Srisailam – an ancient place with history tracing back to ~ 40,000 years – is located on the banks of river Krishna, 180 km north-east of Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
In Krithayuga, King Hiranyakasipu is said to have done penance at Srisailam worshipping Mallikarjuna Swamy. According to pre-historic studies, the habitational history of Srisailam dates back to 40,000 years with stone tools of that period found in and around Srisailam!
Srisailam dam located on the gorge is massive and majestic. With installed capacity of 1670 MW, it’s one of the largest operational hydropower stations in the country.
Amrabad Tiger reserve located on the northern approach to Srisailam (via Munnanur) is one of the largest in India (~ 2800 square Kms). Nallamala forests on the western approach (via Atmakur) is part of the Nagarjuna Sagar-Srisailam wildlife Sanctuary.The lush and dense Nallamala forest range is popular for hiking, trekking, forest exploration and research.
The temple complex is magnificent; with inscription evidences right from Satavahana times (2nd Century CE). Additions and renovations happened during the reigns of Chalukyas (7th Century CE), Kakatiyas (10th Century CE), Reddi Kings (14th Century CE), Vijayanagara rulers (16th Century CE) and Chatrapati Sivaji (17th Century CE).
Adi Sankara (8th Century CE) had visited Srisailam and composed Sivanandalahari here.
The Salu Mandapams in front of the Raja Gopuram were constructed and inaugurated by Krishadevaraya in the year 1515 CE. In the year 1674 CE Chatrapathi Sivaji visited Srisailam, undertook some construction and renovations, and restored temple festivals.
What a place! What a setting! Wow!
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/PsxBT69PMwiQGnuL6
#drive #nature #heritage
