Srikalahasti Temple is one of the most important Shiva temples in India, known for its powerful Rahu-Ketu Pooja. This temple is famous for removing doshas (planetary defects), especially those related to Rahu and Ketu, which cause delays, obstacles, and struggles in life. Devotees from across India and beyond visit Srikalahasti to perform this special pooja and seek divine blessings.
If you are planning to perform Rahu-Ketu Pooja at Srikalahasti, this updated 2026 guide will help you understand:
- Latest ticket prices
- Updated timings
- Best day & time to perform
- Rules before & after pooja
- Travel details
- Real benefits and expectations
Let’s begin.
What is Rahu-Ketu Pooja
In Vedic astrology, Rahu and Ketu are considered shadow planets that do not have a physical presence but influence the lives of people based on their positioning in one’s birth chart. These planets are believed to cause:
- Obstacles in career
- Marital issues
- Financial struggles
- Health problems
- Delay in childbirth
When these planets are negatively placed, they can cause a dosha (flaw) in one’s life, leading to several challenges. The Rahu-Ketu Pooja at Srikalahasti Temple is believed to neutralize the harmful effects of these planets and bring relief, success, and prosperity.
The Significance of Rahu and Ketu in Srikalahasti Temple
Srikalahasti is one of the few temples where the Rahu-Ketu Pooja is performed with great devotion and importance. Here’s why it is significant:
Power of Lord Shiva
Srikalahasti Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Vayu Lingam (Air element). Lord Shiva’s blessings are considered highly powerful in this temple, and performing the pooja here is believed to be highly effective in mitigating the negative effects of Rahu and Ketu.
The Unique Energy of Vayu Lingam
The temple is considered one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing the five elements, and Vayu (Air) is associated with the planetary influence of Rahu and Ketu. The air element is believed to help balance the energies caused by these shadow planets.
Connection with the Solar and Lunar Eclipses
Rahu and Ketu are linked with eclipses. The temple is especially revered during times of eclipses when the sun and moon are aligned with the Rahu and Ketu axes. During this time, performing the pooja is believed to offer powerful results.
Rahu-Ketu Pooja Procedure at Srikalahasti Temple
The Rahu-Ketu Pooja is conducted in a systematic and sacred manner. Here’s how it is performed:
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1️⃣ Buy ticket at temple counter
- 2️⃣ Enter dedicated pooja hall
- 3️⃣ Sit in assigned batch
- 4️⃣ Sankalpam (name, gotra, purpose)
- 5️⃣ Silver Rahu-Ketu idols provided
- 6️⃣ Mantra chanting begins
- 7️⃣ Offer turmeric, flowers, black gram
- 8️⃣ After completion, idols are dropped in temple well
- 9️⃣ Visit Shiva sanctum for darshan
- ⏳ Duration: 30–45 minutes
Also Read: Experience Mangalagiri Temple A Blend of Faith and Culture
Best Time to Perform Rahu-Ketu Pooja
The pooja can be performed any day, but the most effective days are:
📅 Tuesdays, Sundays, and Saturdays – Considered powerful for overcoming Rahu-Ketu effects.
📅 During Rahu Kalam – The best time slot for the pooja. Rahu Kalam timings:
| Day | Rahu Kalam Timings |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Sunday | 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM |
Rahu-Ketu Pooja Ticket Price (Updated 2026)
💰 Latest price range inside temple counter:
| Ticket Type | Price (INR) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | ₹500 | Common seating |
| Enhanced Seating | ₹750 | Indoor closer seating |
| VIP | ₹1,500 | Better visibility |
| Special VIP | ₹2,500 | Near priest area |
| Premium | ₹5,000 | Priority & personal attention |
👉 Tickets are currently sold at the temple counter.
Online booking is not officially reliable yet.
⏳ Reach 1–2 hours early during weekends or Rahu Kalam.
Which Day is Best for Rahu-Ketu Pooja?
