The Divine Legacy of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala: History, Rituals, and Vaikhanasa Agama Practices
Lord Sri Venkateswara, revered by many names including Srinivasa, Balaji, and Venkatachalapati, made Tirumala Hills his eternal abode over 5,000 years ago. Before the arrival of Lord Venkateswara, it was Lord Varahaswami who sanctified the Tirumala region with his divine presence. Since ancient times, generations of devotees have contributed to the construction and expansion of the Tirumala Temple complex, which now spans an area of 16.2 acres atop the sacred Seshachalam Hills.
The Divine Manifestation of Lord Venkateswara
According to sacred legends, Lord Venkateswara manifested as a granite idol in front of his two consorts during a divine episode centered around his celestial remarriage. Witnessing this profound transformation, Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva appeared to enlighten the goddesses—Lakshmi and Padmavathi—about the Lord’s divine mission: to reside on Tirumala’s Seven Hills and uplift humanity from the hardships of Kali Yuga.
Eventually, both Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Padmavathi expressed their desire to remain with the Lord eternally. As a result, they too became stone idols—Lakshmi resting on the left side of the Lord’s chest, and Padmavathi on the right—symbolizing divine unity and eternal devotion.
TTD and the Daily Worship Traditions
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the administrative body managing the Tirumala temple, follows strict religious protocols rooted in the Vaikhanasa Agama Shastra. These sacred scriptures govern the daily Arjitha Sevas (ritual services), allowing Grihastas (devotees) to actively participate in divine worship, reinforcing the principle of collective spiritual engagement.
What is Vaikhanasa Agama?
The Vaikhanasa Agama is one of the most respected scriptures in Vaishnava tradition, composed by Sage Vikhanasa. It is divided into two essential parts:
- Temple Rituals: Prescribes detailed procedures for performing rituals and worship of the presiding deity.
- Priestly Purification: Outlines strict purification processes required for priests to be eligible to serve in the temple.
This Agama is distinct for its in-depth descriptions of ritual practices, both in public temples and private households. The knowledge was further disseminated by four great disciples of Sage Vikhanasa—Marichi, Bhrigu, Kashyapa, and Atri—across ancient India.
Vaikhanasa Agama in Daily Worship at Tirumala
In alignment with Vaikhanasa traditions, TTD conducts regular sevas—daily, weekly, monthly, and annual—at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, continuing an unbroken legacy for centuries. The Agama prescribes six pujas a day, each with a unique spiritual and societal purpose:
- Prathyusham: For promoting health and well-being
- Pratahkala: Encourages meditation and homas (sacred fire rituals)
- Madhyahna: Supports governance and social order
- Aparahna: Protects against negativity and evil
- Sayankala: Enhances agricultural prosperity
- Nisi Aradhana: Aids in the nurturing of cattle and livestock
Though six pujas are ideal, the Vaikhanasa Agama also accepts a minimum of one puja daily:
“Shatkalam va Thrikalam va Dwikalam
Ekakalam va Pujanam Deva Devasya”
Current Ritual Practices at Tirumala
At present, three primary pujas are performed daily in Tirumala:
- Morning Puja with Thomala Seva – open to the public
- Midday Puja (Madhyahna) – a shortened version
- Night Puja (Ekanta Seva) – a private ceremony involving the archakas (priests) and temple assistants
These rituals reflect the deep spiritual rhythm that has sustained Sri Venkateswara’s temple as one of the most visited and sacred pilgrimage sites in the world.
Arjitha Sevas:
Arjitha Sevas at Tirumala Temple – Daily Ritual Services for Lord Venkateswara
Every day, a sacred sequence of Arjitha Sevas (paid ritual services) is performed for the presiding deity of Lord Sri Venkateswara at the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, following centuries-old traditions under the Vaikhanasa Agama Shastra.
