Somasila is a temple town and backwater destination in Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, on the Krishna River. The backwaters of the Srisailam Dam have created a scenic, island-like landscape, with the Nallamala hill ranges forming the backdrop. The town is known for its reported cluster of 15 Shiva temples, led by the Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple. The temple is traditionally believed to date to the 7th century, while inscriptions associated with the region document religious grants and patronage during the Western Chalukya, Kanduri Choda and Kakatiya periods, broadly spanning the 11th to 13th centuries.
Boating: Telangana Tourism introduced a launch service between Somasila and Srisailam in October–November 2024. Contemporary reports describe a journey of approximately 120 km taking around 7 hours, with reported one-way fares of ₹2,000 for adults and ₹1,600 for children. The double-decker vessel has a capacity of approximately 120 passengers, with air-conditioned seating on the lower deck and an open upper deck. Operations depend on water levels and tourism department arrangements. The reported water-level condition is above 575 feet at Nagarjunasagar. Confirm the latest schedule and fares before travelling.
Important historical distinction: The Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple at Somasila, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, should not be confused with other places named Somasila, including the Somasila Reservoir area in Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh. Information about temples or reconstruction projects at those locations does not automatically apply to this temple.
A sacred landscape on the Krishna: Somasila's religious significance predates the creation of the reservoir. The region formed part of the historical Kanduru-mandala and received patronage from successive Deccan dynasties. Historical accounts refer to a 1055 CE Western Chalukya inscription associated with Trailokyamalla Somesvara I, a 1167 CE Kanduri Choda record documenting a grant by Chief Tonda, and later Kakatiya-period records from the late 13th century. These inscriptions are cited in accounts of the region's medieval religious and administrative history. Individual inscription readings and dates should be distinguished from the broader historical dating of the temple complex.
The 15-temple cluster: Tourism documentation describes Somasila as having 15 temples, all housing Shivalingas. The temples are associated with worship during Mahashivaratri and Karthika Pournami, while Krishna Pushkaram attracts pilgrims for a holy dip in the river. The Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple is the principal shrine associated with the destination.
Temple relocation: The original temple settlement was affected by the creation of the Srisailam reservoir. The temple was shifted from the old Somasila village to higher ground to protect it from submergence. This relocation is an important part of the site's modern history and explains the present temple setting.
Boating and the Srisailam connection: The Somasila–Srisailam launch is a major tourism attraction. The approximately 120-km river journey passes through the Krishna valley and the Nallamala landscape. The reported journey duration is around seven hours. The vessel is a double-decker launch with air-conditioned seating on the lower deck and an open upper deck. The service is one-way unless a separate return arrangement is booked. Passengers should confirm accommodation and onward transport at Srisailam before departure.
Visitor Information
Location and Access
Somasila
Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool District,
Telangana, India.
Distance from Hyderabad: Approximately 175–200 km by road, depending on the route and starting point. Allow around 4–5 hours, subject to traffic and road conditions.
Distance from Kollapur: Approximately 9 km.
Distance from Srisailam: The reported launch route covers approximately 120 km by river. Road travel involves a different and longer route, depending on forest-road access and the selected approach.
Nearest railheads: Mahabubnagar is a practical railhead for the Kollapur side. Jadcherla and Kurnool may also be considered depending on train availability and the road route. A taxi or bus connection is required.
Nearest airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad.
Accommodation and Contact
Riverfront Mrugavani Resort – Somasila: The property is marketed as a riverside accommodation option in Somasila. Its official website publishes the following contact numbers:
- +91 83339 25456
- +91 63018 57414
- +91 63018 57270
Email: riverfront@mrugavaniresorts.com. Confirm room availability, facilities, check-in arrangements and current rates directly with the resort before travelling.
Official Information
Timings, Entry and Best Season
Temple timings: Telangana360 lists commonly reported timings of 6:00 AM–12:30 PM and 4:00 PM–8:00 PM. Other travel listings give continuous timings of 6:00 AM–8:00 PM. These should be treated as indicative rather than officially confirmed timings. Check locally, particularly on festival days.
Entry: Temple entry is generally reported as free. Special ceremonies, services or festival arrangements may have separate charges.
Best Season: October–February is generally pleasant for temple visits, sightseeing and enjoying the backwaters. Boating remains dependent on river and reservoir conditions rather than season alone.
Launch pricing: Contemporary reports from 2024–2025 give one-way fares of ₹2,000 for adults and ₹1,600 for children. These are historical reported fares and should not be treated as guaranteed November 2026 prices.
Launch schedule: A November 2025 report mentioned Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday services. This is a reported schedule, not a guaranteed current timetable. Confirm operating days, reporting time, boarding point and ticket availability with Telangana Tourism.
Note
Carry drinking water and snacks. Mobile network coverage may be limited in some surrounding areas. Modest dress is appropriate for temple visits. The river journey takes approximately seven hours, so consider the duration when travelling with children or elderly visitors.
