Sri Kalahasthi Temple Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavams 2026 – Dates, Events & Travel Guide

Sri Kalahasthi Temple Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavams – 2026

Location

Sri Kalahasthi Temple, one of the most sacred Shiva temples in Andhra Pradesh, is famous for its grand Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavams.

Festival Overview

The Brahmotsavams will be celebrated from February 10 to February 23, 2026.
Each day is marked by special rituals, vahana sevas (processions), and cultural programs.
The highlight is Maha Shivaratri on February 15, featuring Lingodbavam and multiple vahana sevas.

Detailed Schedule – 2026

February 10 – Bhakta Kanappa Dwajarohanam (Bhakti Ratri)
February 11 – Swamivari Dwajarohanam (Deva Ratri)
February 12 – Rendava Tirunallu (Bhuta Ratri), Bhuta Vahana Seva, Sukha Vahana Seva
February 13 – Mudava Tirunallu (Gandarwa Ratri), Ravana Vahana Seva, Mayura Vahana Seva
February 14 – Nalugava Tirunallu (Naga Ratri), Sesha Vahana Seva, Yali Vahana Seva
February 15 – Maha Shivaratri, Lingodbavam, Indra Vimanam, Chapparam, Nandi Vahana Seva, Simha Vahana Seva
February 16 – Rathotsavam (Morning), Brahma Ratri, Teppotsavam (Night)
February 17 – Shivaparvatula Kalyanam (Skanda Ratri), Gaja Vahana Seva
February 18 – Sivakama Sundari Nataraja Swamy Kalyanam (Ananda Ratri)
February 19 – Giri Pradakshina (Rushi Ratri), Aswa Vahana Seva
February 20 – Theertavari, Dwajavarohanam (Deva Ratri)
February 21 – Pallaki Seva (Vibhava Ratri)
February 22 – Ekanta Seva
February 23 – Abhishekam, Nityotsavam

Highlights

Maha Shivaratri (Feb 15) – The most important day, with Lingodbavam and grand vahana sevas.
Rathotsavam (Feb 16) – Morning chariot procession, followed by Teppotsavam at night.
Kalyanotsavams (Feb 17 & 18) – Divine weddings of Lord Shiva with Parvati and Sivakama Sundari.
Giri Pradakshina (Feb 19) – A sacred circumambulation of the temple hill.

Getting Here

By Road

From Tirupati: Sri Kalahasthi is about 36 km (45 minutes by car or bus).
From Nellore: Around 120 km, connected via NH-16.
From Chennai: About 120 km, ~2.5 hours by car.
From Vijayawada: Around 350 km, ~6 hours by car or bus.
Regular APSRTC buses and private taxis connect Kalahasthi with Tirupati, Nellore, and Chennai.

By Rail

Nearest Railway Station: Sri Kalahasthi Railway Station (KHT), just 2 km from the temple.
Well connected to Tirupati, Chennai, Vijayawada, and Hyderabad.
Autos and taxis are easily available from the station to the temple.

By Air

Tips

Festival Crowds: Maha Shivaratri (Feb 15, 2026) will see huge gatherings. Arrive early to avoid traffic jams.
Accommodation: Book hotels in Tirupati or Kalahasthi well in advance, as rooms fill quickly during Brahmotsavams.
Footwear: The temple has strict rules—leave footwear outside designated areas.
Darshan Planning: Opt for early morning or late-night darshan to avoid peak rush.
Nearby Temples: Combine your trip with a visit to Tirumala (Balaji Temple) or Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple for a complete pilgrimage circuit.
Local Transport: Autos and buses are frequent, but during festival days, walking short distances may be faster.
Food: Simple vegetarian meals are available in temple-run canteens and nearby hotels.