Introduction
Andhra Pradesh, also known as Trilinga Kshetra or “the land of three Lingas,” is a divine destination for Shiva devotees. This South Indian state houses some of the most famous Shiva temples in India, rich in mythology, architecture, and spiritual significance. From the Jyotirlinga at Srisailam to the Vayu Lingam at Srikalahasti, these temples attract countless pilgrims, especially during Sawan and Maha Shivaratri.
Let’s embark on a spiritual journey through five of the most famous Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh, along with a special look into the legendary Pancharama Kshetras.
Top 5 Famous Shiva Temples in Andhra Pradesh
1. Srikalahasteeswara Temple, Srikalahasti
- District: Chittoor
- Significance: Home to the Vayu Lingam – one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the air element.
- Built by: Vijayanagara rulers (notably Krishnadevaraya in 1516)
- Legend: Mentioned in Skanda Purana and Shiva Purana.
- Nearby Attractions:
- Kalahasti Wildlife Sanctuary
- Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach: 36 km from Tirupati, via road or rail.
2. Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, Srisailam
- District: Kurnool
- Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas and also a Shakti Peetha
- Deities: Lord Shiva as Mallikarjuna and Goddess Parvati as Brahmaramba
- Location: Banks of River Krishna in Nallamala Hills
- Festivals: Maha Shivaratri celebrated with grandeur
- Nearby Spots:
- Srisailam Dam
- Mallela Theertham Waterfall
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach: 210 km from Hyderabad, 180 km from Kurnool
3. Uma Maheshwara Temple, Yaganti
- District: Kurnool
- Highlight: Unique Ardhanareeswara idol – Shiva and Parvati fused in one stone
- Mythology: Growing Nandi and Shivalinga
- Architecture: Contributions from Pallavas, Cholas, Chalukyas, and Vijayanagara kings
- Nearby Attractions:
- Agastya Cave
- Nallamala Hills
Best Time to Visit: October to November
How to Reach: 55 km from Nandyal, well-connected by road
4. Bhimeswara Temple, Draksharamam
- District: East Godavari
- Significance: Part of Pancharama Kshetras
- Unique Feature: Two-storied white Shivalinga
- Associated Goddess: Manikyamba Devi (Shakti Peetha)
- Festivals: Maha Shivaratri, Dussehra
- Nearby Spots:
- Rajahmundry
- Kakinada Port
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach: 47 km from Kakinada, 60 km from Rajahmundry Airport
5. Mahanandiswara Swamy Temple, Mahanandi
- District: Kurnool
- Significance: Known for perennial Pushkarini pond with crystal-clear water
- Structure: Surrounded by nine Nandi shrines
- Festivals: Maha Shivaratri, Mahanandi Utsavam
- Nearby Attractions:
- Kameswari Devi Temple
- Kodanda Ramalayam
Best Time to Visit: February to March
How to Reach: 14 km from Nandyal, 80 km from Kurnool
Pancharama Kshetras: The Legendary Shiva Temples of Andhra
The Pancharama Kshetras are five ancient Shiva temples believed to be parts of a single Shivalinga shattered by Lord Kartikeya using an Agneyastra. Visiting all five is considered a complete spiritual journey for devotees.
| Temple Name | Location | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Amararama | Amaravathi | Black Lingam; Krishna River view |
| Draksharama | Draksharamam | Two-storied white Lingam |
| Somarama | Bhimavaram | Lingam changes color with moon phases |
| Ksheerarama | Palakollu | Tallest Lingam of the five |
| Kumararama | Samalkota | Intricate carvings and peaceful aura |
Quick Comparison Table
| Temple Name | District | Special Feature | Best Visit Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Srikalahasteeswara Temple | Chittoor | Vayu Lingam | Oct – Mar |
| Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple | Kurnool | Jyotirlinga & Shakti Peetha | Oct – Mar |
| Uma Maheshwara Temple | Kurnool | Ardhanareeswara Idol | Oct – Nov |
| Bhimeswara Temple | East Godavari | White Lingam, Shakti Peetha | Oct – Mar |
| Mahanandiswara Swamy Temple | Kurnool | Nine Nandis, Crystal Pushkarini | Feb – Mar |
FAQs about Famous Shiva Temples in Andhra Pradesh
Q1: What is the best time to visit Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh?
A: October to March is ideal, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Sawan.
Q2: Which is the Jyotirlinga among these temples?
A: Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
Q3: What are the Pancharama Kshetras?
A: Five ancient Shiva temples—Draksharamam, Samalkota, Amaravathi, Palakollu, and Bhimavaram—linked by mythology and architecture.
Q4: Are these temples accessible for senior citizens and tourists?
A: Yes, most temples have road connectivity, basic amenities, and are accessible by car or bus.
Q5: Can I visit all five Pancharama Kshetras in one trip?
A: Yes, with proper planning, all five can be covered in 3–5 days, especially from cities like Rajahmundry and Kakinada.
Conclusion
Conclusion
The famous Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh become even more spiritually charged during Sawan, especially when devotees offer Bel Patra leaves in devotion. Understanding the types of Bel Patra and their correct use helps deepen your connection with Lord Shiva.
Whether visiting the sacred Jyotirlinga in Srisailam, the Vayu Lingam in Srikalahasti, or the Pancharama Kshetras, your Sawan pilgrimage becomes more meaningful when you worship Lord Shiva in Sawan with Bel Patra Leaves — a simple yet powerful act of divine love.