Name: Srisailam
Rating: 3.4

Akkamahadevi Caves, Srisailam Overview

The virgin setting of Akkamahadevi caves around 10 kilometres away from Srisailam in Telangana is a natural wonder. Located right across the perennial Krishna river, the caves are a natural formation that has been in existence for more than a million years. The caves are located amidst the Eastern Ghats which stretches for vast sections of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. With its naturally formed arch at the entrance which stands without any support of any kind, the caves portray an imposing image on the viewer's eyes.

Although the main attraction is the deep-lying Shivalinga inside the extensive maze of pathways, it also is an adventurer's abode. The lingam is a popular religious shrine, dedicated to Lord Shiva and has attracted tourists and pilgrims for centuries. The hills of the Nallamala range across the ghat section are a sight to behold, offering serene, picturesque views of the vista around, en route the Akkamahadevi Caves.

The Krishna river is the sole route available to access the caves, and the small but scenic journey is said to be well worth the effort. Private and public boat operators undertake these short trips from the small piece of habited land, close to Srisailam. Bordered by the towering Nallamala hills on all sides, the pristine Krishna river offers a calm ride which may last up to an hour or so. There are numerous rock-cut natural cave formations in and around the region, but Akkamahadevi Caves is the fascinating sight of them all.

History of Akkamahadevi Caves

As the caves are a natural formation, it is extremely hard to narrow down a particular date for its formation. It is more than a million years old and holds great religious significance for Hindus. The caves are named after the Kannada poetess, saint and philosopher of the 12th century, Akka Mahadevi. She is said to have performed penance and offered prayers inside the caves to the naturally existing Shivalingam deep inside the cave formation.

Structure of Akkamahadevi Caves

The natural aura of the Akkamahadevi caves is any nature lover's piece of heaven. Surrounded by the upstream waters of the Krishna river and the majestic hills of the Nallamala range of the Eastern Ghats, the caves have been shaped by nature's forces for over a million years and maintains its unprocessed landscape. The arch that welcomes you at the entrance of the caves is a natural wonder having been standing strong without any support since aeons! It measures 200x16x4 feet in size.

The Shivalingam inside the cave premises are an attraction and hold great religious and cultural significance. You can wander along the cave pathway for up to almost 150 meters deep, but the path is narrow and congested, requiring a bit of crawling and walking sideways, so undertake the adventure at your own prospect.

Best Time To Visit Akkamahadevi Caves

The summer months in the region reach a sweltering 40 degrees Celcius during peak times and are uncomfortable times to visit the place. July to September, which is the monsoon months offer torrential downpour, and this is the time when nature is at its serene lush green best! If the weather is your main criteria, the winter months are the best time to visit with a pleasant climate and fascinating setting.

Tips For Visiting Akkamahadevi Caves

1. Be sure to carry enough water and a pair of flashlights or a candle while entering the caves as they are pitch dark and offer no source of light whatsoever.
2. The boating tickets can be obtained at the ropeway centre at Patala Ganga.
3. It is best for claustrophobic persons to stay away from the deep, dark meanderings of the caves.

How To Reach Akkamahadevi Caves

The Akkamahadevi Caves can be reached from Srisailam after travelling for about 10-15 kilometres on the Krishna River, a journey that takes about an hour by boat. Boats are provided by the tourism department of the state of Andhra Pradesh. To reach the caves, you need to proceed towards Patala Ganga. You can take a ropeway to Patala Ganga, which is located at the bottom of the hills near the river. There are two options, to either walk down or take a ropeway and the latter is an incredibly scenic trip! It After reaching the land via boat, it takes a short 10-minute trek to reach the mouth of the caves. They are only 5 kilometres from the Hyderabad-Srisailam road, but the way is muddy and inaccessible most of the times.

Akkamahadevi Caves Reviews

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Aaron Gonsalves

on Akkamahadevi Caves 6 years ago

In google maps I see a road connecting to the caves is it possible to travel to akkamadervi without the boat?

Sudipta Roychoudhury

on Akkamahadevi Caves 6 years ago

The water level is very low now. So there is no trip to Akkamahadevi Caves. Here is a number for enquiries : +91 994817000. Call them before planning the trip.