As devotees, unfazed by the intense heat, set off on a strenuous journey, the singing of Lord Shiva’s name reverberates across the Nallamala woods. These devotees, who are traveling from Venkatapuram, are showing their profound devotion by walking a great distance while experiencing hunger and fatigue. Before continuing on their journey, they stop briefly under trees to relax.

The Mallanna devotees leave all of their hardships to Lord Mallikarjuna as they travel over hills and woods for many kilometers, stopping to rest at Kailasa Dwaram. The district and temple authorities in Srisailam have constructed accommodations at Kailasa Dwaram and Hatakeswaram, including shelters where pilgrims may rest before continuing on their journey to Srisailam, in recognition of the difficulties faced by these travelers. Along the woodland walk, medical camps have been erected at over ten spots to help those with blisters, bodily pains, and foot problems. By giving out medications and taking care of the devotees’ necessities, volunteer organizations are actively assisting.

Additionally, volunteers and temple officials are offering free lunches. Ten tankers are constantly delivering water to the devotees to satisfy their thirst, and clean drinking water tanks have been built at Kailasa Dwaram and other significant locations along the path.

The route to Venkatapuram from Atmakur in the Nandyal district is the starting point for the Srisailam Mallanna foot pilgrimage. Devotees then follow the woodland path, which passes via Kailasa Dwaram, Matham Bavi (Well), Bheemuni Kolanu (Pond), Damarla Kunta Pedda Cheruvu (Big Lake), Kosai Katta Veeranjaneya Swamy Temple, and Naguluti Veerabhadra Swamy Temple.

The devotees eventually arrive at Srisailam after trekking for about 40 kilometers through the thick woods of Nallamala. Authorities have set up food and water facilities at Damarla Kunta and Pedda Cheruvu, as well as food at Naguluti, along the route. At Kailasa Dwaram, Bheemuni Kolanu, and Matham Bavi, further water facilities have been installed.

Thousands of devotees are walking in big groups to Srisailam as Maha Shivaratri draws near. When they arrive at Srisailam, they offer prayers, fulfill their vows, and have darshan from Sri Bhramaramba Sametha Mallikarjuna Swamy. Thousands of devotees attend the Brahmotsavam festivities and take part in the Karpoora Neerajanam rites performed for Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.