Dec 31, 2005 01:25 PM
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(Updated Dec 31, 2005 01:25 PM)
Srisailam is a comfortable four hours ride from Hyderabad. It is one of the most important pilgrimages for Shiva’s disciples. Once you are out from Hyderabad touch Uppal and go straight crossing LB Nagar PS. Thankfully the road signs are enough to guide a driver to the destination. Not much dhabas or eateries in this route for refreshments.
The place is on top of a hill. Following the dam as it slowing unfolds itself through the curves and bends of the hill road is simply put – breath taking. I was lucky to find one of the log gates open. Stand with the rocks behind your back and the water plunging down from the log gates, you are bound to enjoy the rainbows that created with thousand of water particles floating around.
People walk down to the river and have bath. I did not find the place hygienic.
I found myself a nice place near the ridge – it is a guest house run by a local association. (Contact Purushottam – 08524 95824 / 288333) Most places to stay are run by charitable organizations. The AC suite cost Rs. 500 / day with food extra. Standing in the balcony you see the dam clearly. Talking of food – not much of an option. Regular vegetarian fare is available at the APTDC hotel or at Canteen no 11. APTDC does not give the food in parcel. The food is reasonably good in Canteen no 11 – opposite the main temple.
As with any other temple in India – this temple also has separate lines for paid and not paid darshans. The day I was there, there was a huge line for paid visits and I waited for over an hour to have darshan.
As one of the main Shivaite pilgrimage you can well imagine the rush for darshans especially if the day is auspicious.
In the afternoon, we trudged down the hillside to take a ropeway down to Patalganga. APTDC runs this ropeway and there is also a boat ride which you try. Coracles can also be seen around. If you reach early try to take a boat ride to Belum caves which is around one hour one way! I missed since I did not know of the timings.
Next day, we were off to see Nagarjunasagar Dam – unfortunately it was raining and we reached around two in the afternoon. No rides after one! Again no good eateries nearby. You can see one half made structure while approaching the dam – that is where Satyam Shivan Sundaram was shot.
A small detour takes you to Ethipothala waterfalls. If you have visited Chitrakut waterfalls and seen the splendour of the four cascading falls , you can well imagine the splendour of Ethipothala. APTDC has proper walkways for people to enjoy the falls. They also run a small restaurant. There is a entrance fees of Rs 5 per head.
I reached Hyderabad around ten in the night after an enjoyable stay at Srisailam.
