The sacred tale of the hill temple
We are pretty sure that the Tirumala Balaji Temple is a nostalgic part of your memories.
A yearly family pilgrimage tour to Tirumala Venkateswara Temple complete with auspicious early morning darshans and laddu prasadam has a way of rejuvenating the mind and powering the body to take on the rest of the year in wonderful spirits.
Revered as Bhuloka Vaikuntam, Tirumala is the abode of Lord Venkateswara, the manifestation of Lord Vishnu who is known to carry a divine love towards the universe.
Seen as an epitome of spiritual enlightenment and heartfelt salvation, Lord Venkateswara is considered a powerful guiding light for devotees to find a harmonious balance in life.
As an iconic part of the rich heritage and culture of India, this majestic temple finds a mention in many Hindu scriptures. And rightfully so as this divine land encompasses many miracles and positive aura in its folds.
Sapthagiri – Tirumala Hill
Though there are Venkateswara temples in all parts of our heritage rich country, there is a special significance associated with Lord Venkateswara temple situated in the Tirumala Hill.
Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple is perched on top of 7 hills which are collectively called as Sapthagiri. ‘saptha’ denotes the number 7 and ‘Giri’ means a mountain summit. Lord Venkateswara who is the presiding lord of the sacred Sapthagiri hill, is also called as Sapthagirinivasa.
Sapthagiri with its 7 summits is seen as representing the saptarishis, the seven sages who represent divine knowledge and blissful salvation. Some see these 7 hills as a representation of the 7 heads of lord Vishnu’s beloved perch Adisesha. So, this spiritual land is also known as Seshachalam.
The seven summits are known as Vrishabhadri, Anjanadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Seshadri, Narayanadri, and Venkatadri. Each summit has a beautiful cultural association with our Hindu scriptures and a spiritual significance. The revered Balaji temple is situated on Venkatadri, the seventh peak.
To catch a glimpse of the golden feet of Lord Venkateswara, a devotee has to cross 7 peaks of the Tirumala Hill. So, this spiritual abode is also called ‘The Temple of Seven Hills’.
This divine land of Saptarishis has the immense power to steer our souls to reach the higher planes of enlightenment. The immense positive vibes and the beautiful aura of this land is sure to leave you in a tranquil abyss of harmony.
That is why a pilgrimage to Tirumala is seen as an ultimate surrender to the greatness of the almighty! We have the best Tirumala temple darshan plans to assist you towards enjoying a beautiful darshan to enrich your life. Be it a family trip or the trip for mundan, the pilgrimage to Tirumala is sure to add tranquil vibes to your life.
Tirupati – The Land of Salvation
Here is everything you need to know
Journey to Tirupati
Tirupati is well-connected to most Indian cities. You can choose your convenient mode of transport – Bus, Train, or flight.
Indian railways have a rich network of trains that connect to Tirupati main railway station. If you choose air transport, there are flights from most Indian cities to reach the Tirupati Domestic airport.
The nearest airport is the Renigunta airport. The nearest international airport is situated in Chennai. Tirupati airport is well on its way to being upgraded to international airport. This will pave the way for easy access to the timeless land of Tirumala.
Planning a visit to Tirumala Temple can be organised by any of the tour operators in your city.
Once you reach Tirupati
Reaching Tirupati is only the first jaunt of your journey. Lord Balaji resides in the spiritually charged Tirumala.
Tirupati To Tirumala by Foot
If you are planning to reach tirumala by foot, you have two stone paths to choose from: Alipiri Mettu and Srivari Mettu.
1. Alipiri Mettu –
- Distance: 11 km
- Approximate Step Count: 3550 steps ·
- Estimated Time to Reach: 3 to 5 hours (depending on individual pace)
- Opening Time: 4 AM to 10 PM
- You can leave your luggage at the base of the hills and collect it from the GNC free luggage counter in Tirumala.
2. Srivari Mettu –
- Distance: 2 km
- Approximate Step Count: 2388 steps
- Estimated Time to Reach: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on individual pace)
- Opening Time: 6 AM to 4 PM
- You can leave your luggage at the base of the hills and collect it from the MBC free luggage counter in Tirumala.
Note:Pilgrims using either the Alipiri or Srivari Mettu route, can conveniently access the following amenities:
- Toilets
- Free drinking water
- Rest shelters
- Medical assistance
- Annaprasadham stops
- Security personnel
- Broadcast of religious programs along the way
How to reach Alipiri or Srivari Mettu
To reach Alipiri or Srivari Mettu, there are convenient bus options available from Tirupati railway station or bus station. These transportation choices include:
- Free buses run by Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam
- Buses run by Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation
Additionally, here are the distances from key locations:
- Tirupati Bus stand to Alipiri Mettu: 4.3 KM
- Tirupati Railway Station to Alipiri Mettu: 3.3 KM
- Tirupati Bus Stand to Srivari Mettu: 21.2 KM
- Tirupati Railway Station to Srivari Mettu: 16.8 KM
Tirupati to Tirumala by Road
Ghat Roads Between Tirupati and Tirumala
1. Uphill Route (Tirupati to Tirumala):
The uphill ghat road journey from Tirupati to Tirumala spans approximately 17.80 kilometers. This route winds through the hills, characterized by steep inclines and sharp hairpin bends, providing not only a path but also scenic vistas for travelers.
