Mahashivratri, the “Great Night of Shiva,” is one of the most significant festivals dedicated to Lord Shiva. In 2026, this auspicious night will be observed with great devotion across India, including in the Tirupati region, which is home to several ancient and powerful Shiva temples.
Maha Shivaratri 2026 Date and Tithi
- Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
- Nishita Kaal Puja Muhurat (Most Auspicious Time): 12:05 AM to 12:55 AM on Feb 16 (Duration: 50 minutes)
- Chaturdashi Tithi Begins: 3:22 AM on February 15, 2026
- Chaturdashi Tithi Ends: 12:47 AM on February 16, 2026
Key Shiva Temples in and around Tirupati
While Tirumala is synonymous with Lord Venkateswara, the region holds profound significance for Shaivites. Here are the primary Shiva temples where devotees gather on Maha Shivaratri:
| Temple | Location & Key Feature |
|---|---|
| Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple | At the foot of Tirumala hills near Alipiri, Tirupati. Features a Swayambhu Lingam and the sacred Kapila Theertham waterfall. |
| Parasurameswara Swamy Temple | In Gudimallam, ~20 km from Tirupati. One of India’s oldest temples (2nd-3rd century BCE) with a unique early Lingam form. |
| Pallikondeswara Temple | In Surutupalle, Tirupati district. Unique for its idol of Lord Shiva in a reclining posture on Goddess Parvati’s lap. |
| 11-Feet Shiva Lingam | Near Namuna Aalayam Temple on Zoo Park Bypass Road, Tirupati. Notable for its large size. |
Primary Shiva Temple in the Region
The Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple is the foremost and most significant Shiva temple in the Tirumala-Tirupati area. Managed by TTD, this ancient temple is built at the entrance of a mountain cave and is the main center for Shaivite worship. It attracts thousands of devotees during Maha Shivaratri and the holy month of Karthika Masam.
Fasting, Rituals & Celebration
- Fasting (Vrat): Devotees observe a day-long strict fast, often without water (Nirjala), or consume fruits and milk (Phalahar). The fast is broken after the Nishita Kaal puja the next day.
- Four Prahar Puja: The night is divided into four quarters (Prahar). Devotees perform Abhishekam (ritual bath) with water, milk, honey, and bel leaves, chant the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra or “Om Namah Shivaya,” and offer Bilva leaves to the Shiva Lingam throughout the night.
- Jagaran: Staying awake all night (Jagaran) in devotion, listening to hymns and stories of Lord Shiva, is a key practice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is Maha Shivaratri on Feb 15 or 16 in 2026?
The festival is on Sunday, February 15, 2026. However, the most important Nishita Kaal puja time falls in the early hours of Monday, February 16.
Q2: What is the most important temple for Shivaratri in Tirupati?
The Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple at the foothills near Alipiri is the primary and most significant Shiva temple in the region.
Q3: What is the best time to perform puja?
The Nishita Kaal (12:05 AM to 12:55 AM on Feb 16) is the most auspicious time. However, puja can be performed during all four quarters of the night.
Q4: What are the main offerings?
Performing Abhishekam with water, milk, and other sacred items, and offering Bel leaves (Bilva Patra) are considered most sacred.
Q5: Can I visit the Gudimallam temple easily from Tirupati?
Yes, the ancient Parasurameswara Swamy Temple in Gudimallam is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Tirupati and makes for a highly recommended pilgrimage, especially on Maha Shivaratri.
