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Tirupati Travel Guide 2022 | Tirumala Travel Blog by Shravya

Tirupati Travel Guide – A travel guide to the abode of Lord Venkateswara. One of the richest and holiest Dham in the world. One of my favorite pilgrim destinations in India, this hill town is known for its devotional and cultural heritage. As we all know, yearly, millions of devotees visit this holy Dham from across the world.

A common confusion among pilgrims is Tirupathi and Tirumala are the same. Tirupathi is a town in Andhra Pradesh’s Chittoor district. Whereas Tirumala is the seven hills situated in Tirupathi. Tiru means Shree and Mala mean hill, it’s a Tamil word.

Journey to Abode of Lord Venkateswara

A few years back before the pandemic, I went on a pilgrimage trip to Tirumala along with my family. After crossing Tirupathi town which is crowded most of the time, we came to the entrance of Seven hills.

The majestic white color statue of Garuda (Vehicle of Lord Vishnu)welcomes the pilgrims with folded hands. Here, at the Alipiri check post, all the vehicles have to go through checking, like any other place in India.

Tirupati to Tirumala Trip

Here you need to buy a ghat road travel ticket which is quite affordable. The main intention of issuing tickets is to monitor the time a vehicle takes to reach Tirumala. However, each vehicle has to take at least 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the exit point to avoid accidents on Ghats.

At the entry point, they register the vehicle name along with the time they are entering. The same will be checked at the exit point before allowing the vehicle into Tirumala.

Travel time from Banglore to Tirumala approximately around 5 hours by car. There are no direct bus services to Tirumala. You need to take the bus to Tirupathi, catch another bus from Tirupathi, or hire taxi jeeps to Tirumala.

There are numerous taxi services available to Tirumala from Tirupathi town. From Chennai, it takes around 3 hours by car, whereas by bus around 3hours 30 minutes. If you are coming by road to Tirupati from Chennai, please check out these temples to visit from Chennai to Tirupati .

Stay and Darshan ticket at Tirumala

Getting a rest/guest house and Darshan ticket on time used to be very difficult a few years back. However, TTD, the governing board made it easy for pilgrims by making ticket booking online. I personally advise those who are planning to visit the abode of Lord Venkateswara to make sure you book tickets prior.

Another advantage is that they can select the Seva which they want to perform for the god. If there are no slots available, then you can visit the nearby TTD temple board in your area and book through them. You can even make online donations as well.

The guest house we stayed at during our visit was very comfortable and had a beautiful view from the balcony. The roads were so clean you can even walk without footwear.

If you are looking for some luxury stay, you can opt for Balaji Guest home, Aditya Birla Nilayam, Lakshmi VPR guest home, Tirumala Sainik Niwas. These guest houses’ price range starts from 2500 – 3000 rupees.

TTD made things easy for devotees. Open the TTD office site, select pilgrim services in that select rest houses. You will find the price range for different rest houses. Then, go for advance booking and book your selected rooms.

Climbing seven hills on foot and free Darshana

Many people pray to God that, if their wish comes true they climb seven hills on foot and have his Darshan. For this, there is a separate route where you need to climb approximately 3500 steps. Initially, the climb will be quite painful, but as you progress in your journey you find small roads for around 1km followed by broader steps to climb.

The best thing is that the steps are covered with sheets, so the pilgrims won’t feel the heat, unlike other temples in India. Besides this, here you find numerous snack shops where you can stop and have water and a light snack and resume your journey.

Free darshan ticket will be given to all the devotees who come to Tirumala through climbing steps. After finishing the tedious step climbing, pilgrims go to their reserved guest house and freshen up before they go for free darshan.

Another difficult task is here you need to stand in the queue for long hours. But the TTD members constantly supply water and food to devotees in the queue line for free. After the long tiring journey and you finally make it to the Lord’s abode (Temple sanctum), makes it feels worth going through the struggle.

The positive vibes and devotee shouting “Govinda Govinda” along with reverberating mantra chanting “Om Namo Venkateshaya”, bring goosebumps to devotees and for some tears with overwhelming devotion.

Dos and Don’ts at Tirumala

• Don’t carry any Non-veg or any kind of masala with you while traveling to the abode of Lord Venkateswara.
• Alcohol consumption or any other malpractices on hills are strictly prohibited.
• Flammable items, weapons, and fireworks are not allowed inside Tirumala
• Any kind of tobacco product is not allowed here.
• While going to Darshan devotees should wear only traditional dresses, applicable to both men and women.
• PDA on the hills is strictly prohibited.

Legend of Lord Venkateswara

The story is known to all but holds the power and love of Lord Vishnu. Once Maharishis were doing one Mahayajnam at the Naimishrayana. When the rishis were in dilemma as to whom they should give the Yajna Phalam among the trinity?

Narada Maharishi who happens to visit the place suggests Bhrigu Maharishi to find out which diety is the right recipient of the Yajna Phalam.

