Hyderabad | February 12, 2026 – To facilitate a seamless pilgrimage for Maha Shivaratri, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has announced a massive deployment of 2,243 special buses. These services will connect devotees to 43 prominent Shaivite temples (Shaiva Kshetras) across the state from February 14 to February 16, 2026.
With the festival falling on Sunday, February 15, TGSRTC has increased its fleet by 208 buses compared to last year to handle the anticipated surge in temple visitors.
Major Pilgrimage Routes & Bus Allocation
TGSRTC has prioritized high-demand shrines, with the lion’s share of services dedicated to Srisailam and Vemulawada.
| Destination | Number of Special Buses |
| Srisailam | 781 |
| Vemulawada | 416 |
| Keesaragutta | 326 |
| Edupayala | 249 |
| Velala | 127 |
| Kaleshwaram | 71 |
| Other Shrines | 273 |
Other covered temples include Komuravelli, Alampur, Umamaheswaram, Palakurthi, and Ramappa.
Hyderabad Boarding Points for Srisailam & More
For devotees traveling from the capital, special services—particularly those heading to Srisailam—will be available at several key hubs:
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MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station)
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JBS (Jubilee Bus Station)
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CBS (Central Bus Station)
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IS Sadan
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KPHB (Kukatpally Housing Board)
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BHEL
Ticket Fares & Mahalakshmi Free Travel Scheme
Passengers should note the following pricing and scheme details for the festival period:
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Special Fare: As per government GO, fares for special buses will be 1.5 times the regular rate between Feb 14–16.
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Regular Services: Normal bus services will continue to operate at standard fares.
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Free Travel for Women: The Mahalakshmi Scheme remains fully active. Women can travel for free in Palle Velugu, Express, City Ordinary, and Metro Express categories. For special buses in these categories, women must obtain a “zero-value ticket” at the time of boarding.
How to Book & Contact Information
To avoid last-minute rushes, TGSRTC MD Y. Nagi Reddy has encouraged devotees to use the advance reservation facility.
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Online Booking: www.tgsrtcbus.in
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24/7 Helpline: 040-69440000 or 040-23450033
Traveler Tip: Look for clear “Special Bus” display boards at the stations. TGSRTC has also installed shamianas (tents), drinking water points, and seating areas at major boarding points to ensure comfort during the wait.
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