Kalahasti Temple is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site located in the town of Srikalahasti in Andhra Pradesh. It is renowned for its ancient Shiva temple and attracts devotees from all over India. Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is a common starting point for travelers heading to Kalahasti due to its connectivity and proximity.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Chennai to Kalahasti Temple. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and flights, along with practical tips to plan your journey confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Chennai to Kalahasti Temple – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is one of the most popular and convenient ways to reach Kalahasti from Chennai. The rail network connects Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore stations to Srikalahasti station, which is close to the temple.

• Trains depart regularly from Chennai Central and Chennai Egmore to Srikalahasti station, covering approximately 140 km in about 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on the train type and stops.

• Ticket fares range from ₹100 to ₹400 for second class to sleeper and 3AC classes, making it an affordable option for most travelers.

• Trains are generally comfortable, but during festival seasons like Maha Shivaratri, trains can get crowded, so booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended.

• Srikalahasti station is about 3 km from the temple; auto-rickshaws and local buses are available for the last-mile commute.

• Monsoon rains can sometimes cause minor delays, but trains remain a reliable choice year-round.

Bus

Buses offer a flexible and economical way to travel from Chennai to Kalahasti. Both government and private operators run services connecting the two places.

• State-run buses operated by APSRTC and TNSTC run from Chennai’s CMBT (Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus) to Srikalahasti, with journey times around 4 to 5 hours covering roughly 150 km.

• Bus fares typically range between ₹120 and ₹250 depending on the type of bus (ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo AC).

• Buses run frequently throughout the day, but early morning or late evening buses are less crowded and more comfortable.

• During festival times, buses can be very crowded, and seat availability may be limited, so booking tickets in advance online or at the bus station is advisable.

• Road conditions on NH16 are generally good, with several toll plazas; expect short stops for refreshments at highway dhabas.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Chennai to Kalahasti is a good option if you prefer flexibility and comfort. The route is well connected by national highways and offers scenic views.

• The distance by road is approximately 140 km via NH16 and SH61, with a typical drive time of 3.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Self-drive cars or taxis can be hired from Chennai, with fares ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 for a one-way trip, including tolls and fuel.

• The route passes through towns like Tada and Sullurpet, where you can stop for refreshments or fuel; several highway restaurants offer South Indian meals and snacks.

• Driving during early mornings avoids city traffic in Chennai and reduces travel time significantly.

• During monsoon, some stretches may have waterlogging or slow traffic, so check weather updates before starting your journey.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Kalahasti, but flying to nearby Tirupati Airport is an option for faster access, especially for travelers coming from far away.

• Chennai International Airport offers multiple daily flights to Tirupati Airport, which is about 36 km from Kalahasti Temple.

• Flight duration is around 45 minutes, with fares typically between ₹1,200 and ₹3,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• From Tirupati Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kalahasti, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by road.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at Tirupati Airport for convenient transfers.

• Flights may be less frequent during off-peak seasons, so check schedules and book tickets well in advance.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Chennai to Kalahasti Temple. It covers essential actions to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets online at least a week in advance, especially during festival seasons, to secure your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.

• Pack light but include essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a small first-aid kit, as some travel modes may have limited food options en route.

• Start your journey early in the morning to avoid Chennai city traffic and reach Kalahasti with enough daylight for temple darshan.

• On arrival at Srikalahasti station or bus stand, use prepaid auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs to reach the temple safely and at reasonable fares.

• Carry a valid photo ID for ticket verification and temple entry, and dress modestly as per temple customs to respect local traditions.

• Keep your mobile phone charged and have offline maps or directions handy, as network coverage may be patchy near the temple premises.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid or metered autos and cabs in Srikalahasti to avoid overcharging; negotiate fares beforehand if prepaid options are unavailable.

• Drink only bottled or filtered water during your travel to prevent stomach issues, especially if using buses or trains with limited hygiene facilities.

• Book tickets through official portals like IRCTC for trains and APSRTC for buses to ensure authenticity and avoid scams.

• Local transport options near the temple include auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws; avoid riding alone at night for safety reasons.

• Carry minimal luggage to ease movement, as the temple area can be crowded and parking space limited.

• During monsoon, carry rain gear and check weather forecasts to avoid travel disruptions caused by heavy rains or flooding on highways.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Kalahasti Temple from Chennai is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making travel and temple visits comfortable.

Avoid traveling during the peak summer months of April to June due to high temperatures and humidity, which can cause discomfort during long journeys.

• Festival periods like Maha Shivaratri and Kartik Purnima see heavy crowds and increased traffic; plan your travel well in advance or avoid these dates if you prefer less crowded visits.

• Monsoon season from July to September can cause occasional delays on roads and railways due to heavy rains and waterlogging.

• Early morning departures help avoid Chennai’s rush hour traffic and provide a quieter travel experience.

Arrival at Kalahasti & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Srikalahasti railway station or bus stand, you will find several options for local transport to reach the temple, which is about 3 km away. Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are commonly available.

Accommodation options are available near the temple and in the town, ranging from budget lodges to mid-range hotels. Staying close to the temple allows easy access for early morning darshan and participation in temple rituals.

Conclusion

Traveling from Chennai to Kalahasti Temple is straightforward with multiple transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Trains offer a balance of comfort and affordability, while buses provide frequent services for flexible travel. Driving gives you control over your schedule, and flying to Tirupati is useful for those coming from farther away.

Plan your journey by booking tickets in advance, starting early to avoid traffic, and preparing for seasonal weather conditions. With these tips, you can confidently make your pilgrimage to Kalahasti Temple and enjoy a smooth, fulfilling travel experience.