Saleswaram Jathara 2026 Dates
The Saleswaram Jathara 2026 will be held from April 1 to April 3, 2026, during the auspicious Chaitra Pournami (full moon) period.
This sacred festival is popularly known as “Telangana Amarnath Yatra”, attracting lakhs of devotees every year.
Location of Saleswaram Temple
Saleswaram (also called Lingamayya Swamy Temple) is located deep inside the Nallamala Forest:
- District: Nagarkurnool, Telangana
- Mandal: Lingal / Amrabad region
- Nearest Entry Point: Farhabad Gate (Amrabad Tiger Reserve)
📌 How to Reach
- Reach Achampet / Nagarkurnool
- Travel to Farhabad check-post
- From there:
- ~25–30 km vehicle journey inside forest
- Followed by 5–6 km trekking through hills and rocks
👉 The temple is located inside a deep valley (~1000 feet) surrounded by dense forest.
History of Saleswaram Temple
- The Saleswaram Temple is believed to date back to the 6th–7th century AD, making it an ancient spiritual site.
- It is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Lingamayya Swamy) and located inside a natural cave.
- Historical references to this temple appear in Sriparvatha Purana, highlighting its sacred importance.
🌿 Unique Feature
- A mysterious waterfall (~200 ft) flows directly near the Shiva Lingam
- The water is considered holy and is used for rituals
- The temple remains closed throughout the year and opens only during Jathara
👉 This rare combination of cave + waterfall + forest shrine makes it spiritually and naturally unique.
Religious Significance
- Known as Dakshina Amarnath Yatra (Southern Amarnath)
- Devotees chant “Vastunna Lingamayya” during the trek
- Believed that wishes are fulfilled when prayers are offered on Chaitra Pournami
- Tribal community Chenchus act as traditional priests during the festival
Trekking Experience
Visiting Saleswaram is not just a pilgrimage — it’s an adventure trek:
- Trek through dense forests & rocky terrain
- Steep descent into a deep valley
- No regular road access
- Requires physical stamina
👉 Around 5 lakh devotees visit in 3–5 days, making it one of the biggest forest jatras in Telangana.
Jathara Rituals & Activities
- Holy dip in waterfall near temple
- Shiva Lingam darshan inside cave
- Night camping & devotional chants
- Tribal rituals by Chenchu community
- Continuous chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya”
Important Guidelines
- Entry allowed only 6 AM – 6 PM via Farhabad gate
- No private vehicles beyond certain points
- Carry:
- Water & food
- Trekking shoes
- Torch / flashlight
- Avoid plastic (eco-sensitive forest zone)
Why You Should Visit Saleswaram Jathara
- Rare once-a-year temple darshan
- Combination of spirituality + adventure
- Scenic waterfall inside forest valley
- Unique tribal traditions
- One of the most unexplored pilgrimage spots in South India
Farahabad View Point – Offers panoramic views of Nallamala hills and Krishna backwaters; perfect for sunrise and photography.
Places to Visit Near Saleswaram
Amrabad Tiger Reserve – Rich forest area with wildlife, greenery, and safari options for nature lovers.
Srisailam Temple – Famous Jyotirlinga shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva; major spiritual destination nearby.
Akka Mahadevi Caves – Ancient caves accessible by boat ride, known for their spiritual and adventurous experience.
Mannanur Eco Tourism – Eco-tourism spot with forest entry point, greenery, and relaxation areas.
Kadalivanam Caves – Spiritual forest caves linked to mythology and meditation.
Nagarjuna Sagar Dam – Massive dam with scenic views, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
Conclusion
The Nallamala Saleswaram Jathara 2026 is more than just a festival—it’s a powerful blend of devotion, nature, and adventure. Hidden deep within the lush Nallamala forests, the sacred Lingamayya Swamy Temple offers a rare spiritual experience that comes alive only once a year during Chaitra Pournami.
From the challenging trek through rugged terrain to the divine darshan inside a cave beside a flowing waterfall, every step of this journey is filled with faith and excitement. The presence of ancient traditions, tribal rituals, and the serene forest atmosphere makes it a truly unforgettable pilgrimage.
Whether you are a devotee seeking blessings or a traveler looking for a unique spiritual adventure, Saleswaram Jathara stands out as one of Telangana’s most extraordinary experiences.
👉 Plan wisely, stay safe, and embrace the divine energy of this sacred journey. Om Namah Shivaya 🙏
