Tirupati Balaji Temple history and travel guide
Tirupati Balaji Temple is one of the most popular temples in India, also known as Sri Venkateswara Temple. Another name by which Lord Venkateswara is known, located in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, is an incarnation of Vishnu. Located in an environment of great religious significance, sculptural beauty and a large number of devotees per day, this temple is considered one of the richest religious shrines in the world. This guide covers the tirupati balaji Temple history, significance, modes of travel, options for darshan, accommodation, festivals and many important things to note while visiting the Tirupati temple.
Tirupati Balaji Temple history
Studies related to this temple show that it has a vibrant history dating back to the 9th century. Initially built by the Pallava kings, it was later modified and expanded by the Chola dynasty and later again by the Vijayanagara dynasty. According to Hindu tradition, Lord Vishnu came to earth as Venkateswara to liberate mankind from all the troubles of the Kali-yuga; hence the temple is also associated with this history.
It is also said that Lord Venkateswara took a divine loan from Kubera to perform his marriage with Goddess Padmavati; it is believed that devotees donate to the temple to help repay this inheritance debt. One of the common and traditional practices performed in the temple is hair cutting, which symbolizes complete dedication to God and gratitude towards Him.
Where is the Tirupati Balaji Temple?
The temple is located at Tirumala, about 23 km from the city of Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is well connected by road, rail and air. The temple complex is spread over 16.2 acres of land.
Tirupati balaji temple structure
The structure of Tirupati Balaji Temple is a wonderful example of architecture. The temple has a huge sanctum sanctorum in which the idol of Lord Venkateswara is installed. The idol is adorned with a golden crown and is a sight to behold for devotees. Apart from the main temple, there are several other smaller temples, such as the Devi Allahperumal Temple and the Sri Krishnadeva Raya Temple. The golden furnace, where gold jewellery and other materials are kept, is also in the temple complex.
Nearest Tirupati Airport
The nearest airport to Tirupati is Tirupati International Airport – Tirupati is about 39 km from Balaji, from where there are regular flights from Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore and Delhi.
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Tirupati station, which is connected by many express trains with many cities across India.
By road, Tirupati can be reached by state-run APSRTC buses, private cabs as well as self-propelled vehicles, and there are regular bus and taxi services to take pilgrims from Tirupati to Tirumala.
Tirupati Balaji Temple Timings
The temple is open for about 22 hours a day from 2:30 am to 1:30 pm. There are several types of Darshan: Sarva Darshan, Vishesh Pravesh Darshan, VIP Darshan, Divya Darshan and Seva Darshan. All darshan is free of charge and quite open to all; however, long waiting times apply, usually between four and eight hours.
Special Entry Darshan: Can be purchased in advance for three hundred rupees and gives a very short waiting time.
• VIP Darshan: Reserved for special invitees and donors, while Divine Darshan is for pilgrims who walk up to the temple via Alipiri or Srivari-Mettu.
• Seva Darshan is open to devotees who are pre-booked for special puja services. Booking for darshan, accommodation and sevas can be done online through the TTD official booking portal website.
The dress code : Devotees visiting the temple should strictly follow the attire suitable for the occasion: Men should wear either dhoti or kurta-pyjama; while shirts and trousers are allowed, shorts are strictly prohibited. And any kind of intoxication is strictly prohibited during religious rituals and protocols. For women, it is advisable to wear saree, salwar-kameez or modestly covered clothes as per dignity. Sleeveless tops and short skirts are forbidden.
Tirupati laddu prasad
Tirupati temple has unique prasadam called Tirupati laddu with GI tag. After darshan, these laddus are distributed among the devotees. Ladoos can also be bought at designated counters.
Where's to Stay
Accommodation in Tirupati and Tirumala is available in several categories. The temple trust TTD offers guest houses and hostels at very low rates.
Sri Padmavathi Guest House, Sri Venkateswara Guest House and Madhavam Rest House are the famous residences of TTD. Pilgrims can reserve rooms through the TTD official website.
Tirupati has many private hotels for residents of low-budget, mid-range and high-budget categories. Budget hotels include Hotel Bhimas Deluxe and Hotel Mayura.
