Srikalahasti is situated near Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh State. The name Srikalahasti is derived from ‘Sri’ (spider), ‘Kala’ (snake) and ‘Hasti’ (elephant). It is famous for its arts and crafts, especially for the manufactures of “Kalamkari” or temple clothes and hangings. SriKalahasti temple is located 35 km away from Tirupathi in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. The architecture of this Temple is extraordinary. It has three massive Gopurams which are breathtaking. Srikalahasti temple comprises a huge Mantapam with hundred pillars, built by Krishnadevaraya during 1516 AD. It is another striking feature of the temple. Mahashivratri is the major festivals celebrated in Srikalahasti Temple. This festival is celebrated in the months of February and March for 10 days.
HOW TO REACH
By Air:-
Tirupati domestic airport is the nearest one, located 21 km from Kalahasti. Chennai international airport is 99 km from Kalahasti. Other Airports Bangalore and Vijayawada are quite far.
By Train:-
Sri Kalahsti railway station is located on Tirupati-Vijayawada line.
By Road:-
Srikalahasti is well connected by road, various state and private owned buses are available.
WHAT TO SEE
Sri Kalahastiswaraswamy Temple:-
Sri Kalahastiswaraswamy Temple is located 38 km away from Tirupathi. It is situated on the Tirupati-Nellore Highway and also known as ‘Dakshina Kailasa’ and ‘Dakshina Kasi. Maha Shivaratri is one of the greatest festivals celebrated in Srikalahasti temple. The huge compound of the temple has a large flower garden, eating places and a place for Vasanthotsavam.
Bharadwaja Tirtham:-
Bharadwaja Tirtham is located east of the Srikalahasti temple, amidst three hills. It is well-known for its pretty atmosphere and its impressive look. Bharadwaja Tirtham consists of one beautiful statue of Vinayaka. This Vinayaka idol in the middle of the tank is simply amazing and gives one with a grand impression. It is believed that during the Krita Yuga, Maharishi Bharadwaja meditated at this place.
Veyilingala Kona Waterfall:-
Veyilingala Kona Waterfall is located on the Sri Veyi Lingala Kona Hills and 8 km away from Srikalahasti. The word Veyilingala Kona in Telugu means ‘the valley of the thousand lingas’. The monsoon season is the best time for visiting this Veyilingala Kona Waterfall.
Durgambika Temple:-
Durgambika temple is one of the ancient temples in Srikalahasti. It is located to the north of Kalahastishwara Temple and is dedicated to Goddess Durgambika. This temple is situated at an altitude of 800 m. Visitors can have a grand glimpse of the entire area from this knoll.
SHOPPING:-
Srikalahasti is famous for Paintings. Visitors can buy many of these paintings at the shops near Sriramnagar Colony and the BP Agraharam. The second best buy at Srikalahasti are Srikalahasti Malady (common groundnuts), also known to be the major crop of the state. Tourists can buy Srikalahasti Malady from local shops.
FOOD:-
Srikalahasti temple is an important pilgrim place of India. Pilgrims and tourists have few facilities available as far as the food and eating joints are concerned. Sarvana’ and ‘Bhavan are two main eateries in Kalahasti, located opposite the temple. Bhimhans is another eating joint situated near the temple also serves delicious South Indian delicacies at reasonable price.