Lord Sri Venkateswara, also known as Srinivasa, Balaji, and Veṅkaṭachalapati, made Tirumala his abode five thousand years ago. Even before him, it was Lord Varahaswami who had made Tirumala his abode. Since then, many devotees have continued to construct grand entrances on the ramparts of the temple over generations. The temple complex is spread over 16.2 acres of land.
It is said that the Lord turned himself into a granite statue right in front of his two spouses when they together encountered him over his remarriage. Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva then appear before the confused queens and explain the main purpose behind all this complex episode, the Lord’s desire to be on the holy seven hills for the emancipation of the mankind from the perpetual trials and tribulations of Kali Yuga. Goddesses Lakshmi and Padmavathi also turn into stone idols expressing their wish to be with their Lord eternally. Goddess Lakshmi stayed with him on the left side of his chest while Goddess Padmavati rested on the right side of his chest.
The temple administration of Tirumala Tirupati Devathanams(TTD) performs daily arjita sevas according to the Vaikhanasa Agama to the presiding deity as a matter of divine exercise and also allows Grihastas (pilgrims) as partners in the exercise as a token of involvement of the devout service.
What is Vaikhanasa Agama:
The “Vaikhanasa Agama” exists in two parts. The first part deals with rituals that are performed in the temple and to the presiding deity. The second part deals with purification ceremonies that a priest must undergo in order to qualify to serve in the temple.
The Agamas in general are revered along with the Vedas as primary Hindu scriptures. All of the Agamas elucidate the science of ritual, but the uniqueness of “Vaikhanasa Agama” is that it gives more detail on the performance of ritual, both in the temple and in the home.
“Vaikhanasa Agama” was written by Sage Vikhanasa, is considered as one among four main “Vaishnava agamas”. Mareechi, Bhrigu, Kashyapa and Atri, the four disciples of Sage Vikhanasa spread the essence of Vaikhanasa Agama across the world.
The daily, weekly, monthly and annual arjitha sevas or festivals that are performed in the famous hill shrine of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala are as per the recommendations of Vaikhanasa Agama since several centuries.
The Vaikhanasa Agama recommends six times puja a day viz. Prathyusham which promotes the development of healthy population, Pratahkala that promotes Japa and Homa, Madhyahna in the promotion of the kingdom, Aparahna that brings about the destruction of evil doers, Sayankala which leads to greater and increased agricultural production and Nisi aradhana that develops the cattle population. As it is not always possible to perform six pujas a day in a temple, the same agama also recommends minimum one puja.
“Shatkalam va Thrikalam va Dwikalam
Ekakalam va Pujanam Deva Devasya”
In Tirumala at present three pujas are performed, one in the morning in conjunction with Thomala Seva which is open to public, another abridged puja in Madyahna (in the afternoon) and third one at night which is strictly a private one in which the archakas, the paricharakas and the acharya purushas of the temple alone takes part.
Arjitha Sevas:
On any day the arjitha sevas that are performed to the presiding deity of Lord Venkateswara commences with Suprabatham, followed by Thomala , Archana and finally concludes with the Ekanthaseva (not open to pilgrims). However after archana some arjitha sevas are also performed to the processional deity of Lord Venkateswara, also popularly known as “Malayappa Swamy” includes, Kalyanotsavam, Arjita Brahmotsavam, Dolotsavam, Vasantotsavam and Sahasra Deepalankara seva.
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:
Every day is a festival day in Tirumala. On each specific day, the Lord of Lords blesses His devotees in a specific ritual during the week days. These rituals are categorized as weekly pujas. Limited number of Devotees is allowed to take part in these weekly sevas on the issuance of limited number of tickets.
Visesha Puja(On Mondays)
Ashtadala – Pada Padmaaradhana (On Tuesdays)
Sahasra Kalasabhishekam Seva(On Wednesdays)
Tiruppavada Seva(On Thursdays)
Poolangi Seva(On Thursdays)
Abhishekam Seva (On Fridays)
Vastralankara Seva
Daily Sevas/Poojas performed for Lord Venkateshwara Swamy:
Suprabatha Seva
Thomala Seva
Sarvadarshanam
Ashtottara Sahasranama Archana
Kalyanotsavam
Arjitha Bramhotsavam
Dolotsavam or Unjal Seva
Vasantotsavam
Ekanta Seva
Sahasra Deepa Alankarana Seva
Guidelines for Online Booking of Sevas/Accommodation:
Registration with TTD Website is mandatory for booking Srivari Arjitha sevas / Accommodation, wherein pilgrim is provided with username and password.
