The Sri Kalahasteeswara Swamy Temple in Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most revered Shiva shrines in South India and holds the unique distinction of being the Vayu Lingam among the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams—temples representing the five primordial elements . Located approximately 36 kilometers from Tirupati, this ancient temple is often called “Dakshina Kailasam” (the Kailash of the South) .
What makes this temple exceptionally significant is its global reputation as the foremost center for Rahu-Ketu Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja—a powerful astrological remedy believed to mitigate the malefic effects of the shadow planets Rahu and Ketu . According to ancient belief, prayers offered at the Vayu Lingam reach Lord Shiva instantly due to the temple’s strong spiritual vibrations .
The temple’s history is deeply intertwined with the legend of Bhakta Kannappa, a hunter-devotee who offered his own eyes to Lord Shiva in an ultimate act of devotion. This story is commemorated during the annual Brahmotsavam festival . The temple’s inner sanctum dates back to the 5th century, with outer structures added during the Chola and Vijayanagara periods .
For devotees planning a visit in 2026, this comprehensive guide covers everything—from daily darshan timings and Rahu Ketu Pooja booking to accommodation options, nearby attractions, and essential travel tips.
Srikalahasti Temple 2026: Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Sri Kalahasteeswara Swamy Temple |
| Location | Srikalahasti, Tirupati District, Andhra Pradesh – 517644 |
| Primary Deity | Lord Shiva as Kalahasteeswara (Vayu Lingam) |
| Goddess | Gnana Prasunnamba Devi |
| Significance | Pancha Bhoota Sthalam (Air Element); Foremost Rahu-Ketu Parihara Sthalam |
| Temple Timings | 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM (Daily) |
| Pooja Timings | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Rahu Ketu Pooja conducted throughout) |
| Entry Fee | Free for general darshan |
| Special Darshan | ₹50 – ₹100 |
| Official Website | srikalahasthi.org / aptemples.ap.gov.in |
| Nearest Airport | Tirupati International Airport (TIR) – 25 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Srikalahasti Railway Station – 2 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March; Tuesday, Sunday, Amavasya days |
Srikalahasti Temple Darshan Timings 2026
The temple follows a consistent daily schedule throughout the year. Based on official sources, here are the confirmed timings for 2026:
| Session | Timings | Darshan Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 5:30 AM | Daily |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Available |
| Afternoon Break | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Temple open but reduced activity |
| Afternoon Darshan | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Available |
| Evening Darshan | 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM | Available |
| Temple Closes | 9:30 PM | Daily |
Special Days and Rush Forecast
| Day Type | Expected Crowd Level | Waiting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Weekdays (Tue-Thu) | 🟢 Low | 30–60 minutes |
| Saturdays | 🟡 Moderate | 1–2 hours |
| Amavasya (New Moon) | 🔴 Very Heavy | 3+ hours |
| Rahu Kalam Days | 🔴 Very Heavy | 3+ hours |
| Maha Shivaratri | 🔴 Extremely Heavy | 5–8 hours |
Best Time for Darshan: Early morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) offers the calmest experience with minimal queues .
Rahu Ketu Pooja at Srikalahasti Temple – Complete Guide
The Rahu Ketu Pooja (also called Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja) is the most sought-after ritual at Srikalahasti Temple. It is performed daily between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM .
Why is this Pooja Performed?
According to Hindu astrology, Rahu and Ketu are shadow planets whose unfavorable positions in a horoscope can cause:
- Delayed marriage or obstacles in marital life
- Career stagnation and financial instability
- Difficulty in conceiving children
- Unexplained health issues
- Family conflicts and recurring misfortune
Performing the Rahu Ketu Pooja at Srikalahasti is believed to provide relief from these doshas and bring peace and prosperity .
