Shikaresvara Temple, located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at the highest peak of Srisailam, known as Sikharam, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Krishna River flowing below.
Altitude: Approximately 2,835 feet (865 meters) above sea level
Distance from Srisailam town: Around 8 km uphill
The name “Shikharesvara” (also spelled Shikareswara or Shikhar Shivalayam) is derived from “Shikhara,” meaning “peak.” The temple is considered the highest point in the Srisailam region and is believed to be one of the eight important Shivalayas of the Srisailam Kshetram.
According to legend and scriptures, Shikharesvara is the guardian deity of the Srisailam temple complex. Devotees believe that a darshan of Lord Shiva here blesses them with longevity, spiritual upliftment, and moksha (liberation).
As per Skanda Purana, Lord Shiva resides in the form of Shikharesvara Swamy at the peak of the Srisailam mountain. It is said that the deity oversees the entire Kshetram (sacred area) from this summit.
Some traditions believe this is where Sage Narada performed penance to have a vision of Lord Shiva.
The current structure of the temple shows architectural elements from the medieval period, particularly the Vijayanagara style, although its exact construction date remains unclear.
6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
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You can reach the temple by:
Private vehicle or auto-rickshaw from Srisailam town (about 8 km).
Trekking for those who prefer a spiritual hike.
Public buses may go near the base but not directly to the top.
No, there is no entry fee to visit Shikaresvara Temple.
The best time is:
October to February (cooler weather and clearer skies)
During sunrise or sunset for the best views
On Maha Shivaratri or during Karthika Masam for special celebrations
There are limited facilities at the temple peak:
Basic shops or stalls for snacks and drinks
Yes, the temple is accessible by road, and vehicles can go quite close to the site. However, a short walk or climb may still be required, depending on where you park. It’s advisable to go early and avoid peak sun hours.
The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad ~220 km from Srisailam (Approx. 5–6 hours drive). From there hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Srisailam.
The nearest major railway station is Markapur Road (MRK) – ~90 km from Srisailam and Hyderabad (Secunderabad or Kacheguda) – ~220 km. Take a bus or taxi from the station to Srisailam. Markapur Road is the closest, but Hyderabad offers more frequent train services and better road transport to Srisailam.
Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple – One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, a highly revered Shiva temple.
Srisailam Dam – A massive hydroelectric project offering breathtaking views.
Sri Istakameswari Devi Temple – Dedicated to Goddess Istakameswari Devi, an incarnation of Parvati. The temple is located inside a cave
Sree Shivaji Spoorthy Kendram: It is dedicated to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, commemorating his visit to Srisailam in 1677.
Pathala Ganga – A sacred spot on the Krishna River, where devotees take a holy dip.
Phaladhara Panchadhara – A serene spot with natural springs, associated with Adi Shankaracharya.
Sakshi Ganapathi Temple– Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, believed to keep records of devotees’ visit.
Akka Mahadevi Caves– Ancient caves accessible via boat ride, featuring a Shiva Linga inside.
Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve – A vast wildlife sanctuary, home to tigers, leopards, and sloth bears.
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