About Tirupati
Timurala Venkateswara Temple, or simply known as Tirupati, is the most famous pilgrimage destination of South India, and the most popular one. It is located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, about 750KM southwest of Vishakhapatnam, and is also home to other historic and ancient temples. Hence, the town is also referred to as the Spiritual Capital of Andhra Pradesh.
The temple, the highlight of the Tirupati map, is perched on and is surrounded by the Tirumala Hills, which are a part of the Sheshachalam Hills Range. They are also called the Tirupati hills. The hills rise to about 2799ft. above sea level, offering great views of the surrounding landscape of forests and waterfalls.
The hills are distinguished by seven peaks, which are mythological representations of the seven heads of Adisesha. The Tirupati temple sits on the 7th peak – Venkatadri, adjacent to the Swami Pushkarini Lake. Hence it is also called the Temple of the Seven Hills. The entire town, including the temple, covers an area of 26.75 km2 and has a population of 287,035.
History
It is believed that Venkateswara, an avatar of Vishnu appeared on what is presently the temple site, to save mankind from the sufferings of the Kali Yuga. Most ruling dynasties like the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagar Kings were devotees of this temple. The first official administration of the temple was set up by Maratha general, Raghoji I Bhosle.
Then during the colonial rule, the British East India Company oversaw the management and handed it to the Mahants of Hathiramji Muth. It was only in 1933, under the TTD Act, the Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanams trust was formed to manage and conduct all activities in Tirupathi and other temples in Tirumala.
Interesting Facts
One of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, Tirupati Temple is frequented by nearly 100,000 people daily, who come here for the sole purpose of Tirupati darshan. On special occasions and festival, the number goes up to 500,000, making it the most-visited holy place in the world.
It is also considered to be the richest Hindu temple in the world, with respect to the donations it receives and the wealth accumulated thereof. The reason behind such endowments is associated with a legend in the Puranas.
It is said that Ventakeswara loaned about 11.4 million gold coins from Kuber for his marriage to Padmavathi. With that money, he hired Viswakarma, the divine architect to create the majestic abode. In remembrance, devotees donate money, gold, and other material endowments to the temple, so Venkateshwara can pay back Kuber. It is said that the donations to Tirupati temple go as high as 22.5 million INR per day.
Temple Architecture
The temple structure is a work of architectural wonder. The stone carvings on the facades, interiors and towers, reflect the finesse and skillfulness of ancient Dravidian architecture and are awe-inspiring. It is constructed in classic Dravidian architectural style and is said to have taken a long period of time to build, starting from 300AM. The temple premise consists of two queue complexes to manage pilgrims, the Tarigonda Vengamamba Annaprasadam complex for free meals for visitors, hair tonsure buildings, and a number of pilgrim lodging sites.
Temples to visit in Tirupati
Sri Venkateswara temple is the highlight of Tirupati tourism. Apart from that there are many other places to visit here. Here are some of the best places to visit
ISKCON Temple
How to Reach: The temple is located at 21KM from the Balaji temple. You can book a local cab or hire a car to reach.
Timings: 4:30–5AM, 7:30am–8:30PM
Entry Fee: INR 5
Time Required: 1-2 Hours
Tips: Explore the waterfalls and the surrounding forests for treks and hikes.
Kapila Theertham
How to Reach: The temple is located at 16KM from the Venkateshwara temple. You can book a local cab to reach.
Timings: 5AM-4PM, 4.30PM-9PM
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 2-3 Hours
Tips: Visit during the Janmashtami Festival to witness the celebrations.
Famous Places to visit in Tirupati
Surrounded by a lush natural landscape, there are endless options to visit other places near Tirupati. Include these tourist places near Tirupati in your sightseeing trip.
Kalyani Dam
How to Reach:The dam area is located at 24KM from the Tirupati temple. You can book a cab or rent a local car to travel.
Timings: 8AM-6PM, 4.30PM-9PM
Entry Fee: Free
Time Required: 2-3 Hours
Tips: Visit during sunrise or sunset hours for great views.
Chandragiri Palace & Fort
An ancient fort with historical significance, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's history. It also has a museum with exhibits from the Vijayanagara Empire.
How to Reach:The fort area is located at 33KM from Tirupati temple. You can book a cab or rent a local car for the day to travel and return.
Timings: 7.30AM-5.30PM, light and sound show – 6PM onward.
Entry Fee: INR 25 (adults), INR 10 (children), INR 100 (family), separate entry for the light show.
Time Required: 4-5 Hours
Tips:Don’t miss the light and sound show in the evening.
Tirupati is a diverse city with something for every type of traveler, making it a fascinating destination to explore. From its ancient temples and cultural heritage to its natural beauty and wildlife, Tirupati offers a rich and varied experience for visitors.
