According to the Shiva Purana, an incident occurred before the marriage of Shri Ganesh and Kartikeya, leading Kartikeya to become upset. Despite efforts from Shiv-Parvati to console him, he retreated to the Kraunch Mountain. Even the Gods’ attempts to soothe him were in vain. Distressed, Shiv-Parvati decided to visit the Kraunch mountain themselves. Upon learning of their arrival, Kartikeya left. In the end, Lord Shiva manifested as a Jyotirlinga on the mountain, named Mallikarjuna, symbolizing Parvati (Mallika) and Shiva (Arjuna). Experience this intriguing tale with the assistance of Shiv Shankar Tirth Yatra, dedicated to enriching your journey.

In this way both Shiva and Parvati reside in this linga. The people who visit this Jyotirlinga are emancipated from all their sins and fulfill all their desires. It is for the welfare and well being of one and all. Another legend says Once, a princess named Chandravati decided to go to the Jungles to do penance and meditation. She chose Kadali Vana for this purpose. One day, she witnessed a miracle. A Kapila cow was standing under a Bilwa tree and milk was flowing from all of its four udders, sinking into the ground. The cow kept doing this as a routine chore everyday. Chandravati dug up that area and was dumb founded at what she saw.

There was a self-raising Swayambhu Shivlinga. It was bright and shining like the sun rays, and looked like it was burning, throwing flames in all directions. Chandravati prayed to Shiva in this Jyotirlinga. She built a huge Shiva Temple there. Lord Shiva was very pleased with her. Chandravati went to Kailash wind borne. She received salvation and Mukti. On one of the stone-inscriptions of the temple, Chandravati’s story can be seen carved out.