Step Into The Land of Enchantment
Nestled amidst the lush green hills of Eastern Ghats, lies the enchanting Tirumala, a quaint town where the air sizzles with spirituality and tranquility. In addition to being the home to the iconic Lord Venkateswara Temple, this vibrant town is full of culture, historical significance, and breathtaking landscapes that are bound to leave you spellbound and awe-struck.
While the majestic Tirumala temple draws millions of pilgrims from across the globe, this beautiful town is the home to many other places of spiritual enchantment. Let us explore 10 spiritual spots in and around Tirumala, apart from the Tirumala Balaji Temple.
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1. Swami Pushkarini
Swami Pushkarini is a sacred pond that is considered a tranquil part of Tirumala Balaji Temple. According to legend, Swami Pushkarini is believed to have been created by Lord Vishnu himself, and can help rid people of sins and tribulations. It is also believed that Lord Venkateswara took a bath in Swami Pushkarini after slaying the demon king Hiranyakashipu, to absolve his sin. As this pond carries a lot of spiritual enchantment in its core, a dip in the pond is considered as an integral part of the prayer rituals.
2. Akasa Ganga
Akasa Ganga has a way of soothing your mind with the glorious sound of water cascading down the rocks. It is a natural spring situated about 3 KMs from Tirumala. It is believed to have been created by Lord Vishnu by using his Sudarshan Chakra to split open a rock. The water is believed to have medicinal properties, and several small shrines surround the area. Spend a few hours at Akasa Ganga, and enrich your mind with serene enchantment.
3. Papavinasanam
5 KMs from the Tirumala temple, Papavinasam is a waterfall that is believed to have the power to wash away one’s sins. As per legend, Lord Vishnu freed himself from the sin of killing the demon king Hiranyaksha, by bathing in Papavinasanam. The lush scenery and the harmonious cascading water has a way of soothing your mind and soul.
4. Silathoranam
Declared a national geo-heritage monument by the Geological Survey of India, Silathoranam is a natural rock formation that resembles the arch of a serpent hood and a conch. Legend has it that Lord Venkateswara gave darshan to a saint through the arch. So, it is believed that devotees who pass through the arch are blessed with good fortune and eternal bliss. It is a tranquil spot that is surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountain ranges.
5. Sri Vari Museum
Carrying spiritual heritage and culture within its doors, Sri Vari Museum is located inside the temple complex of Tirumala Balaji Temple. The beautifully preserved and presented exhibits take you on an enraptured journey through the history of Tirumala and the Tirumala Balaji Temple. You will get glimpses of the architectural significance of the temple, the rituals and customs practiced, the majestic jewellery that are worn by the presiding deities on special occasions, and the inspiring people who shaped the destiny of this beautiful abode.
6. Japali Teertham
Located about 6 KMs from Sri Venkateswara Balaji Temple, Japali Teertham is a beautiful waterfall amidst forest greens. It is named after Sage Japali who is believed to have achieved salvation by meditating on the spot. Considered sacred, this tranquil waterfall is believed to wash away sins and bring about positivity and prosperity. Legend has it that Lord Shiva appeared in the spot to bless Sage Japali – so a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva takes pride of place.
7. Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Vignan Mandiram
Established by Swami Rama in 1971, Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Vignan Mandiram is a meditation center for self realisation and spiritual enlightenment. This center offers a variety of programs and courses designed to help people deepen their understanding of spirituality and the nuances of harmonious coexistence. Devotees throng this center to participate in meditation retreats, yoga classes, and various workshops on spiritualism.
8. Sitamma Theertham
firewood one day, Lord Rama and Sita Devi passed by and she offered them water to quench their thirst. After thanking her, Lord Rama struck the ground with his bow and brought about a spring of water to bless her. The water body that resulted is known as Sitamma Theertham, and it is considered a sacred spot to seek spiritual salvation. As it is located near Sri Kodandarama Swamy temple, a dip in this water body is believed to cure diseases and alleviate sins.
9. Sri Hathiramji Mutt
Named after Hathiram Baba, the greatest saint who carried an ardent devotion for Lord Venkateswara, this mutt enchants with its unique architecture and a serene aura. The mutt has beautiful shrines dedicated to many gods and goddesses, and is actively involved in enriching the community with different social and cultural activities. A visit to this mutt can tune your mind towards a harmonious take on life.
10. Vaikunta Theertham
Vaikunta Theertham is a sacred water body which is about 5 KMs away from the Tirumala Balaji Temple. As per legend, Lord Venkateswara rested on the banks of this Teertham, while traveling towards his heavenly abode of Vaikunta. It believed that while he rested on the banks, he blessed the water body with his divine grace. Devotees believe that a dip in this water body can purify their body and soul, and consider this dip as an important ritual during Vaikunta Ekadasi festival. As this Theertham is surrounded by lush greenery, this beautiful spot is also considered a tranquil picnic destination.
The sacred 7 hills nestle a lot of magic, spiritual enchantment, and tranquility in their midst. If you are planning to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara, plan for a spiritually charged tirumala trip encompassing visits to these beautiful spots too.. We hope you enjoy an auspicious pilgrimage with your loved ones, and carry wonderful memories for your lifetime!
