Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh, nestled in the Nallamala Hills. It is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas and a popular pilgrimage spot for devotees across India. Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, serves as a major gateway for pilgrims traveling to this revered shrine.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Hyderabad to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. You will learn about different transport options, step-by-step travel plans, practical tips, and what to expect upon arrival at Srisailam. Whether you prefer trains, buses, driving yourself, or flights, this article covers all essential details for your journey.

Getting from Hyderabad to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a convenient and affordable option for many pilgrims. The nearest railway station to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is Markapur Road, which is about 75 km from Srisailam. From Hyderabad, trains run regularly to Markapur Road and nearby stations.

• Hyderabad Deccan (HYB) and Secunderabad Junction (SC) are the main stations where you can board trains heading towards Markapur Road or Nandyal, which is well connected to Srisailam by road.

• The train journey covers approximately 300 km and takes around 6 to 8 hours depending on the train service chosen, with fares ranging from INR 150 for sleeper class to INR 800 for AC classes.

• Trains are generally comfortable but can get crowded during festival seasons like Maha Shivaratri, so booking tickets early through IRCTC is advisable to secure confirmed seats.

• From Markapur Road station, you will need to hire a taxi or take a bus for the remaining 75 km to Srisailam, which takes about 2 hours on winding forest roads.

• Night trains are available, allowing you to travel while you rest and reach early morning, but be prepared for limited food options on board and at smaller stations.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Srisailam from Hyderabad. Several government and private operators run buses daily, including direct services to Srisailam town.

• Hyderabad’s MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station) is the main departure point for buses heading to Srisailam, with frequent services throughout the day.

• The road distance is about 213 km via NH44 and SH20, and the journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Bus fares range from INR 200 to INR 500 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches.

• Buses are generally comfortable but can be crowded during weekends and festival times, so booking tickets in advance on MSRTC or private portals is recommended.

• There are several rest stops along the highway offering food and refreshments, including popular dhabas near Kurnool and Atmakur.

• During monsoon season, the forest road to Srisailam may have delays due to landslides or waterlogging, so check weather updates before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Hyderabad to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions or travel with family. The route is scenic but includes hilly stretches near Srisailam.

• The most common route is via NH44 and SH20, covering around 213 km and taking about 4.5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Expect toll plazas on NH44, with toll charges totaling approximately INR 150 to INR 200 for a one-way trip.

• Fuel stations are available along the highway, but fewer options exist on the forest road to Srisailam, so fuel up before entering the hills.

• Driving through the Nallamala forest requires caution, especially during early mornings or evenings when wildlife crossings are common.

• Parking is available near the temple complex, but it can get crowded during festivals, so arriving early is advisable.

• Using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps is helpful, but mobile network coverage may be weak in forested areas, so download offline maps beforehand.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Srisailam, but flying to Hyderabad is the best option for travelers coming from other cities. From Hyderabad, you will need to use train, bus, or car to reach Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga.

• Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Hyderabad is well connected to major Indian cities with frequent flights operated by airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.

• From the airport, you can hire prepaid taxis or use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Hyderabad city center or the MGBS bus station for onward travel.

• Flight timings and fares vary widely depending on the season and booking time, so plan and book flights early to get the best deals.

• There are no airports near Srisailam, so combining flight with road or rail travel is necessary for this pilgrimage.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Hyderabad to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage experience.

• Book your train or bus tickets at least 7 to 10 days in advance through IRCTC or MSRTC online portals to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during festival seasons.

• If traveling by train, choose a service that arrives early at Markapur Road or Nandyal to allow ample time for the onward road journey to Srisailam.

• Arrange local transport from the railway station or bus stop to Srisailam in advance by contacting local taxi operators or using app-based cabs where available.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, and medicines, as shops along the forest road may be limited and prices higher.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic on NH44 and to reach Srisailam before evening, as the temple closes by night.

• Upon arrival, register at the temple counter and check for any special darshan timings or queue management systems to plan your visit efficiently.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a valid photo ID such as Aadhaar or voter card, as it is required for train and bus bookings as well as temple entry during peak seasons.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your journey and at Srisailam to avoid waterborne illnesses common in rural areas.

• Book your tickets online to secure confirmed seats and avoid long queues at stations or bus depots, especially during Maha Shivaratri and other festivals.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Hyderabad to avoid overcharging and ensure safety, especially if traveling late at night.

• Pack comfortable walking shoes and light clothing, as the temple complex involves some uphill walking and the weather can be warm during the day.

• During monsoon season, carry rain gear and check local weather forecasts to avoid travel disruptions due to landslides or road closures in the forest area.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making travel and temple visits comfortable. Avoid the peak summer months when temperatures can soar above 40°C.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, which can cause delays and slippery roads in the forested route to Srisailam. Plan accordingly and check weather updates before traveling.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Maha Shivaratri if you prefer less crowded conditions, as the temple and transport services become extremely busy.

• Early morning departures from Hyderabad help avoid city traffic and allow you to reach Srisailam with daylight for temple darshan.

• Fog can affect visibility on the forest road during winter mornings, so drive carefully if you are self-driving.

• During summer, start your journey early to avoid the afternoon heat and carry sufficient water to stay hydrated.

Arrival at Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Srisailam, you will find the temple complex well organized with clear signage and facilities for pilgrims. The main entrance is accessible by road, and parking is available for private vehicles and buses.

Local transport options include auto-rickshaws and taxis that can take you to nearby guest houses or the temple entrance. Many pilgrims prefer staying in Srisailam town, which offers budget hotels and dharamshalas within walking distance of the temple.

Prepaid taxi counters are available near the bus stand and railway station areas, ensuring fair pricing and safety. App-based cabs may be limited in this remote area, so plan your last-mile commute accordingly.

Conclusion

Traveling from Hyderabad to Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Train and bus services are economical and frequent, while self-driving offers flexibility and comfort for those familiar with Indian highways and forest roads.

Careful planning, early bookings, and awareness of seasonal conditions will help you have a smooth pilgrimage experience. With this guide, you can confidently plan your journey to the sacred Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga and enjoy a memorable spiritual visit.