Srisailam Shivaratri Brahmotsavam 2026 – Dates, Rituals, Vahana Sevas & Rathotsavam Guide

Shivaratri Brahmotsavam – Srisailam 2026 Festival Guide

Festival Dates

• Start: February 08, 2026 (Ankurarpanam & Dwajarohanam)
• End: February 18, 2026 (Aswa Vahanam, Sayanotsavam, Phuspotsavam)

Key Rituals & Events

• Ankurarpanam (Feb 08): Sacred seed-sowing ritual marking the beginning of Brahmotsavam.
• Dwajarohanam (Feb 08): Hoisting of the Nandi-marked white flag on the temple’s Dhwajasthambha, symbolically inviting all deities.
• Vahana Sevas (Feb 09–14): Daily processions of Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba on divine vehicles:
• Brungi Vahanam
• Hamsa Vahanam
• Mayuri Vahanam
• Ravana Vahanam
• Pushpa Pallaki
• Gaja Vahanam
• Mahashivaratri (Feb 15):
• Lingodbhava Maha Rudrabhishekam at midnight during Lingodbhavakalam.
• Nandi Vahana Seva, Prabotsavam, Pagalkarna, Kalyanotsavam performed.
• Rathotsavam (Feb 16): The grand Car Festival, drawing over one lakh pilgrims.
• Teppotsavam (Feb 16): Float festival in the temple tank.
• Purnahuthi & Vasantotsavam (Feb 17): Culmination rituals with Dwajavarohana (flag removal).
• Closing Sevas (Feb 18): Aswa Vahanam, Sayanotsavam, Phuspotsavam.

Day-Wise Schedule (2026)

Date	Event Highlights
Feb 08	Ankurarpanam, Dwajarohanam
Feb 09	Brungi Vahana Seva
Feb 10	Hamsa Vahana Seva
Feb 11	Mayuri Vahana Seva
Feb 12	Ravana Vahana Seva
Feb 13	Pushpa Pallaki Seva
Feb 14	Gaja Vahanam
Feb 15	Mahashivaratri, Lingodbhava Rudrabhishekam, Nandi Vahanam, Kalyanotsavam
Feb 16	Rathotsavam, Teppotsavam
Feb 17	Purnahuthi, Vasantotsavam, Dwajavarohana
Feb 18	Aswa Vahanam, Sayanotsavam, Phuspotsavam

Significance

• Dwajarohanam: Marks the divine invitation to all gods.
• Lingodbhavakalam: Midnight manifestation of Lord Shiva as a flaming Linga.
• Rathotsavam: Symbolizes unity of devotees, with massive participation.
• Dwajavarohana: Ritual conclusion of Brahmotsavam.

Getting Here

• By Road:
• The most popular way is via Hyderabad (210 km). APSRTC and private buses run daily.
• Scenic ghat roads through the Nallamala Hills make the journey memorable.
• From Kurnool (180 km) and Vijayawada (250 km), buses and taxis are available.
• By Train:
• Nearest railway stations: Markapur Road (85 km), Cumbum (100 km), and Kurnool (180 km).
• From these stations, buses and taxis connect to Srisailam.
• By Air:
• Nearest airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad.
• From the airport, taxis and buses take about 5–6 hours to reach Srisailam.

Tips for Pilgrims

• Best Time to Visit: During Mahashivaratri Brahmotsavam (Feb 2026) or cooler months (Oct–Mar).
• Accommodation: Temple guest houses, Devasthanam cottages, and private lodges are available. Booking early during festivals is essential.
• Food: Temple prasadam counters and local eateries serve simple vegetarian meals.
• Darshan Planning: Expect long queues during Brahmotsavam. Opt for Special Entry Darshan if needed.
• Local Attractions: Pathala Ganga (ropeway to Krishna river), Srisailam Dam, Sakshi Ganapathi temple.
• Safety: Carry water and snacks, especially if traveling through forest ghats. Mobile network may be patchy in some stretches.