Only one seva will be allotted for one registered user within 180 days of Quota availability.
Only one Accommodation will be allotted for one registered user within 90 days of Quota availability.
After the successful booking of Piligrims Email confirmation will be generated to respective mail ids and Piligrims reporting time details will mention in the booking receipt.
Online Users Feedback can be given from the website tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in.
Note: Maximum of 2 tickets can be booked for the same day for the same seva, where one person is allowed.
Internet Booking:
Advance Booking of Srivari Arjitha Sevas can be booked from the Website tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in, 120 days from the Quota availability.
Near by Visit Places in Tirupati:
Sri Venkateshwara Temple:
Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple is one of the most revered Hindu shrines and richest pilgrimage centers in the world. It is also the world’s most-visited place of worship, receiving 50,000 to 100,000 devotees daily and up to 500,000 on special occasions. Famed as Tirupati Balaji or Tirumala temple, this Dravidian-style shrine is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. It is believed that Lord Venkateswara is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu who appeared on earth to save mankind from the trials of Kali Yuga.
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:
One of the biggest temple complexes in Tirupati, Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple was built in 1130 AD by Saint Ramanuja. According to legends, the residing deity efficiently utilized King Kubera’s wealth to conduct the glorious wedding of his younger brother Lord Venkateswara and Padmavathi Ammavaru. Lakhs of pilgrims visit this shrine every year with the belief that God’s blessings will help them to elevate and manage their wealth efficiently. The Dravidian-style architecture of this seven-storied Vaishanvite temple is a beautiful sight to behold.
Timings: 05:00 am – 12:30 pm; 01:15 pm – 04:45 pm; 06:00 pm – 09:30 p
Darshan Fee: Free (Sarva Darshan), ₹ 5 (Special Darshan), ₹ 20 (Quick Darshan)
Seva Fee: ₹ 10
Sri Kapliswaraswamy Temple:
Also known as Kapila Theertham, Sri Kapliswaraswamy Temple is the only Shiva temple in Tirupati and one of the 108 sacred Theerthams on the hills of Tirumala. Legends reveal that Kapila Muni meditated in front of an idol of Lord Shiva at this site, and that’s how the place got its name. The Shiva lingam at this temple is considered as self-manifested. The waterfall near the temple is also considered sacred, and devotees believe that a dip in its waters can help you get rid of all the sins.
Timings: 05:00 am – 08:00 pm
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple:
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple is located in an ages-old pilgrim town near Tirupati and is the abode of Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. Pilgrims believe that they should seek the blessings of Her Divine before visiting the home of the Lord.
Timings: 05:00 am – 09:00 pm
Darshan Fee: Free
Seva Fee: ₹ 25 onwards
Srivari Padala Mandapam:
Situated at the foot of Tirumala Hills, Srivari Padala Mandapam is a must-visit for devotees taking the Alipiri footpath route to the Tirumala temple. En route the trek, pilgrims stop at this ancient temple to offer their prayers to Padala Venkateswara Swamy, i.e. feet of Lord Venkateswara. A unique sight at this temple is the huge padukas (footwear) offered by the pilgrims to the presiding deity.
Timings: 05:00 am – 08:00 pm
Darshan Fee: Free
Seva Fee: ₹ 5 (Padala Seva), ₹ 10 (Ekantha Seva), ₹ 20 (Abhishekam)
Srikalahasti Temple:
Srikalahasti Temple is perhaps one of the most revered temples in South India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Carved out of a monolithic hill, this ancient shrine is famous for being one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, where His Divine is worshipped as a personification of five nature elements; Air in this case. Its sanctum sanctorum has a Vayu-linga and a lamp which flickers day and night without any presence of wind, indicating the presence of Lord Vayu.
Timings: 06:00 am – 09:00 pm
Akasaganga Theertham:
Undoubtedly one of the most scenic places in Tirupati, Akasaganga Theertham is situated at a short distance away from Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple. Every pilgrim who pays a visit to the revered temple comes to take a dip in the holy water of this fall as it is used for Lord’s abhishekam.