How to Reach Somasila
By Road from Hyderabad: The route generally runs through Jadcherla and Kollapur. The distance is approximately 175–200 km, depending on the route and starting point. Allow around 4–5 hours for the journey, with additional time for traffic and stops.
By Rail: Mahabubnagar is a practical railway station for visitors travelling towards Kollapur and Somasila. Jadcherla and Kurnool may also be considered depending on train connections. Continue by bus or taxi.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is the nearest major airport. Continue towards Kollapur by road.
Local Access: The temple complex and Riverfront Mrugavani Resort are accessible by road. The Somasila–Srisailam launch operates as a separate tourism service. Confirm its boarding point, schedule and ticket availability before visiting.
Facilities and What to Carry
- Water and Food: Carry drinking water and snacks. Riverfront Mrugavani Resort is an accommodation and dining option, but do not assume that restaurants or food outlets will be available throughout the surrounding area.
- Sun Protection: Carry a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses, particularly for the backwater and boat visit.
- Footwear: Comfortable footwear is useful for walking around the temple surroundings. Remove footwear where required by temple customs.
- Clothing: Modest clothing is appropriate for temple visits. Carry a light layer for the boat journey, especially during breezy conditions.
- Cash: Carry cash for small purchases and local transport. Digital payment facilities may vary.
- Booking: Confirm resort accommodation and launch tickets in advance. Boat services are not guaranteed to operate every day.
- Responsible Visiting: Avoid littering along the riverbank and in the temple surroundings. Respect local customs and follow boating safety instructions.
Who Should Visit Somasila?
- Pilgrims interested in the reported 15-temple Shiva complex and the religious traditions of the Krishna River region.
- Heritage enthusiasts interested in the Western Chalukya, Kanduri Choda and Kakatiya periods.
- Travellers combining temple visits with the Krishna River backwaters and a launch journey towards Srisailam.
- Photographers interested in the river landscape, boats and Nallamala hill scenery.
- Visitors interested in the Krishna Pushkaram, traditionally observed once every 12 years when Jupiter enters Virgo (Kanya Rashi). The next event is expected in 2028; exact dates and official bathing arrangements should be confirmed through government announcements.
Not Ideal For: Visitors expecting a large, fully developed tourist town with extensive facilities or a guaranteed daily boat service. Somasila is better suited to a planned pilgrimage, heritage visit or backwater excursion.
Important Notes for Travellers
- Boat Route: The reported Somasila–Srisailam launch route is approximately 120 km, not 60 km.
- Launch Duration: The journey takes approximately 7 hours, according to contemporary launch reports.
- Boat Fare: The reported one-way fare was ₹2,000 for adults and ₹1,600 for children when the service was introduced. Confirm current fares before booking.
- Vessel: The reported double-decker vessel accommodates approximately 120 passengers. The lower deck is air-conditioned, while the upper deck is open.
- Water Level: The original service announcement specified operation when the Nagarjunasagar water level was above 575 feet. Actual operations depend on water conditions and tourism department decisions.
- Operating Days: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday were reported in November 2025. Confirm the current schedule rather than relying on this historical timetable.
- Temple History: The original temple was shifted to higher ground to protect it from submergence following the creation of the Srisailam reservoir.
- Hotel Contact: The official Riverfront Mrugavani Resort website lists +91 83339 25456, +91 63018 57414 and +91 63018 57270.
- Pushkaram: The next Krishna Pushkaram is expected in 2028. Check official announcements for confirmed dates, bathing ghats and travel arrangements.
Important Visitor Note
Somasila is a temple town and backwater destination with a significant religious and historical background. Its main attractions are the reported 15 Shiva temples, the medieval heritage of the region and the scenic Krishna River landscape. The Somasila–Srisailam launch is a long-distance river journey of approximately 120 km and seven hours, rather than a short local cruise. The reported fares and operating schedule are subject to change. Visitors should confirm temple timings, launch operation, ticket prices and accommodation before travelling.
Nearby Attractions in Nagarkurnool District
Somasila is part of the Krishna Valley heritage and tourism landscape of Nagarkurnool district. Nearby destinations include historic temple settlements, forest attractions and scenic locations in the Nallamala region.
Top Attractions in Nagarkurnool District
Location Map
Somasila: Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana.
Confirm the exact temple location, boat boarding point, current launch operation and accommodation details locally before travelling.
References
- Telangana Tourism – Nagarkurnool – Official tourism information about Somasila, the Krishna River backwaters and the Nagarkurnool district's attractions.
- Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple – Destination Documentation – Describes the traditional 7th-century temple attribution, 15 Shiva temples and relocation of the temple from the old village to higher ground.
- Telangana Tourism – Citizen's Charter – Provides older official tourism information about Somasila and its distance from Hyderabad and Kollapur.
