Srikalahasti Temple, located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most revered Shiva temples in India. Known as the “Kashi of the South,” it is the only temple in the world where the effects of Rahu and Ketu are believed to be neutralized through a specific ritual called the Rahu Ketu Puja (or Kala Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Puja).
As we move into 2026, the temple continues to be a primary destination for those seeking relief from planetary doshas, obstacles in marriage, and career delays. This guide provides everything you need to know about the 2026 schedule, ticket costs, and booking procedures.
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Overview of Srikalahasti Temple and Puja 2026
The temple is unique because it is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of Air (Vayu). It is said that the lamp in the inner sanctum constantly flickers even when there is no air movement, symbolizing the presence of the Vayu Lingam. In 2026, the temple remains open during solar and lunar eclipses, which is a rare feature, as most Hindu temples close during these times. Performing the Rahu Ketu Puja here is considered highly effective because the temple itself is considered the “Rahu-Ketu Kshetra.”
| Feature | Details for 2026 |
| Primary Deity | Lord Srikalahasteeswara & Gnana Prasunambika Devi |
| Significance | Vayu Lingam (Air Element) |
| Main Ritual | Rahu Ketu Dosha Nivarana Puja |
| Best Days | Sundays, Tuesdays, Amavasya, and Pournami |
| Puja Duration | Approximately 45 to 60 minutes |
| Temple Location | Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh (near Tirupati) |
| Official Website | srikalahastitemple.org.in / aptemples.ap.gov.in |
Daily Rahu Ketu Puja Timings in 2026
The Rahu Ketu Puja is performed daily at Srikalahasti. Unlike other sevas that have specific slots, this puja is conducted continuously in batches throughout the day to accommodate the high volume of devotees.
- General Puja Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Daily)
- Temple Opening Time: 5:30 AM
- Temple Closing Time: 9:00 PM (may extend to 9:30 PM on weekends)
While the puja can be done any time between 6 AM and 6 PM, many devotees prefer performing it during Rahu Kalam, as it is believed to be the most potent time for neutralizing the shadow planets.
Weekly Rahu Kalam Chart for 2026
If you wish to perform the puja during the most auspicious (and technically “in-auspicious” for the planets) time, follow this standard Rahu Kalam schedule for 2026:
- Sunday: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM (Most Crowded)
- Monday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
- Tuesday: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM (Highly Recommended)
- Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
- Thursday: 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
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Ticket Categories and Price List for 2026
The temple offers different ticket tiers. It is important to note that the ritual and the mantras are the same for all categories; the price difference is purely based on the location of the puja hall and the proximity to the main sanctum.
| Ticket Price (INR) | Seating Location | Features |
| ₹500 | Outer Hall (Near the entrance) | Basic hall, very crowded. |
| ₹750 | A/C Hall | Better comfort, located inside the temple premises. |
| ₹1,500 | Near Dwajasthambam | Closer to the main shrine; includes a better puja kit. |
| ₹2,500 | Inside Main Temple | Limited crowd; peaceful environment near the deity. |
| ₹5,000 | VIP Mandapam | Premium seating; often allows for faster Darshan afterward. |
Note: The ticket price usually includes the puja kit (silver idols, flowers, and cloth). You do not need to buy these from outside vendors.
Online and Offline Booking Process
For 2026, the temple administration has streamlined the booking process. There are two ways to secure your slot:
1. Online Booking:
Devotees can book tickets through the official AP Temples Portal or the Srikalahasti Temple website.
- Visit the official website 7 to 30 days in advance.
- Select “Rahu Ketu Puja” and choose your preferred date and price category.
- Enter Aadhaar or ID details and complete the payment.
- Carry a printout or digital copy of the receipt.
2. Offline (On-the-spot) Booking:
If you cannot book online, don’t worry. The temple maintains several counters near the East Gopuram.
- Reach the temple at least 1 hour before your desired Rahu Kalam slot.
- Show your ID proof and pay the cash at the counter to get a physical token.
The Puja Procedure: What to Expect
When you arrive for the puja, follow these steps to ensure a smooth experience:
- Entry: Go to the specific hall mentioned on your ticket.
