Uma Maheswaram Temple – History, Timings, Location, Festivals & Travel Guide

Uma Maheswaram Temple is one of the sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the picturesque Nallamala Forests of Telangana. Also known as the northern gateway of Srisailam, this temple holds immense spiritual significance and is considered a must-visit destination for devotees and nature lovers alike. Surrounded by dense forests and rocky hills, the temple offers a divine atmosphere along with a refreshing trekking experience.

History and Significance of Uma Maheswaram Temple

Uma Maheswaram Temple, located deep in the Nallamala Forests of Telangana, is an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Believed to be built during the 2nd century A.D. under the reign of the Pallava and Chalukya kings, the temple reflects classic South Indian architecture with intricate carvings on stone pillars and mandapas.

According to legend, this temple is considered the northern gateway to the holy Srisailam Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that visiting Uma Maheswaram and offering prayers is equivalent to seeking blessings at Srisailam. The presiding deity here is worshipped as Uma Maheshwara Swamy, symbolizing the divine union of Uma (Goddess Parvati) and Maheshwara (Lord Shiva).

The temple’s location amidst the dense forest and rocky hills is also spiritually significant. It is said that sages performed penance here, and the surrounding caves and springs still hold religious value. The natural perennial springs near the temple, believed to have medicinal properties, add to its sanctity.

Over centuries, Uma Maheswaram Temple has become not only a place of worship but also a symbol of devotion, heritage, and cultural identity in Telangana.

Location and How to Reach Uma Maheswaram Temple

Uma Maheswaram Temple is nestled in the serene Nallamala Hills, within Achampet Mandal of Nagarkurnool District, Telangana. Surrounded by thick forests, rocky paths, and natural springs, the temple is often referred to as the hidden gateway to Srisailam Jyotirlinga.

Location Details

• District: Nagarkurnool, Telangana

• Mandal: Achampet

• Altitude: Approximately 1,200 meters above sea level

• Setting: Dense Nallamala Forest, offering scenic views and trekking trails

Distance from Major Cities

• Hyderabad: ~120 km

• Mahbubnagar: ~60 km

• Srisailam Temple: ~80 km

• Kurnool (Andhra Pradesh): ~100 km

How to Reach Uma Maheswaram Temple

• By Road:
  The temple is well-connected by road. Buses from Hyderabad, Mahbubnagar, and Achampet frequently operate towards the temple. Visitors can also hire private cabs or drive through scenic forest routes.

• By Train:
  The nearest railway station is Jadcherla, located around 60 km away. From there, taxis and buses are available to reach the temple.

• By Air:
  The closest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Hyderabad), approximately 110 km from the temple. After landing, one can take a cab or bus to Achampet and then proceed to the temple.

• By Trekking:
  Adventure seekers often prefer trekking through the Nallamala forest routes, especially during the cooler months. The trek offers panoramic views of valleys and natural springs.

Timings of Uma Maheswaram Temple

The Uma Maheswaram Temple is open to devotees every day, offering darshan and pooja services at specific hours. Pilgrims visiting this shrine can plan their trip according to the temple schedule.

Temple Darshan Timings

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Evening: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Special Notes

• The temple remains closed between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM for daily rituals and preparation.

• Special poojas and abhishekams are performed during festivals like Maha Shivaratri and Karthika Masam.

• Weekends and auspicious days usually witness higher footfall, so early morning visits are recommended for a peaceful darshan.

Festivals Celebrated at Uma Maheswaram Temple

The Uma Maheswaram Temple is not only a sacred pilgrimage site but also a vibrant center of cultural and spiritual celebrations. Several Hindu festivals are observed here with great devotion, attracting thousands of pilgrims from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and nearby regions.

1. Maha Shivaratri

• The most significant festival celebrated at Uma Maheswaram Temple.

• Devotees observe fasting, night-long vigils, and special abhishekams to Lord Shiva.

• Thousands of pilgrims visit during this time, and the temple premises remain open for darshan throughout the night.

2. Karthika Masam

• Celebrated in the holy month of Karthika (October–November).

• Devotees light traditional lamps (deepams) inside and around the temple.

• Special poojas and rituals are conducted every Monday of the month.

3. Ugadi (Telugu New Year)

• Marked with special prayers, alankaram (decoration) of the deities, and cultural programs.

• Devotees believe that visiting the temple on Ugadi brings prosperity and good fortune.

4. Sravana Masam

• The month of Shravana (July–August) is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Lord Shiva.

• Special rituals and abhishekam with milk, honey, and bilva leaves are performed.