Mallikarjun is a serene pilgrimage town located in the state of Telangana, known for its famous Mallikarjun Jyotirlinga temple. Tirupati, a major city in Andhra Pradesh, is a popular starting point for pilgrims and travelers heading to Mallikarjun. This route is commonly traveled by devotees and tourists seeking spiritual experiences and cultural exploration.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Tirupati to Mallikarjun. You will learn about train, bus, and car options, along with practical travel tips and step-by-step planning advice to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Tirupati to Mallikarjun – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for this route. It offers a comfortable journey with scenic views and is suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace.

• The nearest major railway station to Mallikarjun is Mahbubnagar, which is well connected to Tirupati by several trains daily, covering approximately 300 km in 6 to 8 hours depending on the train service chosen.

• Trains like the Tirupati Express and passenger trains run frequently, with fares ranging from INR 150 to INR 600 depending on class and train type, offering options from sleeper to AC coaches.

• Booking tickets through IRCTC or authorized agents is recommended, especially during festival seasons when trains can be crowded and tickets sell out quickly.

• Mahbubnagar station has basic amenities and local transport options like auto-rickshaws and buses to reach the Mallikarjun temple, about 15 km away, so plan for last-mile travel accordingly.

• Monsoon season may cause occasional delays due to track maintenance or waterlogging, so check train status before departure to avoid inconvenience.

Bus

Bus travel is widely used for this route, offering direct and indirect services. It is suitable for budget travelers and those who prefer flexible timings.

• State-run buses by APSRTC and TSRTC operate regular services between Tirupati and Mahbubnagar, with journey times around 7 to 9 hours covering roughly 320 km via NH565 and NH44 highways.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 250 to INR 500 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo services, with Volvo buses offering more comfort and fewer stops.

• Departure points in Tirupati include the main bus station near Tirumala bus stand, with buses running early morning to late evening, but frequency may reduce on Sundays and public holidays.

• Travelers should be prepared for crowded buses during festival seasons and weekends; booking tickets in advance at bus stations or online is advisable.

• Rest stops along the highway include popular dhabas and eateries near Kurnool and Gadwal, providing good options for meals and refreshments during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Tirupati to Mallikarjun offers flexibility and the chance to explore en route. It is ideal for travelers who prefer privacy and control over their schedule.

• The distance by road is approximately 320 km, taking about 6 to 7 hours via NH565 and NH44, passing through towns like Kurnool and Mahbubnagar, with mostly well-maintained highways.

• Fuel costs for a one-way trip can range between INR 1,500 to INR 2,500 depending on your vehicle’s mileage and fuel prices, with toll plazas on NH44 requiring additional charges.

• Driving during early morning hours is recommended to avoid city traffic in Tirupati and to reach Mallikarjun before evening, especially during summer heat or monsoon rains.

• There are several rest stops, petrol pumps, and eateries along the route, including popular highway restaurants near Kurnool, making breaks convenient and comfortable.

• Ensure your vehicle is serviced before the trip, and carry a physical map or GPS device as mobile network coverage can be patchy in some rural stretches.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers making the journey from Tirupati to Mallikarjun, helping you prepare and navigate smoothly.

• Book your train or bus tickets online through IRCTC or official state transport websites at least a week in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit, as food options during travel can be limited, especially on trains and buses during night journeys.

• Arrive at Tirupati railway station or bus depot at least 30 minutes before departure to manage boarding comfortably and avoid missing your vehicle in crowded conditions.

• If traveling by car, check your vehicle’s condition, plan your route using GPS, and start early in the morning to avoid city traffic and reach Mallikarjun before sunset.

• On arrival at Mahbubnagar railway station or bus stand, use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola or Uber for safe and reliable last-mile connectivity to Mallikarjun temple, which is about 15 km away.

• Keep local currency handy for small expenses like auto-rickshaw fares, tolls, and food stalls, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere, especially in rural areas.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded trains and buses, as pickpocketing can occur; use a money belt or keep valuables close to your body.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your journey and avoid street food unless you are sure of its hygiene to prevent stomach issues common among travelers.

• Book tickets well in advance during festival seasons like Maha Shivaratri when Mallikarjun temple attracts large crowds and transport services get fully booked quickly.

• Use local transport apps or prepaid taxi counters at stations for safer and fixed-rate rides instead of negotiating with local drivers to avoid overcharging.

• Carry a small bag with essential medicines, sunscreen, and a raincoat or umbrella during monsoon months, as sudden rains can disrupt travel plans.

• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking, as you may need to cover some distance on foot, especially near the temple area where vehicles are restricted.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Tirupati to Mallikarjun is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Summers can be hot and humid, while monsoon rains may cause delays.

Planning your journey outside major festival periods will help avoid overcrowding and higher fares. Early morning departures are ideal for smoother traffic and comfortable travel.

• Avoid traveling during Maha Shivaratri and other temple festivals when traffic and crowds peak, causing longer travel times and difficulty finding accommodation.

• Monsoon season from June to September can bring heavy rains, leading to slippery roads and occasional flooding, so check weather forecasts before traveling.

• Winter mornings may have fog in some areas, especially near Kurnool, so allow extra travel time and drive cautiously if self-driving.

• Departing early in the day helps avoid city traffic jams in Tirupati and ensures you reach Mallikarjun with daylight for easier navigation and temple visits.

Arrival at Mallikarjun & What to Expect

On arrival at Mallikarjun, you will find a peaceful town centered around the famous Mallikarjun Jyotirlinga temple. The town is small but well-equipped to welcome pilgrims and tourists.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps that connect the railway station or bus stand to the temple area. Many travelers prefer prepaid taxis or app-based cabs for convenience and safety. Accommodation options range from budget lodges to dharamshalas near the temple, so booking in advance during busy seasons is advisable.

Conclusion

Traveling from Tirupati to Mallikarjun is straightforward with multiple transport options suited to different budgets and preferences. Train travel offers comfort and economy, buses provide flexibility, and self-driving gives freedom to explore en route. Planning ahead, especially booking tickets early and choosing the right travel time, will make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Mallikarjun from Tirupati, ensuring a safe and comfortable pilgrimage or visit. Follow the practical tips and step-by-step plan to avoid common challenges and make the most of your travel experience.