The Saleswaram is a shrine located inside the cave of Srisalam at Andhra Pradesh in India. It is a very renowned spot amongst the trekkers visiting Andhra Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. It has a waterfall along with the holy place as well. Near about thousands of devotees and other people gather around the temple and waterfalls every year for a spiritual recreation.

Location of Saleshwaram Temple
It is located in Mahabubnagar district of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is situated at a distance of 30 km from Mannanur, 50 km from Srisailam in tiger Reserve Nallamala forest. It is a hidden gem of nature worth exploring by every trekkers and visitors of Andhra Pradesh. The temple and its dedication towards Lord Shiva has been described in the Puranas as well.

Historical significance of Saleshwaram Temple
The ancient cave of Saleshwaram Temple was constructed around 6th or 7th Century. The ancient Hindu texts like Sri Parvatha Purana contain reference of this temple in it. It was a celebrated work written in the 16th century where Srisailam was in the description. There are theerthams around the temple are “Sarvesa Theertham” and “Pushkara Theertham”.

Attractions of Saleshwaram Temple
In addition to the shiva lingam, the temple is known for the nearby wedge-shaped waterfall, which seems to have been chiselled across a huge stone. The shiva lingam is placed in a cave next to the waterfall. The lingam and the waterfall together present a soothing atmosphere to the devotees. Before having a darshan, people usually bath in the waterfall.

The unique feature of this temple is that it is opened for the visitors only for 3-5 days during Chaitra Purnima or the Full Moon day in April. During other days of the year, the temple remains closed and no one can reach the temple as it is nestled in tiger reserve. The waterfall is said to contain water only during these days.

Another attraction of the Saleshwaram temple is `Lingamaiah Jathara`. It is a fair which is organised once in two years. It attracts thousands of devotees to the temple. The vicinity of Saleshwaram temple is also ideal for an adventurous trekking. The trek provides a thrilling experience to the trekkers.

The scenery of the temple in moonlight is a visual treat and an auspicious blessing to the soul. The devotees take a dip in the holy waterfall before climbing their way up towards Garbhagudi. The Shiva Linga is located in the cave residing on a huge rock. The travelers climb in a queue facing lots of challenges as it witnesses a lot of rush every year.

Trekking at Saleshwaram Temple
The trek route of Saleshwaram looks like an inevitable wish list for any adventurer. It offers that perfect amalgamation of spiritual significance and adventurous activity. It is one of the rich heritage of India located in between dense forests and deep valleys along with sparkling river flowing. The best commute to begin with is the roadways from Mannanur in Mahbubnanagr at a stretch of around 30 km. A check post along this route remains unavailable from 9.00 pm to 5.00am as no vehicles are to pass through post that. After reaching to the destination, the trekking begins amidst the lush green and slippery stones. After covering a distance of 6km, the temple arrives with the glimpse of Shiva Linga.

Visiting information of Saleshwaram Temple
The most suitable time to visit the temple is during March and April especially during the five days of full moon or “Chaitra Purnima” However, if anybody wants to visit it during the rest of the year then special permission is required from the Forest Department.