Srikalahasti Temple — Attraction in Andhra Pradesh

The Sri Kalahasti Temple, also known as Srikalahasteeswara Temple, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the town of Srikalahasti in the Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Here's a detailed overview of the temple:

Deity and Significance:

The primary deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped as Kalahasteeswara, representing the Vayu Lingam (wind element), one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams (five elements).

His consort, Goddess Parvati, is worshipped as Gnanaprasunambika (the giver of knowledge).

The temple is considered "Dakshina Kailasam" (Southern abode of Shiva) and "Kashi of the South" due to its immense religious significance.

It is particularly famous as a Rahu-Ketu Kshetra, where special poojas are performed to mitigate the astrological effects of these celestial bodies.

Legend and History:

The name Srikalahasti is derived from three ardent devotees of Lord Shiva: a spider (Sri), a serpent (Kala), and an elephant (Hasti), who attained Moksha (liberation) for their unwavering devotion. Their stories are depicted within the temple.

Another significant legend is that of Kannappa, a hunter who offered his eyes to stop the bleeding from the Shiva Lingam, demonstrating his extreme devotion.

The inner temple is believed to have been constructed around the 5th century during the Pallava period.

The main structure and outer temple were largely built in the 11th century by the Chola emperor, Rajendra Chola I.

The magnificent Gopurams (entrance towers) were constructed by Kulottunga Chola I during the 11th century.

The Vijayanagara dynasty, particularly King Krishnadevaraya in 1516 AD, also made significant contributions, including the 100-pillared hall.

Architecture:

The temple showcases the Dravidian architectural style, characterized by intricate carvings and sculptures.

It is situated at the base of a hill, with the Swarnamukhi River flowing nearby.

The main entrance faces south, and the sanctum sanctorum faces west.

The Shiva Lingam is made of white stone and is said to be self-manifested (Swayambhu). It has markings representing the spider, serpent, and elephant.

The temple complex has several Mandapams (halls) with intricately carved pillars, including the 100-pillared hall.

There are shrines dedicated to various other deities, including Ganesha, Gnanaprasunambika, and others.

The temple has three main Gopurams, with the main Rajagopuram reaching a height of approximately 120 feet.

Unique Aspects:

Vayu Lingam: The Lingam is worshipped as the embodiment of wind, and devotees can feel subtle movements even when there is no apparent breeze. A lamp inside the sanctum is also said to flicker constantly despite the absence of wind.

Rahu-Ketu Pooja: This temple is renowned for its powerful Rahu-Ketu Pooja, believed to alleviate negative astrological effects.

Eternal Flame: An eternal flame near the Akasha Linga (representing space) is said to burn continuously without external fuel.

Unchanging Structure: Some believe that the temple's structure remains largely unchanged over long periods.

River Swarnamukhi: The river is considered sacred and is believed to cleanse devotees of their sins.

Other Notable Points:

The temple is mentioned in the works of Tamil poets like Nakkeerar and Telugu poets like Dhoorjati, highlighting its ancient significance.

It is one of the Paadal Petra Sthalams, revered in the Tevaram hymns of Saivite saints.

The temple remains open even during solar and lunar eclipses, unlike most other temples.

Visiting the Sri Kalahasti Temple offers a profound spiritual experience and a chance to witness remarkable architecture steeped in rich history and...

Review of Srikalahasti Temple

The Srikalahasti Temple, located in the town of Srikalahasti in Andhra Pradesh, is a revered spiritual site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Renowned as one of the Panchabhoota Sthalas representing the element of air (Vayu), this temple holds immense religious and historical significance. The temple attracts thousands of devotees and tourists year-round, particularly those seeking blessings and performing rituals like Rahu-Ketu dosha nivarana pooja.

The temple architecture is awe-inspiring, showcasing the Dravidian style with intricate carvings, towering gopurams, and meticulously detailed sculptures that depict mythological stories. The main sanctum houses the presiding deity, Lord Shiva as Kalahasteeswara, and Goddess Parvati as Gnana Prasunambika. The sanctity of the temple is further enhanced by its association with ancient legends, particularly the story of a spider, a snake, and an elephant who worshipped Lord Shiva here.

