Srikalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh

Srikalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh is a remarkable and powerful site where the divine presence of Lord Shiva is palpable, offering blessings to those who seek them. It is an essential destination for devoted followers of Lord Shiva.

The temple presents a stunning view, with the graceful Swarnamukhi river flowing nearby and enchanting hillocks encircling the area, creating a visually delightful setting.

Notably, Srikalahasteeswara Temple is linked to Rahu and Ketu, two significant astrological bodies in Indian astrology, and is renowned for rituals that address horoscope-related issues, such as the Rahu-Ketu Sarpa Dosha Nirvana Pujas.

The temple's exquisite architecture and impressive sculptures showcase the brilliance of Chola craftsmanship. Lord Shiva, revered here as Lord Kalahasteeswaa is worshipped in the form of a lingam symbolizing Vayu, or Air. The temple also houses a shrine dedicated to Goddess Parvati, known here as Gnana Prasunambika Devi.

Within the temple, a cradle featuring Lord Shiva and Parvati enhances the sacred atmosphere. The continuously glowing lamp in the temple's inner sanctum, despite the absence of any air vents, is particularly striking.

Visiting Srikalahasteeswara Temple, a site of historical and religious significance, is a profound experience. The temple and its surroundings look especially mesmerizing at night.

History - Srikalahasteeswara Temple

A well-known legend involves Goddess Parvati undergoing a long penance here to lift a curse imposed by Lord Shiva, resulting in her transformation and blessings from Shiva, and her being known as Shiva-Gnana, Gnana Prasunamba, or Gnana Prasunambika Devi.

Another legend relates to the temple’s name, originating from the devotees — a spider, a serpent, and an elephant — who worshipped Shiva in their unique ways. A tragic conflict among them led to their deaths, but their devotion pleased Shiva, who granted them salvation. The temple's name, Srikalahasteeswara, commemorates these devotees, combining their names: Sri (spider), Kala (serpent), and Hasthi (elephant).

Speciality - Srikalahasteeswara Temple

Often referred to as the Dakshin Kailash, or the Kailash of the South, Srikalahasteeswara Temple is also known as Rahu-Ketu Kshetra. The temple, honouring Lord Shiva as Kalahasteeswara, represents the element of Air, one of the five Pancha Bhoota elements. Another unique aspect is its white Shivalinga, which remains untouched by priests. The temple stays open during solar and lunar eclipses, hosting special rituals.

The temple's architecture features a 120-foot-tall gopuram carved from a large stone hill and a grand mandapam with one hundred pillars.

Festivals - Srikalahasteeswara Temple

The twelve-day Mahashivratri Brahmotsavam, celebrated each Karthika month, is the temple's most significant festival. Thousands of devotees gather to participate in various ceremonies, enhancing the festival's splendour.

Other celebrated events include the Aadi Kritika festival for Lord Kumaraswamy and the Kendari Gowri Vratham for Ammavaru.

Dress Code - Srikalahasteeswara Temple

Visitors are encouraged to wear traditional or modest attire while visiting the temple.

How to Reach Srikalahasteeswara Temple

By Air: Tirupati Airport, 29 km away.

By Rail: Sri Kalahasthi Railway Station, 5 km away.

By Road: Sri Kalahasthi APSRTC bus station, 1.6 km away.