- India Travelogue
- Chandan_singh
Location: Srisailam, Nandyal District, Andhra Pradesh | Significance: Jyotirlinga and Shakti Peetha Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple, also known as Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, is one of India's most sacred pilgrimage destinations dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Nallamala Hills above the Krishna River, the temple is traditionally recognised as the second Jyotirlinga and is also associated with Bhramaramba Devi, a revered Shakti Peetha. This guide covers temple timings, darshan tickets, online booking, abhishekam, dress code, travel routes, nearby attractions, and practical tips for planning your pilgrimage.
Quick Answer: Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple Timings
The supplied guide reports that the temple generally opens around 4:30 AM and closes around 9:00–10:00 PM, with breaks for rituals. Free Sarva Darshan is available through the regular queue, while paid options may include Seeghra, Atiseeghra, and Sparsha Darshanam. Timings, ticket prices, and available services can change, so confirm the current details through official temple channels before travelling.
Key Details:
Temple: Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Location: Srisailam, Nandyal District, Andhra Pradesh
From Hyderabad: Approximately 213–220 km by road
Travel Time: Around 4.5–6 hours from Hyderabad
Nearest Railway Station: Markapur Road, approximately 85 km away
Nearest Major Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad
Best Season: October to February
Nearby Attractions: Pathala Ganga, Srisailam Dam, Sakshi Ganapati Temple, and Sikharam
Srisailam Location: Where Is Mallikarjuna Temple?
Srisailam lies in the Nallamala Hills, on the banks of the Krishna River, within the wider Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve region. Older websites may list the temple under Kurnool district, while the supplied guide identifies its current district as Nandyal.
Srisailam Temple Location and Distance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Sri Bhramaramba Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple |
| Other Names | Shri Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple, Srisaila Mallikarjuna |
| State | Andhra Pradesh |
| District | Nandyal |
| From Hyderabad | Approximately 213–220 km |
| From Kurnool | Approximately 180 km |
| From Vijayawada | Approximately 260–265 km |
| From Guntur | Approximately 210 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Markapur Road, approximately 85 km |
| Nearest Major Airport | Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad |
Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple Timings and Darshan Schedule
Published sources report different opening and closing times. The supplied guide also mentions daily pauses for rituals and temple cleaning. Treat the following as reported timings rather than a confirmed current schedule.
Daily Darshan Timings
| Activity | Commonly Reported Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opening | Around 4:30 AM | Some sources report 6:00 AM |
| Temple Closing | Around 9:00–10:00 PM | Verify the current schedule |
| Alaya Suddhi (Cleaning) | Around 4:00–5:30 PM | Darshan may pause |
| Free Sarva Darshan | Walk-in queue | Waiting time varies |
| Assistance Queues | Ask at the entrance | Availability and eligibility may vary |
Alankara and Sparsha Darshanam Timings
The supplied guide cites a schedule reported in December 2024. These are historical reference timings and should not be treated as the current schedule.
| Darshan Type | Previously Reported Slots |
|---|---|
| Alankara Darshanam | 4:30–7:30 AM, 9:30–11:45 AM, 1:30–4:00 PM, 5:30–8:30 PM |
| Sparsha Darshanam | 7:30–9:30 AM, 11:45 AM–1:30 PM, 8:30–10:00 PM |
| Alaya Suddhi | 4:00–5:30 PM |
Confirm current darshan slots with the temple administration, especially during festivals and busy periods.
Srisailam Darshan Tickets: Types and Prices
The temple offers regular darshan and may offer paid options with different queue arrangements. The following prices are estimates reported in the supplied guide, not confirmed current fees.
Darshan Ticket Types
| Darshan Type | Previously Reported Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Free / Sarva Darshan | Free | Regular darshan queue |
| Seeghra Darshanam | Approximately ₹150 | Faster queue, subject to availability |
| Atiseeghra Darshanam | Approximately ₹300 | Paid priority queue, subject to availability |
| Sparsha Darshanam | Approximately ₹500 per person | Reported option to touch the lingam under temple arrangements |
| Abhishekam at Vruddha Mallikarjuna Shrine | Approximately ₹200 | Reported ritual service |
| Important Ticket Information: |
Important Ticket Information:
- Ticket prices and service names may change.
Government-issued identification may be required for online tickets.
Check cancellation, rescheduling, and transfer rules before payment.
Prasadam may not be included in every ticket.
Some ticketed sevas may be suspended during major festivals.
Srisailam Darshan Online Booking: How to Book Safely
Online booking can help you plan your visit, but fake websites and unauthorised agents can pose a risk.
Official Sources to Check
Andhra Pradesh Endowments Portal: https://aptemples.ap.gov.in/
Srisailam Devasthanam Website: The supplied guide lists https://srisailadevasthanam.org/. Verify the current official address through the Endowments portal before paying.
