Planning to visit Srikalahasti Temple in 2026 for the Rahu Ketu Puja? This ancient temple in Andhra Pradesh is considered one of the most powerful destinations in India for performing Rahu Ketu Shanti Puja and Kalasarpa Dosha Nivarana Puja. Thousands of devotees travel here every day to seek relief from planetary doshas that affect marriage, career, health, children, financial stability, and overall peace of life.
If you’re preparing for a spiritual visit, this updated 2026 guide provides everything you need—Rahu Ketu Puja timings, ticket prices, booking process (online & offline), best days for puja, dress code, and essential tips—so your darshan and puja experience at Srikalahasti Temple becomes smooth and truly meaningful.
Overview of Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Puja
The Rahu Ketu Puja at Srikalahasti Temple is one of the most sought-after remedies in India for removing Rahu Dosha, Ketu Dosha, and Kalasarpa Dosha. What makes this temple truly unique is that the puja is performed even during Solar and Lunar Eclipses, a rare and powerful practice not followed in most Indian temples. Devotees believe that performing Rahu Ketu Puja during these celestial phases enhances the spiritual effects and brings faster relief from planetary disturbances.
The temple also holds immense spiritual significance. The Srikalahasti Lingam is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu), and the temple is closely linked to Bhakta Kanappa, a legendary devotee whose unwavering devotion forms an important chapter in the temple’s divine history. This makes the temple not only a powerful astrological center but also a deeply sacred pilgrimage destination.
Here is a quick overview of the key details devotees look for:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Srikalahasti Temple, Andhra Pradesh |
| Significance | Famous for Rahu Ketu Puja; Part of Pancha Bootha Sthalam (Vayu Lingam) |
| Main Purpose | To reduce Rahu Dosha, Ketu Dosha, and Kalasarpa Dosha |
| Temple Timings | 6 AM to 9 PM (Daily) |
| Puja Timings | 6 AM to 6 PM |
| Ticket Price Range | ₹500 to ₹5000 depending on seating |
| Common Rituals | Mantra chanting, prayer offerings, dosha nivarana rituals |
| Recommended Dress | Traditional Indian attire |
| Temple Architecture | Inner temple from 5th century; outer structures from 12th century |
| Key Benefits | Removes negative planetary effects and brings peace and positivity |
The Rahu Ketu Puja at Srikalahasti is believed to offer strong spiritual protection, remove long-standing obstacles, and help devotees experience mental clarity, relationship harmony, career stability, and overall well-being.
Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Puja Timings 2026
Planning to perform Rahu Ketu Puja at Srikalahasti Temple in 2026? The temple conducts this powerful dosha nivarana puja throughout the day, allowing devotees to choose a timing that suits their schedule. Each Rahu Ketu Puja session takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, and batches run continuously, ensuring easy accommodation for all visitors.
Below are the updated daily timings for Rahu Ketu Puja at Srikalahasti Temple:
Daily Rahu Ketu Puja Timings (2026)
| Time Slot | Schedule |
|---|---|
| Morning | 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Afternoon | 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM |
| Evening | 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM |
Devotees can visit the temple at any time within these hours. Once you arrive, you will be guided to the next available puja batch, making the entire process smooth and convenient.
Best Time to Perform Rahu Ketu Puja – Rahu Kalam 2026
For devotees visiting Srikalahasti Temple, performing Rahu Ketu Puja during Rahu Kalam is considered the most powerful and effective. According to traditional belief, the energy of Rahu is strongest during this period, helping devotees receive maximum benefits from the puja. Since Rahu Kalam changes every day, planning your visit based on the correct timing is important.
Below are the approximate Rahu Kalam timings for all days of the week in 2026. These timings may vary slightly depending on the local Panchangam, so checking the exact time for festivals, eclipses, or special events is always recommended.
| Day | Rahu Kalam Time |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
| Monday | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM |
| Tuesday | 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM |
| Thursday | 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM |
Performing the puja during these Rahu Kalam time slots can enhance the results of Rahu Ketu Puja, Kalasarpa Dosha Puja, and Graha Dosha Nivarana Puja at Srikalahasti Temple.
Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Puja Ticket Price 2026
Srikalahasti Temple provides several Rahu Ketu Puja ticket categories, allowing devotees to choose based on comfort, seating, and location inside the temple premises. While every ticket ensures the same spiritual benefit, higher categories offer a calmer atmosphere and seating closer to the main puja area.
