Mukhalingam is a quiet village, situated 56 km from Srikakulam in the Jalumuru Mandal. This village, on the banks of river Vamsadhara is the keeper of our illustrious past. Mukhalingam used to be the capital of the then Kalinga Kingdom and boasts of hosting the three temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Madhukeswara, Someswara, Bheemeswara. Three of the temples stand testimony to the extraordinary finesse of architectural skills.

Local history narrates that once Chitasena tried to chop a madhuka tree which was worshipped as a linga and over which his two wives were fighting. While cutting down the tree, the face of Shiva showed up on the trunk.

Srimukhalingam Temple Srikakulam:

The Mukhalingeswar Temple is more elaborate in comparison to the other two temples of the trinity. The construction continued for two generations. Kamarnava II started building the temple in 9th century AD and it was completed by his grandson Immadi Vajrahasta.

The lingam has been carved out of a tree trunk and not a stone. Since the trunk of Madhuka(palm) tree is used, it is called Madhukaswara temple. The tree bears a carved structure that resembles a face and therefore the name, Mukhalingeswara.(mukha means face) .

Both sides of the gateway are gorgeously designed by carvings of Gods and Goddesses, mythological allusions and other structures. Two exquisite rock-cut lions are placed on both sides of the gateway. It is an epitome of the Indo-Aryan style of architecture and is recognised and protected  by the archaeological survey of India as a ‘monument of national importance.’

Idols Inside Srimukhalingam Temple Srikakulam:

The Bheemeswara temple is located proximal to the Mukhalingeswara temple. It was constructed by Aninayaka Bheeshwara. This temple is not as intricately carved as the Madhukeswara Temple. However, one of the most striking features is the two Nandi statues belonging to two different periods, housed in the temple. One belongs to the Ganga dynasty while the other to the Chola dynasty. Theportrayal of two different archeological styles is of much interest to the connoisseurs.

The Someswara Temple is also beautifully carved. On either side of the doorway are the sculptures of the river goddesses Ganga and Yamua. The gopuram or the gateway is resplendent with sculptures of Gods and Goddesses.

Shivaratri in Srimukhalingam Temple Srikakulam:

Shivaratri is celebrated at Mukhalingam with pomp and show for over three days.Pilgrims come here for Chkara teertha Snanam which they believe holds an important place in granting them salvation.Whether you believe it or not, a visit to Mukhalingam will etch a magnificent memory in your mind. The calm village, the spiritual overtones and the elegant artistry will surely bewitch you.

Srimukhalingam Temple Timings:

Monday 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Tuesday 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Wednesday 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Thursday 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Friday 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturday 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Sunday 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM

How To Reach Srimukhalingam Temple Srikakulam:

Travel Guide:

Sri Mukhalingam Temple is easily accessible by all three major modes of transport, roadways, railways, and airways. Which will come as a source of relief to the many travel enthusiasts ready to visit Sri Mukhalingam Temple in Srikakulam!

By Road:

Hiramandalam APSRTC bus station and Lakshminarasupeta APSRTC bus stations are the nearby bus stations to Sri Mukhalingam Temple. APSRTC runs a number of busses from major cities to this temple.

By Rail:

Rails in India are the most affordable and most preferred modes of transportation. Srikakulam Road railway station and Tilaru railway station are the very nearby railway stations to Sri Mukhalingam Temple.

By Flight:

The two nearest airports to this town are Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam Airport at a distance of 314 kms and 155 kms from the temple, respectively.