Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple, also known as Kalahasti Temple, is a famous Shiva temple near Tirupati in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, where he is worshipped as Vayu Lingam, which symbolizes the element of wind.
This temple is especially known for Rahu Ketu Puja. People who have problems related to Graha Dosha or Rahu-Ketu in the horoscope come here for this special puja. This puja is believed to bring relief in marriage, health and financial troubles.
The serene atmosphere and spiritual ambience of the temple makes it a special place for devotees from all over the country. If you are visiting Tirupati, do visit this divine place.
Sri Kalahasti Temple

History Of Srikalahasti Temple

Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple, also known as "Kashi of the South," is famous for its historical and mythological heritage dating back more than 2,000 years. This temple was built by the Pallava kings and later expanded by the Cholas and Vijayanagara rulers as well. Its intricate carvings and magnificence are wonderful examples of gopuram architecture.

The name of the temple is derived from an ancient legend associated with three devotees - Kala (spider) Ha (snake) and Hasti (elephant). It is said that these three worshipped Lord Shiva with great devotion here.

Legend has it that the sage Kannappa, showing his unwavering devotion, had offered his eyes to the Shivling. The Vayu Lingam, located in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, symbolizes the Vayu element in the Panchabhootas, making it one of the most sacred sites of Shaivite devotion.

kalahasti temple story

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Srikalahasti Temple Timings ⏰

Srikalahasti Temple is open every day from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm. Prayers and rituals are held throughout the day. There is a morning service at 6:00 am, and Rahu-Ketu puja is performed at different times from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm.

 Special pujas like Abhishek and Archana are also performed at the scheduled time. Visiting the temple in the morning or evening gives a beautiful experience of peace and devotion. At the time of festivals, it is better to watch the program of the temple for an extended time.

  • Temple Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

  • Abhishekam Timings: 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, and 9:00 AM daily

  • Annadanam Timings: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM

Abhishekam Tickets and Booking

Special Abhishekam tickets are available for devotees who wish to participate in the sacred rituals. These tickets can be purchased directly at the temple’s ticket counters. Advance online booking options are also available during peak festive seasons.

Note: Aadhar card is mandatory for darshan and pooja.

Amazing Facts And Speciality🤯

  • The Sri Kalahasteshwara Temple has the Vayu Lingam, which symbolizes the air element. It is one of the Panchabhoota temples, where the five natural elements are worshipped. Inside the temple burns a lamp, which burns continuously even without the movement of air. This lamp indicates the presence and continuity of air.
  • A famous story of this temple is associated with the devotee Kannappa. Kannappa was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. One day he saw blood flowing from the Shivling. On this he offered his eyes so that the bleeding would stop. Lord Shiva was so pleased with her devotion that he granted her salvation 
  • Kalahasti Temple is one of the Panchabhoota temples, which represent the five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and sky. The air element is worshipped in this temple, which makes it even more special. This is the only temple where Vayu is worshipped as the main deity.

Things To Do 🤔

  • Rahu Ketu Pooja: There is a special puja in the Kalahasti temple, which is called Rahu Ketu Puja. This puja is especially for those people whose horoscope is affected by Rahu and Ketu planets. People get relief from problems related to health, career, marriage, and money. Many devotees come here for worship.
  • Explore the Temple Architecture: The architecture of the Kalahasti temple is very beautiful. The temple has intricate carvings, sculptures, and large gopurams. The sanctum sanctorum houses the Vayu Lingam, and a lamp is always lit here, which is believed to symbolize the presence of Lord Shiva. The atmosphere of the temple is filled with peace and spirituality.

  • Visit the nearby Tourist Attractions: 

  1. Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple (2 km): This temple is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya and is just 2 km from Kalahasti Temple. Here people especially worship for health, prosperity, and knowledge.
  2. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple (35 km): This temple is in the town of Srirangam and is one of the most sacred Vishnu temples in India. Its architecture is very magnificent, and the peaceful atmosphere here is very much liked by the devotees.
  3. Kalahasti waterfall (4 km): 4 km away from the temple is Kalahasti waterfall, which is a very beautiful and serene place. Here you can enjoy the natural beauty and also do photography.