TTD Gardens:
Spread over 460-acre area, TTD Gardens are ornamental, flower and landscape gardens that supply 500 kg of flowers to temples in and around Tirupati every day. The gardens are home to more than 200 varieties of mutated and hybrid flowers including crotons and hibiscus. In addition to the four nurseries inside the garden, there are several ponds and some beautiful sights which make it an ideal destination to spend time with family.
Timings: 06:00 am – 06:00 pm
Silathoranam:
Silathoranam, a unique and mysterious attraction near Tirumala, is one of the three natural rock arches in the world. The formation is 3 meters high and 8 meters wide and looks similar to the hood of a serpent, discus and conch. It is believed to be the source of the idol of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala Temple as both are of same height. These rocks date back to the pre-Cambrian era, which means they are almost 1.5 billion years old. The best time to visit the place is between 6 am – 8 am or during sunset when the arch looks mystical.
Srivari Museum:
For those who want to learn about the history of bygone eras, Srivari Museum is the place to be. The museum displays the history of the temple at Tirumala when it was in the initial phase of development. The scriptures, photographs, artifacts and sculptures, all depict the history of the temple. The museum is open to visitors throughout the year.
Timings: 08:00 am – 08:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Sri Venkateswara National Park:
Verdant valleys, waterfalls, vegetation, wildlife and breathtaking landscape; all add to the beauty of Sri Venkateswara National Park. Named after Lord Venkateswara of Tirumala, it was built in 1989 and officially declared a national park in 1998. The park covers an area of around 354 sq. km and is home to exotic and endangered species like Nilgai, Flying Lizard, Treeshrew, Hyena and Golden Gecko. The best time to visit Sri Venkateswara National Park is from the month of November through February.
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:
Deer Park in Tirupati is home to a variety of wildlife and beautiful landscapes and a paradise for wildlife lovers. Deer is the most frequently spotted animal here and visitors can feed the deer with their hands. The place is the perfect spot for wildlife and nature photography. It is an ideal retreat for visitors who wish to escape the crowds and unwind amidst nature.
Timings: 10:00 am – 05:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Talakona Waterfalls:
With water falling from a height of 82 meters, Talakona Waterfalls is one of the highest falls in the country. It is believed that its water has healing properties because it is enriched with herbs and medicinal plants. Located inside Sri Venkateswara National Park, the fall is visited by several tourists. The surrounding area is a dense forest with rich flora and fauna and was declared a biosphere reserve in 1989.
Chandragiri:
Chandragiri is an ancient town which once served as the 4th capital of Vijayanagar dynasty. The town is famous for the 11th-century Chandragiri Fort, which is built on a massive rock and stands at a height of 183 meters. The fort encompasses eight temples, the Rani Mahal, and other structures that are in ruins. The Raja Mahal is transformed into an archaeological museum, wherein you can see some of the finest artifacts from Vijayanagara architecture. The sound and light show organized here in Telugu and English is quite impressive.
Timings: 10:00 am – 08:45 pm (Closed on Friday)
Entry Fee: ₹ 10
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
Vedadri Narasimha Swamy Temple
Mallimadugu Reservoir
Nagari Hills
The Gurramkonda Fort
Nettukuppam
Horsley Hills
Yelagiri
Theerthams:
Pandava Teertham, Kumaradhara Teertham, Tumbhuru Teertham, Ramakrishna Teertham, Chakra Teertham, Vaikuntha Teertham, Sesha Teertham, Sitamma Teertham, Pasupu Teertham, Jupali(Japali) Teertham, Sanaka Sanandana Teertham.
Important festivals that are held at the teerthams are -Kumaradhara Magha Pournami, Ramakrishna Pushya Pournami Tumbhuru Phalguna Pournami, Chakra Karthika Masa – Ksheerabdhi Dwadasi.
Complete Details About Theerthams Check Here
FAQS:
What is the difference between Divya Darshan and Sarva darshan?
Types of Darshans:
The list of various Darshans includes Sarva Darshan which is a Free Darshan in Tirumala. The Divya Darshan which allows pedestrians via the Srivari Mettu and Alipiri route.
How many days are enough for Tirupati?
3 days
As there are many temples in the city of Tirupati, a total of 3 days is a good enough time to stay so that all the temples and Darshan can be covered.
Is Tirupati temple open 24 hours?