Temple Information Centre: The supplied guide lists 83339 01351, 83339 01352, and 83339 01353. Verify these numbers before relying on them.
Online Booking Steps
Open the verified official portal directly.
Select the service: darshan, Arjita Seva, abhishekam, or accommodation.
Choose an available date and time slot.
Enter the required devotee details and keep your government-issued ID ready.
Pay only through the authorised portal.
Save the receipt and QR code, and carry the required ID and booking confirmation.
How to Avoid Booking Scams
Never transfer money to a personal UPI account for temple tickets.
Avoid agents promising guaranteed VIP access without official authorisation.
Do not rely on unsolicited booking links shared through social media.
Verify the website address before entering personal information or payment details.
Contact the temple through a verified official channel if you have doubts.
Srisailam Abhishekam Ticket Online Booking
Abhishekam is a religious service associated with the worship of Lord Shiva. The supplied guide reports that abhishekam may be offered at the Vruddha Mallikarjuna sub-shrine from around 6:30 AM, at an approximate fee of ₹200. These details are not independently verified current prices or timings.
How to Book Abhishekam
Visit the verified official temple or Endowments portal.
Open the Arjita Sevas or relevant puja section.
Check available dates, service details, fees, and participation requirements.
Complete the booking and save your confirmation.
Carry the required ID and booking receipt.
The supplied guide notes that ticketed sevas may be cancelled during Mahashivratri and Ugadi. Confirm the current rules before booking.
Srisailam Temple Darshan: How Much Time Does It Take?
Darshan duration depends on the day, queue type, festival schedule, and number of visitors. The following are estimates from the supplied guide.
| Visit Type | Reported Waiting Time |
|---|---|
| Free Darshan on a Normal Weekday | Approximately 30–90 minutes |
| Free Darshan on Busy Days | May take several hours |
| Seeghra Darshanam | Approximately 1.5 hours in one reported guide |
| Atiseeghra Darshanam | Approximately 30 minutes or more in one reported guide |
| Major Festivals | Potentially long queues |
Allow half a day for darshan on busy dates. If you also want to visit the Bhramaramba shrine and nearby attractions, consider allowing a full day.
Dress Code, Phones and Rules at Srisailam Temple
Visitors should check the latest temple rules before entering, particularly if participating in a special seva.
Dress Code
Men: Traditional attire such as dhoti, pancha, or kurta-pyjama is commonly recommended in the supplied guide.
Women: Saree, half-saree, or salwar-kameez are commonly mentioned.
All Visitors: Avoid shorts and sleeveless clothing if following the supplied guide. Confirm current requirements with temple staff.
Mobile Phones, Cameras and Other Rules
The supplied guide reports that phones and electronic devices should be deposited at designated clock-room or locker counters.
Photography is reported to be prohibited inside the sanctum.
Follow instructions about food and personal belongings.
Sparsha Darshanam is subject to temple arrangements and may be restricted on certain days.
Do not feed monkeys around the temple or along the ghat road.
Srisailam Jyotirlinga Significance: Why Is This Temple Special?
Srisailam Mallikarjuna is traditionally listed as the second Jyotirlinga, after Somnath. It is also associated with Bhramaramba Devi, who is counted among the eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas in the supplied guide. The presence of both shrines within the same complex makes Srisailam a distinctive destination for devotees.
Legends of Mallikarjuna Swamy
The Contest of Kartikeya and Ganesha: According to a popular story, Ganesha won a contest by circling his parents. Kartikeya left in sorrow, and Shiva and Parvati later settled at Srisailam to remain near their son.
The Name Mallikarjuna: One tradition links “Mallika” with jasmine flowers offered in worship.
The Sage Silada's Son: A traditional account says that Parvata asked Shiva to make him a sacred mountain, and Shiva remained there as a Jyotirlinga.
Bhramaramba and the Bees: According to legend, the goddess took the form of a swarm of bees to defeat the demon Arunasura.
Srisailam as a Shakti Peetha
Tradition connects Srisailam with the neck of Sati, although accounts of the body parts associated with individual Shakti Peethas vary across texts. Bhramaramba Devi is worshipped in a separate shrine within the temple complex, and many pilgrims visit both shrines.
Srisailam Temple History and Architecture
The exact age of the temple is uncertain. The supplied guide notes that the hill appears in Puranic traditions and that early Tamil hymns praise the shrine. Several dynasties are associated with the temple's patronage and development, including the Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, Kakatiyas, Reddi kings, and Vijayanagara emperors.
Architectural Features to See
Fort-like outer walls with carved panels.
