Dosha Kalasarpa Temple Srikalahasti: Best Travel Guide & Booking Tips

Dosha Kalasarpa Temple Srikalahasti is a sacred pilgrimage destination in Andhra Pradesh where devotees come from across India to perform the powerful Kalasarpa Dosha (Rahu-Ketu) Pooja at the ancient Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple. Located in the historic town of Srikalahasti, this temple is famed not just for its stunning Dravidian architecture and Pancha Bhoota (wind element) significance but also as a prime destination for mitigation of Sarpa and other astrological doshas. According to the Wikipedia entry and the official temple information page, the temple dates back to the 5th century and was expanded by Chola and Vijayanagara rulers, making it one of South India’s most revered Shiva shrines. For official information, visit Incredible India.

Quick Facts

How To Reach

By Air

The closest major airport to the temple is Tirupati Airport (TIR), approximately 26 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or pre-book a cab directly to Srikalahasti town. Shared and private cab services are commonly available from the airport and are a convenient way to reach the temple early in the morning for a Rasam or Kalasarpa Pooja slot.

By Train

Sri Kalahasti Railway Station (KHT) is located about 2-3 km from the temple complex. Several trains connect Srikalahasti to major cities like Chennai and Bangalore via Tirupati. Rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are easily available outside the station for a short ride to the temple entrance. Understanding Dosha Kalasarpa Temple Srikalahasti is essential.

By Road

Srikalahasti is well connected by road from Tirupati, Chennai, and Bengaluru. State buses and private luxury coaches regularly ply to Srikalahasti Bus Station. Once you reach town, local autos and taxis can take you straight to the temple. Roads are well maintained and signposted, making self-drive a pleasant and scenic option.

Booking/Ticket Information

Unlike some temples where only counter booking is possible, the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple now provides options to book seva and pooja tickets online through its own portal or the Andhra Pradesh temples portal.

Step-By-Step Booking (Official)

1. Go to the Official Temple Seva Booking page.
2. Register/Login using your mobile number or email ID.
3. Select “Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple” from the list.
4. Choose “Rahu-Ketu (Kalasarpa) Pooja” from the available sevas.
5. Select your preferred date and time slot between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
6. Pick a ticket category based on seating and benefits (₹500, ₹750, ₹1500, ₹2500, ₹5000).
7. Proceed to payment with net banking, UPI, or card.
8. Save the confirmation; you may need to show it at the counter on arrival.

If online booking shows as sold out or unavailable, you can still purchase tickets directly at the temple counters on the day of your visit. Arriving early (before 6 AM) improves your chance of getting a preferred slot. This relates to Dosha Kalasarpa Temple Srikalahasti.

Insider Tips From My Visit

When I visited Srikalahasti for the Kalasarpa Dosha Pooja, what surprised me most was the serene atmosphere inside the temple complex even during peak hours. The priests and staff are well organized, guiding devotees step by step through the ritual. I personally recommend scheduling your pooja slot between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM to witness the early morning sun illuminate the gopuram (tower) — a stunning sight that blends spirituality with architectural beauty.

However, make sure to carry traditional attire and arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled pooja to complete verification and settle in. When I did mine, the queue was well managed, and the entire ritual, from arrival to completion, took about 45 minutes.

Also, keep some extra water and snacks with you — the area near the temple has small stalls but they close by evening. Learn more about Dosha Kalasarpa Temple Srikalahasti.

Nearby Attractions (With Distances)

• Tirupati – ~36 km: Famous for the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.
• Chandragiri Fort – ~30 km: Historic fort with royal palace ruins and scenic views.
• Talakona Waterfalls – ~50 km: A lush waterfall in the Sri Venkateswara National Park.
• Chittor Fort – ~130 km: One of India’s largest forts with deep historical significance.

Best Time To Visit With Reasons

The ideal time to visit Srikalahasti is from October to March when the weather is mild and comfortable for temple visits and sightseeing. Early mornings during this period are particularly pleasant for attending the Kalasarpa Dosha Pooja. Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and days considered astrologically significant such as Amavasya are believed to be auspicious for Rahu-Ketu and Kalasarpa poojas. Many devotees also prefer Rahu Kalam time for the ritual to align with astrological remedies.

Avoid visiting in the peak of summer (April–June) when temperatures can climb above 40 °C, making daytime travel exhausting. Monsoon months (July–September) bring mild rains which add to the greenery but can make road travel slightly slower.

FAQs About Dosha Kalasarpa Temple Srikalahasti

Is online booking available for Kalasarpa Dosha Pooja?

Yes, you can book the Kalasarpa (Rahu-Ketu) Pooja online through the official Sri Kalahasti Temple seva portal. If slots are unavailable, counter booking on the same day is an option.

What is the timing for the Dosha Kalasarpa Pooja?

The pooja is conducted daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Devotees often choose slots during Rahu Kalam or auspicious days for maximum astrological effect.

How much does the pooja cost?

The cost ranges from around ₹500 up to ₹5000 depending on location and seating preferences within the temple premises. Tickets for special mandapam seating tend to be higher priced.

Do I need to dress traditionally?

While strict dress codes vary, wearing traditional Indian attire such as saree or dhoti/kurta is recommended to show respect and avoid any entry issues at the temple doors.

Can foreigners perform the Kalasarpa Pooja?

Yes, foreigners can perform the pooja. Overseas devotees should ideally book a slot in advance and carry valid ID/passport details as required. Confirm procedures on the official temple portal.