All the other maharishis who were present at the site accept this. Firstly, Bhrigu Maharishi visits Brahma Loka where the Lord of creation was immersed in the music played by Saraswathi Devi and was not aware of Bhrigu’s arrival.

This angered the Maharishi and he happens to Curse Lord Brahma that nobody on earth will pray for him. Then he visits Kalish where Lord Shiva and Parvathi Devi were enjoying their conjugal dance.

They didn’t notice the arrival of the Maharishi. As a result, this angered maharishi and he cursed Lord Shiva that people will worship him in Shiva Linga rupa on earth.

Later he goes to Vaikuntam, the abode of Lord Vishnu where Lord Vishnu spends his time with Lakshmi Devi lying on Adi shesha. Even Lord Vishnu didn’t notice Bhrigu Maharishi’s arrival. The enraged Maharishi in a fit of rage kicks on Lord Vishnu’s chest, a residence of Maa Lakshmi.

Lord Vishnu who understands the ignorance of Maharishis pacified him by asking him for forgiveness. As Lord touched Maharishi’s foot, the ignorance of the rishi was gone. Maharishi felt ashamed for his heinous act and asks for forgiveness.

The incarnation of Lord Venkateswara

But Lakshmi Devi who witnessed all these, boils with rage and leaves Vaikuntam and reaches Earth. Lord Vishnu who couldn’t stay away from Devi comes to earth in search of Lakshmi Devi.

He incarnates as Venkateswara swami and marries Padmavathi Devi. Lord stayed on Tirumala hills along with Padmavathi Devi and Lakshmi Devi to bless and protect his devotees.

Silathornam

Can you believe this rock arch formation has been existent for around 2500 million years? There are only three places you can find this type of arch formation. Some believe the height of the arch is the same as the height of the main idol in the temple.

I had fun here by clicking few photos with family. Luckily there were only a few pilgrims when we visited. Had a good time strolling in the rock garden. Also, went down the steps, to the cave temple.

Though there is not much to see, one can enjoy the forest and nature, it is better not to visit in the afternoon. The evening and morning are the best times to relax in the Rock Graden.

Srivari Padalu

Another must-visit place in Tirumala, Srivari Padalu is the place where Lord Venkateswara first kept his foot. The hilltop provides a panoramic view of the entire seven hills.

I never got a chance to enjoy the panoramic view of the hill at peace as it is always packed with pilgrims. Previously, the Padalu(Foot)of god used to be open now it is kept in a glass box so that no one will touch it.

Besides this, there are many other places to visit in the abode of Lord Venkateswara. If time permits visit Aksha Ganga. Tirumala is famous for its beauty and you find numerous parks to relax, and spend quality time in peace.

If you are a wildlife lover, visit Sri Venkateswara Wild sanctuary. Like to know about kings of this place and temple history then have a look at the museum. Also, don’t forget to visit Tiruchanur Temple of Alamelumanga, another name of Padmavathi Devi.

My experience at Tirumala

I never forget the evening walk in the semi-crowded street where you will be blessed with a pleasant cool breeze. The chanting of “Om Namo Venkateshaya” mantra reverberates the entire Tirumala.

This place makes me realize I’m a sensitive and very devotional person. Whenever I enter the main temple sanctum I always cry with overwhelmed devotion. The main idol captives the onlookers with its divine presence.

In between devotees shouting ‘Govinda’ with ecstasy and the powerful “Om Namo Venkatesya,” mantra sound always makes me experience a devotion that I never experienced.

• Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (Official Website)
• Silathoranam Tirupati, Timings, Entry Fee & History – Tirupati Tourism 2021

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10 comments.

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Very good article . Very detailed and informative .

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The “Tirupati Travel Guide 2022” by Shravya is an excellent resource for anyone planning a pilgrimage to one of India’s most revered spiritual destinations. It beautifully outlines the significance of Tirupati, home to the iconic Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, attracting millions of devotees every year.

The guide covers essential aspects such as the best times to visit, travel tips, and accommodation options, ensuring a smooth experience. Shravya’s insights into local customs, must-try foods, and the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding Tirupati enhance the overall experience. This travel blog not only serves as a practical guide but also ignites the spiritual essence of the journey, making it a must-read for pilgrims and travelers alike!

Very useful, blog, thank for sharing

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Tirupati Tourism And Travel Guide

Tirupati the spiritual centre of Andhra Pradesh , is notably one of the most predominant sacred places of India . Situated in the south of India, Tirupati which is popularly identified as Lower Tirupati is a vibrant city which has a number of ancient temples and forts and also serves as a busy thoroughfare for the majestic hills of the Eastern Ghats whose seven peaks rise up above the horizon over the city. The Seshachalam Hills on the northern side of Tirupati, whose peaks ascend at least 2,000 ft above msl are considered the hoods of the mythological snake Adi Sesha, who stands guard over his Lord Vishnu who is said to dwell in the seventh Hill called Venkadri.

