Andhra Pradesh is blessed with many religious monuments, but perhaps none is as mysterious and enchanting as the Akkamahadevi Caves located in the heart of Nallamala Hills. In fact, these hills are renowned for several natural caves and caverns, many of which have been used by mankind since prehistoric times.
Akkamahadevi Caves is located approximately 18 km from Srisailam, just above the flow of Krishna River. It is a naturally formed cave that has religious connotations associated with it. The caves are named after a Kannada philosopher from the 12th century. It is believed that Akkamahadevi, who belonged to the Veerasaiva Bhakti group of believers, used these very same caves to do penance. To reach these amazing caves, visitors need to go on a boat ride on the might Krishna and thereafter go on a trek.
The boat ride takes about an hour, but that time passes by very quickly because of the azure waters and lush green hills. Each aspect of the boat ride can leave the person in awe of nature’s beauty. On reach the spot, the boat is anchored at the pathway that leads to the caves. From the boat, the caves can be misleading, as people assume it is one big gaping hole. However, after trekking for about 10 minutes, they reach the entrance of the cave that leaves them spellbound. The trek is relatively easy, but you will break into sweat, as it is very close to the mountain’s edge.
The entrance of the main cave has a naturally formed rock arch and this is considered to be a geological marvel, since it stands there with no support. The arch measures 200 feet X 16 feet X 4 feet and offers a majestic welcome to all visitors. Thereafter, visitors have to 150 meters deep to reach the natural rock Shivalingam housed inside the cave. There is a very small tunnel that leads to the Shivalingam. It is just 3 feet high and visitors have to crouch and crawl to reach the final chamber inside the cave where the Shivalingam is located. Also, just one person at a time can reach the inside chamber.
After reaching the chamber, one can see a small rock formation that is shaped like a Lingam. It is believed that Akkamahadevi worshipped this Lingam in this cramped and dark space. Truly amazing. The only light coming in would be that from the guide’s torch, but you will feel truly blessed and energised after visiting Akkamahadevi Caves.
Once you make your way outside, you can have some tea or soft drinks at the lone stall near the cave and finally it will be time to take the boat ride back to Srisailam. This time, you will not be enamored by the verdant beauty around you, as your thoughts will be on the amazing Akkamahadevi Caves that has withstood the sands of time for centuries.
Be sure to set aside half day to visit Akkamahadevi Caves when you go to Srisailam on a holiday. It will be worth the time and effort.
Akkamahadevi Caves is located approximately 18 km from Srisailam, just above the flow of Krishna River. It is a naturally formed cave that has religious connotations associated with it. The caves are named after a Kannada philosopher from the 12th century. It is believed that Akkamahadevi, who belonged to the Veerasaiva Bhakti group of believers, used these very same caves to do penance. To reach these amazing caves, visitors need to go on a boat ride on the might Krishna and thereafter go on a trek.
The boat ride takes about an hour, but that time passes by very quickly because of the azure waters and lush green hills. Each aspect of the boat ride can leave the person in awe of nature’s beauty. On reach the spot, the boat is anchored at the pathway that leads to the caves. From the boat, the caves can be misleading, as people assume it is one big gaping hole. However, after trekking for about 10 minutes, they reach the entrance of the cave that leaves them spellbound. The trek is relatively easy, but you will break into sweat, as it is very close to the mountain’s edge.
The entrance of the main cave has a naturally formed rock arch and this is considered to be a geological marvel, since it stands there with no support. The arch measures 200 feet X 16 feet X 4 feet and offers a majestic welcome to all visitors. Thereafter, visitors have to 150 meters deep to reach the natural rock Shivalingam housed inside the cave. There is a very small tunnel that leads to the Shivalingam. It is just 3 feet high and visitors have to crouch and crawl to reach the final chamber inside the cave where the Shivalingam is located. Also, just one person at a time can reach the inside chamber.
After reaching the chamber, one can see a small rock formation that is shaped like a Lingam. It is believed that Akkamahadevi worshipped this Lingam in this cramped and dark space. Truly amazing. The only light coming in would be that from the guide’s torch, but you will feel truly blessed and energised after visiting Akkamahadevi Caves.
Once you make your way outside, you can have some tea or soft drinks at the lone stall near the cave and finally it will be time to take the boat ride back to Srisailam. This time, you will not be enamored by the verdant beauty around you, as your thoughts will be on the amazing Akkamahadevi Caves that has withstood the sands of time for centuries.
Be sure to set aside half day to visit Akkamahadevi Caves when you go to Srisailam on a holiday. It will be worth the time and effort.
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