Somasila Temple

Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located on the serene banks of the Krishna River at Somasila village, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana State, India.

🏛️ Historical Significance

Believed to have been originally constructed in the 7th century, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy. The ancient structure was relocated from the old Somasila village to a higher altitude to protect it from submersion during the construction of the Srisailam Dam.

🌸 Temple Complex

Somasila is home to a cluster of 15 ancient temples, all dedicated to Lord Shiva. Each shrine enshrines a Shivalinga, representing various manifestations of the divine.

The Shivalinga (Shivling) symbolizes eternity and the creative energy of Lord Shiva. Derived from the words Leen(dissolve) and Gati (grow), the Shivling signifies the cosmic process of dissolution and regeneration. It is believed to represent the infinite cosmic pillar of fire, a form beyond comprehension, which even gods Vishnu and Brahma could not trace.

🌿 Scenic Beauty

The temple surroundings are known for their picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and the tranquil backwaters of the Krishna River, making Somasila both a spiritual and scenic retreat.

🎉 Festivals and Events

Maha Shivaratri – Celebrated with grandeur, drawing thousands of devotees.
Karthika Pournami – The temple and riverbanks glow with lamps, prayers, and rituals.
Krishna Pushkaralu – A once-in-12-years festival when pilgrims take the sacred Pushkara Snanam (holy dip) in the Krishna River, considered highly auspicious.

🚤 Tourist Activities

Boating in Krishna Backwaters:
Visitors can enjoy boating facilities offered by the Tourism Department. Boats feature open decks for panoramic views of the river, hills, and temple complex.
Photography & Nature Walks:
The riverside and forested surroundings offer perfect backdrops for nature and cultural photography.

🏡 Accommodation

Haritha Hotel Somasila – Managed by Telangana Tourism, this facility offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and scenic river views, making it ideal for pilgrims and tourists alike.

📅 Best Time to Visit

October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for temple visits and boating.
During Maha Shivaratri or Karthika Masam: For cultural and religious experiences.

📍 Nearby Attractions

Kollapur (9 km):
Known for ancient temples and heritage sites such as the Venugopala Swamy Temple.
Srisailam:
A major Shaivite pilgrimage center, accessible by road and boat.

🚗 How to Reach

From Kollapur: 9 km
From Mahabubnagar: 105 km
From Hyderabad: 186 km
Nearest Railway Station: Jadcherla or Mahabubnagar
Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad

🧭 Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Depart from Hyderabad early morning
Breakfast en route at Kalwakurthy or Achampet
Reach Somasila by noon; check in at Haritha Hotel
Visit Sri Lalitha Someswara Swamy Temple
Evening boating in Krishna backwaters
Overnight stay at Haritha Hotel

Day 2:
Early morning darshan at other Shiva temples in the complex
Visit nearby Kollapur temples
Optional river walk and photography session
Return to Hyderabad by evening

Source

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somasila

http://www.trawell.in/telangana/mahabubnagar/lalitha-someswara-swamy-temple-somasila