Daily Arjitha Sevas to the Main Deity
The day begins with the revered Suprabhatam Seva, a ritualistic awakening of the Lord, followed by:
- Thomala Seva – Offering of flower garlands
- Archana Seva – Recitation of the Lord’s 1,008 names
- Ekantha Seva – The final ritual of the day (not open to pilgrims), marking the Lord’s rest
These sevas are conducted for the main deity inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.
Arjitha Sevas to Malayappa Swamy (Utsava Murthy)
After the Archana Seva, a series of special ritual services are performed for the Utsava Murthy, also known as Lord Malayappa Swamy—the processional form of Lord Venkateswara. These include:
- Kalyanotsavam – A symbolic divine wedding ceremony
- Arjitha Brahmotsavam – A condensed version of the grand Brahmotsavam
- Dolotsavam – The Lord is seated on a swing and gently rocked
- Vasantotsavam – A spring festival celebrated with joy and devotion
- Sahasra Deepalankara Seva – A mesmerizing evening ritual performed under the glow of a thousand lamps
These sevas offer devotees an opportunity to witness and participate in the divine service to Lord Venkateswara, deepening their spiritual connection and earning sacred blessings.
Suprabhatam:
For more Details click the here TTD Suprabhata Seva
Archana:
For more Details click the here TTD Archana Seva
Thomala Seva:
For more Details click the here TTD Thomala Seva
Kalyanotsavam Seva:
For more Details click the here TTD Kalyanotsavam Seva
Dolotsavam/Unjal Seva:
For more Deatils click here TTD Dolotsavam/Unjal Seva
Nijapada Darshanam Seva:
For more Details click here TTD Nijapada Darshanam Seva
Arjitha Brahmotsavam Seva:
For more Details click here TTD Arjitha Brahmotsavam Seva
Ekantha Seva:
For more Details click here TTD Ekantha Seva
Sahasra Kalasabhishekam Seva:
For more Details click here TTD Sahasra Kalasabhishekam Seva
Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva:
For more Details click here TTD Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva
Vasanthosavam Seva:
For more Details click here TTD Vasanthosavam Seva
Ashtadala Paadha Padhmaradhana Seva:
For more Details click here TTD Ashtadala Paadha Padhmaradhana Seva
Weekly Sevas at Tirumala Temple – Special Pujas Performed on Each Day
At Tirumala Sri Venkateswara Temple, every day is celebrated as a divine occasion. The Lord of the Seven Hills blesses His devotees through unique weekly sevas (ritual services) performed on specific weekdays. These weekly pujas are an extension of the temple’s spiritual vibrancy and follow the Vaikhanasa Agama tradition.
Due to the sacred nature of these rituals and space limitations inside the temple, only a limited number of devotees are allowed, and entry is facilitated through a pre-booked ticketing system managed by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
🕉️ Weekly Sevas Schedule at Tirumala
- Monday – Visesha Puja
A special ritual offered exclusively on Mondays, Visesha Puja includes detailed archanas, sacred abhishekams, and prayers for the well-being of all devotees. - Tuesday – Ashtadala Pada Padmaradhana
This rare seva involves worshipping the lotus feet of Lord Venkateswara with 1,008 gold-laced lotus petals, offered along with 108 names of the Lord, recited in a deeply devotional atmosphere. - Wednesday – Sahasra Kalasabhishekam
An elaborate abhishekam (holy bathing ceremony) performed with 1,000 kalasas (sacred vessels filled with water and sanctified items), symbolizing the purification and empowerment of the deity. - Thursday – Tiruppavada Seva
In this ritual, a large quantity of cooked rice is offered to the Lord on a banana leaf, symbolizing complete surrender (prapatti) and removal of obstacles. It is believed to be highly beneficial for those seeking spiritual liberation. - Thursday – Poolangi Seva
Conducted later on Thursdays, this seva decorates the Lord with a beautiful floral dress (Poolangi) made entirely of fresh flowers, enhancing the divine aura of the deity. - Friday – Abhishekam Seva
A sacred ritual performed directly to the Moola Virat (main deity) inside the sanctum sanctorum. It includes holy bathing with water, milk, honey, and sandalwood paste. - Friday – Vastralankara Seva
In this unique seva, Lord Venkateswara is adorned with new silk garments and sacred ornaments. It represents spiritual renewal and divine grace bestowed upon devotees.
