⛰️ Shikharam Viewpoint: A Panoramic Window to the Nallamala Hills
Breathtaking Views of Srisailam Reservoir & Krishna Backwaters | Near Srisailam Temple
A view that stretches to the horizon. Shikharam Viewpoint is aptly named – “Shikharam” means peak or summit. From this elevated spot, you can see the vast expanse of the Srisailam reservoir, with its deep blue waters contrasting against the rugged green hills. The Krishna River snakes through the valley, and on clear days, you can spot the Srisailam Dam in the distance. The viewpoint is a photographer’s paradise, especially during the golden hours.
The road to Shikharam is winding but well‑paved, passing through the scenic Nallamala forest. Unlike the crowded temple complex, this viewpoint offers a peaceful escape into nature. There are no shops or facilities at the top – just a wide open space to soak in the beauty. Many visitors combine a trip to Shikharam with other nearby attractions like Phaladhara Panchadhara and Hatakeswaram Temple.
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address & Access
Shikharam Viewpoint
Srisailam, Kurnool District,
Andhra Pradesh – 518101
12 km from Srisailam Mallikarjuna Temple
220 km from Hyderabad
📞 Enquiries
Srisailam Devasthanam / AP Tourism
Phone: +91-70759 67370 (Srisailam info)
No booking required – free entry
🌐 Official Info
🕐 Timings & Best Season
Timings: Open all day (sunrise to sunset). Best visited early morning (6–8 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) for soft light.
Best Season: October – March (pleasant weather, clear skies). Avoid summer (April–June) – very hot.
Entry Fee: Free
Parking: Limited space near the viewpoint.
⚠️ Note
No shops, restrooms, or drinking water at the viewpoint. Carry your own supplies. The road is winding – drive carefully.
🚗 How to Reach Shikharam Viewpoint
By Road (from Hyderabad): Take NH765 to Srisailam (≈220 km, 5 hours). From Srisailam Temple, follow the road towards the dam/backwaters; the viewpoint is well‑signposted about 12 km away. The road is good but has many curves – drive slowly.
From Srisailam Temple: Taxis and autos are available for hire. A round trip to Shikharam Viewpoint plus other nearby points (Phaladhara, Hatakeswaram) can be arranged.
By Rail: Nearest railway station is Markapur Road (≈85 km) or Kurnool (≈180 km). From there, hire a taxi.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈220 km).
🧭 Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary (Srisailam + Shikharam Viewpoint)
- 6:00 AM: Depart from Hyderabad (early start recommended).
- 10:30 AM: Arrive Srisailam. First visit Shikharam Viewpoint (12 km, morning light is best).
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Explore Phaladhara Panchadhara (natural waterfalls and rock‑cut caves).
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch at Srisailam.
- 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Visit Srisailam Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple (Jyotirlinga).
- 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Optionally take the ropeway to Pathala Ganga and enjoy boat ride to Akka Mahadevi Caves (time permitting).
- 5:00 PM: Depart for Hyderabad.
- 9:00 PM: Arrive back.
Tip: If you have 2 days, stay overnight at Srisailam and visit Akka Mahadevi Caves the next morning.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions (around Srisailam)
🏨 Where to Stay & Eat
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 and prasadam available near the temple complex.
- No shops at Shikharam Viewpoint – carry water and snacks.
- For a meal, head back to Srisailam town.
📝 Travel Tips & Photography Guide
⭐ Pro tip: The viewpoint faces east – so sunrise is spectacular. If you can’t make it for sunrise, the late afternoon (around 4 PM) also offers excellent light, with the sun behind you illuminating the valley. The monsoon season (July–September) brings lush greenery but also clouds that may obscure the view; check weather before going.
🙏 Conclusion – A Must‑Visit Viewpoint on the Srisailam Circuit
Shikharam Viewpoint offers one of the most stunning panoramic vistas in the entire Srisailam region. The combination of the vast reservoir, the rugged Nallamala hills, and the peaceful forest atmosphere makes it a perfect addition to any pilgrimage or nature trip. It is easily accessible, free, and requires only a short detour from the main temple road. Whether you are a photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a quiet moment away from the crowds, Shikharam will leave you inspired.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there an entry fee for Shikharam Viewpoint?
A: No, entry is free.
Q: Is the viewpoint accessible by car?
A: Yes, the road is paved and accessible by car/taxi. Parking is available near the viewpoint.
Q: How far is Shikharam from Srisailam Temple?
A: Approximately 12 km (30 minutes drive).
Q: Is there any shade or seating at the viewpoint?
A: No. It is an open area. Carry an umbrella or hat for sun protection.
Q: Can we see the Srisailam Dam from here?
A: Yes, on clear days you can see the dam and the reservoir.
Q: What is the best time of day to visit?
A: Early morning (6–8 AM) for sunrise or late afternoon (4–6 PM) for golden hour.
📚 References & More Information
- Srisailam Devasthanam – Official Website
- Andhra Pradesh Tourism – Srisailam
- Wikipedia – Srisailam
- Trawell – Shikharam Viewpoint Guide
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