is further suggested that you visit during the winter months, which are from October to February. The weather tends to be pleasant during this period, and it offers a comfortable temperature for sightseeing and exploring the temple and its surroundings. 

The Nearby Attractions to the Mallikarjuna Temple

Several attractions surround the Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam. Nearby is the Srisailam Dham, a major hydroelectric project and a scenic spot—the Pathala Ganga and other notable places you can visit. When exploring the Makkikarjuna temples, witness the nearby attractions and get closer to their historical significance. A few of the nearby attractions to the Mallikarjna temple are mentioned below.

• Srisailam Dam: This dam is a major attraction that offers scenic views and a glimpse into hydroelectric projects. It is vital for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and flood control. 
• Pathala Ganga: A holy place where devotees dip in the Krishna River. It is a popular spot for devotees to take a holy dip in the river waters before visiting the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple. 
• Akkamahadevi: These Caves are associated with the 12th-century saint Akkamahadevi and are a place of natural beauty and spiritual significance. 
• Sakshi Ganpati temple: A small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is being built further. It is believed to keep a record of all the visitors to Srisailam. 
• Shikaresvara Temple: The temple is located on the highest point in Srisailam, offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas. 
• Phalandara Panchadhara: This scenic spot with waterfalls and streams is on the way to Shikaram. The site is considered sacred, and the water is believed to originate from Lord Shiva. It is also known for its peaceful and scenic environment. 
• Hathakesvara Temple: A small, architecturally beautiful temple located on the foothills of Nallamala Hills. It is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its historical and spiritual significance. Locals believe the Hathakesvara Swamy deity can fulfil prayers and cure illnesses. 
• Hemareddy Mallamma Temple: This temple is also dedicated to the goddess Hemareddy Mallamma. It is a serene sanctuary dedicated to an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. 
• Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Sanctuary: The Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, also known as the Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary, is the largest reserve in India. The best time to visit is from October to June.

See also: Top 10 Famous Temples in Delhi

The Things to Consider When Visiting Mallikarjuna Temple

Specific rules govern the maintenance of the sanctity of the Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam. Devotees are also expected to follow the basic rules and regulations when visiting the Mallikarjuna temple. Further, grab the information about the respective rules, go through the information mentioned below, and get updated with a few of the rules you must consider at the Mallikarjuna temple.

• Dress Code: Traditional Indian attire is mandatory. You must avoid modern and sleeveless clothing, as Western clothes are not allowed to be worn inside the temple. 
• Prohibited items: Mobile phones, cameras, bags, and other electronic devices are also not permitted inside the temple. 
• Temple Etiquette: Maintain the silence and reverence inside the temple's premises. 
• Food: Avoid carrying food items inside the temple. 
• Accommodations: If planning to stay, reserve your accommodations in advance through the official website. 
• Darshan: Book your flight ticket for a special darshan online in advance, if possible, and get the direct darshan of the idol. 
• Special Darshan: Protocol darshans with the recommendations letter are further allowed only twice a day, from 5:30 AM to 6:15 PM and 7 PM to 7:30 PM. 
• Other Activities: Non-Hindu religious activities and displays are prohibited in the Srisailam temple town. 
• Safety: Be mindful of your belongings and utilise the locker facilities provided for valuables. 

See also: 10 Famous Temples in Madhya Pradesh

The Modes to Reach the Mallikarjuna Temple

When you visit the Mallikarjuna temples, you wonder about the modes through which you can visit the temple further. You can head to the Mallikarjuna temples in different ways and travel by air, rail, or road. Choose your preferred mode from the following, and further proceed accordingly. 

By Air: 

• Fly into Hyderabad International Airport or Kurnool Airport. 
• From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Srisailam. 

By Rail:

• The nearest railway station is Markapur Road (MRK).
• From Markapur Road, you can take a taxi or a bus to Srisailam. 

By Road:

• Srisailam is well connected by road to major cities like Kurnool, Hyderabad and Vijayawada. 
• You can hire a taxi or take an APSRTC, an Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation bus, to Srisailam.

The list of things that you can shop for at the Mallikarjuna Temple

At the Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam, you can stop for various items, including religious items, souvenirs, and local products. Below are a few of the things that you can shop for.

• Idols.
• Pula Materials. 
• Prasadam. 
• Ladoos. 
• Handicrafts.
• Clothing.
• Local Food. 

Therefore, after reviewing the information as mentioned, you must be aware of the information about the Mallikarjuna Temple, and the helpful information that will further lead you to visit the temple, along with the other valuable details. Explore the Mallikarjuna temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, and learn about its historical significance instead.

See also: 10 Most Iconic Temples in Maharashtra

FAQ's

What are the different types of sevas that happen at the Mallikarjuna Temple?

The temple offers various sevas, including Abhishekam, a ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam. The other sevas include Archanas, Harathi, and specialised homams and rituals like Rudraabhishekam, Kumjumarchana, Chandi Homam, Leela Kalyanotsavam, Mrityunjaya Homam, Rudra Himam, Narayana Kavacham Homam and Srisailam Mallijarjuna Jyotirlinga Himam are also performed. 

Is there any dress code followed at the Mallikarjuna Temple?

It is further suggested that you wear appropriate clothing when visiting the temples. Wear traditional Indian clothes to seek the darshana at the Mallikarjuna Temple. For men, the dress code is shirts and trousers, Dhoti or Pyjamas with an upper cloth. The preferred dress code for women is saree, half saree with the blouse, or chudidhar with zipper clothing.

What are the opening and closing times at the Mallikarjuna Temple?

The Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisaila generally has the following opening and closing hours: The temple tends to open at 4:30 AM and closes at 9:00 PM. There is also a break in the afternoon, when the temple closes between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. 

How many days are enough to travel to the Mallikarjuna Temple?

A visit to the Mallikarjuna temples in Srisaila, Andhra Pradesh, can be comfortably accomplished in 1 to 2 days. This allows enough time to visit the temple, explore nearby attractions and experience the local culture without rushing. 

Who is the deity at the Mallikarjuna temple, and where is it located?

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Mallikarjuna, and his consort, goddess Bhramaramba (Pavati). It is situated on the Nallamala Hills in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. 

What are the festivals celebrated at the Mallikarjuna Temple?

The main festival celebrated is Kumbhothsavan, held on the first Tuesday and Friday after the full moon day of Chatram. 

What is the famous food available at the Mallikarjuna Temple?

The most famous food available at the Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, is a vegetarian Thali. This includes dishes like Pulihora, Pesarattu, Bobbattu, Maryala, Rasam, Hongura pachadi and vegetable Biryani.

What are the famous restaurants available near the Mallikarjuna temple?

Trishul Restaurants is a popular dining option near the Mallikarjuna Temple in Srisailam. Other restaurants include Adithya Garden restaurant and Sri Bramarambika Mallikarjuna Canteen.