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Srisailam, situated in the state of Andhra Pradesh in India, is renowned for its divine importance owing to the presence of the famous Srisailam Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. However, Srisailam offers much more than just religious significance, as there are several scenic and beautiful tourist spots to visit. If you’re planning a trip to Srisailam, here are some must-visit places that you shouldn’t miss.
Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Situated on the southern bank of River Krishna, the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam is an iconic religious destination renowned for its rich history and cultural significance. The temple dates back six centuries when it was built by King Harihara Raya of Vijayanagar and dedicated to Lord Shiva. This revered temple is regarded as one of the most celebrated and significant temples in the region.
As per the legend associated with the temple, Goddess Parvati cursed the sage Bringi to stand on only two legs, as he only worshipped Lord Shiva. After consoling the goddess, Lord Shiva blessed the sage with a third leg so that he could stand more comfortably. The temple houses a unique idol of sage Bringi standing on three legs, along with idols of Nandi, Sahasralinga, and Nataraja.
Adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, the walls and pillars of the temple are a sight to behold, adding to the temple’s charm and beauty. Located on the Nallamala hills, the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is a sacred structure and an unmissable destination for visitors to the area.
Srisailam Dam
Located in Telangana, the Srisailam Dam is a popular tourist destination that draws visitors to admire its engineering prowess and natural beauty. It is one of the 12 largest hydroelectric projects in India and boasts breathtaking scenery amidst the Nallamala Hills. The dam stands tall above the Krishna River, surrounded by lush greenery and forests. The sound of the cascading waterfalls creates an enchanting atmosphere.
To reach the dam, visitors can take a scenic route that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. At the top of the dam, one can spend quality time with friends and family while admiring the majestic flow of the Krishna River. The release of water is a sight to behold and is humbling for many visitors. This marvel of nature attracts nature enthusiasts and photography enthusiasts alike. A weekend getaway to the Srisailam Dam is a perfect escape from city life and a wonderful way to bask in the beauty of nature.
Akka Mahadevi Caves
Situated 10 kilometres away from Srisailam in Telangana, the Akkamahadevi Caves are a stunning natural wonder that have been around for over a million years. These caves are located amidst the Eastern Ghats and are separated by the perennial Krishna river. The naturally formed arch at the entrance of the caves, which stands without any support, is an awe-inspiring sight.
The Shivalinga inside the caves is a significant attraction for religious pilgrims who come to offer their prayers to Lord Shiva. The complex network of pathways within the caves offers an adventurous experience for visitors. The Nallamala hills range across the ghat section, providing scenic and picturesque views of the surrounding vista while on the way to the Akkamahadevi Caves.
Access to the caves is only possible through the Krishna river, making the short journey a scenic delight. Private and public boat operators offer trips from the small piece of habited land close to Srisailam. The ride on the pristine Krishna river, bordered by towering Nallamala hills on all sides, is peaceful and lasts for approximately an hour. Although there are numerous natural cave formations in and around the region, the Akkamahadevi Caves stand out as the most fascinating sight of them all.
Phaladhara Panchadhara
Paladhara Panchadara is a tranquil and scenic spot located just 4 km from the town of Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh. Visitors can climb a flight of stairs to reach the convergence of several streams, where the soothing sounds of flowing water and peaceful surroundings create an ideal atmosphere for relaxation and contemplation. Besides its natural beauty, Paladhara Panchadara is also significant from a religious perspective.
The main stream, which is named after the Hindu God Lord Shiva, is believed to have originated from his forehead, as “pala” means “forehead” and “dhara” means “stream”. The location also has a historical and spiritual significance, as it is believed that the great 8th century philosopher and theologian Sri Adi Shankaracharya meditated at this spot and wrote his famous works, Sivanandalahari and Bhramaramba Ashtaka, which are devoted to Lord Mallikarjuna and Goddess Bhramaramba.
To honor this historical and religious significance, idols of Sarada Devi and Sri Adi Shankaracharya have been installed, attracting tourists as well as devotees. Paladhara Panchadara is an excellent destination for visitors seeking a peaceful and spiritual escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Pathala Ganga
As the River Krishna meanders through the region, a sense of divine energy permeates the area. The surrounding natural beauty is spellbinding, and the river’s waters are believed to have healing properties for skin ailments, making it an ideal spot for taking a dip.
Furthermore, visitors can enjoy a thrilling ride in a ropeway car that provides a panoramic view of the river’s grandeur and the verdant landscape.