- Seating: You will be given a puja kit containing two small silver snake idols (representing Rahu and Ketu).
- The Ritual: A priest will guide the entire batch through the mantras. You will offer flowers and vermillion to the silver idols.
- Completion: Once the puja ends, you will carry the silver idols and drop them into the designated Hundi inside the main temple.
- Darshan: After the puja, you proceed through a separate queue for the Darshan of Lord Srikalahasteeswara and Goddess Gnana Prasunambica.
Rules and Dress Code for 2026
The temple strictly enforces traditional decorum. In 2026, ensure you follow these guidelines:
- Dress Code for Men: Dhoti with a shirt or a simple Pyjama Kurta. Lungis and shorts are strictly prohibited.
- Dress Code for Women: Saree or Chudidhar with a Dupatta (Shawl).
- Head Bath: It is a tradition to take a head bath before performing this puja.
- No Fasting: Unlike other rituals, fasting is not mandatory for Rahu Ketu Puja.
- Items to Carry: Carry a valid ID proof (Aadhaar or Passport). Avoid carrying large bags or electronic gadgets into the puja hall.
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Best Dates for Puja in 2026
While the puja is performed daily, certain days in 2026 carry extra spiritual weight. If your horoscope has a severe Kala Sarpa Dosha, try to visit on these days:
- Maha Shivaratri 2026: February 15, 2026 (The biggest festival at the temple).
- Amavasya (New Moon): Every month, these days are considered ideal for ancestor and planetary rituals.
- Solar/Lunar Eclipses: Srikalahasti is one of the few temples that remains open and performs special pujas during eclipses.
- Sundays and Tuesdays: These are the days dedicated to Rahu and Ketu respectively.
Benefits of Performing Rahu Ketu Puja
According to Vedic astrology and temple legends, the Rahu Ketu Puja at Srikalahasti provides several benefits:
- Removes Marriage Obstacles: Many people perform this to resolve delays in finding a life partner.
- Career Growth: Helps in overcoming sudden setbacks in business or jobs.
- Health and Peace: Relieves mental stress and chronic health issues attributed to planetary positions.
- Childbirth: Couples facing difficulties in conceiving often visit the temple for “Naga Pratishta” or Rahu Ketu Puja.
Accommodation and Facilities near the Temple
In 2026, Srikalahasti has seen an increase in quality accommodation.
- Temple Guest Houses: Affordable rooms (₹200 – ₹1,000) can be booked at the temple counter or online.
- Private Hotels: There are several 3-star hotels within a 1 km radius of the temple.
- Food: The temple provides Free Annadanam (lunch) for devotees from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM daily. There are also many vegetarian restaurants nearby.
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How to Reach Srikalahasti
- By Air: The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport (Renigunta), which is about 25 km away. Taxis and buses are frequently available.
- By Train: Srikalahasti has its own railway station. For more connectivity, you can reach Tirupati Main Station and take a 45-minute bus or taxi ride.
- By Road: It is well-connected to Chennai (120 km), Bangalore (250 km), and Nellore (95 km). State transport (APSRTC) runs buses every 15 minutes from Tirupati.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I perform the puja during my menstrual cycle?
No, according to temple traditions, women should wait until 5 days after their cycle to perform the puja or enter the temple.
Should I visit Tirupati Balaji temple before or after Srikalahasti?
Tradition suggests visiting Srikalahasti first to clear doshas before seeking the blessings of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala, but many devotees do it the other way around as well.
Is it necessary to donate the silver idols?
Yes, after the puja, the silver idols are meant to be dropped in the temple Hundi. You should not take them back home unless specifically instructed for a different ritual.
How many people are allowed on one ticket?
For the ₹500 and ₹750 tickets, usually 1 person is allowed. For ₹1,500 and above, a couple (or a family of 2 adults and 2 children) is often permitted on a single ticket.
Are there special queues for senior Old Peoples ?
Yes, the temple provides separate lines and seating arrangements for Older People and physically challenged devotees to ensure a comfortable Darshan.
Would you like me to help you check the specific Rahu Kalam timings for a particular date in 2026?