According to the Shiva Purana, there was once a friendly dispute between Shiva and Parvati's two sons — Kartikeya and Ganesha — about who would be married first. Shiva and Parvati declared that whichever son returned first after circling the entire earth would be married before the other.
Kartikeya set off immediately on his peacock to circle the world. Ganesha, using his wit, simply walked around his parents Shiva and Parvati, saying that they were his entire world. Delighted by his wisdom, Shiva and Parvati arranged Ganesha's marriage first.
When Kartikeya returned and learned what had happened, he was hurt and left for the Krauncha mountain in the south. His parents went after him to console him. The Shiva Purana tells us that Shiva and Parvati then took up residence on that very mountain.
At this place, Shiva is worshipped as Mallikarjuna and Parvati as Bhramaramba. Mallika means jasmine flower, and Arjuna is one of Shiva's names. This site has long been regarded as a principal Shaiva kshetra of South India.
On Shrisailam, Shiva is present as Mallikarjuna and Devi as Bhramaramba — both together in one sacred place.
What makes Mallikarjuna distinctive is that it is home to both a Jyotirlinga and a Shaktipith — both in the same location. The place finds mention in both the Shiva Purana and the Devi Bhagavata. It has been regarded as one of South India's oldest Shaiva pilgrimage sites.
Shrisailam mountain is nestled within the Nallamala hills. The Krishna river flows near the temple. The entire region is surrounded by forests and hills. Maha Shivaratri and the month of Shravan have traditionally been times of special observance here.
- The temple is open throughout the year, and devotees come daily for darshan.
- Both Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba can be visited within the same temple complex.
- Maha Shivaratri is celebrated with a large gathering here.
- From near the temple, the view of the Krishna river and surrounding hills is beautiful.