Sri Kalahasti Temple Eclipse Day Pooja is performed with special significance during solar and lunar eclipses, especially for devotees seeking Rahu–Ketu Dosha Nivarana. Located in Andhra Pradesh, Sri Kalahasti is one of the most important temples for planetary dosha remedies. Therefore, eclipse days witness exceptionally high footfall. Unlike regular days, temple entry, pooja batches, and darshan timings follow a structured protocol during Grahanam. Typically, the temple closes during the active eclipse period and reopens only after purification rituals (Sudhi). Meanwhile, Rahu–Ketu Pooja continues before and after the eclipse window, subject to temple administration guidelines. Because demand increases sharply, advance planning becomes essential. This complete guide provides accurate eclipse day pooja timings pattern, ticket prices in ₹, booking process, dress code rules, crowd expectations, and official reference sources to help devotees plan smoothly without confusion.
Sri Kalahasti Temple Eclipse Day Pooja Timings
On eclipse day, temple operations generally follow this structure (subject to official announcement for each eclipse):
| Phase | Temple Status | Pooja Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Before Eclipse Begins | Open | Rahu–Ketu Pooja conducted |
| During Eclipse | Closed | No poojas performed |
| After Eclipse Ends | Closed briefly for purification | No entry |
| Post-Purification | Reopens | Poojas resume in batches |
Important Clarification
- Temple closes strictly during the visible eclipse period.
- Closure usually begins 1–2 hours before the eclipse start.
- Reopening happens only after Sudhi rituals are completed.
Therefore, devotees must verify exact IST timings for the specific eclipse date.
Sri Kalahasti Temple Eclipse Day Pooja Types
1. Rahu–Ketu Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja
This is the most popular ritual on eclipse day.
- Conducted in large halls
- Performed in batches
- Duration: 30–45 minutes
- No priest requirement from devotee side
2. Kala Sarpa Dosha Pooja
Recommended for severe planetary afflictions. Conducted as per temple norms.
3. Other Special Poojas
Limited special rituals may be available depending on eclipse schedule.
However, Rahu–Ketu Pooja accounts for nearly 90% of eclipse day bookings.
Sri Kalahasti Temple Eclipse Day Pooja Ticket Price
| Category | Ticket Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Rahu–Ketu Pooja (General) | ₹500 |
| Rahu–Ketu Pooja (Special Hall) | ₹750–₹1,500 |
| Kala Sarpa Dosha Pooja | ₹1,500+ |
| Special Entry Darshan | ₹100–₹200 |
Prices are fixed by temple administration and may be revised officially.
Sri Kalahasti Temple Eclipse Day Pooja Booking Process
Offline Booking (Primary Method)
- Tickets available at temple counters
- Issued on first-come basis
- Limited per batch
- Recommended arrival: 4–5 hours before eclipse closure
Online Booking
The official temple website occasionally opens Rahu–Ketu slots. However, eclipse-specific bulk online reservations are usually limited.
Official website: https://srikalahasthi.org
Avoid third-party booking agents.
Crowd & Waiting Time on Eclipse Day
| Time Slot | Waiting Estimate |
|---|---|
| Early Morning | 2–4 hours |
| Pre-Eclipse Rush | 4–8 hours |
| Post-Reopening | 6–10 hours |
Eclipse days can attract tens of thousands of devotees. Therefore, patience is necessary.
Dress Code & Temple Rules
✓ Traditional attire mandatory
✓ Men: Dhoti or formal wear
✓ Women: Saree, salwar kameez
✓ No mobile phones inside main sanctum
✓ Carry valid ID proof
✓ Follow temple staff guidance strictly
Failure to follow dress code may result in denial of entry.
Best Time to Perform Eclipse Day Pooja
The safest approach is:
- Arrive before sunrise
- Complete Rahu–Ketu Pooja before eclipse closure
- Avoid last-hour entry attempts
- Alternatively, attend after temple reopens post-purification.
Should You Visit on Eclipse Day?
Visit If
- Specifically seeking Rahu–Ketu remedy
- Comfortable with long waiting hours
- Flexible travel schedule
Avoid If
- Travelling with elderly or infants
- Expecting quick darshan
- No accommodation booking
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Sri Kalahasti temple open during eclipse?
No. The temple remains closed during the active eclipse period.
2. Can Rahu–Ketu Pooja be done during eclipse time?
No poojas are conducted during the closure period.
3. Is online booking mandatory?
No. Counter booking remains the primary system.
4. What is the duration of Rahu–Ketu Pooja?
Approximately 30–45 minutes per batch.
5. How early should I reach?
At least 4 hours before expected closure.
6. Is refund provided if I miss slot?
Temple policies apply; refunds are generally not guaranteed.
Final Devotee Advisory
Sri Kalahasti Temple Eclipse Day Pooja is spiritually significant but operationally strict. Therefore, confirm eclipse timings in IST, arrive early, purchase tickets directly from official counters, and maintain patience. Proper planning ensures peaceful completion of Rahu–Ketu Pooja without last-minute stress.
External Official Links
Sri Kalahasteeswara Swamy Temple – https://srikalahasthi.org