2. Downhill Route (Tirumala to Tirupati):
For the downhill ghat road journey from Tirumala to Tirupati, the distance is approximately 18.00 kilometers. This route takes pilgrims and visitors back from the higher elevation of Tirumala to the foothills of Tirupati.
APSRTC Bus Services
The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates regular bus services between Tirupati and Tirumala, providing convenient and economical travel options throughout the day. Pilgrims can also obtain return journey tickets in Tirupati, which are valid for three days from the date of purchase, offering both time and cost savings for travelers.
Taxis and Cabs
Taxis and cabs are readily available in Tirupati for those who prefer a more private mode of transportation. You can hire a taxi for a one-way trip or for a round-trip between Tirupati and Tirumala.
Shared Taxis
Shared taxis or "shared cabs" are also a popular option. These taxis are shared by multiple passengers who are heading in the same direction. They can be cost-effective and provide flexibility in terms of departure time.
Personal Vehicles
If you have your own vehicle, you can drive from Tirupati to Tirumala. The ghat road is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it relatively easy to navigate.
Safety and Travel Restrictions:
Pilgrims are urged to adhere to travel time restrictions on the ghat roads to ensure their safety. Generally, the ghat roads are open from 3:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
Assistance and Emergency Services:
If ever a vehicle breakdown or an accident occurs on the ghat roads, pilgrims can seek assistance using the following contact details:
- For vehicle assistance: 0877-2263636 or 9000503089
- Ambulance: 108
Note: Standard service charges apply*
Once you reach Tirumala
Free Accommodation
There are large choultries with free rooms available for families. Electricity and water are provided free of cost. Please contact the Central Reception Office near Tirumala bus stand. Please take note that there might be long queues to tackle.
The room allotment is
- Purely based on availability
- First come – first service basis
- Valid photo identity is mandatory for room booking
- Allotted only for 24 hours (no extension under any circumstances)
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam also provides Dormitory Halls to rest. There are also guest houses available at affordable prices. Mostly the prices are as low as Rs 50 – Rs 200/person/day for a basic accommodation.
You can also pre-book accommodations/guest houses online from tirumala.org (with valid photo IDs).
Annaprasadham
Sri Venkateswara Annaprasadham trust is serving free beverages and annaprasadams to the pilgrims. To ensure that none of the pilgrims go without food, there are various spots where annaprasadham is distributed all through the day.
Tirumala
- Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba Annaprasada complex
- Vaikuntam Q complex – I & II compartments
- Galigopuram (Footpath)
- Food counters in
- Rambagicha bus stand
- Central Reception office
- Pilgrim amenities complex – I
- HVC bus stop
- Anjanadri Nagar cottages maintained by TTD
Tirupati
- Srinivasam complex
- Vishnu Nivasam complex
- Government/TTD hospitals
- II N.C & III N.C
Tiruchanur
- S.V Annaprasadham
Kalyanakatta
This is the place to fulfill your tonsuring vow. 1000+ barbers are working in the main and 9 mini kalyanakattas (in important places in Tirumala) to perform tonsures free of cost
The main Kalyanakatta building has 4 big tonsure halls with comfortable platforms for both barber and the pilgrim. There are convenient waiting halls and a well-organised queue system in place to make your mundan ceremony easy.
Computer generated tokens are issued to the pilgrims coming in for tonsure.
- Antiseptics mixed with water are applied to head before tonsuring
- Bathrooms with geysers are available in-house
- No pre-booking available
In the Main Kalyanakatta, there are 4 shifts.
- 3 A.M – 9 A.M
- 9 A.M – 3 P.M
- 3.P.M – 9 P.M
- 9 P.M – 3 A.M
Medical Facilities
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam maintains several hospitals and dispensaries in Tirupati, Tirumala, and Tiruchanoor.
24/7 medical assistance is available for pilgrims along the Alipiri and Srivarimettu footpaths.
Free medical aid for all pilgrims at Tirumala – Aswini hospitals (near Seshadri Nagar).
Pilgrim services
A pilgrimage to Tirumala is seen as a spiritually charged pursuit of happiness and prosperity. The Tirupati Devasthanam board has the right kind of pilgrim services to enrich you.
Sarvadarshanam/Free Darshan
Sarvadarshanam means ‘Darshan for all’
You will get a glimpse of the divine lord totally free of cost. You can book online by entering your mobile number. Once you choose the desired date and time, you can procure your token by providing your aadhar card/voter ID and vaccination certificate to the temple officials on the specified date.
