Shiv Mandir in the jungle full of tigers! Pilgrims visit this Jyotirlinga after crossing the difficult path

Dense forest stretches for miles. When the sun goes down, it is inaccessible to animals. Why? Because hidden in a corner of the immaculate bush is the hideous beauty — the Royal Bengal Tiger! And there is an ancient temple (Jyotirlinga Temple) located inside the forest. When you hear it, your body feels like a thorn. Do tourists still not go here? Delayed! How to go, what to see, let’s know in detail.

One of the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga temples in India, the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. Among the 12, this Jyotirlinga temple is the only one located inside the Tiger Project. India’s largest tiger project, named ‘Nagarjunasagar-Srishailam Tiger Project’, is located across the Nallamala Hill Forest. Spread over an area of ​​about 3,296.31 square kilometers, this forest attracts wildlife lovers from all over the world.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Mallikarjuna (a form of Shiva) and Goddess Bhramaramba. Jyotirlinga and Shaktipeeth are located here simultaneously. To go to this temple one has to cross winding forest roads, deep valleys and mountain paths. Besides the Bengal tiger, the forest is home to leopards, dhols (wild dogs), sambar deer and hundreds of species of birds.

Mallikarjuna is the second among the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to mythology, Shiva-Parvati appeared here to console Kartik after a family dispute. Countless pilgrims gather around this temple even today, especially during Maha Shivratri and Brahmotsavam. Srisailam is mentioned in ancient texts as a place of salvation. The temple is a perfect example of Dravidian art. The high gopuram (entrance) and finely carved mandapa are the main attractions of this temple.

When will you go?

Best time for Mallikarjun Jyotirlinga darshan is October to March. The weather is pleasant during this time.

How to reach?

• The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is about 215–220 km from Srisailam. Taxis, buses and cabs are easily available from there.
• Nearest Railway Station is Markapur Road (85 km). Apart from this, you can also come here from Hyderabad and Kurnool stations.
• Regular public and private buses ply from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Kurnool, Guntur and other major cities.

Visitors can explore the local attractions here. Which include- Srisailam Dam, Akkamahadevi Caves, Sakshi Ganapati Temple, Sikhareswaram View Point etc.

A unique experience has to be witnessed at the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga Temple. The ringing of the temple bells in the middle of the forest creates an indescribable atmosphere, a strange spiritual power can be felt in the heart.