Sri Kalahasti Temple inside

Distances from Key Locations:

  • Tirupati to Kalahasti Temple: 36 km

  • Chennai to Kalahasti Temple: 120 km

  • Bangalore to Kalahasti Temple: 280 km

Festivals

Maha Shivaratri: Maha Shivaratri is the most important festival of the temple. On this day, devotees observe a fast on this day and offer prayers to Lord Shiva.

Also Read: Mahashivratri Wishes And Quotes In Hindi

Brahmotsavam: This festival lasts for 9 days in the month of Magha (January-February). It involves processions of deities and religious rituals on decorated chariots.

Kartik Deepam: Celebrated in the month of Kartik (November-December), the temple is illuminated with thousands of diyas, symbolising the victory of light over darkness..

Vinayaka Chaturthi: On this day, devotees observe a fast on this day and worship Lord Ganesha.

How To Reach 

By Air : The nearest airport is Tirupati, which is about 26 km from the temple. There are direct flights from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Taxis or cabs are easily available to reach the temple from the airport.

By Train : Sri Kalahasti railway station is just 2 km away from the temple. Regular trains arrive here from Tirupati, Chennai, and Bangalore. Autos and taxis are available from the station to reach the temple.

By Road : Regular bus services operate to Sri Kalahasti from Tirupati (36 km), Chennai (116 km), and Bangalore (234 km). Both public and private buses are available. The bus station is near the temple.

Best Time To Visit

If you are ever planning a visit to the Kalahasti temple, the time from October to March is best. During these months, the weather is not only pleasant, but it is also an ideal time to visit the temple. The festival of Mahashivratri, especially during February-March, fills the temple with devotees, providing a unique experience.

 The beauty of the temple is worth seeing during the Brahmotsavam in January-February. However, the scorching sun in summer can be irritating and the monsoon rains can disrupt travel. Morning and evening are the most peaceful time for darshan.

Sri Kalahasti Temple

Exact Location

Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple is located at Sannidhi Street on Tirupati-Kalahasti Road in Sri Kalahasti, Andhra Pradesh. It is about 36 km from Tirupati and 116 km from Chennai. The temple is located near the Swarnamukhi river, which adds to its beauty.

 It is easy to reach the temple as there are clean signboards on the roads. The NH-71 road connects it to major cities and towns. Due to its serene environment and easy accessibility, it has become an important and popular pilgrimage destination for devotees from South India.

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Contact Details

  • Address: Srikalahasti Temple, Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh – 517644, Chittoor district.
  • Email: info@srikalahasthitemple.com
  • Website: https://srikalahasthitemple.com/

Other Informations

  • Dress Code: Traditional attire is mandatory. Men are advised to wear dhoti and shirts, while women should wear sarees or salwar suits.
  • Annadanam Services: The temple offers free Annadanam (food distribution) to devotees daily during specific hours. This service is part of the temple’s dedication to providing for pilgrims and maintaining the spirit of seva.

FAQ About Kalahasti Temple 

Q. Where is Kalahasti temple?

Ans. Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple is located in Srikalahasti town, Andhra Pradesh, near Tirupati, along the banks of the Swarnamukhi River.

Q. Who built kalahasti temple?

Ans. The Kalahasti Temple was originally built by the Pallava dynasty and later developed by Cholas.

Q. What are the benefits of going to Kalahasti Temple?

Ans. Visiting Kalahasti Temple offers spiritual benefits, including relief from planetary doshas through Rahu-Ketu Pooja, blessings for prosperity, mental peace, spiritual growth, and experiencing the temple's rich architecture and religious significance.

Q. Are phones allowed in Kalahasti?

Ans. Yes, mobile phones are generally allowed in Kalahasti Temple

Summary : 

Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple, also known as Kalahasti Temple, is an ancient and famous Shiva temple located near Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva's Vayu Lingam, which symbolises the air element. Famous as the "Kashi of the South," this temple has a history of more than 2,000 years and reflects the marvellous architecture of the Pallava, Chola and Vijayanagara kings.
Devotees come here especially for Rahu-Ketu puja, which is considered to be effective for marriage, health and financial problems. Srikalahasti Temple timing is from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm, and the Annadanam service operates from 1 2:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
Places to visit near the temple include the Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple (2 km) and the peaceful Kalahasti Falls (4 km). It is best to travel between October and March, especially during Mahashivratri and Brahmotsavam.