Based on the poster provided, here is a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of the Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavam 2026 celebrations at the Srikalahasti Temple.

1. Event Overview

• Event Name: Maha Shivaratri Brahmotsavamulu – 2026
• Location: Sri Kalahastiswara Swamy Vari Devasthanam, Srikalahasti, Tirupati District, Andhra Pradesh.
• Duration: 13 Days
• Dates: From February 10, 2026 (Tuesday) to February 23, 2026 (Monday).

2. Key Schedule of Events

The poster highlights specific auspicious events occurring on key dates during the festival.

Date	Day	Time	Event	Description
Feb 10, 2026	Tuesday	2:55 PM	Kannappa Dhwajarohanam	The ceremonial flag hoisting marking the start of the festival.
Feb 15, 2026	Sunday	9:30 PM	Maha Shivaratri Nandi Seva	A procession involving the sacred Nandi vehicle on the holy night of Shivaratri.
Feb 16, 2026	Monday	10:00 AM	Rathotsavam	The grand Chariot Festival procession.
Feb 16, 2026	Monday	8:00 PM	Teppotsavam	The Float Festival (usually held in the temple tank/river).
Feb 18, 2026	Wednesday	3:00 AM	Kalyanotsavam	The celestial wedding ceremony (Note: This starts late Tuesday night/early Wednesday morning).
Feb 19, 2026	Thursday	All Day	Kailasa Giri Pradakshinam	Circumambulation of the holy Kailasa hill.
Feb 21, 2026	Saturday	8:00 PM	Pallaki Seva	The Palanquin service/procession.

3. Travel & Pilgrim Tips for Next Week

Since you are looking at this right now (Feb 4, 2026), here are some immediate tips:

• Crowd Alert: Expect peak crowds from Feb 14 (Saturday) through Feb 16 (Monday). The queue for darshan on Shivaratri night (Feb 15) can take 10+ hours.
• Rahu-Ketu Pooja: This is the most famous pooja at this temple. However, during the Brahmotsavam (especially Shivaratri days), Arjitha Sevas (paid poojas) like Rahu-Ketu Pooja may be restricted or cancelled to accommodate the general rush for Darshan. Check with the temple office (08578-222240) before planning a specific pooja.
• Accommodation: If you haven’t booked a room in Srikalahasti yet, it is likely full. Look for accommodation in Tirupati (36 km away) or Renigunta, which have frequent bus connectivity to Srikalahasti.
• Dress Code: Traditional wear is strictly enforced during Sevas and typically expected for Darshan (Dhoti/Kurta for men, Saree/Chudidhar for women)

For the Kailasa Giri Pradakshinam scheduled for February 19, 2026 (Thursday), here is the detailed route information.

This is a significant ritual similar to the Girivalam in Arunachalam, known as Dakshina Kailasa Giri Pradakshinam.

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Route Details

• Total Distance: Approximately 21 km to 25 km.
• Duration: It typically takes 5 to 7 hours to complete by foot.
• Path: The route circumambulates the holy Kailasagiri Hill, which is considered the form of Lord Shiva himself.

Key Landmarks & Route Map

The path covers 44 Theerthams (holy water bodies) and several small shrines. While the exact turn-by-turn map is often guided by temple volunteers and signage during the festival, the standard route follows this flow:

1. Starting Point:
   • Srikalahasteeswara Temple Main Entrance (Gali Gopuram): Devotees usually start here after offering prayers to the Dhwajasthambam.
2. Major Landmarks on the Path:
   • Bharadwaja Theertham: Located near the temple, this is one of the first major holy spots.
   • Panagal: The route passes through the outskirts towards Panagal.
   • Kailasagiri Hill Views: Throughout the walk, you will see the hill on your right. A major attraction recently added is the huge idol of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati atop the hill, visible from many points on the route.
   • Theerthams: You will pass designated spots like Indra Theertham, Bhoota Narayana, and ancient Samadhis (like Jnana Desika Samadhi) as identified in spiritual route maps.
   • Return: The path circles back into Srikalahasti town, ending back at the Temple.

Is Veyyi Lingala Kona on the route?

Since you previously asked about Veyyi Lingala Kona, it is important to note:

• Veyyi Lingala Kona is located about 7-8 km away from the main temple town.
• It is NOT typically part of the standard walking Giri Pradakshinam route (which hugs the hill closer to town).
• Recommendation: If you wish to visit Veyyi Lingala Kona (famous for its waterfall and healing properties), plan to do it by vehicle (auto/taxi) on a different day (e.g., Feb 17th or 20th) or before starting the walk, as it requires a separate detour.

Important Tips for Feb 19th

• Timing: Start early! Since the event is on Thursday, devotees will likely start walking in the very early hours (3:00 AM – 5:00 AM) to avoid the midday sun, or in the evening (sunset).
• Footwear: Traditionally, this is done barefoot. The roads are generally paved (tar roads) but can be rough on the feet over 25 km.
• Hydration: Water stations and buttermilk distribution are usually set up by volunteers along the route during the Brahmotsavams.