Kalahasti is a famous temple town located in Andhra Pradesh, about 38 km from Tirupati. It is well-known for the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple, attracting pilgrims from across India. Many travelers visit Kalahasti as part of their spiritual journey in South India.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to reach Kalahasti using different transport modes. You will learn about train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable.

Getting from Major Cities to Kalahasti – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical way to reach Kalahasti. The town has its own railway station, well connected to nearby cities like Tirupati and Chennai.

• Kalahasti Railway Station (station code: KHT) is on the Chennai-Tirupati line, about 38 km from Tirupati Junction, making it accessible for pilgrims traveling by train.

• Trains from Chennai Central to Kalahasti take around 3 to 4 hours, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on class, offering a comfortable journey with scenic views.

• Frequent passenger and express trains run daily, but during festival seasons like Maha Shivaratri, trains can get crowded, so booking in advance via IRCTC is advisable.

• The station is small but clean, with basic waiting areas; auto-rickshaws and taxis are available outside for last-mile connectivity to the temple or nearby hotels.

• Monsoon season may cause minor delays on this route, so plan extra time if traveling between June and September.

Bus

Buses are a convenient and affordable option for reaching Kalahasti, especially from Tirupati and nearby towns. Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates regular services.

• APSRTC buses run frequently from Tirupati bus station to Kalahasti, covering the 38 km distance in about 1 to 1.5 hours, with fares between ₹30 and ₹60.

• Private buses and shared autos also operate on this route, but state buses are more reliable and comfortable for long-distance travel.

• The main bus depot in Kalahasti is close to the temple, making it easy to reach on foot after arrival.

• During festival days, buses can be overcrowded; booking tickets a day in advance or traveling early morning helps avoid rush.

• Highways NH716 and SH61 connect Tirupati and Kalahasti, with several toll plazas en route; buses usually stop at rest points with food stalls serving local snacks.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Kalahasti offers flexibility and comfort, especially if you want to explore nearby attractions at your own pace. The roads are generally in good condition.

• The route from Tirupati to Kalahasti via NH716 is about 38 km and takes roughly 1 hour by car, with well-maintained roads and clear signboards.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be hired from Tirupati or Chennai; fares for a one-way taxi range from ₹1500 to ₹2500 depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• Parking near the temple is available but can get crowded during weekends and festivals, so arriving early is recommended.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available along the highway; carrying water and snacks is advisable for comfort during the drive.

• During monsoon months, some stretches may be slippery; drive cautiously and check weather updates before starting your journey.

Flight

The nearest airport to Kalahasti is Tirupati Airport, which connects to major cities like Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. Flights are suitable if you are coming from distant locations.

• Tirupati Airport is about 45 km from Kalahasti, and you can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach the town in about 1.5 hours.

• Flight fares vary widely, typically ₹2000 to ₹6000 one-way, depending on the city of origin and booking time.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate from Tirupati Airport, offering convenient last-mile connectivity to Kalahasti.

• Bus services from Tirupati Airport to the city are limited, so pre-booking a cab is recommended for hassle-free travel.

• Flight schedules may be affected during heavy rains or fog in winter; always check for updates before booking.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers to Kalahasti, helping you organize your journey smoothly from start to finish.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance via IRCTC or APSRTC portals to secure seats, especially during festival seasons when demand is high.

• If flying, book your flight early and arrange a prepaid taxi from Tirupati Airport to Kalahasti to avoid waiting or overpaying for cabs.

• Pack light but carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a power bank, as some transport modes may have limited refreshment options.

• Reach the departure point (railway station, bus stand, or airport) at least 30 minutes early to avoid last-minute rush and confirm your vehicle or seat.

• On arrival at Kalahasti, use local autos or taxis for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand or use app-based cabs for fair pricing.

• Plan your return journey similarly, keeping in mind local transport timings and availability, especially if traveling late in the evening.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a photo ID and keep digital copies of your tickets and ID on your phone, as these are often checked during train and bus travel in India.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your trip to avoid stomach issues; avoid street food unless it is freshly cooked and popular among locals.

• Book tickets online to avoid standing in long queues and to get confirmed seats, especially on trains and long-distance buses.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safer and more transparent local travel around Kalahasti and Tirupati.

• Pack your luggage securely and keep valuables close to you, as crowded transport hubs can attract pickpockets.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts; roads may be slippery and some transport services delayed.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kalahasti is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for temple visits. Summers can be hot, and monsoon rains may disrupt travel plans.

Festival periods like Maha Shivaratri see heavy crowds and traffic, so plan accordingly if you want to avoid congestion or enjoy the festive atmosphere.

• Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of April to June due to high temperatures often exceeding 40°C, which can be uncomfortable for long journeys.

• Monsoon season from June to September can cause road and rail delays; landslides are rare but possible on some routes.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic and reach Kalahasti comfortably before noon.

• During major festivals, book transport and accommodation well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

Arrival at Kalahasti & What to Expect

When you arrive at Kalahasti Railway Station or bus depot, you will find several auto-rickshaws and taxis waiting to take you to the temple or your hotel. The town is small, and most places are within a short drive.

Accommodation options range from budget lodges near the temple to mid-range hotels a few kilometers away. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are available for safe and convenient local travel. Walking is also an option if your stay is close to the temple area.

Conclusion

Traveling to Kalahasti is straightforward with multiple options available. Train travel is economical and scenic, while buses offer frequent and affordable services. Driving by car gives flexibility, and flights to Tirupati Airport are best for distant travelers.

Plan your trip by booking tickets early, especially during festivals, and use prepaid or app-based cabs for local transport. With these tips, you can confidently enjoy your spiritual journey to Kalahasti without stress or confusion.