Akkamahadevi caves — Attraction in Andhra Pradesh

The Akkamahadevi Caves' history is intertwined with the 12th-century saint and philosopher Akka Mahadevi, a prominent figure in the Veerashaiva Bhakti movement. The caves, located in the Nallamalai Hills of Kurnool, are believed to be where she performed penance and worshipped a naturally occurring Shivalingam deep within the main cave. While the caves are naturally formed and have ancient geological origins, their significance is rooted in this religious and spiritual connection to Akka Mahadevi. The Caves and Akka Mahadevi Akka Mahadevi: The 12th-century poet and philosopher, Akka Mahadevi, was a leader of the Veerashaiva Bhakti movement, a spiritual quest focused on devotion to Lord Shiva. Penance: According to legend, Akka Mahadevi performed deep meditation and penance in these very caves, worshipping a naturally formed Shivalingam. Spiritual Journey: The caves are located in Kadali, the area near Srisailam, where her spiritual journey culminated in her union with Shiva. Geological and Historical Significance Ancient Formation: The caves themselves are naturally formed rock caves, considered to be of prehistoric or even ancient age. Geographical Marvel: The main cave features a naturally formed, unsupported rock arch, a geological wonder that draws visitors. Location: They are situated in the Nallamalai Hills, near the upstream of the Krishna River, and are part of the Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve. Modern Day Pilgrimage Site: The caves are a significant pilgrimage destination, attracting tourists and devotees. Narrow Entrance: To reach the Shivalingam, visitors must enter a cramped, dark tunnel, sometimes requiring them to crawl, adding to the cave's unique experience. Forest Surroundings: The area is surrounded by a highly biodiverse forest, offering a rich ecological experience along with the...

One of the historical place at Sreesailam.It is believed that the famous 12th century philosopher and lyricist from Karnataka, Akka Mahadevi did penance and offered prayers to a Shivalingam that was naturally existent deep inside the very same cave. The trip is being operated from pathalaganga by APTDC. you need to be there before 9.30 AM,First you had to take tickets for the ropeway and they will ask if you are going to akkamahadevi caves they will write your name and have to give how much members are accompanied with us. You will be taken to the river bank by rope way,from there we had to wait to take ticketst for boating towards the cave. Had to give adhar number & mobile number of the booking person there . Almost 10.30 they will allow to enter the boat.. It takes almost one hour journey through krishna river to reach the cave. During boat ride, we could enjoy the nature, green hills and river (Krishna). The guide is none other than the person who drives the boat and takes us inside the cave and briefs about the cave. You need to bend and crawl inside the cave as the height is short inside. You could see sacred Shiva Linga inside the caves as water drops from the top fells over the linga as it is considered as natural dhara (stream)and you could touch linga and pray. This is where akka mahadevi did her meditation to win over lord shiva. It takes almost a half day , so had to keep enough...

We need to buy tickets near patalagange. Can get a ropeway to reach patalagange. People there are helpful in sharing information. Only two boats with 50 passengers each are taken everyday. So u need to register your name in advance at Ropeway counter. Pls do carry snacks amd enough water, as there is nothing available at the location.

About the place, it's serene. Untouched by humans for exploitation. It is said that Saint Akka Mahadevi, came and meditated here. Earlier the dam was not there and so no waters so high. The water used to be just upto feet. So she used to walk 6 kms on that+ land to reach the caves to meditate Lord Sri Chenna Mallikarjuna. There's a small Swayambu Shivalinga inside the caves. According to history, the lord and his wife Brahmaramba devi appeared to give Akka Mahadevi here.

Its too dark n very risky to enter that part of the cave, and u will have to wait for ur turn in the queue. You may get suffocated with the faeces/ excreata of the bats and rats there. Be careful. Follow the instructions by the guide, but use your brains as well. You may stand outside a bit, in fresh air and then stand in the queue after u see a couple of them coming back.

Its an adventurous experience. As we cant reach it with our own vehicle. Previous evening, u may go there and get your information so next morning u can plan...