Sri Anjaneya Swami Temple Srikalahasti

Revered as one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, this ancient temple is dedicated primarily to Lord Shiva, with Goddess Jnana Prasunambika Devi and Kannappa Nayanar also worshipped here.

The temple’s Dravidian architecture and its historical roots dating back to the Chola period, with significant contributions from the Vijayanagara kings, especially Krishnadevaraya, make it a living heritage temple and a spiritual landmark in South India.

Devotees can visit the Sri Anjaneya Swami Temple Srikalahasti any day of the week, as it remains open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The best time for darshan is early morning between 5:00 and 8:00 AM, during winter months from November to February, and on weekdays when the temple is less crowded.

The temple enforces a traditional dress code: men are encouraged to wear dhoti or kurta-pyjama, while women should opt for saree, half-saree, or Punjabi dress with dupatta. Modest clothing is strictly enforced for all visitors.

Darshan options include free entry and a special darshan for a fee of INR 200.

The temple is well-known for its array of poojas, such as Rahu-Ketu Pooja (6:30 AM – 5:00 PM, INR 500), Rudrabhishekam (at 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 5:00 PM), Suprabhata Seva (5:30 AM, INR 50), and several others, with rituals conducted in Sanskrit and Telugu.

Devotees can also participate in Sahasranamarchana, Gomatha Pooja, Thrisathi Archana, and special Kala Sarpa Nivarana Pooja.

Major festivals celebrated at the temple include Maha Shivaratri (February–March), Brahmotsavam (March–April), Karthika Deepotsavam (November–December), Aadi Krithika (July–August), Thai Poosam (January–February), and Vinayaka Chaturthi (August–September), drawing pilgrims from across the country.

Reaching the temple is convenient: APSRTC buses run frequently from Tirupati, and taxis are available from Tirupati International Airport (30 km away). Srikalahasti Railway Station is just 2 km from the temple, with auto-rickshaws and taxis easily accessible.

Ample parking is available, and the temple is well-connected by road. Accommodation options include TTD choultries, Devasthanam rooms, and many private hotels and lodges within a 1–2 km radius.

Daily free meals (Nithya Annadanam) are served in the Annadanam Hall from around 11:00 AM, and prasadam is distributed after sevas. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main temple premises, with cloakrooms provided for storing electronic items.

Nearby attractions include Durgambika Temple, Bharadwaja Teertham, Tirumala Venkateswara Temple (55 km), and Appalayagunta Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple (35 km). For more details or to plan your darshan, visit the official website at https://srikalahasthitemple.org.