Below is the updated Rahu Ketu Puja ticket price list for 2026, which will help you pick the right option for your visit.
| Category | Price (INR) | Suitable For | Venue Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 150 | 1 devotee | Hall outside the main temple |
| Standard | 300 | 1 devotee | North-side puja hall |
| Special | 700 | 1 devotee | Temple outer hall |
| A/C Hall | 1500 | 1 devotee | Air-conditioned puja hall |
| Couple Ticket | 2500 | 2 devotees | Near the Dwajasthambam |
| Premium Couple | 5000 | 2 devotees | Inside Mandapam close to the Utsava Murthy |
Couples who wish to perform Rahu Ketu Puja together generally prefer the ₹2500 Couple Ticket or the ₹5000 Premium Couple Ticket, as these categories offer better seating and a quiet environment near the sanctum area.
What Details You Need for Booking the Puja
While booking the Rahu Ketu Puja or any related ritual, the priest will ask for three simple details:
- Your Janma Nakshatra (birth star)
- Your Janma Rashi (zodiac sign)
- Your Gotra
If you don’t know these, ask your family members or a local priest before your trip. These details help in performing the puja correctly as per your horoscope.
Dress Code and Behavior Inside the Temple
Devotees should wear simple and traditional clothes during the puja. Make sure your belongings are always with you. Do not leave your clothes or valuables with strangers. Some people try to trick visitors by asking them to remove or leave their clothes behind after the ritual.
If you feel confused during the puja—like when to break the coconut or where to place the cloth—the priests will guide you. They explain every step clearly, so even first-time visitors can follow easily.
Dakshina, Offerings, and Money Tips
Keep small change like ₹11, ₹21, ₹54, or ₹108 if you want to give dakshina. This is completely optional and depends on your choice.
After the puja, some devotees offer a small token to the priest, but it is not compulsory. Be alert of people trying to sell “special tickets” or “reserved tickets.” Always go to the official counter for any booking.
Common Scams to Avoid at Srikalahasti Temple
- Touts and dalals: They may pretend to help but charge extra for tickets or force you to visit shops. Avoid them.
- Auto drivers claiming special hotels: Some autos take pilgrims to hotels where they get commissions. Ask the driver to drop you only at Gate No. 4 (South Gopuram).
- Clothes scam: Do not give your clothes to anyone. Use the official lockers and washrooms provided by the temple.
- If someone confuses you or pressures you, ignore them and speak directly with temple staff.
After the Puja – Darshan and Goddess Visit
After completing the Rahu Ketu Puja, hold the small silver idols close to your chest and walk toward the sanctum for darshan. Do not look back while walking.
Once you finish darshan of Sri Kalahasteeswara, you can also visit Goddess Gnana Prasanna Devi to receive blessings. Many devotees also go to Bhakta Ganapathi, located on a small hill near the temple.
Annadanam at Srikalahasti Temple
Free meals or annadanam are offered daily near Gate No. 4 from around 11:30 AM. Pilgrims can enjoy prasadam after their puja or darshan.
Accommodation at Srikalahasti Temple
The temple provides clean and budget-friendly rooms for devotees. You can get rooms at the counter or book online. For easy booking, use the official AP Temples portal by searching “AP Temples Srikalahasti” on Google. This helps you secure rooms on weekends and festival days.
Food Rules and Travel After the Puja
Some devotees avoid non-vegetarian food before or after the puja, while others travel to nearby temples like Tirupati. If you are unsure, ask the priest during the ritual—they will guide you based on the puja you performed.
Language Support and Priest Assistance
The priests explain the puja clearly in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and English, so people from anywhere in India can understand easily. They guide you throughout the process, making it smooth and comfortable.
How to Book Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Puja Online in 2026
Booking the Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Puja has become much easier, thanks to the official AP Temples portal. Devotees can reserve tickets up to 30 days in advance, which is especially helpful during weekends, festival days, and eclipse days when the temple sees huge crowds.
Steps for Online Booking (2026)
Follow these steps to book your Rahu Ketu Puja or Kalasarpa Dosha Puja online:
- Visit the official AP Temples portal: aptemples.ap.gov.in
- Select Srikalahasti Temple from the temple list.
- Click on Pratyaksha Seva Tickets.
- Choose your puja type: Rahu Ketu Puja or Kalasarpa Dosha Puja.
- Log in with your mobile number (first-time users must register).
- Enter devotee details and upload a valid ID proof.
- Select your preferred time slot and ticket category.
- Proceed to payment through UPI, net banking, or card.
- Download or print the confirmation ticket received via email.
Tip: Online booking is strongly recommended during weekends, Amavasya, Purnima, and all eclipse days.
Best Days to Perform Rahu Ketu Puja at Srikalahasti
Although the puja is performed daily, certain days are believed to deliver stronger astrological benefits. These days are traditionally considered highly auspicious:
- Sundays
- Purnima (Full Moon)
- Amavasya (New Moon)
- Solar and Lunar Eclipses
- Maha Shivaratri
- Masa Shivaratri
- Navratri Days
Among these, eclipse days are believed to be the most powerful for Rahu Ketu Puja as the cosmic energy enhances the results of the ritual.
