⛰️ Chukkala Parvatam: The Ancient Pilgrim Hill on the Srisailam Route
Historic Stone Steps | Panoramic Nallamala Views | Gateway to Srisailam | Telangana/Andhra Pradesh
A hill that witnessed centuries of pilgrims. Before modern roads and the Srisailam dam were built, devotees from the northern Deccan (now Telangana) would travel to the Umamaheshwaram temple, then walk to the Krishna River at a point called Jatararevu. After crossing the river by boat, they would climb the steep stone steps of Chukkala Parvatam, a hill that served as the final gateway to the sacred Srisailam Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. The hill’s name evokes the stars (“chukkalu” in Telugu) – perhaps because the steps glitter like stars under moonlight, or because the summit offers a clear view of the night sky.
Today, Chukkala Parvatam is a hidden gem for trekkers and nature lovers. The stone steps, built during the Recherla Nayaka period (15th century) and later maintained by the Vijayanagara kings, still exist in parts. The hill is accessible via a short but steep climb from the Jatararevu side (now a reservoir backwater). The view from the top is breathtaking – the Krishna River’s blue waters, the rugged Nallamala hills, and the distant Srisailam temple gopurams. It is a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset photography.
📜 History – The Northern Gateway to Srisailam
According to historical inscriptions, the Recherla king Madanayaka (1421–1430 AD) constructed a paved footpath with stone steps from Umamaheshwaram to Jatararevu on the Krishna River – a distance of nearly 50 km. Pilgrims from the Telangana region (the northern gateway) would walk this path, cross the river by boat at Jatararevu, and then ascend Chukkala Parvatam (another ≈4 km trek) to reach the Srisailam temple. This route was used for centuries before the Srisailam dam submerged parts of the original path. Today, the stone steps on Chukkala Parvatam are still visible, though the lower sections are sometimes underwater during high reservoir levels. The hill served as a spiritual and physical milestone – after climbing it, pilgrims knew they were close to the Jyotirlinga.
🥾 Trekking Chukkala Parvatam – What to Expect
- Access point: From Srisailam, drive towards Jatararevu (approx 4 km; ask locals for the route). You can also approach from the Pathala Ganga side via boat, then trek up.
- Trek distance: About 1 km of stone steps (one way) – moderate difficulty.
- Duration: 30–40 minutes to climb to the top (depending on fitness).
- Trail condition: The historic stone steps are worn but passable. Some sections are overgrown with shrubs. Wear sturdy shoes.
- View from the top: Panoramic view of the Krishna River backwaters, the Srisailam reservoir, the Nallamala hills, and the Srisailam temple gopurams in the distance.
Note: The trek is not officially maintained; it is a hidden spot known mainly to locals and history enthusiasts. It is advisable to go with a local guide or someone familiar with the area.
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Location & Access
Chukkala Parvatam
Near Jatararevu, Srisailam,
Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh – 518101
≈4 km from Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
📞 Local Guidance
Srisailam Devasthanam / AP Tourism
Phone: +91-70759 67370 (general info)
No formal entry fee or permit; but ask locals for directions.
🌐 Official Info
🕐 Best Time & Timings
Best Season: October – February (pleasant weather, clear views).
Timings: Sunrise to sunset (start trek by 3 PM to return before dark).
Entry Fee: Free
Time needed: 1.5–2 hours (round trip trek + photography).
⚠️ Note
No facilities – carry water and snacks. The area is isolated; inform someone of your trek. Do not attempt during monsoon (slippery) or summer (extreme heat).
🚗 How to Reach Chukkala Parvatam
By Road (from Srisailam): From the main Srisailam temple, drive towards the Srisailam dam road. Take a left turn towards Jatararevu (ask locals). The road is narrow but motorable up to a point. From there, you will see the stone steps of Chukkala Parvatam. Alternatively, you can approach by boat from Pathala Ganga (towards Jatararevu) and then trek up the hill. A local guide is highly recommended.
From Hyderabad: Drive to Srisailam (≈220 km, 5 hours), then proceed to Jatararevu.
By Boat: From Pathala Ganga, you can hire a boat to Jatararevu (ask at the ropeway lower terminal).
🧭 Suggested Itinerary (Srisailam + Chukkala Parvatam)
- 6:00 AM: Depart from Hyderabad (or overnight at Srisailam).
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple.
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch at Srisailam.
- 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Drive to Jatararevu and trek Chukkala Parvatam (stone steps, panoramic views).
- 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Optionally visit Pathala Ganga Ropeway and Akka Mahadevi Caves (time permitting).
- 4:30 PM: Return to Hyderabad.
Tip: For a more relaxed experience, stay overnight at Srisailam and trek Chukkala Parvatam early next morning (sunrise).
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
🏨 Where to Stay
Accommodation (Srisailam)
- TTD / Devasthanam Guest Houses: Ganga Sadan, Gouri Sadan, Kailasa Sadan (₹200–₹2000). Book via srisailadevasthanam.org.
- Private Hotels: Hotel Grand Akkamahadevi, Hotel Raghavendra Grand Inn, Haritha Hotel (TSTDC).
Food & Tips
- Vegetarian meals available near the temple complex.
- No shops at Chukkala Parvatam – carry your own water and snacks.
📝 Travel Tips & Responsible Trekking
⭐ Pro tip: The best view from Chukkala Parvatam is at sunrise when the sun rises over the Krishna backwaters and the Nallamala hills are bathed in golden light. To catch the sunrise, start your trek around 5:30 AM (carry a torch). Alternatively, sunset (4:30–5:30 PM) offers equally stunning colours. The hill is especially beautiful during the winter months (December–January) when the air is clear and the visibility is excellent.
🙏 Conclusion – A Step Back in Time on a Sacred Hill
Chukkala Parvatam is not a typical tourist attraction – it is a hidden piece of history, a quiet spot where you can imagine the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims who came before you. The ancient stone steps, the panoramic views, and the spiritual connection to the Srisailam temple make it a rewarding trek for those who seek something off the beaten path. If you are visiting Srisailam and have a couple of hours to spare, ask a local for directions to Chukkala Parvatam and climb the star‑lit steps of the past.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chukkala Parvatam safe to trek alone?
A: It is better to go with a companion or a local guide. The area is isolated.
Q: Do I need a permit to trek here?
A: No formal permit is required. However, the hill is inside a forest area – inform the Srisailam forest office if you plan a long trek.
Q: What is the difficulty level?
A: Easy to moderate. The stone steps are worn but manageable.
Q: Can I see the Srisailam temple from the top?
A: Yes, on clear days you can see the temple gopurams in the distance.
Q: Are there any restrooms or shops?
A: No. Carry all supplies. The nearest facilities are in Srisailam town.
Q: How far is Jatararevu from Srisailam?
A: Approximately 4 km by road.
📚 References & More Information
- The Hindu – The four gateways to Srisailam (includes Chukkala Parvatam)
- Wikipedia – Srisailam (pilgrim routes)
- Telangana Tourism – Umamaheshwaram Gateway
- Srisailam Devasthanam – Pilgrim Information
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