Daily Sevas and Poojas at Tirumala – Worship Schedule for Lord Venkateswara Swamy
At the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, each day begins and ends with a series of sacred rituals and sevas performed for Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy. These poojas follow the Vaikhanasa Agama traditions and are observed with divine discipline, offering devotees an opportunity to witness the Lord’s celestial presence throughout the day.
🌄 Morning to Night – Daily Sevas of Tirumala
Here’s a complete list of daily poojas/sevas conducted at Tirumala:
🔔 1. Suprabatha Seva – Wake-up Ritual for the Lord
This is the first ritual of the day, where sacred hymns are chanted to gently awaken Lord Venkateswara. It begins around 3:00 AM and is considered highly auspicious.
🌸 2. Thomala Seva – Garland Decoration
Performed after Suprabhatam, in this seva, the deity is decorated with fragrant flower garlands while priests chant specific verses. “Thomala” means a garland of flowers.
🛕 3. Sarvadarshanam – General Darshan for Pilgrims
This is the free darshan available to all devotees, allowing them to have a glimpse of the Lord after the initial poojas.
🔱 4. Ashtottara Sahasranama Archana – Chanting of 1,008 Names
A sacred ritual in which 1,008 divine names of the Lord are recited by the priests, accompanied by offerings to seek blessings for health, peace, and prosperity.
💍 5. Kalyanotsavam – Divine Marriage Ceremony
This daily seva symbolizes the celestial wedding of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Lakshmi/Padmavathi. Devotees can participate with prior booking.
🎉 6. Arjitha Brahmotsavam – Mini Festival
A condensed version of the Brahmotsavam festival conducted as an arjitha seva (paid seva). It includes vahana seva and other traditional processions.
🌺 7. Dolotsavam / Unjal Seva – Swing Ritual
In this evening seva, Lord Malayappa Swamy and His consorts are seated on a swing (unjal) and gently rocked to the accompaniment of Vedic chants and music.
🌼 8. Vasantotsavam – Spring Festival Seva
This is a seasonal seva that’s also offered daily for those seeking refreshment of spirit and mind, reflecting the grace and bloom of spring.
🌙 9. Ekanta Seva – Night Ritual
This is the final ritual of the day when the deity is put to rest with lullabies and offerings. It is not open to the public, symbolizing the Lord’s divine rest.
🪔 10. Sahasra Deepalankara Seva – Thousand Lamps Ritual
A beautiful ritual performed in the evening where the deity is worshipped amidst the glow of a thousand oil lamps, symbolizing spiritual illumination.
TTD Online Booking Guidelines for Sevas & Accommodation – Step-by-Step Guide
Planning a spiritual visit to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD)? Here are the official guidelines you must follow to book Srivari Arjitha Sevas and temple accommodation online via the TTD official website.
✅ Registration is Mandatory
- To book Sevas or Rooms at Tirumala, every pilgrim must register on the TTD website:
👉 https://tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in - Upon registration, you will receive a unique username and password to log in for bookings.
🎟️ Booking Limits for Sevas
- Each registered user can book only one Arjitha Seva within 180 days from the quota availability date.
- A maximum of 2 tickets can be booked for the same seva on the same day, but only one person is allowed per ticket.
🏨 Accommodation Booking Rules
- Only one room/accommodation can be booked by a user within 90 days from the quota availability.
- Accommodation is allotted on a first-come, first-served basis and is subject to availability.
📧 Email Confirmation & Reporting
- Once booking is successful, a confirmation email is sent to the registered email ID.
- The email includes your reporting time and other important seva/accommodation details.
- Devotees must carry a printout or digital copy of the booking receipt at the time of reporting.
🌐 Advance Booking through Internet
- Advance online booking for Srivari Arjitha Sevas opens 120 days in advance based on quota availability.