Rahu Ketu Pooja Timings for 2026
| Session | Timings | Best Days |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Tuesday, Sunday |
| Afternoon | 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM | Friday, Amavasya |
| Evening | 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Monday, Saturday |
Best Time to Perform – Rahu Kalam 2026
Performing the pooja during Rahu Kalam is considered most powerful. Here are the Rahu Kalam timings for 2026:
| Day | Rahu Kalam Timing |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Monday | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Tuesday | 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM |
| 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 |
Rahu Ketu Pooja Ticket Prices 2026
The temple offers multiple ticket categories based on seating comfort and location:
| Category | Price (INR) | Suitable For | Venue Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic (Outside Hall) | ₹150 | 1 devotee | Hall outside main temple |
| Standard | ₹300 | 1 devotee | North-side pooja hall |
| Special | ₹500 | 1 devotee | Standard ticket |
| Special Entry | ₹700 | 1 devotee | Temple outer hall |
| A/C Hall | ₹750 – ₹1,500 | 1 devotee | Air-conditioned hall |
| Couple Ticket | ₹2,500 | 2 devotees | Near Dwajasthambam |
| Premium Couple | ₹5,000 | 2 devotees | Inside Mandapam near Utsava Murthy |
Note: Prices are approximate and may be revised by the temple administration.
Step-by-Step Booking Process
Online Booking (Recommended for Advance Planning):
- Visit the official AP Temples portal: aptemples.ap.gov.in
- Select “Srikalahasti Temple” from the temple list
- Click on “Pratyaksha Seva Tickets”
- Choose “Rahu Ketu Pooja” or “Kalasarpa Dosha Pooja”
- Log in with your mobile number (first-time users must register)
- Enter devotee details and upload valid ID proof
- Select preferred time slot and ticket category
- Complete payment using UPI, credit/debit card, or net banking
- Download your e-ticket and carry a printed or digital copy
Offline Booking (At the Temple):
- Arrive at the temple before 6:00 AM to secure early slots
- Visit the designated ticket counter
- Provide your details (name, birth star if known)
- Choose ticket category and pay
- Receive your pooja ticket and follow instructions
Important: If you do not know your Gotra, Janma Nakshatra, or Janma Rashi, the priests can still perform the pooja without these details .
Daily Sevas and Pooja Offerings
Daily Seva List
| Seva Name | Ticket Price (INR) | Timings |
|---|---|---|
| Suprabhata Seva | ₹100 | Early Morning |
| Sahasranama Archana | ₹100 | Morning |
| Abhishekam | ₹500 | 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM |
| Kumkum Archana | ₹200 | Morning |
| Ekanta Seva | ₹100 | Night |
Special Sevas and Homams
| Seva Name | Ticket Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Rudrabhishekam | ₹1,500 |
| Maha Rudrabhishekam | ₹5,000 |
| Navagraha Pooja | ₹600 |
| Lakshmi Ganapathi Homam | ₹2,500 |
| Chandi Homam | ₹6,000 |
Abhishekam Timings
- Morning Abhishekam: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening Abhishekam: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavam 2026 – 13-Day Grand Festival
The Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavam is the most important festival at Srikalahasti Temple, celebrated over 13 days from February 10 to February 23, 2026 .
Key Dates and Events
| Date | Event | Time |
|---|---|---|
| February 10 | Bhakta Kannappa Deeksha Vidharanam & Ankurarpana | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| February 11 | Dwajarohanam (Flag Hoisting) | 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM |
| February 12–14 | Daily Vahana Sevas | Morning & Evening |
| February 15 | Maha Shivaratri – Main Day | All Day & Night |
| February 16 | Lingodbhava Darshan | 2:00 AM – 6:00 AM |
| February 16 | Rathotsavam (Chariot Festival) | 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM |
| February 16 | Teppotsavam (Float Festival) | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
| February 17 | Sri Swamy Kalyanotsavam | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| February 23 | Shanti Abhishekam & Brahmotsavam Samapti | 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM |
Maha Shivaratri Special Arrangements
On Maha Shivaratri (February 15, 2026):
- The temple will remain open throughout the night
- Nishita Kaal Puja: 11:55 PM – 12:56 AM
- Over 3 lakh devotees expected
- VIP darshan will be suspended to ensure equal access for all
How to Reach Srikalahasti Temple
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Tirupati International Airport (TIR) – approximately 25 km
- From the airport, taxis and buses are available to Srikalahasti (30–40 minutes)
By Train
- Nearest Railway Station: Srikalahasti Railway Station – approximately 2 km from temple
- Well-connected to Tirupati, Chennai, and other major cities
By Road
- From Tirupati: 36 km (regular APSRTC buses every 15–30 minutes)
- From Chennai: Approximately 120 km
- From Bangalore: Approximately 230 km
Local Transport
- Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available from the railway station and bus stand
- The temple is located in the heart of Srikalahasti town
Accommodation Options Near Srikalahasti Temple
TTD / Government Accommodation
The temple provides budget-friendly rooms for devotees. Book through the official AP Temples portal .