The Tirumala temple will remain open for darshan of the Lord between 6.30 am and 7.30 pm every day.
Which railway station is near to Tirupati temple?
The main railhead of the place is Tirupati Railway Station that is linked with railway stations like Bangalore, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Mumbai. Renigunta rail station is very close to the city and is at a distance of 15 km.
What are the 7 hills of Tirumala?
The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrushabhadri, Narayanadri, and Venkatadri. The hill is famous for the famous and one of most holy Hindu deity Venketeswaraswamy temple.
What is Kulasekhara padi in Tirumala?
The Sanctum Sanctorum of the Tirumala Temple which houses Lord Srinivasa is under the Ananda Nilayam Vimana dome. The threshold to this Garbhagriha is called the Kulasekhara padi., “Padi” being the tamil name for threshold or chowkhat, named after this saint.
Do we have free darshan in Tirumala?
Free darshan tickets will be given at the counters set up at Bhudevi complex, Srinivasam complex, Sri Govindaraja Swamy complex. According to TTD executive officer KS Jawahar Reddy, a total of 10,000 free darshan tickets will be given. TTD started tickets for free darshan offline on the demand from the common devotees.
How many types of darshan are there in Tirupati?
The temple body provides two types of darshan tickets which include Special Entry Darshan (SED) tickets and Slotted Sarva Darshan (SSD) tickets. While the special entry tickets will cost Rs 300 per ticket, the Sarva darshan tickets are free of cost which can be availed by the general public.
Is private car allowed to Tirumala?
As per the TTD plan, the private taxis cannot drop the pilgrims at their cottages, hotels and guest houses and must stop at the designated parking slots. “The private taxis cannot go beyond a certain point atop Tirumala now.
How much time does it take for Sarva darshan?
First take ticket at midnight from sarvdarshan counter and then It will take around 4 hours for free darshan, just be in line before two hours of your allotted slot. over a year ago. Hi, as per yesterday, it takes 6 to 10hrs.
How many steps Alipiri to Tirumala?
3550 Steps
There is an ancient footsteps path to Tirumala, that starts from Alipiri known as Alipiri Metlu. The Devotees to fulfil their Vow to Lord Venkateswara will take this path to reach Tirumala on foot from Tirupati. It consists of a total 3550 Steps which makes a distance of 12 km.
How long does it take to climb Tirupati steps?
The first hour is tough – steep steps. Beyond that, the steps are sporadic, the route is either over a road, or a step or two in every couple of meters. It takes between 3 to 3 1/2 hours to climb up through this route.
Which is better Srivari Mettu or Alipiri?
There are 2388 steps from Srivari Mettu and distance wise, it is about 2.1 Kms. to reach tirumala. Its a much faster route to reach Tirumala than from Alipiri. This route is well maintained throughout with sheds to avoid heat and rain
Is Aadhaar card mandatory for TTD Darshan?
The Lord Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati has made Aadhaar cards mandatory for availing ‘privileged special entry darshan’ and free laddus. Those without an Aadhaar card can, however, submit any other authorised identity card midway on the 10-km-long stairway to the shrine.
Why is it called Alipiri?
Alipiri means “Resting Place”. In older days pilgrims used to climb all the seven hills only through the stepped way on foot, as there was no other option. Hence the pilgrims came from long distances used to take rest for some time there, cooked their food, eat there.
What is the difference between Srivari Mettu and Alipiri?
While it takes four to six hours to reach Tirumala on foot from Alipiri, it takes only two to three hours from Srivari Mettu. According to TTD statistics, the number of pilgrims using the Srivari Mettu is 3,500 on an average on normal days and 8,000 during weekends and festivals.
What is Thomala Seva?
Thomala Seva is one of the prime seva to Sri venkateswara swami. Srivari Thomala Seva is considering one of best, rare seva, performed after Suprabatha Seva everyday. “Thomala” means a garland of mixed flowers.
How can I book Suprabhatam Seva in ttd?
Ticket booking for Suprabatham is generally online in the official website of the temple ttdsevaonline. You can see in the website the announcement of opening the online booking of tickets 2 months in advance. Generally the ticket booking opens at 11 am on the said date and tickets get sold off within 15 to 20 minutes
What time is Suprabhatam in tirumala?