Based on search trends and astrology:
✔ Tuesday
✔ Saturday
✔ Sunday
However, astrologers say:
👉 The best day is based on your horoscope, not general calendar.
If unsure — any day is acceptable.
Rahu-Ketu Pooja Rules
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✔ Wear traditional dress
✔ Eat light food (fasting not mandatory)
✔ Do not carry outside pooja items
✔ Pregnant women are advised to avoid
✔ Avoid visiting other temples the same day
Benefits of Rahu-Ketu Pooja
The Rahu-Ketu Pooja at Srikalahasti Temple is believed to provide several benefits, such as:
- Relief from Doshas – Clears Rahu-Ketu doshas and removes obstacles caused by the planets.
- Positive Influence – Creates positive energies and restores balance in one’s life.
- Health Benefits – Offers spiritual healing and improves overall well-being.
- Career Growth – Helps in career progress and removes obstacles related to job or business.
- Marital Harmony – Provides relief from delays in marriage or issues in marital life.
- Childbirth – Increases the chances of conceiving a child for couples facing difficulties.
Things to Remember Before Performing Rahu-Ketu Pooja
- Fasting is NOT required, but eat light food before the pooja.
- No need to bring any items – Everything is provided by the temple.
- Wear traditional clothes (Men: Dhoti/Kurta; Women: Saree/Salwar).
- Pregnant women should avoid performing this pooja.
- Do not visit other temples after the pooja for best results.
After Rahu-Ketu Pooja – What to Do?
This is a high-ranking keyword — so clarity is important.
After pooja:
✔ Directly visit Lord Shiva
✔ Go home peacefully
✔ Avoid visiting another temple
✔ Do not reopen pooja kit
✔ Maintain calm mindset
Many devotees report feeling mental relief immediately.
Can We Visit Other Temples After Rahu-Ketu Pooja?
Traditionally:
❌ It is advised NOT to visit other temples the same day.
Reason: The ritual energy is considered complete and should not be disturbed.
You may visit Tirupati on another day.
How to Reach Srikalahasti Temple?
📍 Location: Srikalahasti, Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh
✈ Nearest Airport: Tirupati (40 km)
🚆 Railway Station: Srikalahasti (2 km)
🚌 Chennai: 120 km
🚌 Bangalore: 210 km
🚌 Hyderabad: 520 km
Most devotees combine this visit with Tirumala Venkateswara Temple darshan on separate days.
Best Time to Visit
✔ October – March (pleasant weather)
✔ Avoid peak Maha Shivaratri crowd
✔ Weekdays are less crowded
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Coming without ID
❌ Reaching exactly at Rahu Kalam
❌ Wearing jeans/modern outfits
❌ Expecting instant miracles
Conclusion
Performing Rahu-Ketu Pooja at Srikalahasti Temple is a powerful way to remove planetary doshas and bring peace, prosperity, and success. Whether you are facing career delays, financial troubles, or personal struggles, this pooja can help you overcome them. Plan your visit, follow the correct rituals, and experience the divine blessings of Lord Shiva!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
A: No, tickets are available at the temple counters.
A: The entire ritual takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
A: Effects vary for each person, but most devotees see positive changes within a few months.
A: Yes, you can perform it for family members if they cannot visit.
A: It is a ritual performed to alleviate the negative effects of the planets Rahu and Ketu in one’s horoscope.
Final Thoughts
Life doesn’t always move smoothly.
Sometimes obstacles feel repetitive and unexplained.
For many devotees, performing Rahu-Ketu Pooja at Srikalahasti has brought emotional relief, renewed hope, and spiritual strength.
Whether you believe in astrology deeply or simply seek peace — this temple offers a powerful spiritual experience.
Plan properly.
Reach early.
Follow the rules.
And surrender your worries at the feet of Lord Shiva.
🙏 May Vayu Lingam bless you with clarity and progress.
