Srikalahasteeswara Temple
The Wind Temple and the Serpent Doshas
Overview
The Srikalahasteeswara Temple at Srikalahasti, in Andhra Pradesh, represents Vayu, wind or air, among the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, and sits on the Swarnamukhi river below a hill. Its name is traced to a legend in which a spider (Sri), a serpent (Kala) and an elephant (Hasti) worshipped Shiva here. The temple is especially renowned for Rahu-Ketu and Sarpa Dosha pujas, which pilgrims travel far to perform. A lamp near the sanctum is said to flicker though sheltered, evoking the wind element. MyTripMyTravel arranges a guided visit with ritual context.
Srikalahasti, near Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, is built around a Shiva temple pressed against a rocky hill on the banks of the Swarnamukhi river. It is one of the most important Shaiva pilgrimage centres of the south.
In the Pancha Bhoota Sthalam tradition, the temple stands for Vayu, the element of wind or air, worshipped as a Vayu linga. Its name comes from a well-known legend of three humble devotees, Sri the spider, Kala the serpent and Hasti the elephant, who each worshipped Shiva here and attained grace.
Today the temple is best known for its Rahu-Ketu and Sarpa Dosha pujas, ritual remedies connected with astrology, for which pilgrims travel long distances. It is an active temple with the dress and sanctum customs of a living shrine.
At a glance
Srikalahasteeswara Temple in brief
What to see
Highlights
Vayu linga
The sanctum linga associated with the wind element.
Legend of three
A spider, serpent and elephant give the temple its name.
Rahu-Ketu puja
The renowned astrological ritual remedy performed here.
Flickering lamp
A sheltered flame said to move, evoking the wind element.
Riverside setting
Positioned on the Swarnamukhi river below the hill.
Visitor information
Our tips
Book Rahu-Ketu or Sarpa Dosha puja slots in advance.
Combine it with nearby Tirupati.
Dress modestly and remove footwear before entering.
Go early, as ritual queues build through the day.
Good to know
Srikalahasteeswara Temple, your questions
Which element does it represent?
Vayu, wind or air, among the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams.
Where does the name come from?
From Sri the spider, Kala the serpent and Hasti the elephant, devotees in its founding legend.
What is it famous for?
Its Rahu-Ketu and Sarpa Dosha pujas.
Where is it?
Srikalahasti, near Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, on the Swarnamukhi river.
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning; Maha Shivaratri is a major occasion.
Visit with us
See Srikalahasteeswara Temple, properly.
A private, chauffeured visit with a licensed expert guide, timed for the best light and the smallest crowds. We fold Srikalahasteeswara Temple into a wider Srikalahasti and South India itinerary, built entirely around you.
- Skip the queue where possible, at the right hour
- Licensed local guide who brings the story to life
- Private car and chauffeur, door to door
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