Kaal Sarp Dosha Checker
Check if all planets are trapped between Rahu–Ketu in your birth chart — instant Vedic analysis
* Birth time improves accuracy of Rahu–Ketu house placement
What is Kaal Sarp Dosha?
Kaal Sarp Dosha (or Kaal Sarp Yoga) forms when all seven main planets (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn) are hemmed between Rahu and Ketu — the north and south lunar nodes — on one side of the chart. The word “Kaal” means time, and “Sarp” means serpent; the name comes from the visual metaphor of planets trapped between the jaws of a celestial serpent.
The dosha can manifest as obstacles, unexpected delays, mental restlessness, and a persistent “why is this happening to me?” feeling. But it isn't automatically bad — many highly successful people have this yoga in their charts. Rahu is a hidden force that demands effort but can also produce disproportionate rewards.
The 12 Types of Kaal Sarp Dosha
Each type is named after a serpent deity based on Rahu's house position, which influences a specific area of life:
| # | Type | Rahu in | Primary Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anant | 1st | Personality, confidence, decisions |
| 2 | Kulik | 2nd | Speech, family, wealth |
| 3 | Vasuki | 3rd | Siblings, courage, communication |
| 4 | Shankhapal | 4th | Home, mother, peace of mind |
| 5 | Padma | 5th | Children, education, creativity |
| 6 | Mahapadma | 6th | Enemies, illness, legal disputes |
| 7 | Takshak | 7th | Marriage, partnerships |
| 8 | Karkotak | 8th | Longevity, sudden gains/losses |
| 9 | Shankhnaad | 9th | Fortune, dharma, father |
| 10 | Ghatak | 10th | Career, reputation |
| 11 | Vishakta | 11th | Gains, friendships, desires |
| 12 | Sheshnag | 12th | Expenses, foreign, moksha |
Full vs Partial Dosha
Full Kaal Sarp Dosha: All 7 planets on one side of the Rahu-Ketu axis. Strongest effect.
Partial Kaal Sarp Dosha: Most planets (5-6) on one side, but one or two on the other. Moderate effect — often the dosha is considered “broken” or significantly weakened.
If key planets are exalted, in their own signs, or receive strong benefic aspects from Jupiter or Venus, the negative interpretation softens considerably. A strong Dasha lord can also bypass the dosha's restrictions.
Note: This is a classical interpretation. Rather than fixating on any single yoga, a full chart reading (Lagna, Dasha, yogas together) gives far better guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I be afraid of Kaal Sarp Dosha?▾
No. Many highly successful and famous people have this yoga in their charts. It demands sustained effort but can deliver extraordinary results. Fear and constant worry do more damage than the dosha itself.
Is the Kaal Sarp Shanti Puja necessary?▾
Traditionally, Shanti Puja is performed at Trimbakeshwar, Kalahasti, or Ujjain. It's not mandatory — it depends on personal belief and the advice of a qualified astrologer. Sincere daily practices can be equally effective.
Do gemstones help with Kaal Sarp?▾
Hessonite (Gomed) for Rahu and Cat's Eye (Lehsunia) for Ketu are classical recommendations — but only on the advice of a qualified astrologer. The wrong stone worn by an unsuitable chart can worsen things.
Is this dosha inherited by children?▾
No. Every horoscope is cast independently based on the individual's birth details. Kaal Sarp Dosha is not genetic or inherited.
How accurate is this calculator?▾
Our engine uses VSOP87 planetary theory with Lahiri Ayanamsa — the same precision standard used by professional astrologers. For best accuracy, provide exact date, time, and place of birth.