There are several places of tourist interest in Tirupati, whence you could combine a spiritual tour with a holiday getaway into untamed nature with the most enchanting waterfalls, safaris into Nature reserves and treks up rugged wild slopes.

If you are planning a trip to Tirupati, our travel and tourism guide will help you plan a fine trip.

How to Reach

Tirupati is a major tourist centre and you are bound to have very good transport facilities to the city. The easiest way to reach Tirupati would be by train.

The nearest airport is the Tirupati International airport at Renigunta with flights from a few major cities like Hyderabad , Bengaluru and Chennai . The next closest airport is the Chennai airport that caters to domestic flights to most major Indian cities and international flights to London , Singapore , Frankfurt, Saudi Arabia, Kuala Lampur and Sri Lanka . You can hire a cab from here to Tirupati.

Tirupati Railway Station has trains chugging in from most major cities across the country. You could hire a tuk tuk or a cab from the railway station to your destination.

There are ample private and government run buses to Tirupati from most cities of the neighbouring states. You could also drive or hire a cab to Tirupati.

Getting Around:

There are local buses, auto rickshaws and cabs for travelling around the town. Tirupati is a well developed tourist township and you’d have no hassles getting around.

• How To Reach Tirupati

Weather and Best time to Visit

The best seasons do not really seem to matter for the pilgrims who visit Tirupati – Tirumala which seems busy through the year. As a trip to Tirupati would entail nature tours as well, it would be ideal if you could choose the right season.  The best season for a visit would be from June to October and December to February.

Summer (March – May):

Summers are crowded in Tirupati, no matter how the weather is. Summers are very hot and humid and not so touristy.

Monsoon (June – October):

Southwest monsoons are alright, but the northeast monsoon of October and November are heavy and travelling up the ghat road to Tirumala is difficult.

Winter (December – February):

December to February are cool, pleasant months and are most ideal for exploring the town, visiting the temples or going off on wild hilly treks.

• Tirupati Weather And Best Time To Visit Tirupati

Things to Do

Mythological Zoo:

Go off on an exciting lion and deer safari in the Sri Venkateshwara Zoological Park. The thematic zoo that provides information on its inhabitants and their role in mythology, encourages sponsoring for an animal of your choice. Visit the education centre for an in-depth information on the flora and fauna of Seshachalam Hills.

Prehistoric Life Park:

Prehistoric Life Park at the Regional Science Centre is a must visit for kids. The place has models of prehistoric man and animals and detailed information about each species.

Rayalacheruvu:

The picturesque Rayalacheruvu water tank is one of the best places in Tirupati for water sports as well as a relaxing getaway. Watch the sunrise or sunset at Rayalacheruvu, that’s located between two hills. Incidentally Rayalacheruvu is an ancient water tank built by King Krishnadeva Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Waterfalls and Treks:

Tirupati is loaded with bountiful surprises that nature could offer. Trek to the waterfalls and hills in and near Tirupati. Cascades like Talakona (65 km), Kailasa Kona (46 km) and Sadasiva Kona are some of the places you ought to visit. Check out the beautiful temples for Shiva and Parvathi at the foot of the Kailasa Kona and Sadasiva Kona (45 km) Falls.

Jungle Rides:

Get off on an organized safari ride through the dense forests of Andhra Pradesh to see the wild animals in their most natural habitats.

Meditation Centres:

Indulge in a few hours of serene contemplation in the meditation halls at the Sri Venkateshwara Museum and the Museum of Temple Art. Browse through the library which has a vast collection of books on philosophy, culture, religion, temple art and architecture.

Pulicat Lake:

If you are an avid bird watcher, visit the Pulicat Lake Sanctuary and the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary about 20 km from the Pulicat Lake to watch the varieties of aquatic animals and migratory birds that fly in from around the world by October to build nests, lay their eggs and fly back home by March. Pulicat Lake which is the second largest brackish water in India , is in the Tamil Nadu – Andhra Pradesh border and is about 80 km from Tirupati.

• Things To Do In Tirupati
• Tourist Places To Visit In Tirupati

Festivals and Fairs

It’s said that Lord Srinivasa of Tirumala loves festivals, so ever so often the temple town gets to celebrate a grand festival for the deity at Tirumala or at the temples in Lower Tirupati. The annual Brahmotsavam and Navarathri Brahmotsavam (September – October) has literally lakhs of devotees and pilgrims gathering at the Tirumala temple.

What better than the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Board’s Rayalaseema Food and Dance Festival, held in Tirupati to concur with the Brahmotsavam, to relish the fine cuisine of Rayalaseema and to view their traditional dance forms. Vijayanagara Festival at Chandragiri Fort, during the Brahmotsavam is yet another event to look forward to.

On a lighter note, you could take a trip to the Nellapattu Bird Sanctuary near the Pulicat Lake for the annual Flamingo Festival (March).

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