Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavams 2026 Schedule & Travel Guide

Nestled in Surutupalle Village, Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, the sacred Sri Pallikondeswara Swamy Temple holds a unique distinction in the Shaivite tradition. Unlike anywhere else in India, Lord Shiva here is seen in a rare reclining posture (Sayana Shiva), resting gracefully on the lap of Goddess Parvati. This divine depiction draws thousands of devotees, especially during the grand Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavams.

Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavams 2026 – Festival Schedule

The Brahmotsavams commence on February 07, 2026, and span eleven days of devotion, vahana sevas, and sacred rituals.

Date	Events & Rituals
Feb 07	Grama Devata Poniyamma Abhishekam, Vinayaka Swamy Gramotsavam
Feb 08	Dwajarohanam (flag hoisting), Pallaki Vahanam
Feb 09	Chandraprabha Vahana Seva
Feb 10	Kamadhenu Vahanam
Feb 11	Bhuta Vahanam
Feb 12	Adikara Nandi Vahanam
Feb 13	Gaja Vahana Seva
Feb 14	Aswa Vahana Seva
Feb 15	Vrushaba Vahana Seva, Mahapradosha Puja, Maha Shivaratri Abhishekam
Feb 16	Kalpavruksha Vahanam, Kalyanotsavam (divine marriage of Shiva-Parvati)
Feb 17	Trisula Snanam, Ravana Brahma Vahanam

Festival Highlights

Dwajarohanam (Feb 08): The ceremonial flag hoisting marks the auspicious beginning of the Brahmotsavam.
Vahana Sevas: Each day, Lord Shiva is taken in procession on a symbolic vahana—Moon, Kamadhenu, Elephant, Horse, Bull, and more—representing cosmic powers and divine attributes.
Maha Shivaratri (Feb 15): The most sacred night, featuring Mahapradosha Puja and grand Abhishekam to Lord Pallikondeswara Swamy. Devotees observe fasting and night-long vigil.
Kalyanotsavam (Feb 16): Celebrates the celestial wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, a ritual of divine union and blessings for marital harmony.
Trisula Snanam (Feb 17): Ritual bath of the holy trident, followed by Ravana Brahma Vahanam, symbolizing Shiva’s supremacy over Ravana’s devotion.

How to Reach

By Road:

From Tirupati (60 km) – Regular buses and taxis are available. The drive takes about 1.5 hours.
From Chennai (70 km) – Well-connected by road via Uthukottai. Travel time is around 2 hours.
From Chittoor (120 km) – Direct buses and private vehicles can reach the temple in about 3 hours.

By Rail:

The nearest major railway station is Tirupati, with frequent trains from Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
From Tirupati, road transport (bus/taxi) is the best option to reach Surutupalle.

By Air:

Tirupati Airport (Renigunta) – 50 km away, with flights from Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai.
Chennai International Airport – 70 km away, ideal for international and domestic travelers.

Pilgrimage Tips

Best Time to Visit: February during Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavams, especially on Feb 15 (Mahashivartri night).
Stay Options: Lodges and guest houses are available in Uthukottai and Tirupati. For better facilities, Chennai or Tirupati are recommended.
Festival Days: Expect heavy crowds during Brahmotsavams. Arrive early to secure darshan and participate in vahana sevas.
Dress Code: Traditional attire is preferred—men in dhoti/kurta, women in saree/salwar.