How the Rahu Ketu Puja Is Performed at Srikalahasti Temple
The puja at Srikalahasti Temple follows a well-organized and guided process. Even first-time visitors find it easy because priests clearly explain each step.
Here’s how the puja is typically conducted:
- Devotees are seated according to their ticket category in separate halls.
- Priests provide puja items, including small silver Rahu and Ketu idols.
- Collective chanting of mantras begins, and devotees follow the priest’s instructions.
- After completing the puja, the Rahu-Ketu idols are placed in the temple hundi.
- Devotees then move toward the darshan of Lord Shiva (Sri Kalahasteeswara).
Premium tickets such as ₹1500, ₹2500, and ₹5000 offer:
- Quieter halls
- Better seating
- Closer proximity to the main sanctum
- A smoother, more peaceful puja experience
How to Reach Srikalahasti Temple
Reaching Srikalahasti Temple is quite simple, whether you are traveling by train, bus, or coming from nearby cities. Here is a clear and easy guide to help you plan your visit smoothly.
By Train:
Srikalahasti Railway Station is only about 2 km from the temple. From early morning (around 4:00 AM), the temple administration runs free buses from the station to the temple. If you don’t find a bus, autos are available outside the station and usually charge around ₹20. This is the quickest and most convenient way to reach the temple.
By Bus:
Buses halt at the Srikalahasti bus stand, and some buses even stop right in front of the temple entrance. Both APSRTC and private vehicles have access to a large parking space provided by the temple, making it easy for pilgrims traveling by road.
From Nearby Routes:
If you are coming from the Visakhapatnam–Vijayawada–Ongole–Nellore side, Srikalahasti usually comes before Tirupati. The temple is around 43 km from Renigunta and takes about an hour by road. Many devotees prefer visiting Srikalahasti first and then heading toward Tirupati for Darshan.
Where to Get Ready – Facilities for Devotees
The most convenient drop-off point is Gate No. 4 of Srikalahasti Railway Station, located near the South Gopuram. This area has all the essential facilities a devotee may need before entering the temple complex.
You will find:
- Clean washrooms for men and women
- Areas to bathe and change
- Locker facilities
- PR/ERO counters
- Annadanam counters
- Temple-run accommodation blocks
A very important tip: Avoid touts and auto drivers who may try to mislead you into visiting private hotels or shops by claiming that facilities are unavailable. This is a common scam. Always choose Gate 4 as your drop point and use the official facilities provided by the temple administration.
Srikalahasti Temple Timings and Daily Rituals
- The temple opens every day at 5:00 AM.
- Morning rituals (Suprabhatam) begin around 5:30 AM.
- Rahu–Ketu Puja is performed daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Tickets for other rituals, including go puja (cow-related offerings), are available near Gate 4, and counters usually start functioning around 5:30 AM.
Final Tips Before You Leave
- Buy tickets only from the official counter (₹500 to ₹5,000).
- Ask priests if you are confused about any puja step.
- Keep the temple clean and take your belongings with you.
- Follow instructions from temple staff for a peaceful experience.
FAQs on Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Puja 2026
Q1. What is the daily timing for Rahu Ketu Puja at Srikalahasti?
The temple performs Rahu Ketu Puja from morning 6:30 AM until night 8:30 PM in multiple batches.
Q2. How much does Rahu Ketu Puja cost in 2026?
Ticket prices start from ₹150 and go up to ₹5000 depending on hall type and seating.
Q3. How can I book Srikalahasti Rahu Ketu Puja online?
You can book tickets through the official AP Temples portal: aptemples.ap.gov.in.
Q4. Which days are best for Rahu Ketu Puja?
Full Moon, New Moon, Sundays, and eclipse days are considered the most effective.
Q5. How long does the puja take at Srikalahasti?
Most sessions finish in about 30 to 60 minutes.
Q6. Can couples perform Rahu Ketu Puja together?
Yes, couples can perform together using ₹2500 or ₹5000 tickets.
Q7. What problems does Rahu Ketu Puja help with?
It is mainly done to reduce Rahu Dosha, Ketu Dosha, and issues related to marriage, career, children, and health.
Q8. Is Rahu Kalam the best time for this puja?
Yes, performing the puja during Rahu Kalam is believed to give faster and stronger results.
Q9. Is any preparation needed before the puja?
There is no fasting required, but devotees should avoid non-veg and alcohol on puja day.
Q10. Is Srikalahasti recommended for Kalasarpa Dosha Puja?
Yes, Srikalahasti is one of the most preferred temples for Kalasarpa Dosha Nivarana Puja.