- All bookings must be made only through the official website: 👉 https://tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in
🗣️ Feedback System
- Pilgrims can share their experience or concerns via the Online Feedback Portal on the official TTD website.
Nearby Visit Places in Tirupati
Tirupati is home to several religious, historical, and natural attractions that make it a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Below are some of the must-visit places in and around Tirupati:
Sri Venkateshwara Temple
Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, also known as Tirupati Balaji or Tirumala Temple, is one of the most revered Hindu shrines in the world. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, this temple is the richest pilgrimage center globally. It attracts millions of devotees annually.
- Timings: 02:30 am – 01:30 am
- Darshan Fee: Free (Sarva Darshan), ₹300 (Special Darshan), ₹500 (VIP Darshan)
- Seva Fee: Starts at ₹25
Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple
This temple, built in 1130 AD by Saint Ramanuja, is one of the largest complexes in Tirupati. The Dravidian-style architecture and the association with Lord Venkateswara’s wedding make it a major pilgrimage site.
- Timings: 05:00 am – 12:30 pm; 01:15 pm – 04:45 pm; 06:00 pm – 09:30 pm
- Darshan Fee: Free (Sarva Darshan), ₹5 (Special Darshan), ₹20 (Quick Darshan)
- Seva Fee: ₹10
Sri Kapliswaraswamy Temple
Also known as Kapila Theertham, this is the only Shiva temple in Tirupati. It is believed that sage Kapila meditated here, and the Shiva lingam is considered self-manifested. The nearby waterfall is also considered sacred.
- Timings: 05:00 am – 08:00 pm
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara, and is located in a town near Tirupati. Pilgrims believe that seeking the blessings of Goddess Padmavathi before visiting the main temple is auspicious.
- Timings: 05:00 am – 09:00 pm
- Darshan Fee: Free
- Seva Fee: ₹25 onwards
Srivari Padala Mandapam
Located at the foot of Tirumala Hills, Srivari Padala Mandapam is a crucial stop for devotees taking the Alipiri footpath route. Pilgrims stop here to offer prayers to Padala Venkateswara Swamy.
- Timings: 05:00 am – 08:00 pm
- Darshan Fee: Free
- Seva Fee: ₹5 (Padala Seva), ₹10 (Ekantha Seva), ₹20 (Abhishekam)
Srikalahasti Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, where Lord Shiva is worshipped as the embodiment of air (Vayu). The temple features a Vayu-linga, and the flame in the sanctum sanctorum burns without any wind.
- Timings: 06:00 am – 09:00 pm
Akasaganga Theertham
A scenic spot located near Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Akasaganga Theertham is known for its holy waterfall, which pilgrims visit to take a dip during their visit to the temple.
TTD Gardens
Spread across 460 acres, TTD Gardens are ornamental gardens home to a variety of flowers, including crotons and hibiscus. The gardens supply flowers to temples around Tirupati.
- Timings: 06:00 am – 06:00 pm
Silathoranam
Silathoranam is one of the three natural rock arches in the world. It is a mysterious formation that is believed to be connected to the idol of Lord Venkateswara. It dates back to the pre-Cambrian era.
- Best Time to Visit: 06:00 am – 08:00 am or during sunset
Srivari Museum
Srivari Museum showcases the history of the Tirumala Temple, with photographs, scriptures, artifacts, and sculptures depicting its development over the years.
- Timings: 08:00 am – 08:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
Sri Venkateswara National Park
This national park covers an area of 354 sq. km and is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species. It also offers scenic views and wildlife safaris.
- Timings: 08:30 am – 05:30 pm (Mar-Aug), 09:00 am – 05:00 pm (Sep-Feb)
- Entry Fee: ₹10 (Children), ₹50 (Adults)
- Safari Fee: ₹30 (Children), ₹50 (Adults)
Deer Park
A wildlife haven, Deer Park is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Visitors can feed the deer and enjoy nature photography.
