Tirupati: One of the most important pilgrimage centres in the world
Tirupati is one of the holiest and most visited temple towns in Andhra Pradesh. The Sri Venkateswara Temple is considered extremely sacred, attracting devotees from all walks of life, as their prayers are believed to be answered here. It is one of the most important pilgrimage centres in the world. The temple is administered by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, formed in 1933.
History reveals that the famous Sri Venkateswara Temple was maintained and adorned by several kingdoms, including the Pallavas, Cholas, and the Vijayanagara Empire. The custom of Vaishnavism developed around the 5th century AD, and the Vaishnavite saint Ramanujacharya formalised the temple rites in the 11th century AD.
Following are the main attractions of Tirupati:
Tirupati Balaji Temple: The Tirumala Venkateswara Temple is the main highlight of Tirupati, perched on the Tirumala Hills. The idol of Lord Vishnu is adorned with gold. This temple is the richest and most visited in India, featuring the prominent Dravidian style of architecture.
Sri Govindrajaswamy Temple: This temple is the most visited after the Tirupati Balaji Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, the re-incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Its imposing gopuram (monumental tower) is a prime attraction. Saint Ramanujacharya sanctified the temple in 1130.
Tiruchanur:
Located 5 km from the main town, Tiruchanur is home to Sri Padmavathi Devi Temple. The famous practice of Tonsure, where devotees donate their hair as part of worship, is a major attraction. The town is also called Alamelumangapuram.
Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple: Situated at the foothills of the Tirumala Hills, the Kapileswaraswami Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Kapila Teertham, a sacred waterfall nearby, adds to the temple's spiritual ambience.
Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple: Built by a Chola king in the 10th century, this temple worships the idols of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshmana. It is believed to commemorate Lord Rama’s visit to Tirupati.
Shopping in Tirupati:
Famous souvenirs include Kalamkari (hand-painted or block-printed cotton textiles), wood carvings, and Tanjore-style gold leaf paintings. Tourists often shop at the Bazaar Street of Chandragiri.
Excursions from Tirupati: Nearby attractions include Sri Venkateshwara Temple (27 km), Chittoor (70 km), Vellore (105 km), Chennai (156 km), and Bangalore (250 km).
When to Reach: The best time to visit Tirupati is between November and March. The Brahmotsavam festival in October attracts thousands of devotees.
How to Reach:
Air: Regular flights connect Tirupati Airport, 14 km from town, with Hyderabad and Delhi.
Rail: The Tirupati Railway Station, on the Katpadi-Renigunta route, has regular trains to Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
Road: Intercity and interstate buses connect Tirupati with other cities in Andhra Pradesh.
