Detailed Legend/ History of Sri Mukhalingam Temple of Lord Shiva

Srimukhalingam, housing 3 Ancient Temples at one Location, is popularly known as Dakshina Kaasi (Vaaranaasi of South India). The Trinity of Madhukeswara, Someswara and Bheemeswara Temples are a testimony to the Magnificent Architectural skills of Kalinga Kings. Constructed between 9th and 11th Centuries, these Temples have Eye catching Ornamental Gates at their Entrance. These Sculptural masterpieces are about 50 Kms from Srikakulam Town and are dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Sri Mukha Lingeswara.  Sri Mukhalingam, which is on the banks of River Vamsadhara, was the capital of Kalinga Ganga Kings for over 600 years.  It takes about 1.5 hours by road as the approach roads pass through the interiors. It is under the protection of Central Archeological Department (ASI).


Sri Mukha Lingam, as the very name suggests, is famous for the Temple of Lord Shiva with the Shiva Lingam having the face (Sri Mukham) of the Lord. Generally Shiva Lingams do not have the Facial carving and hence the Temple at Sri Mukhalingam is different from the other Shiva Temples. It is also known as Dakshina Kaasi. Sri Mukha Lingam, built on the banks of River Vamsadhara was a Glorious  place during the Eastern Ganga Chola era and served as their Capital City for over Six  centuries.

Sri Mukha Lingam actually houses three Temples – Sri Madhukeswara , Sri Someswara and Sri Bheemeswara Temples. Built around 10^th century AD by the Eastern Chola Kings (Sri Kamarnava II), these are marvelous Stone works and are a feast to the Connoisseurs of Archaeology & Heritage. The splendid Art works are appreciated world over, and the central Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI) protects them round the clock.

According to the Sthala Puranam, Lord Shiva manifested here in a Madhuka Tree (Which are plenty in this area) to relieve the Gandharvas who were born here as Tribals (Sabaras). Hence the Lord here is called Sri Madhukeswara swamy.