Four principal gopurams associated with traditional routes to the hill: Siddhavatam, Alampuram, Tripurantakam, and Umamaheswaram.
The Mallikarjuna shrine at the centre of the complex.
A separate Bhramaramba shrine on higher ground.
A mukha mandapam with carved pillars.
Sparsha Darshanam, when permitted under temple arrangements.
How to Reach Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
Srisailam can be reached by road, rail connections followed by road travel, or air travel to Hyderabad followed by a road journey.
By Road from Hyderabad
Route: Hyderabad → Shamshabad → Kalwakurthy → Dornala → Srisailam.
Distance: Approximately 213–220 km.
Travel Time: Around 4.5–6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Bus: The supplied guide mentions state-run buses from MGBS and JBS in Hyderabad.
Cab: The supplied guide reports approximate round-trip fares of ₹4,500–₹6,500. Confirm the fare before booking.
Forest Road and Night-Travel Warning
The final stretch passes through the Nallamala forest and includes winding ghat roads. The supplied guide reports that forest checkposts at Mannanur and Domalapenta restrict entry overnight, with a reported closure period of approximately 9 PM–6 AM. Confirm current restrictions with the relevant authorities.
Avoid planning a late-night arrival. Refuel before entering the forest section, carry identification, and drive carefully, especially during the monsoon.
By Train
There is no railway station in Srisailam. The supplied guide identifies Markapur Road, approximately 85 km away, as the nearest railhead. Nandyal and Kurnool are other possible rail connections. From the station, continue by bus or taxi.
By Air
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is the main airport mentioned in the supplied guide, approximately 213–215 km from Srisailam. Check current flight schedules and ground transport before planning the journey.
Srisailam Location from Your City: Distance Chart
| Starting Point | Approximate Distance | Planning Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Hyderabad | 213–220 km | 4.5–6 hours |
| Kurnool | Approximately 180 km | 4–4.5 hours |
| Guntur | Approximately 210 km | 4.5–5 hours |
| Vijayawada | 260–265 km | 5–5.5 hours |
| Nandyal | Approximately 158 km | Verify route and travel time |
| Markapur Road Railway Station | Approximately 85 km | Continue by road |
These are estimates from the supplied guide. Use a navigation app for the live route and confirm forest-road restrictions before travelling.
Places to Visit Near Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
Pathala Ganga
Pathala Ganga is a bathing ghat on the Krishna River, approximately 1 km from the temple according to the supplied guide. Visitors may reach it by steps or ropeway, subject to current operating arrangements and fees.
Sakshi Ganapati Temple
Sakshi Ganapati Temple is a Ganesha shrine approximately 3 km away according to the supplied guide. It is often included in a Srisailam pilgrimage itinerary.
Sikharam (Shikareshwaram)
Sikharam is a hilltop shrine associated with views of the surrounding landscape and temple area. Allow additional time for the visit and confirm access conditions.
Srisailam Dam
Srisailam Dam is a major dam on the Krishna River with designated viewpoints. Check local access arrangements before travelling.
Hatakeswaram Temple
Hatakeswaram is another Shiva shrine often included in local sightseeing plans.
Akka Mahadevi Caves
The supplied guide describes the caves as accessible by boat from Pathala Ganga followed by a short walk. Confirm boat services, fares, river conditions, and access before visiting.
Mallela Theertham Waterfall
Mallela Theertham is approximately 55–58 km away according to the supplied guide. Seasonal conditions and access should be checked before visiting.
Nagarjunasagar–Srisailam Tiger Reserve
The surrounding forest is part of a protected landscape. Follow official rules for forest access, permits, and guided trips.
Practical Tips for Your Srisailam Trip
Book paid darshan and abhishekam only through verified official channels.
Carry the required government-issued ID and booking confirmation.
Reach Srisailam before dark and confirm forest-road restrictions.
Consider staying overnight on weekends and during festival weeks.
Wear appropriate traditional clothing and carry a spare set if visiting Pathala Ganga.
Deposit phones and cameras where required by temple rules.
Carry water, cash, and essential supplies for the journey.
Ask about assistance queues if travelling with senior citizens or infants.
Keep food secured and do not feed monkeys.
Final Thoughts: The Kailasa of the South
Srisailam offers a distinctive pilgrimage experience, combining worship of Lord Mallikarjuna with devotion to Bhramaramba Devi. The temple's location in the Nallamala Hills, religious traditions, and proximity to the Krishna River make it a meaningful destination for devotees and travellers. Plan your journey carefully, book services only through verified official channels, confirm temple timings, and check forest-road restrictions before departure. Allow enough time for darshan, the Bhramaramba shrine, and nearby attractions. With thoughtful planning, your visit to Srisailam can be a rewarding spiritual journey.