Although the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is a part of Indian history and culture, few people know about it. This Jyotirlinga is also called Srisailam Temple or Kailash of the South. You may wonder why only a few people can be here at a given time. According to the story of the temple, Mata Parvati and Lord Shiva established their residence here in the form of Jyotirlinga. That's why this Jyotirlinga is also called Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. One name for Mata Parvati is "Mallika", and one name for Lord Shiva is "Arjun."
There are 51 Shakti Peethas in India, out of which 18 are very special meaning they get grandeur. Amongst these 18 Shakti Peethas, four are considered holy meaning they receive enhanced sanctity. Srisailam is one such Shaktipeeth. It is thought to remove all sorrows and pains once you visit it and perform worship of Lord Shiva.
Many scriptures mention the importance of the Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, including Mahabharata. According to it, just by visiting Srisailam Temple, a person's sorrows, pains, and sufferings will cease. That person will attain salvation. Thus all devotees and tourists from far and wide flock here to share in the blessings of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati.
It is said that this temple, which got a facelift during the Satavahana era and was restored later by the Vijayanagar Empire and one more team of masons, was completed in the second century. Apart from this, King Harihara of the Vijayanagar Empire had contributed to all four corners of repairs- restoration. This beautiful temple has a pinnacle made of gold; this was done by him 150 years ago. After Shivaji Maharaj came to their holy place again in 1648, he added a Dharamshala for visitors on some pieces of land near it.
The story of the Mallikarjuna temple in Puri is connected to Lord Ganesh, and Lord Kartikeya. Lord Ganesh wanted to marry before his elder brother Kartikeya so Mata Parvati put this condition in place, which required someone to complete the earth's circumference first.
After hearing this, Kartikeya started to circumambulate. However, instead of revolving around the earth, Lord Ganesh started the circumambulation of Mother Parvati and Lord Shiva. When Kartikeya came to know about this, he got angry and left Kailash. Everyone tried hard to convince him to come back to Kailash, but he did not agree. In the end, Mata Parvati went to persuade him.
One day, King Kartikeya arrived at a place. However, before long, he left and went on to go somewhere else. As soon as he did this, Mother Parvati became very sad and sat there. After that, Lord Shiva also appeared in the form of Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. Ever since then, this place has been known as the best pilgrim spot in India.
The gateways of the temple open at 5:30 am and remain open until 10 pm. Morning aarti starts at 5:15 am, and Evening Aarti starts at 5:20 pm. In Mallikarjuna Temple, you'll get laddoos as prasad. It's important to note that for normal darshan, you don't need to wear anything special - just whatever you'd comfortably be wearing that day. Shorts, jeans, and tops are not allowed during worship or in Abhishek (offering). Men can also participate in Pujas if they're wearing only a dhoti/lungi shawl while women can once they have worn a saree only during this time of worship.
If you're thinking of visiting Srisailam Temple, then make sure to come between October and February. This is the best time to visit, not only for the temperature but also for visiting other areas as well.
Between June – September, the off-season is there because of heavy rainfall. But if you are looking for a trip to this place on less budget then this time will be perfect. We will advise you not to visit this place in summer, as the temperature here is not bearable.
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