Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple
Explore Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, a special place known for its peace and spirituality. Many people visit this serene site every year to find calmness and a deeper connection. Nestled among beautiful hills, it’s more than just a pretty place; it’s a haven for spiritual reflection. With its sacred rituals and special tours, Tirumala Tirupati offers a unique chance to feel at peace and find inner tranquility in nature’s embrace.
Historical background and Architectural splendor
Lord Sri Venkateswara, also known as Srinivasa, Balaji, and Veá¹…kaá¹achalapati, 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 cThe Temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Vishnu, who is believed to be appeared here to save mankind from trials and troubles of Kali Yuga. The temple is situated at a height of 853 meters on Tirumala Hills which are part of Seshachalam Hills and is constructed in Dravidian Architectural Style construct, with grand entrances on the ramparts of the temple over generations.
Religious Significance
Millions undertake the pilgrimage to Tirumala, their hearts filled with hope and prayers. The Venkateswara Swamy idol, revered as a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, radiates an aura of serenity. Rituals like Suprabhatam and Aarthi fill the air with hymns and incense, creating a deeply spiritual experience.
Festival and Celebrations
Throughout the year, Tirupati comes alive with vibrant festivals like Brahmotsavam and Rathotsavam, each echoing with unique stories and traditions. Immerse yourself in the joyous processions, rhythmic music, and colorful decorations as the city celebrates its faith.
Surroundings area & attractions
- Chandragiri Fort-: Is a historical site that served as the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The fort features palaces, temples, and other structures reflecting its rich past.
- Akasaganga Teertham: A waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, offers a tranquil escape for those seeking a respite from their spiritual journey.
FAQ
Tirumala Tirupati is located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is situated atop the Seshachalam Hills, which are part of the Eastern Ghats.
Tirumala Tirupati is one of the most prominent pilgrimage centers in India and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is visited by millions of devotees annually, making it one of the busiest pilgrimage destinations in the world.
The presiding deity of Tirumala Tirupati is Lord Venkateswara, also known as Balaji or Srinivasa. He is depicted standing on the serpent Adisesha with his consorts, Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Padmavati.
The main attraction is the Sri Venkateswara Temple, which houses the sanctum sanctorum of Lord Venkateswara. Other attractions include the Akasa Ganga waterfall, Papavinasam Teertham, and various other temples within the temple complex.
Visitors can reach Tirumala Tirupati by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, and the nearest railway station is Tirupati Railway Station. From there, regular bus services and taxis are available to reach Tirumala.
Yes, there is a strict dress code for visiting the Sri Venkateswara Temple. Men are required to wear dhoti and uttareeyam (a piece of cloth draped over the shoulders), while women are required to wear saree, salwar kameez, or a traditional dress.
Yes, there are several rituals and sevas performed at the temple, including Suprabhatam (early morning prayers), Thomala Seva (offering of flowers), Archana (chanting of the Lord’s names), and Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity).
Devotees can book tickets for sevas online through the official website of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) or at various TTD counters located in different cities.
Yes, there are several accommodation options available for pilgrims, including guesthouses, choultries, and cottages operated by the TTD. Pilgrims can book accommodation online or through the TTD accommodation counters.
The temple is open for darshan from early morning till late at night. However, the timings may vary on special occasions, festivals, and during peak seasons.
One of the unique aspects of visiting Tirumala Tirupati is the practice of tonsuring hair as an offering to Lord Venkateswara. Devotees offer their hair as a symbol of surrender and devotion, and the hair is then auctioned, with the proceeds going towards various charitable activities.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) provides special arrangements for senior citizens and physically challenged devotees, including wheelchair assistance, separate queues, and priority darshan arrangements to ensure their comfort and convenience.
It is believed that taking a dip in the sacred Teerthams around Tirumala Tirupati helps cleanse the soul of sins and brings spiritual purification. Devotees often visit Teerthams like Akasa Ganga, Papavinasam, and Kumaradhara as part of their pilgrimage
Tirumala Tirupati Temple offers a variety of prasadam to devotees, including laddu, vada, pulihora (tamarind rice), and dosa. The famous Tirupati laddu is considered sacred and is offered as a blessing from Lord Venkateswara.
Devotees offer monetary donations in the Hundi as a form of seva (service) to the temple and to seek the blessings of the Lord. The donations contribute to the maintenance and development of the temple and its various charitable activities.
Tirumala Tirupati celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and Rathasapthami. These festivals attract a large number of devotees and are celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams provides information centers, help desks, and volunteer assistance to guide first-time visitors and ensure they have a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
Visitor information
Ticket Details: Rs.300/- per pilgrim with Single Laddu free of cost
- General Darshan (Sarva Darshanam): Open to the general public and does not require a ticket. However, waiting times can vary, so it's advisable to plan your visit accordingly.
Timings :
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Days : Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday:
Timing: 7:30 AM - 7 PM.
8 :00PM - 1 AM -
Days: Wednesday and Friday
Timing: 9 AM- 7 PM
8 PM -1 AM -
Days:Thursday
Timing: 8 AM - 7 PM
8 PM-1 AM
Darshan Days:
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VIP Darshan (Sheeghra Darshan): Immediate darshan Rs. 300 per person. Advance booking is also available on the official website.
Days and time : Daily VIP Darshan 9 AM - 3 PM. Pilgrims can also book tickets in advance on the official website. - Tirumala Darshan by Walk (Divya Darshan): Pilgrims who undertake the uphill journey on foot can avail themselves of this darshan facility.
- Special Darshan for Senior Citizens and Physically Challenged: These darshans are provided to senior citizens and physically challenged individuals during specific time slots.
- Senior citizens :10 AM and 3 PM daily. Proof of age is required for entry.
- Physically challenged: 10 AM and 3 PM daily. Proof of disability is required for entry.
Address:
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams TTD Administrative Building K.T. Road Tirupati 517 501 Andhra Pradesh India.
Notable Events and Incidents
- Miracles and Divine Events: Devotees often report experiencing miracles and divine interventions at the temple. These include instances of sudden rain showers, believed to be the tears of Lord Venkateswara.
- The Vaikuntha Ekadashi Festival: The annual Vaikuntha Ekadashi festival celebrated at the Tirupati Balaji Temple is a significant event. Pilgrims believe that passing through the Vaikuntha Dwaram (gate) on this day absolves them of their sins and grants them entrance to the heavenly abode of Lord Vishnu.
Connectivity :
- Tirupati is well connected to major cities of the country by road, rail and air. The Tirupati airport is just 15 km away from the main city while the railway station is closer. Tirupati is also linked to other cities via a network of well-connected roads. Chennai is the major nearest connecting railway junction.