Srisailam: The Must-Visit Shiva Temple in Karthika Masam 2025

Introduction

Nestled in the Nallamala Hills of Andhra Pradesh, Srisailam stands as one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India. As Karthika Masam 2025 approaches (November 16, 2025 – December 15, 2025), millions of devotees prepare to undertake this divine pilgrimage to seek the blessings of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi.

The Divine Significance of Srisailam

One of the Twelve Jyotirlingas

Srisailam holds the distinction of being one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, where Lord Shiva is believed to have manifested as a column of infinite light. The presiding deity, Mallikarjuna Swamy, represents the combined power of Shiva and Shakti, making this shrine one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas as well.

The Only Temple with Dual Sacred Status

What makes Srisailam truly unique is that it is the only temple in India that is both a Jyotirlinga and a Shakti Peetha, earning it the revered title of “Dakshina Kashi” or “Kashi of the South.”

The Sacred Legend: Why Mallikarjuna Appeared at Srisailam

The Story of Divine Disappointment

The most popular legend associated with Srisailam revolves around Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati’s sons, Ganesha and Kartikeya (Subramanya).

Once, both brothers desired to marry first. To resolve this, Shiva and Parvati announced that whoever circled the universe first would be married before the other.

Kartikeya immediately mounted his peacock and set off on his cosmic journey. However, the wise Ganesha simply circumambulated his parents, Shiva and Parvati, explaining that they represented the entire universe to him.

Impressed by his wisdom, Shiva and Parvati arranged Ganesha’s marriage to Siddhi and Buddhi. When Kartikeya returned after completing his universal journey, he was deeply disappointed and hurt to learn that his younger brother had already been married.

Kartikeya’s Retreat to Krauncha Mountain

Feeling slighted, Kartikeya left Kailash and went to live on Krauncha Mountain (present-day Palani in Tamil Nadu). Despite repeated pleas from his parents, he refused to return.

Saddened by their son’s departure, Shiva and Parvati decided to visit him. However, when they reached near the mountain, Kartikeya saw them approaching and moved to another hill to avoid them.

The Divine Settlement at Srisailam

Heartbroken by their son’s continued rejection, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati decided to settle at the nearby Srisailam hill, which offered a view of Krauncha Mountain. They took residence here as Mallikarjuna (the Lord with a jasmine-like glow) and Bhramaramba (the goddess surrounded by bees), hoping to be near their beloved son.

This is why Srisailam is also known as “Mallika Parvata” – the mountain of jasmine – and the deities continue to reside here, eternally watching over their son with divine compassion.

Why Karthika Masam is Special at Srisailam

The Sacred Month of Lord Shiva

Karthika Masam (the Hindu month of Kartika) is considered the holiest month for worshipping Lord Shiva. Several factors make this month particularly auspicious:

1. Kartikeya Connection: The month is named after Lord Kartikeya (Karthikeya), making it deeply connected to the Srisailam legend.

2. Damodara Month: This month is sacred for Vishnu as Damodara, but equally significant for Shiva worship.

3. Deep Daan (Lamp Offering): Lighting lamps during Karthika Masam is believed to dispel darkness and ignorance, bringing divine blessings.

4. Kartika Purnima: The full moon day of this month is considered highly auspicious for Shiva worship and taking holy baths in the Krishna River at Srisailam.

Special Observances During Karthika Masam 2025

During Karthika Masam 2025 (November 16 – December 15, 2025), devotees observe several practices:

Daily abhishekam to Lord Mallikarjuna
Lighting lamps with ghee or sesame oil
Rudrabhishekam and special pujas
Pradosha vrata on the 13th day of each lunar fortnight
Kartika Purnima celebrations on December 15, 2025
Early morning darshan beginning at Brahma Muhurta

The Temple’s Architectural Splendor

The Srisailam Temple complex showcases magnificent Dravidian architecture with towering gopurams (gateway towers) adorned with intricate carvings. The main temple features:

Rajagopuram: A majestic tower that welcomes pilgrims
Mandapams: Pillared halls with exquisite sculptural work
Garbhagriha: The sanctum sanctorum housing the Jyotirlinga
Bhramaramba Temple: Adjacent shrine for the goddess

The Krishna River and Patalaganga

At the base of the Srisailam hill flows the holy Krishna River, forming the sacred Patalaganga. Devotees descend the 852 steps to take a holy dip in these waters, which are believed to wash away sins and bestow spiritual merit. The boat ride to Patalaganga offers breathtaking views of the temple complex atop the hill.

Important Rituals and Darshan

Daily Rituals

Suprabhatam: 4:00 AM
Abhishekam: 5:00 AM – 6:30 AM
General Darshan: 6:30 AM onwards
Sayanotsavam: 9:00 PM

Special Pujas During Karthika Masam

Rudrabhishekam
Laghu Rudrabhishekam
Sahasranama Archana
Panchamruta Abhishekam
Ekadasha Rudra Abhishekam

How to Reach Srisailam

By Air: Nearest airports are Hyderabad (213 km) and Vijayawada (207 km)

By Rail: Nearest railway stations are Markapur (86 km) and Cumbum (110 km)

By Road: Well-connected by bus services from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Kurnool, and other major cities

Tips for Pilgrims During Karthika Masam 2025

Book accommodation in advance as the month sees huge crowds
Carry valid ID proof for all devotees
Dress modestly – traditional attire is recommended
Start early for darshan to avoid long queues
Stay hydrated and carry light snacks
Book online tickets through the temple’s official website when possible
Plan for 2-3 days to fully experience the temple and surrounding sacred sites
Visit Patalaganga early morning for a serene experience

Other Sacred Sites Around Srisailam

Sakshi Ganapati Temple
Sikhareswara Temple
Akka Mahadevi Caves
Hemareddy Mallamma Temple
Srisaila Devasthanam Museum

The Spiritual Essence

Visiting Srisailam during Karthika Masam is not merely a pilgrimage but a profound spiritual journey. The temple embodies the eternal love of parents for their child, reminding us of the divine compassion that pervades the universe. The presence of both Shiva and Shakti in their benign forms offers devotees the combined blessings of cosmic consciousness and divine energy.

As the sacred lamps illuminate the temple complex during Karthika Masam 2025, may Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi bless all devotees with peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.

Conclusion

Srisailam stands as a testament to divine love, cosmic harmony, and eternal grace. This Karthika Masam 2025, undertake this sacred pilgrimage to experience the divine presence of Lord Mallikarjuna, seek the blessings of Goddess Bhramaramba, and immerse yourself in the spiritual energy that has drawn devotees for millennia. In the words of ancient scriptures, “Those who visit Srisailam with devotion will attain liberation and eternal bliss.”

Har Har Mahadev! Om Namah Shivaya!

Plan your visit to Srisailam this Karthika Masam and experience the divine grace of one of India’s most sacred Jyotirlingas.