Istakameswari Temple is located about 21 km to the east of Srisailam in a scenic and dense forest background. It is an ancient structure that dates back to the 8th – 9th Century A.D. The idol of the deity is very unique and incomparable to any other idol in India. The serene and beautiful smiling face of the goddess captures the heart and soul of everyone and it is believed that by having the darshan of Istakameswari Devi all our desires will be fulfilled.
The most striking feature of this temple is the idol of the goddess Ista Kameshwari Devi. The forehead of the Goddess is as smooth as human skin even though the idol is made of stone.
Once at the temple, after the darshan and pooja, the temple priest usually asks devotees to apply vermilion on the Goddess forehead. Devotees can experience and see this unique feature themselves.
After darshan and pooja, the temple priest asks devotees to apply vermilion on the forehead of the goddess. Devotees can experience and feel this unique feature for themselves.
The Ista Kameswari temple is beautifully located in the middle of a lush forest and a refreshing environment. This ancient temple is visited not only by devotees but also by architecture and history enthusiasts. It is located inside a cave, which adds to its fascinating charm.
To reach this temple, tourists are required to travel for around 11 to 12 km on SH8, going towards Dornala. After that one needs to travel on a rickety path of around 8 km to reach the temple.