Srisailam is a tiny town of Andhra Pradesh which is located in its Kurnool district. With a population of a little over 10,000, Srisailam is a peaceful place which boasts of its religious heritage and traditions. Like other towns of Andhra Pradesh, Srisailam is also rich in history. It is well connected through road and air. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport of Hyderabad is the closest airport to Srisailam. In fact, regular buses head towards Srisailam. If you are planning a visit to Srisailam, here are the top 5 places you must see there.
1. Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple
Srisailam is most famous for Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple which is present at on the Nallamala Hills. It is dedicated to the God of destruction, Lord Shiva. As per the Hindu religion, there are 12 Jyotrilinga temples present, and Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple is one of them. There is a lingam in the temple which is surrounded by three large cobras. During the festival of Mahashivratri, it sees a large number of devotees making their way towards the temple. It exhibits the Dravidian style of architecture and is sprawled across a large area.
2. Srisailam Dam
One of the largest dams present in South India, Srisailam Dam is built over Krishna River. It lies in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh as well as Mahabubnagar district of Telangana. Among all the hydroelectric stations that exist in the country, Srisailam Dam is the second largest in terms of capacity. Tourists are allowed to visit the dam and they can even sit in the boats and row across Krishna river. The dam is maintained well by the authority, and they care about the safety of the tourists. It is a must-visit place for all those who want to know more about the technological advancement of our nation.
3. Nagarjunsagar—Srisailam Tiger Reserve
Famous for being India’s largest tiger reserve, Nagarjunsagar—Srisailam Tiger reserve is sprawled across 5 districts, and two states (Andhra Pradesh and Telangana). This tiger reserve is nestled amidst the Nallamala Hills with valleys and gorgeous making up for a beautiful view. It has a balance mixture of flora and fauna with the presence of silkplants, teak and axlewood trees and animals like Bengal tiger, elephants, leopards, sloth bears, chinkaras and cobras. Jungle safari is available for the tourists, and you will enjoy your time in the reserve.
4. Patala Ganga
The backwaters of Krishna River create Patala Ganga, a spiritual river where devotees come to wash away their sins and gain the blessings of the God. It is also believed that Patala Ganga is full of healing properties and helps to cure skin-related issues. It is located near the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple. Lush green hills surround Patala Ganga and form a serene atmosphere. Patala Ganga is engulfed by spirituality and people spend time praying here. Ropeway car ride is available here, and you can travel in it to get a view of the beautiful river and wide stretches of hills and greenery.
5. Akkamahadevi Caves
You can reach to Akkamahadevi caves by boating through the Krishna River. During the boat ride, you will encounter many beautiful views of the forests and hills around. Caves have always presented a sense of mystery, and Akkamahadevi caves are no different. These caves are dingy and unilluminated but make up for a perfect adventure, as you can encounter some bats here as well. Akkamahadevi caves have a shivlingam installed, so it also attracts a large number of devotees. You have to be fit to complete the trek in the caves, and it can turn out to be a very memorable part of your trip to Srisailam.
Srisailam is a beautiful town with its own history. The religious significance of this town is well-known. But it has also got a lot to offer in terms of adventure and exploration. Exploring the south of India can be an enlightening experience, as they have preserved the Indian history and heritage in a commendable way. Srisailam is a beautiful town and it ought to be explored in all its traditional glory.