The entrance to this darshan is through the Vaikuntam Queue Complex. Devotional programs and music are relayed through the CCTV. TTD officers will attend to complaints and regulate queues.
Sheegra Darshan
To facilitate a faster darshan, TTD provides special entry darshan and a single laddu prasadam at Rs 300/person. The tickets can be procured on the premises around the clock or booked online. If you missed pre-booking, you can procure your tickets 3 hours prior to the Darshan slot, provided slots are available.
Children under 12 years of age get free darshan, if age proof is provided.
Note: Sarvadarshanam and Sheegra Darshan pilgrims are provided with free amenities while awaiting their Darshan.
- Annaprasadham
- Milk, Coffee, & Tea in 3-hour intervals
- Free medical assistance
- Hygienic Toilets
- RO filter water
Privilege Darshan
In the eyes of god we are all one. So, Privilege Darshan helps senior citizens above the age of 65, physically challenged, and medically challenged devotees to have a free darshan without standing in the queue for a long time. The tokens can be booked online. The privilege darshan is stopped at times of heavy crowds. As only a certain number of pilgrims are allowed under this category, please check the official site of TTD in advance.
- Senior citizens must carry aadhar.
- Differently abled must carry Differently Abled Certificate provided by state/central government.
- People with medical conditions must carry a valid Medical Certificate issued by surgeon/specialist.
Things to take care during Darshan
- Printed copy of the online booking receipt.
- Valid photo IDs (used during booking) should be carried in person.
- Pilgrims with group tickets should report together.
Opening times
The temple is open from 2.30 AM to 12.45 AM. The different pilgrim services operate during pre-determined hours. The darshan tickets can be booked 3 months in advance.
Dress code
Though Tirupati is a famed tourist spot, the difference lies in the way the air sizzles with spiritual enchantment. To maintain the ambience, there is a traditional dress code to visit the temple.
Men – Dhoti/Pyjama with an angavastram covering the torso.
Women – Saree/Half-Saree/Chudidhar with dupatta.
Things to avoid in Tirumala
- Footwear around the premises of the temple.
- Sashtanga namaskaram (prostrating) inside the temple.
- Electronic gadgets, Mobile phones, excess luggage during Darshan.
- Throwing away the prasadam or Theertham.
- Non-vegetarian food.
- Smoking and intoxicating drinks.
- Headgears like helmets, caps, turbans.
- Violent or unruly behaviour.
- Queue jumping during Darshan.
- Wearing flowers (as the flowers of the sacred 7 hills are for lord Venkateswara alone).
- Carrying weapons and ammunitions.
Ways to respect the rules of the divine land
- Pay reverence to your family deity before embarking on your Tirumala pilgrimage.
- Bathe in Swami Pushkarini and pay respects at Sri Bhu Varahaswamy temple, before worshiping Lord Venkateswara.
- Please observe silence and let your mind embrace the spiritual experience by chanting ‘Om Namo Sri Venkatesaya’
- Respect fellow pilgrims and maintain decorum during Darshan Deposit offerings only in the Hundi.
- Follow the temple’s rules and be patient till it is time for your Darshan.
Best time to visit Tirupati Venkateswara temple
The winter months of November to February are considered ideal to visit Tirumala as the weather is pleasant. However, you can visit the almighty whenever your heart dictates. Do check the TTD website online to gauge the level of darshan bookings and plan accordingly.
Reaching the spiritual abode from Bangalore
By Bus – It's an overnight trip to Tirupati when traveling by bus. We have the most affordable daily Tirupati route buses to choose from and plan your journey.
By Train – It takes around 5.15 hours to reach Tirupati station.
By Air – It takes around 55 minutes by flight.
Places to visit in the vicinity
The Pilgrimage to Tirumala temple is a wholesome experience to unleash your inner mind and savour the beautiful darshan of lord Venkateswara. You can make more of your pilgrimage by visiting the attractions in and around Tirupati Balaji Temple.
Some of the must visit places are Swamy Pushkarini, Dharmagiri, Papavinasanam, Akasa Ganga waterfalls, Gogarbham Gardens, Temple Museum etc, to name a few.
Tirupati Pilgrimage for family
Any pilgrimage needs good planning, especially when it involves the family. When it comes to children and senior citizens, there are a lot of things to take care of to ensure a comfortable journey. We truly understand as we have organised well planned temple packages for scores of our customers. Their heartfelt testimonials give us the necessary boost to strive for excellence.
If you are looking to undertake a Tirumala pilgrimage from Bangalore, we offer comfortable and meticulously planned tours for families and individuals. Be it facilitating a Mundan ritual or organising any pilgrim services, we make sure that everything moves like clockwork.
We have strived our best to present you a beautiful glimpse of Tirupati, the divine land of salvation and harmony. We are ready to organise a blissful pilgrimage for you! Talk to our team today.