- Timings: 10:00 am – 05:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
Talakona Waterfalls
Talakona Waterfalls, the highest in the country at 82 meters, is believed to have healing properties. Surrounded by lush forests, the waterfall is located inside Sri Venkateswara National Park.
Chandragiri
Chandragiri is known for its 11th-century fort built on a massive rock. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara dynasty. The fort houses temples and the Raja Mahal, which is now an archaeological museum.
- Timings: 10:00 am – 08:45 pm (Closed on Friday)
- Entry Fee: ₹10
Other Attractions
- Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
- Vedadri Narasimha Swamy Temple
- Mallimadugu Reservoir
- Nagari Hills
- The Gurramkonda Fort
- Nettukuppam
- Horsley Hills
- Yelagiri
These places are a mix of spiritual, natural, and historical sites that make Tirupati a unique destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Theerthams in Tirupati
Tirupati is blessed with several sacred Theerthams, each having its own significance and history. Here are some of the most revered Theerthams:
- Pandava Teertham
A holy pond associated with the Pandavas, believed to be where they bathed during their exile. - Kumaradhara Teertham
This is a sacred bathing place believed to cleanse devotees of their sins. - Tumbhuru Teertham
Located near the temple, it is associated with the sage Tumbhuru and considered highly holy. - Ramakrishna Teertham
This is believed to be the site where the great saint Ramakrishna took a holy dip. - Chakra Teertham
One of the important Theerthams, it is said to be the place where Lord Vishnu’s divine discus (chakra) once descended. - Vaikuntha Teertham
A revered holy water spot where devotees believe that a dip leads to salvation. - Sesha Teertham
This Theertham is named after the divine serpent, Adishesha, and is believed to be sacred for purification. - Sitamma Teertham
A famous spot associated with Goddess Sitamma, believed to be a place where she bathed during her stay. - Pasupu Teertham
A holy water body, known for its religious significance in cleansing the devotees. - Jupali (Japali) Teertham
A sacred pond named after the sage Japali, where devotees take a dip for spiritual purification. - Sanaka Sanandana Teertham
Believed to have been visited by the Sanaka and Sanandana Rishis, this Theertham is a highly revered site.
Important Festivals Held at the Theerthams
- Kumaradhara Magha Pournami
A significant festival celebrated at Kumaradhara Teertham, marking the full moon night of Magha month. - Ramakrishna Pushya Pournami
This festival is held at Ramakrishna Teertham during the full moon day of Pushya month. - Tumbhuru Phalguna Pournami
A festival celebrated at Tumbhuru Teertham on the full moon day of Phalguna month. - Chakra Karthika Masa – Ksheerabdhi Dwadasi
A festival held during the month of Karthika, dedicated to the Lord’s Chakra and the sacred waters of Chakra Teertham.
These Theerthams are an integral part of the spiritual and religious experience for pilgrims visiting Tirupati.
Complete Details About Theerthams Check Here
Types of Darshan in Tirupati
What is the difference between Divya Darshan and Sarva Darshan?
Divya Darshan is for pedestrians who reach Tirumala by foot via Alipiri or Srivari Mettu routes.
Sarva Darshan is the free Darshan available to all pilgrims, typically involving longer waiting times.
How many types of Darshan are there in Tirupati?
There are mainly two types:
- Special Entry Darshan (SED) – ₹300 per ticket
- Slotted Sarva Darshan (SSD) – Free entry
Do we have free Darshan in Tirumala?
Yes, Sarva Darshan is free. Around 10,000 free tickets are distributed offline at Srinivasam, Bhudevi, and Sri Govindaraja Swamy Complex.
Which Darshan is good in Tirupati?
Each Darshan has its own benefits. For a peaceful and faster experience, Special Entry Darshan is ideal. For devotees preferring devotional trekking, Divya Darshan via footpath is recommended.
What is Break Darshan in Tirumala?
Break Darshan is a VIP Darshan allowing quicker access. It’s usually reserved for protocol guests and high-level officials.