Fortune Select Grand Ridge and KVP Residency are mid-level hotels. Luxury hotels are Marasa Sarovar Premier and Taj Tirupati.
Best time to visit Tirupati Balaji Temple
The right time to visit Tirupati depends on the pressure of the crowd. The best time to visit the Tirupati temple is during the Brahmotsavams, a nine-day grand festival held during the months of September or October, when there is a huge flow of devotees to the temple.
During December or January, Vaikuntha Ekadashi; New Year celebrations and summer holidays; otherwise it is advisable to have a low-population darshan on weekdays between February to March or July to September. Walking to the temple is an accepted form of devotion among many devotees. The two major footpaths are Alipiri Mettu and Srivari Mettu.
• Alipiri Mettu is the traditional route, covering a distance of 9 km with about 3,550 steps. The route takes about 3-4 hours to complete and facilities of free food, drinking water and a medical aid unit are available. Free darshan tokens are given to the pilgrims on this route.
• Srivari Mettu is a short route, about 2.1 km long and has 2,350 steps. This route can be cleaned in about an hour and a half and is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Festivals celebrated in Tirupati Balaji Temple
Many important festivals are celebrated in the Tirupati temple.
• Brahmotsavam, celebrated for nine days, is the biggest festival when grand processions and elaborate rituals are performed.
• Another important festival during which it is believed that a visit to the temple leads to salvation is Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
• The Rathotsavam, or chariot festival, takes place in March when the idol of the deity is taken in a grand procession on a chariot.
• Finally, the Pushpa Yagna festival refers to the offering of flowers with elaborate decorations to Lord Venkateswara.
Rules and Guidelines
Several rules and guidelines have been laid down for devotees to follow while visiting the temple. A valid ID is required for entry. Mobile phones, cameras and leather items are prohibited in the temple area and they should be deposited at the counters provided for the purpose. Inside the temple, devotees should maintain silence and decorum. It is strictly forbidden to take photos or videos. There is no room for pushing in queues or acting unethically. The use of alcohol, tobacco and all forms of intoxication is strictly prohibited during religious observances and protocols.
Tourist Attractions Near Tirupati
| Attraction | Distance from Tirupati | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sri Venkateswara Temple | 23 km (Tirumala) | One of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage sites |
| Sri Padmavathi Temple | 5 km (Tiruchanur) | Dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, Vishnu’s consort |
| Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple | 3 km | Only Shiva temple in Tirupati, located near waterfalls |
| Chandragiri Fort | 16 km | Historical fort built by the Vijayanagara kings |
| Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park | 10 km | One of the largest zoos in Asia, known for its wildlife and nature trails |
| Talakona Waterfalls | 50 km | Tallest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh, great for trekking |
| Srikalahasti Temple | 36 km | Famous Shiva temple known for Rahu-Ketu dosha puja |
| ISKCON Temple Tirupati | 3 km | Beautiful Krishna temple with devotional ambiance |
| Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple | 70 km | Unique self-manifested (Swayambhu) Ganesha idol |
| Silathoranam | 25 km (Tirumala) | Natural rock formation in an arch shape, a rare geological wonder |
| Tumbhuru Teertham | 30 km (Tirumala) | Sacred water body believed to have divine healing powers |
| Papavinasam Theertham | 27 km (Tirumala) | Holy waterfall where devotees cleanse their sins |
| Sri Venkateswara National Park | 20 km | A wildlife sanctuary with rich flora and fauna |
Frequently asked questions
How can I book Tirupati darshan tickets online?
You can book darshan tickets through the official Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) website https://tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in.
What is the significance of offering hair at Tirupati Temple?
Devotees donate their hair as an act of surrender to Lord Venkateswara, symbolizing devotion and gratitude. This practice is known as Mokku.
Can I visit Tirupati Temple without prior booking?
Yes, you can, but expect long waiting times for Sarva Darshan. Booking in advance is recommended for a smoother experience.
Is free food available in Tirumala?
Yes, the TTD provides free meals at Sri Venkateswara Annaprasadam Complex, serving thousands of devotees daily.