- The New Indian Express – Cruises from Nagarjunasagar and Somasila to Srisailam (3 November 2024) – Reports the 120-km Somasila–Srisailam route, approximately seven-hour duration, passenger capacity, fares and water-level condition.
- Deccan Chronicle – Somasila to Srisailam River Cruise (25 October 2024) – Reports the double-decker vessel, 120-passenger capacity, 120-km route, seven-hour journey and ticket prices.
- The Hans India – Somasila to Srisailam River Cruise (November 2025) – Reports the launch schedule and operating arrangements. Timetable details should be reconfirmed.
- Riverfront Mrugavani Resort – Official Contact Details – Resort address, telephone numbers and email address.
- Telangana360 – Somasila: A Serene Temple Town – Earlier editorial information about the temple complex, regional history, visitor facilities and local travel arrangements. Historical and operational details should be read alongside the other references.
Historical temple dates, inscription readings, visitor timings and tourism arrangements may vary between published sources. Boat fares and schedules are subject to change. Confirm details with Telangana Tourism and the resort before travelling.
Key Facts at a Glance
Somasila
Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana
Krishna River
Reported cluster of 15 Shiva temples, led by Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple
Traditionally believed to date to the 7th century
Historical records associated with Western Chalukya, Kanduri Choda and Kakatiya periods, broadly 11th–13th centuries
Approximately 175–200 km by road, depending on route
Approximately 9 km
Somasila–Srisailam launch, approximately 120 km and 7 hours
₹2,000 adults / ₹1,600 children (one-way, 2024 reported fares)
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday reported in November 2025; confirm current operations
Riverfront Mrugavani Resort – Somasila
+91 83339 25456 / +91 63018 57414 / +91 63018 57270
Commonly reported as 6 AM–12:30 PM and 4–8 PM; confirm locally
Generally reported as free for temple visits
October–February for generally pleasant weather
Next Krishna Pushkaram expected in 2028; official dates to be confirmed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Somasila located?
A: Somasila is located in Kollapur Mandal, Nagarkurnool district, Telangana, on the Krishna River. It is known for its Shiva temples and scenic backwaters.
Q: How many temples are there at Somasila?
A: Tourism documentation describes a cluster of 15 Shiva temples, with Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple as the principal shrine.
Q: How old is the Somasila temple?
A: The Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple is traditionally believed to date to the 7th century. The region also has historical inscriptions associated with Western Chalukya, Kanduri Choda and Kakatiya patronage.
Q: Is Somasila temple open throughout the year?
A: The temple is a pilgrimage destination, but opening hours and access arrangements may vary during festivals and local events. Commonly reported timings are 6 AM–12:30 PM and 4 PM–8 PM. Confirm locally before travelling.
Q: How much does the Somasila–Srisailam boat journey cost?
A: The reported one-way fares when the service was introduced were ₹2,000 for adults and ₹1,600 for children. Confirm current ticket prices with Telangana Tourism.
Q: How long is the boat journey from Somasila to Srisailam?
A: The reported route covers approximately 120 km and takes around 7 hours, depending on operating conditions.
Q: Does the Somasila boat service operate every day?
A: No guaranteed daily timetable is available. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday operations were reported in November 2025. The service is also dependent on water levels and tourism department decisions.
Q: What is the contact number for Riverfront Mrugavani Resort?
A: The official resort website publishes +91 83339 25456, +91 63018 57414 and +91 63018 57270. Confirm availability directly with the property.
Q: How far is Somasila from Hyderabad?
A: Approximately 175–200 km by road, depending on the selected route. Allow around 4–5 hours, subject to traffic and road conditions.
Q: What is the best time to visit Somasila?
A: October–February is generally pleasant for temple visits and sightseeing. Boat operation depends on river and reservoir water conditions.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Temple entry is generally reported as free. The Somasila–Srisailam launch and accommodation are charged separately.
Q: When is the next Krishna Pushkaram?
A: The next Krishna Pushkaram is expected in 2028, following the 12-year cycle. Check official announcements for the confirmed festival dates and bathing arrangements.
Q: Can I combine Somasila with Srisailam in one day?
A: The approximately seven-hour one-way boat journey makes a same-day return impractical for most visitors. A two-day itinerary with overnight accommodation at Srisailam or Somasila is more suitable.
Conclusion – A Historical Backwater Destination on the Krishna
Somasila is a distinctive destination in Nagarkurnool district, combining religious heritage, medieval historical associations and the scenic landscape of the Krishna River backwaters. Its reported cluster of 15 Shiva temples, traditional 7th-century temple dating and inscriptions associated with the Western Chalukya, Kanduri Choda and Kakatiya periods give it historical significance. The Somasila–Srisailam launch adds a long-distance river tourism experience through the Nallamala landscape. Visitors should plan ahead and confirm current temple timings, boat fares, operating days and accommodation arrangements. With realistic expectations and advance planning, Somasila offers a rewarding combination of pilgrimage, heritage and nature tourism.
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Good experience
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