Srikalahasteeswara Temple

Said to have been built in the 5th century, Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple is situated in the holy city of Sri Kalahasti near Tirupati and is dedicated to God Of Vayu who was an incarnation of Lord Shiva. In fact, Kalahasti is said to be the only shrine for God Of Vayu. A 36.5m huge gopuram towering over the site and built by Sri Krishnadevaraya is the highlight of the holy complex.

Ancient Sanskrit and Tamil sources referred to Sri Kalahasti as 'Kailash of the South' because of the small hill adjoining the temple premises and the small Swarna Mukhi river passing through the town symbolizing the mighty Ganga. The town itself is a municipality and the mandal headquarters of Srikalahasti mandal. Along with Tiruvannamalai, Thiruvanaikaval, Chidambaram and Kanchipuram, Sri Kalahasti is regarded as one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams of Lord Shiva. Planning a trip to this town should be preferred in winters as the summers often soar to a whopping 42 - 45 degrees Celsius.