hidden in Nallamala Hills Of Andhra Pradesh, srisailam is most synonymous with Mallikarjuna TempleDedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. legends say Lord Shiva and Parvati He challenged his sons Kartikeya and Ganesha to circle the universe seven times to decide who would marry first. Kartikeya rode on his peacock, but Ganesha circled him, telling his parents his world. Impressed by his dedication and intelligence, Shiva and Parvati marry Ganesha to Siddhi and Wisdom.

When Kartikeya returned and came to know about this, he was very sad and left Mount Kailash, vowing never to marry. He settled in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. Shiva and Parvati followed him and took the form of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga to be close to him, making this destination the ‘Kailash of the South’.

If you are visiting here, include these famous places in the city in your spiritual journey:

Mallikarjuna Temple

A UNESCO-worthy masterpiece and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, this temple is a famous site for followers of the Shaiva sect. The construction and maintenance of this temple is attributed to many rulers over the centuries, but its origin is attributed to King Harihara Raya of Vijayanagara.

Sakshi Ganpati Temple

This temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is very unique because of the mythological stories surrounding it. Local people say that the deity of this temple, beautifully carved out of black stone, keeps track of all the devotees who visit Srisailam. So, visiting this temple is almost mandatory if you are in this city, especially after visiting Mallikarjuna Temple.

Akka Mahadevi Caves

Named after the revered saint-poet Akka Mahadevi, who is believed to have performed penance for Lord Shiva inside these caves, the Akka Mahadevi Caves are located on the banks of the Krishna River, and are accessible only by boat ride. After reaching the entrance, you have to walk till the end of the narrow tunnel which takes you to the naturally formed Shivalinga.

Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

Spread over a total area of ​​3727.82 square kilometers (including core and buffer), it is the largest tiger reserve in India. With exciting safaris offered throughout the year, you may spot tigers, leopards, deer or even sloth bears during your visit here.

Shikhareshwar Temple

This temple is located at the highest point of Srisailam, called Sikharam, and is dedicated to Shikhareshwar Swamy, one of the forms of Lord Shiva, who protects the city. This temple not only offers amazing views of the city and the Krishna River, but it is also a gateway to another nearby temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.

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