Mukhalingam Mukhalingeshwara Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Address

Mukhalingam Mukhalingeshwara Temple, Andhra Pradesh

Mukhalingeshwara Temple, Mukhalingam,

Srikakulam District,

Andhra Pradesh – 532 428

Phone: +91 8945 283 604

Moolavar

Mukhalingeshwara / Madhukeswara

Introduction

Mukhalingeshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Mukhalingam in Srikakulam District in Andhra Pradesh, India. Mukhalingam is located in the north eastern corner of the state of Andhra Pradesh, near Orissa.

Puranic Significance

The temple is believed to have been built during the reign of King Kamarnava II (941-976 CE). Mukhalingam was known as Kalinganagara during the rule of eastern Gangas (of Orissa). The construction of this temple was started in the 10th century CE by Kamarnava II and was completed by his grandson Immadi Vajrahastha.

Special Features

The Mukhalingeshwara Temple, among the three temples in Mukhalingam, is the oldest and faces eastward. Its distinctive architectural features include a three Khakhara Deul style gopura (entrance tower) with a stone kalasa (finial) crowning it, and this entrance is flanked by imposing lion sculptures.

The temple is constructed atop a raised platform and can be accessed via a flight of steps. It is enclosed within a compound wall. Immediately after entering through the eastern gate, you’ll encounter a Nandi statue housed in a mandapa, facing the sanctum.

The temple follows the Panchayatana style of architecture, where the main shrine is elevated on a platform, and there are four smaller subsidiary shrines at the four corners, totaling five shrines in all. The Jagamohana (assembly hall) has a flat roof supported by six pillars.

The presiding deity of the temple is known as Mukhalingeshwara or Madhukeswara, and the deity is enshrined in the form of a Linga. What makes this Linga unique is that it is crafted from a tree trunk rather than stone, and it naturally resembles a human face. Hence, the Linga is referred to as Mukhalingeshwara, emphasizing its distinctive form.