Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners Guide for Srikalahasti Temple (2026)

⚡ Quick Answer

Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners can perform at Sri Kalahasti Temple (Andhra Pradesh) any time between 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily; reach early for Rahu Kalam slots. (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, srikalahasthitemple.com, May–Jan 2026)

📌 Key Takeaways

• ✅ Sri Kalahasti Temple timing: 6 AM – 9 PM. (Source: srikalahasthitemple.com, Jan 2026)
• ✅ Rahu Ketu Pooja slot: 6 AM – 6 PM daily. (Source: srikalahasthitemple.com, Jan 2026)
• ✅ Ticket cost: ₹500 – ₹5000 categories. (Source: srikalahasthitemple.com, templetimings.in, Jan 2026)
• ✅ No reliable advance online booking widely available (counter booking common). (Source: srikalahasthitemple.com, Jan 2026)
• ✅ Darshan & pooja ID required; traditional dress recommended. (Source: srikalahasthitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)

If you’re specifically researching Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners at Srikalahasti temple, this guide gives exact timings, costs, process steps, and tips verified as of January 2026 from official sources and temple portals.

Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners: What It Is & Why People Come

Sri Kalahasti Temple in Andhra Pradesh is a globally famous Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s especially known for the Rahu & Ketu Dosha Nivaran Pooja — an astrological remedy believed to ease planetary afflictions related to Rahu and Ketu that affect marriage, career, mental peace, and more. Every year, many foreigners visit specifically to perform this pooja, drawn by its reputation as one of India’s powerful dosha-removal rituals. (Source: newindianexpress.com, Jan 2026)

Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners: Temple Timings & When You Can Do It

The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and the Rahu Ketu Pooja ceremonies are generally conducted between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM daily throughout the year. (Source: srikalahasthitemple.com, Jan 2026)

• Best Days: Sunday and Tuesday traditionally considered auspicious, especially during Rahu Kalam. (Source: gotirupati.com, Jan 2026)
• Rahu Kalam: Specific time windows (e.g., 7:30 – 9:00 AM on Monday, etc.) are believed to be most potent for this pooja. Check daily Rahu Kalam schedule locally. (Source: gotirupati.com, Jan 2026)
• Amavasya & Pournami dates: Special days listed in the temple calendar (e.g., Jan 29, Feb 28, Mar 29 etc., 2026). (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)

Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners: Step-By-Step Booking & Process

Here’s how you do it once you reach Srikalahasti:

1. Arrive Early: Be at the temple before 6 AM if you want a Rahu Kalam slot. (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)
2. Find Ticket Counter: Rahu Ketu Pooja tickets are sold only at the temple counters — no guaranteed advance online booking as of Jan 2026. (Source: srikalahasthitemple.com, Jan 2026)
3. Select Ticket Category: Choose from ₹500 up to ₹5000 based on seating and location. (Source: templetimings.in, Jan 2026)
4. Provide ID Proof: Carry passport or government ID for ticket issuance. (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)
5. Attend Pooja: Reach the designated hall ~15 – 20 minutes before your slot. The ritual typically lasts ~30-45 mins. (Source: templetimings.in, Jan 2026)
6. Darshan: After the pooja, you can proceed for darshan of Sri Kalahasteeswara. (Source: templetimings.in, Jan 2026)

💡 Insider Tip

Foreign travelers often combine Rahu Ketu Pooja with Rudra Abhishekam or Nandi Abhishekam earlier in the morning at Rudra Padam (a revered shrine ~100 ft from the temple) to improve spiritual benefits. (Local guides & crowd tips from pilgrim experiences)

Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners: Costs & Ticket Categories (2026)

These are typical offerings — actual availability and price may vary slightly at the counter. (Source: templetimings.in, Jan 2026)

Requirements: What You Must Carry & Dress Code

• ID Proof: Passport (foreigners) or government ID for Indians. (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)
• Dress Code: Men: dhoti or traditional; Women: saree/salwar kameez recommended for pooja. (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)
• Comfort Items: Water bottle, light snacks (available nearby), footwear permitted outside only.

⚠️ Common Mistakes Foreigners Make

Booking late in the day thinking slots exist — often sold out quickly for Rahu Kalam periods by noon. Arrive before 8 AM to secure best times. (Local pilgrim reports)

FAQ About Rahu Ketu Pooja Foreigners

• Can foreigners book online before arrival? As of Jan 2026, general advance online booking for this specific pooja isn’t widely functional; most tickets sold at the temple. (Source: srikalahasthitemple.com, Jan 2026)
• How long is the pooja? Around 30-45 minutes — but can vary by queue. (Source: templetimings.in, Jan 2026)
• Is special dress mandatory? Recommended — especially traditional attire for best experience. (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)
• Can family members join? Yes, typically family members can attend, often wearing their own seating category tickets. (Temple policy general practice)
• When are Amavasya dates in 2026? Jan 29, Feb 28, Mar 29, etc., for especially potent puja days. (Source: srikalahastitemple.org.in, Jan 2026)

📅 Last Updated: January 2026

Srikalahasti Temple