The Sri Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala, above Tirupati, is one of the most visited religious sites in the world. Planning ahead is essential.
Types of darshan
The temple is managed by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Darshan options include:
- Free (sarva) darshan, with waiting times that can range from a few hours to much longer on busy days.
- Special entry darshan, a paid option with a fixed time slot, booked online on the official TTD website. Slots are released in advance and sell out quickly.
- Darshan for pilgrims who walk up the footpath, subject to TTD's current token system.
Book only through the official TTD website or counters.
Getting up the hill
- By road: buses, taxis and private cars take the ghat roads up to Tirumala.
- On foot: two traditional footpaths lead up the hill. The Alipiri route is longer; the Srivari Mettu route is shorter and steeper in parts. Many pilgrims walk up as an act of devotion.
Dress code
Traditional dress is expected for darshan: dhoti or kurta-pyjama for men, saree or churidar for women. Check current TTD guidelines.
What to expect
- Mobile phones, cameras and bags are not allowed inside the temple; use the deposit counters.
- Queues can be long; carry water.
- After darshan, collect the famous Tirupati laddu prasadam.
- Many pilgrims offer their hair as a vow at the tonsuring centres.
Nearby temples
- Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple at Tiruchanur.
- Sri Kalahasti, one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, about 36 kilometres away.
- Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple, about 70 kilometres away.
When to go
September to February is most comfortable. Brahmotsavam and Vaikunta Ekadasi are spectacular but very crowded.
From Chennai
Tirupati is about three and a half hours by road from Chennai, making it an easy two-day trip. See Pilgrimage tours.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go