Frequently Asked Questions – Sri Kalahasti Temple FAQ

Get answers to common questions about Sri Kalahasti Temple. Learn about poojas, darshan timings, accommodation, travel, and Rahu Ketu pooja details.

Pilgrims visiting Sri Kalahasti Temple often have questions about darshan timings, poojas, accommodation, and travel arrangements.
This FAQ page provides clear and accurate answers to the most commonly asked questions about the Sri Kalahasteeswara Swamy Temple, making your visit easier and more peaceful.

🙏 General Questions

1. Where is Sri Kalahasti Temple located?

Sri Kalahasti Temple is situated in Sri Kalahasti town, Tirupati District, Andhra Pradesh, on the banks of the Swarnamukhi River, about 36 km from Tirupati.

2. What is the significance of Sri Kalahasti Temple?

The temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the Air element (Vayu Linga).
It is believed that worshipping here removes sins, doshas, and brings peace and prosperity.

3. What are the temple opening and closing timings?

The temple generally opens at 5:30 AM and closes around 9:30 PM, with short breaks in between.
Main poojas and darshans happen between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM daily.

4. Which deity is worshipped at Sri Kalahasti Temple?

The presiding deity is Lord Kalahasteeswara (Lord Shiva), worshipped as the Vayu Linga, along with Goddess Gnana Prasunambika Devi.

5. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

Yes, non-Hindus can visit the temple premises respectfully, though entry into the sanctum is allowed only for devotees following temple customs.

🪔 Poojas & Sevas

6. What is the famous pooja performed at Sri Kalahasti Temple?

The most popular pooja is the Rahu Ketu Dosha Nivarana Pooja, believed to remove astrological afflictions and negative effects of planets Rahu and Ketu.

7. What are the timings for Rahu Ketu Pooja?

The Rahu Ketu Pooja is performed daily between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, and devotees can perform it on any day, especially on Amavasya, Pournami, and Sundays.

8. Is advance booking required for Rahu Ketu Pooja?

No advance booking is needed. Tokens are available directly at the temple counters.
However, it’s advised to arrive early in the morning to avoid waiting time.

9. Can women perform Rahu Ketu Pooja?

Yes, women can perform the pooja. However, it should not be done during menstrual days or immediately after childbirth (as per temple tradition).

10. Can I perform Rahu Ketu Pooja during eclipse days?

Yes, performing the pooja on solar or lunar eclipse days is considered highly auspicious and spiritually beneficial.

🧘 Darshan & Entry

11. What is the dress code for entering the temple?

  • Men: Dhoti, kurta, or formal wear.
  • Women: Saree or traditional dress.
    Avoid shorts, sleeveless, or modern outfits inside the temple.

12. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the sanctum and pooja areas but allowed in the outer corridors and temple surroundings.

13. Is there a special darshan facility for senior citizens or VIPs?

Yes, senior citizens, differently abled devotees, and VIPs can avail of special entry darshan through designated counters.

14. How long does it take for darshan on normal days?

On regular weekdays, darshan takes 1 to 2 hours.
On weekends, Amavasya, or festivals like Maha Shivaratri, it may take 3 to 5 hours.

🏨 Accommodation & Facilities

15. Where can I stay near Sri Kalahasti Temple?

You can stay at:

  • Temple guesthouses: Bhudevi Complex, Subrahmanya Guesthouse
  • Private hotels: Haritha Hotel, Sri Sai Residency, Hotel MGM Grand
  • Alternative stay: Tirupati lodges (36 km away)

16. Is food available near the temple?

Yes, several vegetarian hotels and stalls near the temple offer South Indian meals, snacks, and prasadam.

17. Are mobile phones allowed inside the temple?

Mobile phones are allowed inside the premises but not near the sanctum sanctorum. It’s best to switch them off during pooja and darshan.

🚗 Travel & Accessibility

18. How can I reach Sri Kalahasti Temple?

  • By Train: Sri Kalahasti Railway Station (2 km from temple)
  • By Bus: Regular buses from Tirupati, Chennai, and Nellore
  • By Air: Tirupati Airport (26 km away)

19. Is parking available near the temple?

Yes, there is ample paid and free parking available for two-wheelers, cars, and buses near the temple entrance.

20. Are there cloakroom and luggage facilities?

Yes, cloakrooms are available near the temple entrance for storing luggage and footwear safely.

🪷 Spiritual Queries

21. What are the benefits of visiting Sri Kalahasti Temple?

Devotees believe visiting this temple removes Rahu Ketu doshas, improves peace of mind, and helps achieve progress in life and career.

22. Can I perform Abhishekam myself?

No, only authorized temple priests are permitted to perform abhishekam.
Devotees can participate by purchasing abhishekam tickets at the temple counter.

23. Is there any restriction after performing Rahu Ketu Pooja?

Yes. Devotees should:

  • Avoid visiting other temples the same day.
  • Wash their clothes after pooja.
  • Eat only vegetarian food after the ritual.

24. What is the best time to perform Rahu Ketu Pooja?

The most preferred timings are:

  • Morning: 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM
  • Evening: 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
    Performing during Amavasya, Pournami, or Tuesdays is considered most effective.

25. What are the nearby attractions to visit?

  • Durgambika Temple – Hilltop view of Kalahasti town
  • Bharadwaja Tirtham – A sacred bathing ghat
  • Veyilingala Kona Waterfalls – 8 km away
  • Tirupati & Tirumala Temples – 36 km away

📞 Contact & Assistance