About the Temple
One of the popular Shiva temples, Sri Mukhalingeswara is located at Sri Mukhalingam village in the Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. The temple of Sri Mukhalingeswara was constructed by Kamarnava II in 8th century AD of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. It is located on the banks of River Vamsadhara. Main deity “Mukhalingeswara Swamy” is also known as Madhukeswara since the Idol is said to have self manifested from the Madhuka Tree.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Temple View
The Shiva Lingam has the face or Sri Mukham of the Lord Shiva. Generally Shiva Lingams do not have the facial carving and hence this temple is unique than the other Shiva Temples. The temple is also known as Dakshina Kaasi. The temple has references in Skandha Puraanam. The temple has marvelous Stone sculptures.
Temple Idol
History
According to the Skandha Puranam, Lord Shiva appeared here in a Madhuka Tree to salvage the Gandharvas who were born here as Tribals. Hence the Lord here is also known as Sri Madhukeswara swamy.
The temple is built in the Orisha style of architecture. The massive and attractive ornamental gates are flanked by lions was built at the entrance to the outer prakara of the Mukhalingeswara temple. A Nandi Mandapa can be seen in the front of the sanctum of outer prakara. The entrance to the inner prakara also contains beautiful paintings. The inner prakara of the main temple has several other shrines. One of the major artistic astonishment of this temple is the entrance through which devotees can enter in to inner prakara from southern and eastern directions. The outer wall of the temple has the images of the beautifully perforated windows.
Temple Architecture
Festivals and Celebrations Abhishekham and Archana is conducted in this temple. Similarly, Maha Shivarathri festival is celebrated joyously in this temple.
How to reach
By Road: Sri Mukhalingam is 35 km from Srikakulam. From Srikakulam, hire a vehicle or take the local bus.
By Train: The nearest railway station is is Amadalavalasa Railway Station, which is 45 km away from the temple.
By Air: The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam airport which is 130 km from the temple.
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