One of the key highlights of the temple is the Rahu-Ketu pooja, a unique ritual performed by devotees to overcome planetary afflictions. The temple staff is generally well-organized in guiding pilgrims through the process. However, the pooja areas can become crowded, especially during peak days, making it challenging for some visitors to participate comfortably.

The temple’s location amidst natural surroundings adds to its serene ambiance. The nearby Swarnamukhi River enhances the spiritual charm of the area. Many pilgrims also take a dip in the river before entering the temple, a practice believed to purify the soul.

Basic facilities such as parking, seating, and restrooms are available but could benefit from better maintenance. The queue system is generally well-managed, although during festivals like Maha Shivaratri, the temple experiences an overwhelming crowd, which can test the patience of visitors. Accessibility for elderly and differently-abled devotees is limited, and the temple authorities could make improvements in this regard.

The nearby marketplace is vibrant, offering a variety of souvenirs, flowers, and pooja items. Local eateries provide decent options for refreshments, though hygiene standards may vary. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, guided tours are available, offering detailed insights into the temple’s history and spiritual significance.

Overall, Srikalahasti Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in spirituality, history, and architecture. Its unique rituals, serene environment, and rich heritage make it a profound experience for devotees and tourists alike. While the temple does face challenges in terms of crowd management and infrastructure, its spiritual essence and cultural grandeur remain unparalleled. A visit to this temple is truly a journey of faith...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spiritually Powerful Experience at Srikalahasti Temple 🙏

Hi all, Me and my friend visited the Srikalahasti Temple on 01-06-2025 early morning at 6:22 AM. I had a personal spiritual intention and wanted to perform the Special Rahu-Kethu Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja.

🕉️ About the Pooja: I opted for the ₹1500 ticket. With this ticket, the temple provided a pooja samagri kit, which included:

A sacred silver snake (used during the ritual)

Turmeric powder, Kumkum

Jasmine and rose flowers

Black cloth and black lentils (for Rahu)

Red cloth and brown moong dal (for Ketu)

The pooja was done inside the temple at Gate No: 4 and lasted around 15–20 minutes. It was well-organized despite the crowd. After the pooja, I used the same ₹1500 ticket for darshan, which allowed us entry via the ₹200 line, without needing a separate darshan ticket. Even though there was a huge crowd of devotees, darshan was completed in 15 minutes, which was quite surprising and satisfying.

🍛 Annaprasadam: We also had free food (Annaprasadam) at the backside of the temple, Gate No: 04. It was simple, hot, and spiritually fulfilling.

🎟️ Ticket Prices for Rahu-Kethu Pooja: Here are the available options depending on location and budget:

Ticket Price Location ₹500 Hall outside temple premises ₹750 A/C Hall within temple premises ₹1500 Inside temple (Gate No: 4) ₹2500 Inside temple (closer to sanctum) ₹5000 Special VIP location (inside temple)

🛕 Temple History & Significance: The Srikalahasti Temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in South India, especially known for Rahu-Ketu Poojas and its spiritual power to remove doshas (curses).

Historical Timeline:

Foundation: Linked to sage Kalahasti’s penance and Shiva’s manifestation as a Vayu Lingam (air element).

5th Century: Inner sanctum built during Pallava reign.

11th Century: Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola I expanded the temple; magnificent Gopurams added by Kulottunga Chola I.

16th Century: The towering Rajagopuram (120 ft high) constructed by the Vijayanagara Empire.

Pancha Bhoota Stalam: Represents Air (Vayu) among the five elements.

Legends: Named after Sri (spider), Kala (snake), and Hasti (elephant) who worshipped Lord Shiva and attained moksha.

Cultural Mentions: Referenced in Tamil and Telugu literature by poets Nakkeerar and Dhoorjati, proving its ancient spiritual presence.

🙏 Final Thoughts: ✨ Truly a divine experience – the temple radiates power and peace. 👍 The staff were helpful, and the pooja process was systematic. ✅ Would definitely recommend anyone struggling with Rahu-Ketu doshas or seeking spiritual clarity to visit. 📸 Also, don’t forget to explore the temple’s rich architecture and historical essence.

Thank you, Srikalahasti Temple, for the divine grace. 🙏 Om...