Mallikarjuna Temple, Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh

The second jyotirling of Shiva , named Mallikarjuna Swamy is located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, also termed as Kashi of the South. It is located at a distance of around 215 kms from Hyderabad in Nallamala hill forests along the banks of Krishna river. Legend has it that Shiva and Parvati descended to this place to appease an agitated Kartikeya since his younger brother Ganesha was getting married before him. The gigantic fort like temple complex houses Mallikarjuna Swamy and Bharmaramba Devi as its main deities. The other important attractions in the area include the Panchamathams, temple of Istakmeswari, Sakshi Ganes, Sikharam and Srisilam Dam. The best time to visit Srisailam is the monsoon season when the forests are green offering spectacular views.