What is L1 and L2 Darshan in Tirumala?
- L1 Darshan – For VVIPs like Judges, Ministers, etc.
- L2 Darshan – For TTD employees and lower government officials
⏰ Tirupati Temple Timings & Visit Duration
Is Tirupati temple open 24 hours?
No. Darshan hours are from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM daily.
How many days are enough for Tirupati?
3 days is ideal to cover Tirumala Darshan and nearby temples in Tirupati.
How much time does it take for Sarva Darshan?
It can take 4 to 10 hours, depending on crowd and season.
🚶♂️ Tirumala Footpath Routes
How many steps from Alipiri to Tirumala?
3550 steps, covering around 12 km. This is the longer route with scenic views and shelters.
Which is better Srivari Mettu or Alipiri?
Srivari Mettu is shorter with 2388 steps and takes 2–3 hours, while Alipiri takes 4–6 hours.
How long does it take to climb Tirupati steps?
Depending on the route and fitness, it takes 2 to 3.5 hours.
🌆 Tirupati Travel Guide
Which railway station is near Tirupati temple?
Tirupati Railway Station is the nearest. Renigunta Station is 15 km away and also well-connected.
How to reach Tirupati by rail and road?
Tirupati is connected by:
- Train from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, etc.
- Buses from APSRTC, SETC, KSRTC
- Private vehicles via NH 205
Is private car allowed to Tirumala?
Private cars are allowed but must park at designated slots. They cannot enter hotel or cottage areas.
Is there an airport in Tirupati?
Yes, Tirupati Airport handles domestic flights from Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, etc.
🙏 Tirumala Sevas & Rituals
What is Thomala Seva?
It’s a floral seva offered daily after Suprabatha Seva, where the deity is decorated with garlands.
What is Tiruppavada Seva?
A weekly Seva where Pulihora and sweets are offered in large quantities.
What is Arjitha Brahmotsavam Seva?
It is a daily paid Seva (₹200) conducted at Vaibhavotsava Mandapam in an abridged manner.
Which Seva is good in Tirumala?
Pushpa Seva Yagam is a highly revered ritual using flowers, performed in June. Cost: ₹3500 for 5 persons.
What time is Suprabhatam in Tirumala?
Between 3:00 AM to 3:30 AM. Tickets are available online via TTDSevaOnline.
How to book Suprabhatam Seva in TTD?
Booking opens 2 months in advance on the official TTD website. Tickets sell out quickly within 15-20 minutes.
📜 Temple Rules & Customs
What is Kulasekhara Padi in Tirumala?
It is the threshold of the sanctum sanctorum, named after Saint Kulasekhara.
Are there any rules while visiting Tirumala?
Yes. Prohibited items and activities:
- Alcohol & non-vegetarian food
- Improper clothing
- Cameras, phones during Darshan
- Wearing flowers inside the temple
Is Aadhaar card mandatory for TTD Darshan?
Yes, especially for Special Entry Darshan and free laddu distribution.
💻 Online Seva & Virtual Options
What is Virtual Seva in TTD?
A remote participation option. Devotees can view Sevas online as priests perform them on-site.
What is Online Virtual Seva Price?
- Kalyanotsavam: ₹1000 for 2 persons.
🔁 Volunteer Services in Tirumala
What is Srivari Seva?
It is a volunteer program where devotees help in temple services. Registration is free on the TTD website.
🙋 Frequently Asked
Why is it called Alipiri?
Alipiri means “Resting Place” in Telugu. In ancient times, pilgrims rested here before beginning the 7-hill climb.
Can we go to Tirupati without booking?
Yes. Offline ₹300 Special Entry Tickets are issued at Srinivasam Guest House every morning with valid ID.
Which days are less crowded in Tirupati?
Monsoon season (July–October) and weekdays are less crowded. Avoid weekends and festival times.
Why is Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple so popular?
It’s among the richest, oldest, and most visited Hindu temples globally, attracting up to 1 lakh devotees daily.