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Srikalahasti Temple: History, Facts and Travel Guide!

Srikalahasti Temple is one of the famous Hindu temples of Lord Shiva, located in the town of Srikalahasti, in the state of Andhra Pradesh. This is one of the most famous temple of South India also. Today, you will learn about the long history of Srikalahasti Temple and amazing facts about this temple. You will get a complete travel guide which will make your journey more comfortable and memorable. You will be wondered after knowing that this temple is also known as "Dakshina Kailasam" (Kailash of the South).

Contents: 

1. About Srikalahasti Temple
2. History of Srikalahasti Temple
3. How to reach Srikalahasti  Temple
4. Some suggestions before going to Srikalahasti Temple
5. Amazing Facts about Srikalahasti Temple
6. Overall Budget of the travel
7. FAQs

About Srikalahasti Temple

Srikalahasti Temple is a famous Hindu temple of Lord Shiva, located in the town of Srikalahasti, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. The temple is situated by the River Swarnamukhi, at the foot of Srikalahasti Hill. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in southern India. The temple is famous for its unique architectural style and its connection with the stories of Rahu and Ketu, the planets in Hindu astrology. According to some stories, the temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva himself performed tapa (penance) to rid himself of the sin of Brahmahatya (the killing of a priest). Thus, the temple is also known as "Dakshina Kailasam" (Kailash of the South). Srikalahasti Temple is also dedicated to Lord Subramanya and Lord Kalabhairava. One of the most unique things about this temple is its Vayu Linga, which is believed to be one of the Panchabhoota Lingas, representing the element of air (Vayu). 

 

History of Srikalahasti Temple

Stories of Srikalahasti Temple say that when Lord Shiva was doing Tapa (penance) here, then a spider (Sri), a snake (Kala), and an elephant (Hasti) worshipped Lord Shiva here, hence the name Srikalahasti. The temple's construction was done by the Chola dynasty, who were famous builders of temples in South India. The Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled over much of South India from the 14th to the 17th centuries, also played a major role in the construction and conservation of the Srikalahasti Temple. Many renovations were made during this period. The temple's architecture represents a mixture of Chola, Vijayanagara, and other styles. The designs, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and amazing pillared halls are characteristic of Dravidian temple architecture. It is believed that Rahu and Ketu worshipped Lord Shiva at Srikalahasti to regain their lost status and power. This temple attracts thousands of devotees every year, and it blesses them by removing their sins.

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How to reach Srikalahasti  Temple

Here are many ways to reach Srikalahasti Temple:

• By Air:
• Nearest Airport: Tirupati Airport (TIR)
• Distance: Approximately 25 kilometers from Srikalahasti.
• You can take a taxi or take a bus from Tirupati to Srikalahasti. It will take around 40 minutes by taxi to reach Srikalahasti Temple.
• By Train:
• Nearest Railway Station: Srikalahasti Railway Station (KHT)
• Distance: About 2 kilometers from the temple.
• You can take a taxi and it will take 5-10 minutes by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
• By Road:
• Srikalahasti Town is well connected with major nearest cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Tirupati etc.
• Local buses and taxis are available from these cities to Srikalahasti.

Also Read: Kedarnath Temple Yatra: Complete Guide and Information

Some suggestions before going to Srikalahasti Temple

Here are some suggestions which will help you in your Srikalahasti Temple journey:

• The best time to visit is between October and February when the weather is cooler.
• Large crowds came here during major festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Brahmotsavam, and Karthika Deepam. If you prefer a comfortable experience, avoid these times.
• Book your hotel rooms in advance.
• Wear traditional Indian dress. Men are often required to remove their shirts before entering the temple, while women should wear sarees.
• If you want to participate in rituals or poojas, inquire in advance about the schedule.
• Stay hydrated and carry some food also.

Credit: thehansindia

Amazing Facts about Srikalahasti Temple

Here are some mind blowing facts about Srikalahasti Temple:

• Srikalahasti Temple is one of the five temples dedicated to the elements of nature; it represents the element of air (Vayu).
• Special poojas and rituals are performed to remove issues caused by Rahu and Ketu in one’s horoscope.
• The main tower of the temple is 120 feet tall and completely made of sculptures and designs representing Hindu mythology.
• There are special arrangements for Prasad, which is a divine gift from God.
• It is also a major heritage site in the state.
• This temple is located in Tirupati District and is near Tirupati Temple as well.

Overall Budget of the travel

When you visit the famous Tirupati Temple, you should also visit Srikalahasti Temple. The architecture and peace of this temple will make your mind calm and will give you the blessings of Lord Shiva. You don't need a big budget to visit this temple. You can take local buses and taxis from the airport and railway station. You should add this temple to your travel journey checkpoints.  

Conclusion

You will be surprised after seeing the products made by local people in the markets, and there are many different food items from South India that will give you different tastes in one place. If you will follow our instructions, then you don't need any local guide to tell you about the Lord Shiva Temples, as we will give you complete information about every Lord Shiva Temple and their stories. You should visit Srikalahasti Temple on your South India tour, and our travel guide will help you on your tour. 

FAQs

What is special in Kalahasti temple?

Kalahasti Temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, India, is renowned for its unique association with Rahu and Ketu, two planets in Hindu astrology. Devotees visit the temple seeking relief from problems caused by these planetary positions. The temple is also famous for its Dravidian-style architecture and its significance as one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, representing the element of air.

What is the story of Srikalahasti?

Legend has it that a spider, a snake, and an elephant worshipped Lord Shiva here, leading to the name "Srikalahasti" (Spider - "Sri", Snake - "Kala", Elephant - "Hasti"). This represents the temple's significance in Hindu mythology.

How many steps are there in Srikalahasti?

The Srikalahasti Temple has 1,500 steps leading to the hill shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. These steps provide a scenic and spiritual journey for devotees visiting the temple.

What are the benefits of Kalahasti?

Visiting Kalahasti Temple offers spiritual solace, blessings for health, prosperity, and alleviation of astrological afflictions. It's a place where people find inner peace and divine connection, fostering a sense of faith and hope in their lives.

Which day is good for Rahu Ketu Pooja in Kalahasti 2024?

The auspicious days for Rahu Ketu Pooja at Kalahasti Temple in 2024 can vary based on the Hindu calendar and astrological calculations. It's advisable to consult with the temple authorities or a knowledgeable priest.

How to avoid Rahu Ketu?

Chant Beej Mantra or Ketu Gayatri Mantra, can help remove their negative effects. Wearing gemstones like hessonite (for Rahu) or cat's eye (for Ketu) after consulting with an astrologer is believed to balance their energies.