The Srisailam Temple – Kurnool is located among the deep green forests of Nallamalai hills. The Sri Sailam Temple has beautified the Kurnool District of Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the sacred places in South India. The ancient temple of Sri Sailam or Sree Sailam stands on the shores of River Krishna. This river is also known as 'Pataalganga', Rudra Parvata, Seshachalam, Sri Giri and Sriparvata.

Sri Sailam Temple has secured its name in several ancient texts and Puranas. The deities who reside in the temple of Sri Sailam are Sri Mallikarjuna Swami and his wife Bharamaramba. They are the incarnations of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. The Shiva linga that is worshipped in the Sri Sailam Temple is believed to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingams that the country has. The sculptures in the temple are excellent. A total number of about one hundred and sixteen inscriptions can be found in and around the temple.

One remarkable feature of the temple is that the temple door is open for the people of all caste and creed. Anybody who wishes to touch the deity and offer prayers is most welcome. The temple of Sri Sailam has been associated with many legendary and historical figures like the Chalukyan kings, Chatrapati Shivaji, Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagara and Adi Shankaracharya. The world famous Buddhist pilgrims, Fahiyan and Hieun T`sang have also written about this temple in their travelogues.

The Sri Sailam Temple is considered to be a holy place by both the Hindus and the Buddhists. There are also myths associated to the temple. Apart from the main deities, the temple contains other shrines in the temple premises. These are Vata Vriksha, Sahasra Linga and Panchapandava Temples.

Last Updated on 19 May 2011

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