Srikalahasti Temple Timings: Darshan, Pooja Schedule, and Tips

Srikalahasti Temple, located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, often referred to as the “Kailasa of the South,” is known for its unique architecture and religious significance, particularly for performing Rahu-Ketu pooja to ward off doshas (afflictions). This guide provides detailed information on the temple timings, pooja schedule, darshan tips, and other important information to make your visit peaceful and spiritually fulfilling.

Srikalahasti Temple Timings

The temple is open for devotees every day of the week. Here are the daily timings:

Darshan Timings:

• Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Afternoon Break: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM (Temple remains closed)
• Evening Darshan: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Devotees should aim to reach early in the morning for a peaceful darshan, especially on auspicious days like Pradosham, Shivaratri, and during Rahu-Ketu puja ceremonies, as crowds can swell significantly.

Pooja Schedule at Srikalahasti Temple

The pooja schedule at Srikalahasti Temple is extensive and deeply spiritual, with each ritual steeped in devotion to Lord Shiva.

Daily Pooja Schedule:

• Suprabhatam: 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM
• Abhishekam: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM (morning) and 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (evening)
• Rahu-Ketu Pooja: Performed multiple times throughout the day from 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM
• Ekantha Seva: 9:00 PM (temple closes after this pooja)

The Rahu-Ketu Pooja is one of the most popular and important rituals performed here. Many devotees visit the temple solely for this pooja, which is believed to remove negative influences of planetary positions.

Best Time to Visit Srikalahasti Temple

The temple can get crowded on weekends, Mondays (dedicated to Lord Shiva), and during festivals like Mahashivaratri and the Brahmotsavam. The best time to visit for a peaceful darshan is during the early morning hours or on weekdays. The months of November to February are considered ideal due to the pleasant weather in Srikalahasti.

Location of Srikalahasti Temple

Srikalahasti Temple is located around 36 km from Tirupati and is easily accessible by road and rail. Below are the details:

Address:
Srikalahasti Temple,
Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh – 517644, India

How to Reach Srikalahasti Temple

By Air:

The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, located around 25 km from the temple. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple.

By Train:

Srikalahasti has its own railway station, which is well connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. From the station, the temple is just a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride away.

By Road:

Regular buses and taxis are available from Tirupati, Chennai, and Bangalore to Srikalahasti. The road network is well-maintained, making the journey smooth and convenient.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Srikalahasti Temple, you can also explore nearby spiritual and cultural landmarks:

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple:

Located just 36 km away in Tirupati, the world-renowned Venkateswara Temple is a must-visit for any devotee visiting the region.

Kanchipuram:

A temple town situated around 115 km from Srikalahasti, Kanchipuram is famous for its stunning temples and handwoven silk sarees.

Veyilingala Kona Waterfall:

Located just 8 km from the temple, this scenic waterfall is a great spot for nature lovers and pilgrims seeking tranquility.

Tips for Visiting Srikalahasti Temple

• Dress Code: Devotees are required to wear traditional attire. Men should wear dhotis or veshtis, while women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
• Avoid Crowds: Visit during early mornings for a more peaceful darshan experience. Avoid weekends and festival days if you want to avoid long queues.
• Rahu-Ketu Pooja: Book in advance for the Rahu-Ketu Pooja, as it’s one of the most popular rituals in the temple.
• Photography: Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. Please adhere to the rules to maintain the sanctity of the temple.

Conclusion

The Srikalahasti Temple is not just a religious landmark but a spiritual experience for millions of devotees who come here to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The unique rituals, serene environment, and proximity to other sacred locations make it an essential pilgrimage site. Whether you’re performing the Rahu-Ketu Pooja or simply seeking a divine connection, Srikalahasti Temple will leave you with lasting peace and spiritual fulfillment.