The main stream, which is named after the Hindu God Lord Shiva, is believed to have originated from his forehead, as “pala” means “forehead” and “dhara” means “stream”. The location also has a historical and spiritual significance, as it is believed that the great 8th century philosopher and theologian Sri Adi Shankaracharya meditated at this spot and wrote his famous works, Sivanandalahari and Bhramaramba Ashtaka, which are devoted to Lord Mallikarjuna and Goddess Bhramaramba.
To honor this historical and religious significance, idols of Sarada Devi and Sri Adi Shankaracharya have been installed, attracting tourists as well as devotees. Paladhara Panchadara is an excellent destination for visitors seeking a peaceful and spiritual escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Sakshi Ganapati Temple
Situated amidst beautiful surroundings, the Sakshi Ganapati Temple is a delightful sanctuary devoted to Lord Ganesha. According to the belief, Lord Ganesha keeps a record of the visitors who come to the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga and presents it to Lord Shiva. Hence, devotees prefer to visit this temple first in Srisailam to register their visit. The sanctum is just a gentle ascent of 10 steps away. The most enchanting aspect of the temple is its location amidst dense forests.
Srisailam Tiger Reserve
Encompassing a vast expanse of 3568 acres, this wildlife reserve is among India’s largest and houses a plethora of animal species. The reserve’s scenic landscape features the Srisailam Dam and Nagarjunasagar Dam, adding to its allure.
Along with the magnificent tigers, visitors may also spot leopards, sloth bears, dhol, Indian Pangolin, Chital, Sambar deer, Chevrotain, Blackbuck, Chinkara, and Chowsingha. The reserve is also home to reptiles and amphibians, including crocodiles, Indian Python, King Cobra, and Indian peafowl.
The Srisailam Dam’s serene waters are home to several crocodiles, and the local government has implemented a breeding program to maintain their population.
Shikaresvara Temple
At the summit of Srisailam, known as Sikharam, stands a temple devoted to Sikhareswara Swamy. This divine site offers awe-inspiring vistas of the unspoiled River Krishna and its surroundings. Sikhareswara Swamy is regarded as one of the avatars of Lord Shiva and has the ability to absolve his devotees of their wrongdoings. The temple premises include another shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The serene ambience and scenic grandeur of the location make it an ideal spot for both nature enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
Ishta Kameshwari Temple
The Ista Kameswari Temple, situated in Andhra Pradesh, around 20 km from Srisailam, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Istakameswari, a manifestation of Goddess Parvati. The temple, believed to have been constructed in the 8th or 10th century, is located amidst lush greenery, offering a breathtaking view. The temple’s exquisite architecture and intricate designs make it a popular destination for history and architecture enthusiasts, apart from the devotees.
What sets the Ista Kameswari Temple apart is its unique location inside a cave, adding to its charm. The highlight of the temple is the idol of Goddess Kameswari, made of hard steel yet possessing a surprisingly soft texture. Devotees believe that a visit to the temple can fulfill their desires, making it a significant place of worship.
Hatakeswaram Temple
The natives frequently pay a visit to a modest shrine that accommodates a Shiva Linga of considerable importance. According to the legend, Sri Sankaracharya, a venerated sage, composed one of his philosophical works in the exact location where the temple now stands.
Octopus View Point
Octopus View Point is a new addition to the list of tourist attractions in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. Located just 5 km before Domalpenta, it offers visitors spectacular views of the surrounding forests, breathtaking gorges, and the serene backwaters of the Krishna River. The viewpoint gets its name from the octopus-like appearance of the river, which twists and turns between the hills. From the viewpoint, visitors can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the valley below. Another exciting feature of the area is the regular safari tours organized by the reserve, which is sure to be a hit with tourists.
Lingala Gattu
The reverence towards Lord Shiva, which is inseparable from Srisailam, spreads to the shores of the Krishna River. The rocky shore of the river is decorated with several stones that are believed to resemble the form of Lord Shiva. This conviction has led to the area being called “Lingala Gattu.”
Hemareddy Mallamma Temple
Near the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam stands the Hemareddy Mallamma Temple, a relatively new addition to the city’s temples. Close to the temple is an ashram, which adds to the spiritual atmosphere of the place. The temple is surrounded by enchanting stories and myths, making it a captivating destination for tourists visiting Srisailam.
Chenchu Lakshmi Tribal Museum
At the Chenchu Lakshmi Museum in Andhra Pradesh, visitors can immerse themselves in the enthralling lifestyles and traditions of the local tribes. The museum boasts an impressive collection of exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the tribes, providing a glimpse into their daily lives and livelihoods. Additionally, visitors can purchase locally harvested honey, collected and packaged by the tribes themselves, as a distinctive souvenir to take back home.