Mallikarjun Temple is a famous pilgrimage site located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and attracts thousands of devotees every year. Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, is the nearest major city and a common starting point for travelers heading to this sacred temple.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Hyderabad to Mallikarjun Temple. You will learn about different transport options, travel times, fares, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Hyderabad to Mallikarjun Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical option for pilgrims and tourists. Trains connect Hyderabad to nearby stations close to Srisailam, offering a comfortable journey with scenic views.

• The nearest railway station to Mallikarjun Temple is Markapur Road, about 90 km away. You can take a train from Hyderabad Deccan (HYB) to Markapur Road station, which takes around 6 to 8 hours depending on the train service.

• Train fares range from INR 150 to INR 600 depending on the class (Sleeper, 3AC, 2AC). Booking through IRCTC is recommended to secure seats, especially during festival seasons.

• From Markapur Road station, you need to hire a taxi or take a local bus to Srisailam, which takes about 2 to 3 hours on hilly roads. Shared taxis are available but may be crowded during peak pilgrimage times.

• Trains run frequently but can be crowded during weekends and holidays. Booking early is advisable to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure a comfortable journey.

• Monsoon season can cause delays due to track maintenance or landslides in the region, so check train status before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to reach Srisailam from Hyderabad. Both government and private buses operate on this route with varying comfort levels.

• Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) runs direct buses from Hyderabad’s MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station) to Srisailam, taking approximately 6 to 7 hours covering around 213 km.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 150 to INR 400 depending on the type of bus (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC). Booking tickets online or at the bus station is recommended during festivals.

• Buses depart frequently throughout the day, but early morning or late evening buses are less crowded and more comfortable for long travel.

• The route follows NH44 and SH20, passing through several toll plazas. Expect short breaks at highway rest stops with basic food and restroom facilities.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and prone to landslides near the Srisailam ghats, so travel cautiously and check weather updates before departure.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Hyderabad to Mallikarjun Temple is a flexible and comfortable option, especially if you want to explore the region at your own pace.

• The distance from Hyderabad to Srisailam is about 213 km via NH44 and SH20, taking roughly 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route is well-maintained with several toll plazas; toll charges may total around INR 200 to INR 300 one way. Plan cash or FASTag payments accordingly.

• Driving allows you to stop at scenic spots, local eateries, and rest areas along the way. Popular stops include Kurnool and Nandyal for refreshments and fuel.

• Be cautious while driving through the Srisailam ghats as the roads are narrow and winding. Avoid night driving in this section for safety reasons.

• Car rentals and self-drive options are widely available in Hyderabad from companies like Zoomcar and Revv. Booking in advance is advisable during peak seasons.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Hyderabad to Mallikarjun Temple offers door-to-door convenience and is suitable for groups or families.

• Prepaid taxis can be booked from Hyderabad airport or railway stations, with fares ranging from INR 3500 to INR 5000 one way depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• App-based cabs like Ola and Uber may offer intercity rides, but availability and pricing vary; confirm fare and driver willingness for long-distance travel beforehand.

• Taxi travel time is about 5 to 6 hours covering 213 km, with stops possible on request for meals or breaks.

• Ensure the driver is experienced with the Srisailam ghats route, especially during monsoon or foggy weather conditions.

• Booking a taxi for a round trip can be cost-effective and convenient if you plan to return the same day or next day.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Hyderabad to Mallikarjun Temple, helping you prepare and execute your journey smoothly.

• Book your train or bus ticket online through IRCTC or TSRTC portals at least 7 days in advance to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush, especially during festivals.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a first-aid kit, as some stretches have limited food options and medical facilities.

• Reach the departure point (Hyderabad Deccan station or MGBS bus station) at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to avoid confusion and last-minute stress.

• If traveling by train, confirm your seat and coach number on the platform display boards and keep your ticket handy for ticket checks during the journey.

• On arrival at Markapur Road or Srisailam bus stand, hire a local taxi or shared auto to reach the temple. Negotiate fares beforehand and carry small change for convenience.

• Carry a valid ID proof and mobile phone with a local SIM or roaming enabled for communication and navigation assistance during the trip.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel, especially in rural areas near Srisailam.

• Wear comfortable footwear and light cotton clothes as the temple visit involves walking and climbing steps; carry an umbrella or raincoat during monsoon.

• Book tickets early during festivals like Maha Shivaratri when the temple sees heavy crowds; accommodations and transport fill up quickly.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or app-based cabs for safer and transparent fares when traveling locally in Hyderabad or Srisailam.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items in crowded places to prevent theft or loss.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling; fog and rain can cause delays and slippery roads especially in the ghats near Srisailam.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mallikarjun Temple from Hyderabad is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making travel and temple visits comfortable.

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon months of July and August when heavy rains can cause roadblocks and delays, especially in the hilly areas near Srisailam.

• Festival periods like Maha Shivaratri and Kartik Purnima see a surge in pilgrims, leading to crowded transport and accommodation; plan accordingly.

• Summer months (April to June) can be hot and humid in Hyderabad and on the route, so start early in the morning to avoid daytime heat.

• Early morning departures from Hyderabad help you avoid city traffic and reach Srisailam before evening, ensuring safer travel through the ghats.

Arrival at Mallikarjun Temple & What to Expect

Upon arrival in Srisailam, you will find the temple located atop a hill, accessible by a short uphill walk or local transport options like auto-rickshaws and shared taxis. The temple area is well organized for pilgrims with clear signage.

Accommodation options range from budget lodges to dharamshalas near the temple. Local buses and autos are available for short-distance travel within Srisailam. Prepaid taxis and app cabs are limited, so plan your local commute accordingly.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Mallikarjun Temple from Hyderabad depends on your budget and comfort preferences. Trains offer an economical and scenic route, while buses provide frequent and direct connectivity. Self-driving or hiring a taxi gives flexibility and convenience for groups.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for the hilly terrain near Srisailam. With proper planning and awareness of local travel conditions, you can enjoy a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage to the sacred Mallikarjun Temple.