Srikalahasti Kuja Dosha Pooja: Best Travel & Booking Guide

Srikalahasti Kuja Dosha Pooja is a deeply sacred ritual performed in Srikalahasti (Andhra Pradesh, India) for removing the malefic effects of Mars (Kuja/Mangal) in one’s horoscope. This pooja attracts thousands of devotees each year who believe it improves marriage prospects, removes obstacles in life paths, and brings peace and harmony. Srikalahasti Temple — one of South India’s most famous Shiva shrines — is also renowned for related dosha-removal pujas like Rahu-Ketu and Sarpa Dosha offerings. These rituals are traditionally done onsite with specified procedures, timings, and costs.

Quick Facts: Srikalahasti Kuja Dosha Pooja

About Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple

The Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple in Srikalahasti is a major Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vayu Linga — representing the element of air. It is one of the Panchabhoota Sthalams. Many devotees travel long distances to perform remedies for astrological doshas, especially Kuja Dosha and Sarpa Dosha.

How To Reach Srikalahasti

By Air

The nearest major airport to Srikalahasti is Tirupati Airport (Tirupati International Airport – TIR), about 37–40 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Srikalahasti town in approximately 1 hour. Understanding Srikalahasti Kuja Dosha Pooja is essential.

By Train

Srikalahasti Railway Station is well connected by trains from major cities in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. You can get direct and connecting trains from Chennai, Vijayawada, Bangalore, and Tirupati. After arriving by train, auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available to the temple.

By Road

Srikalahasti lies on National Highway networks and is easily reached by Volvo, AC, and ordinary buses. Direct buses operate from Tirupati and Chennai. If you are driving, the process from Tirupati takes about 1–1.5 hours (around 35–40 km).

Booking & Ticket Information

Ticket Options

For the dosha-related pujas (Rahu-Ketu and associated remedies), the temple offers different ticket types ranging roughly from ₹500 to ₹5000. These ticket fees include the pooja materials required for the ritual. This relates to Srikalahasti Kuja Dosha Pooja.

Online Booking (Official)

Currently, advance online booking for Kuja Dosha or Rahu-Ketu Pooja at the temple is limited or not available directly on the temple’s official site for all pilgrims. Some slots — such as Rahu-Ketu at select counters — can be booked up to 30 days in advance via the Andhra Pradesh temple portal.

Booking Steps (Via Government Portal)

1. Visit the official Andhra Pradesh temple booking portal: aptemples.org.
2. Register or log in with your mobile number and email.
3. Select “Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple” from the list of temples.
4. Choose “Rahu-Ketu Pooja” or related seva options.
5. Select date and preferred time.
6. Pick ticket category (₹500 / ₹750 / ₹1500 / ₹2500 etc.).
7. Complete payment securely (UPI/card/net-banking).
8. Receive email confirmation and e-ticket/QR code.
9. On the day of the pooja, present QR and ID at temple counter.

Walk-In Booking At Temple

For many devotees, especially on the day of visit, you can purchase the pooja tickets at designated counters inside the temple from morning until around late afternoon. Head to the ticket counter 1–2 hours before your preferred pooja time for best availability.

Insider Tips From My Visit

When I visited Srikalahasti for the Kuja Dosha Pooja, I arrived at the temple by 6:30 AM. It surprised me how quickly ticket counters filled up, especially on auspicious days (Sundays and Tuesdays). I personally recommend reaching the pooja counter early — at least two hours before your slot — to avoid long waits. Learn more about Srikalahasti Kuja Dosha Pooja.

Furthermore, the priests are warm and conduct the rituals mostly in Telugu, but they are patient with non-Telugu devotees too. The atmosphere in the temple early in the morning is serene and deeply spiritual, perfect for reflection before the ritual.

Moreover, what I learned was to always carry government ID and a printed copy of your booking, even if you have a QR code. After the pooja, crowds build up fast as darshan lines join the wider temple visitors. Plan your darshan either before or immediately after the ritual to avoid peak rush hours.

Nearby Attractions With Distances

• Kapila Theertham Waterfall & Temple — ~2 km (serene waterfall and sacred river site).
• Durgam Fort — ~5 km (historic fortress with panoramic views).
• Tirupati City — ~38 km (famous Tirumala temples and vibrant city life).
• Nellore — ~90 km (a city with beaches and cultural spots).

Best Time To Visit

The best time to travel to Srikalahasti for Kuja Dosha Pooja is between October and March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for temple activities. Early mornings are especially peaceful and less crowded. You may want to plan your visit on weekdays if possible, as weekends and festival days like Mahashivaratri draw massive pilgrim crowds. Also consider visiting during auspicious astrological periods (e.

Therefore, g. , Rahu Kalam on Tuesday) for maximum spiritual experience. Planning your trip in advance, especially during winter, makes a big difference in crowd management.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is online booking available for Srikalahasti Kuja Dosha Pooja?

Some slots can be booked via the official Andhra Pradesh temple portal, but generally advance online booking for Kuja Dosha Pooja is limited. Most devotees still buy tickets in person at the temple on the day of their visit.

How long does the Kuja Dosha / Rahu-Ketu pooja take?

The ritual usually completes within 30–45 minutes. Be prepared to stay longer if the temple is crowded or during peak hours.

What is included in the pooja ticket cost?

Ticket costs generally include all the necessary materials for the ritual, like prasadam and items required during the pooja.

Can foreigners perform the Kuja Dosha pooja?

Yes. Foreign devotees can perform the rituals; carry valid ID and arrive early due to crowd size.

Do I need to bring my own pooja items?

No. The temple typically provides all required items with the ticket.

Is there a dress code?

Traditional attire is recommended. Men usually wear dhoti or pyjama and upper cloth, and women wear saree or salwar kameez.