Shikhareswara Temple

Shikhareswara Temple is a small hilltop Shiva temple located at Sikharam, the highest point of Srisailam in Nandyal district, Andhra Pradesh. Situated about 3-4 km from the main Mallikarjuna Temple within the Nallamala forest range, it is revered in tradition where viewing the Srisailam temple gopuram from here is considered auspicious. The temple offers panoramic views of the forested hills and Krishna River valley and is reached by steps and a short trek.

Visitors can expect a small, simple hilltop shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva located at the highest point in Srisailam. The temple is reached by climbing stone steps and a short forest trek through the Nallamala hills. The surroundings are forested and quiet with panoramic views of the Srisailam valley, the Mallikarjuna Temple gopuram in the distance, and the Eastern Ghats. The sanctum houses a Shiva lingam, and the open courtyard provides space for viewing the landscape and photography.

Shikhareswara Temple is traditionally associated with the Srisailam Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga complex, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Local tradition holds that ancient sages and pilgrims offered prayers here before visiting the main temple. The shrine at Sikharam has long been regarded as the summit point (shikhara) of Srisailam hill, giving the deity the name Shikhareswara.

The temple is culturally significant for Shaivite pilgrims. A widely held belief is that darshan of the Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple gopuram from Sikharam is equivalent to visiting the main temple itself, especially for those unable to complete the full pilgrimage. It remains an important secondary pilgrimage stop within the Srisailam sacred circuit.