Private Hotels
| Hotel Name | Distance from Temple | Approx. Price (INR) | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Jayaram Residency | 10 min walk | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | 9.4/10 |
| TEMPLEVIEW RESIDENCY | 9 min walk | ₹1,200 – ₹2,000 | 7.5/10 |
| Devansh Bhanu Residency | 4 min walk | ₹1,000 – ₹1,800 | 5.8/10 |
Recommended Restaurants
- BSVS Aarya Bhavan – South Indian vegetarian
- Saravana Bhawan Veg Restaurant
- Akshaya Aroma
- Kutty’s Cafe
Important Visitor Instructions
Dress Code
| Gender | Recommended Attire |
|---|---|
| Men | Dhoti with upper cloth, kurta-pajama |
| Women | Saree, salwar kameez, or half-saree |
Prohibited Items
- Mobile phones inside the pooja hall and sanctum
- Cameras and recording equipment
- Leather items
- Large bags and luggage
What to Carry
- Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID)
- Printed or digital copy of booking confirmation
- Water bottle (especially during summer)
- Small change for offerings (₹11, ₹21, ₹51, ₹108)
Temple Etiquette
- Remove footwear before entering temple premises
- Maintain silence inside the sanctum
- Follow queue discipline
- Do not give clothes or valuables to strangers
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Sahasra Linga Temple | 1 km | Temple with 1000 Shiva Lingas |
| Prasanna Varadaraja Swamy Temple | 700 m | Ancient Vishnu temple |
| Bhakta Kannappa Temple | 2 km | Commemorates the legendary devotee |
| Veyilingala Kona Waterfall | 3 km | Scenic waterfall |
| Tirumala Venkateswara Temple | 36 km | World-famous Balaji temple |
| Sri City | 40 km | Industrial and spiritual hub |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the Srikalahasti Temple darshan timings for 2026?
A: The temple is open from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM daily. Morning darshan: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM; Afternoon darshan: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM; Evening darshan: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM .
Q2: What is the Rahu Ketu Pooja ticket price?
A: Prices range from ₹150 to ₹5,000 depending on seating category. Standard tickets are ₹500, couple tickets are ₹2,500, and premium couple tickets are ₹5,000 .
Q3: How can I book Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Pooja online?
A: Visit the official AP Temples portal (aptemples.ap.gov.in), select Srikalahasti Temple, choose “Pratyaksha Seva Tickets,” select Rahu Ketu Pooja, register, and complete payment .
Q4: Can I perform the pooja without knowing my horoscope details?
A: Yes, the temple allows devotees to perform the pooja without providing horoscope details .
Q5: What is the best time to visit Srikalahasti Temple?
A: October to March offers pleasant weather. For a peaceful darshan, visit early morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) on weekdays .
Q6: Is photography allowed inside the temple?
A: No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the sanctum and pooja halls .
Q7: What is the dress code for Srikalahasti Temple?
A: Traditional attire is recommended. Men should wear dhoti; women should wear saree or salwar kameez .
Q8: Is there free meal (Annadanam) available?
A: Yes, free meals are served daily near Gate No. 4 from around 11:30 AM .
Q9: How far is the temple from Tirupati?
A: Srikalahasti is approximately 36 km from Tirupati .
Q10: When is Maha Shivaratri 2026 at Srikalahasti Temple?
A: Maha Shivaratri falls on February 15, 2026. The Brahmotsavam festival runs from February 10 to 23, 2026 .
Q11: Can couples perform Rahu Ketu Pooja together?
A: Yes, couples can perform the pooja together. Special couple tickets (₹2,500) and premium couple tickets (₹5,000) are available .
Q12: Is online booking compulsory?
A: No, counter booking is available. However, online booking is recommended during festivals and weekends .
Temple Contact Information
| Purpose | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Website | srikalahasthi.org / aptemples.ap.gov.in |
| Address | Sri Kalahasteeswara Swamy Temple, Srikalahasti, Tirupati District, Andhra Pradesh – 517644 |
| Nearest Airport | Tirupati International Airport (25 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Srikalahasti Railway Station (2 km) |
| Best Season | October – March |