Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple

Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple at Srisailam in Nandyal district, Andhra Pradesh, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the Nallamala Hills on the banks of the Krishna River, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas. The temple features Dravidian and Vijayanagara architecture and is a major pilgrimage centre attracting devotees year-round.

Visitors can expect a large temple complex with gopurams, pillared mandapas, and stone carvings in Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles set within the forested Nallamala Hills. The main sanctum houses the Mallikarjuna lingam and the shrine of Goddess Bhramaramba. Expect queues for darshan, ritual activities, prasadam counters, and views of the surrounding hills and nearby Krishna River valley. The complex includes courtyards, sub-shrines, and market streets with religious shops outside.

The temple has ancient origins with references in early inscriptions and literature. Existing structures show contributions from Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, Pallavas, Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Reddis and Vijayanagara rulers, particularly Harihara and Bukka in the 14th-15th centuries. The complex exhibits layered Dravidian architecture developed over centuries and is protected as a significant heritage and religious site.

Revered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva and one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas where Goddess Bhramaramba is worshipped, making it unique as a combined Shaiva and Shakta pilgrimage centre. It is celebrated in classical Tamil and Sanskrit literature and hosts major festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, Ugadi and Kartikamasam attracting large numbers of pilgrims.