The devotees need to buy the ticket for Suprabhata Seva (online or at the booking counter). This seva lasts for thirty minutes only from 3.00 a.m to 3.30 a.m (subject to change depending on festive occasions). Devotees who get the ticket for this seva need to present at the Vaikuntham Queue Complex – I.
Which Seva is good in Tirumala?
Pushpa Seva Yagam is a yagam offered to the Lord using different kind of flowers as a part of Yagam. Cost of the Ticket: Rs 3500/-Number of persons allowed :5The money has be sent in advance atleast 90 days ahead by D.D. This Seva is conducted in the month of June.
What is Tiruppavada Seva?
Arjitha Seva, Tiruppavada seva services avail. services consist of cooking a large quantity of rice as pulihora and offering it to the Lord along with other sweet preparations such as payasam, laddu, jilebi, thenthola, appam etc.
What is Arjitha Brahmotsavam Seva?
TTD Tirumala Tirumala Darshan Seva, Arjitham means Darshan or Seva to the Lord on payment of a fee. Arjitha Brahmotsavam ritual performed daily, the abridged manner in vaibhavotsava mandapam. ttd arjitha brahmotsavam rituals performed dailu in an abridged manner.
Which Darshan is good in Tirupati?
Om Namo Venkatesaya. Om Namo Venkatesaya. The powerful chanting inside Sri Venkateswara Temple exudes a positive energy that stays with you long after you have left the sanctum. A visit to this temple is the highlight of any trip to Tirupati.
What is break darshan in Tirumala?
VIP break Darshan is the fastest mode, safest Darshan in Tirumala Temple, but during heavy crowd season, this Darshan also takes up to 3-4 hours only high recommendations work only. TTD will be canceling the break Darshan to facilitate more pilgrims to have Darshan
How to reach Tirupati by rail and road?
Tirupati Railway Station is served by daily trains from metro cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and others. By road, you can reach Tirupati via APSRTC, SETC or KSRTC buses. You can also choose to drive to the city from nearby cities via NH 205.
Are there any rules that must be followed while in Tirumala?
Being a prominent Hindu pilgrimage centre, Tirumala does apply some rules on visitors. You cannot wear inappropriate clothing, consume alcohol, eat non-vegetarian food (including eggs, fish and meat), wear flowers, litter or carry any mobile phone/camera for darshan.
What is virtual Seva in TTD?
It means that the Seva will be performed by the priests in the temple while worshippers can watch it online.
What is Online Virtual Seva at TTD Price? Kalyanotsavam
Kalyanotsavam – Rs.1000 for 2 Persons.
What is L1 and L2 Darshan in Tirumala?
The L1 list was for VVIP officials like judges, higher cadre officials in government organisations and sitting ministers. The L2 was for TTD employees, their family members and lower level of officials and government representatives.
What is Srivari Seva?
TTD Srivari Seva is a voluntary service. Pilgrims will render free services to fellow pilgrims who come for darshan of Lord Venkateswara every day. Sevaks are participating free to all services. Interested pilgrims/devotees should register online for Srivari Seva, Parakamani Seva.
Can we go to Tirupati without booking now?
Tirupati Darshan Without Online Booking : Every morning at srinivasam pligrimage guest house 300 rupees tickets are issued for same day darshanam you can come here and take the tickets with a valid id proof along with all the family members who are coming with you 90 percent chances are there that you will get a ticket
Which days is less crowded in Tirupati?
Since a lot of visitors avoid traveling during this time, it is relatively less crowded. July to October: Monsoons start in Tirupati around July and the temperature starts lowering making it more pleasant. Tirupati experiences mild showers and this is a good time to make a trip to the temple town.
Who are eligible for L1 darshan in Tirumala?
The L1 VIP Break Darshan is available only for the President, Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, Ministers, Top Political groups / leaders, Judges and Civil Servants. The Chairman or TTD board member or TTD EO are supposed to accompany the L1 VIPs.
Why is Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirupati so popular?
Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, popular as Tirupati Balaji, is one of the oldest and most revered Hindu shrines and richest pilgrimage centres in the world. It is also the most-visited shrine across the globe, frequented by 50,000 to 100,000 devotees on a daily basis.
Is there an airport in Tirupati?
Yes, Tirupati Airport currently operates only domestic flights to and from Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, Varanasi, Madurai, Kolhapur and Hubli.