The small spiritual town of Tirumala sits at an elevation of 980 meters (3,215.22 feet) above sea level, against the backdrop of the Seshachalam range. This town is enveloped by Sri Venkateswara National Park, which serves as a habitat for leopards and sloth bears. However, Tirumala is most renowned for the revered Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, popularly known as Tirupati Balaji.
This temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, one of the primary Hindu deities who is also regarded as the God of Preservation. Tirupati Balaji is perched on Venkatadri Hill, a sacred spot that only Hindus were allowed to access prior to 1870. Over the years, it has not only emerged to be one of India’s most popular temples but is also considered among the wealthiest ones in the country. Keep scrolling to learn more about the divine Tirupati Balaji temple and find the best accommodations nearby.
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The spiritual significance of the Tirupati Balaji temple
Who is the temple dedicated to?
The Hindu universe is divided into four yugas or time periods, each shorter than the previous one. The shortening of the yugas denotes the continuous decline in the moral and spiritual fiber of humanity. According to scriptures, the first yuga, Krita or Satya Yuga, was the age of perfection and lasted 1,728,000 years. This was followed by Treta Yuga, Dvapara Yuga, and finally the present, Kali Yuga (age of darkness).
The Tirupati Balaji temple, spread across 16.2 acres (6.56 hectares), is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, who chose Tirumala as his home over 5,000 years ago. He is the human form of Lord Vishnu, a principal Hindu god known for his various avatars through the ages. Lord Vishnu is the God of Preservation and his primary role is to help restore Earth during troubled times.
Sometime during the Krita Yuga, Earth was reduced to ashes and humans had to seek refuge in Janaloka or the heavenly realm. Meanwhile, Vayu, the God of Wind, conjured rain clouds that resulted in such heavy downpours that it led to Pralaya Kalpa (the great flood). This submerged the Earth into Patal lok (cosmic underworld) for a thousand years.
During this time, Lord Vishu decided to descend to Earth in the form of a wild boar or Adi Varaha, his third avatar, to save mankind. After a fierce battle with the demon king Hiranyaksha, Lord Vishnu emerged victorious and pulled Earth from the trenches of the underworld with his powerful tusks. He expressed his desire to continue to stay on Earth to protect humans from future adversities. He commanded a hill with seven peaks to be brought from his heavenly abode to serve as his resting place on Earth.
Many years later, during the beginning of Kali Yuga, Lord Vishnu returned to his heavenly abode. It was also during this yuga that he reincarnated as Lord Srinivasa or Lord Venkateshwara, his human avatar. He married Princess Padmavati, the daughter of King Akasa Raja, as predicted many years earlier by Lord Vishnu himself. But the twist to the tale was that the human avatar was unaware that Lord Vishnu in his celestial form was already married to Goddess Lakshmi. When she came to know of his second marriage, Goddess Lakshmi came to confront Lord Vishnu. It is said that the human avatar turned into a granite idol in front of his wives so that he could continue residing on Earth. His wives, too, took the form of stone idols to stay by his side.
Pilgrims who visit the Tirupati Balaji temple hold an inherent belief that the deity helps resolve their hardships. Many vow to shave their heads at the temple or anoint each step with kumkum (red turmeric paste usually applied on the forehead during Hindu ceremonies).
When was the temple built and why?
Tirupati Balaji is a prominent Hindu temple in southern India that was constructed over several years by ruling kings. While there is no definite date for the beginning of the temple’s construction, it is considered to be several centuries old. Historical records indicate that the main entrance gate was constructed prior to the 13th century, while construction of the second entrance was completed between the 12th and the 13th centuries. Elaborate pavilions within the temple complex were added later in 1470.
The temple was built as the permanent abode of Lord Vishnu, allowing him to continue residing on Earth and protecting humanity during the Kali Yuga. This is the primary reason why the temple has maintained its popularity among Vaishnavites, who worship Lord Vishnu or one of his many incarnations as the supreme being.
Today, the temple receives approximately 60,000 to 80,000 devotees daily, and this number increases significantly during festivals and the weekends.
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Architecture of the temple
The temple is constructed following the Dravidian architectural style, which is commonly seen in temples throughout southern India. The Maha Dwaram, or the main entrance, stands at 50 feet (15.24 meters) and is guarded by 2 feet (0.61 meters) high five metal alloyed statues of Sankanidhi and Padmanidhi.
This brass entrance is followed by a silver one, and finally, there is a golden gopuram (entrance tower). This gold-plated main sanctum entrance, known as Ananda Nilayam, features a crown-like top. According to this architectural style, this entrance is always guarded by fearsome dvarapalas (door guardians). At Tirupati Balaji, Jaya and Vijaya serve as the guardians, helping protect the inner sanctum.
The temple also includes several mandapams or temple porches that are beautifully decorated with wall paintings, inscriptions, and idols of various gods and goddesses.
The kitchen at Tirupati Balaji is referred to as the Padi potu, where all food offerings for Lord Venkateshwara are prepared. It is believed that the Lord’s mother supervises the entire preparation, and a peephole has been created in the wall for her to oversee the cooking. Across from the main kitchen lies a well known as Bangaru Bavi, and the water from here is used during prayers and in the preparation of food for the deity.
What else should you know before heading to Tirupati Balaji?
What are the timings at Tirupati Balaji?
The route to Tirumala is safe and open 24 hours a day. However, the hours for darshan or sighting of the divine deity vary depending on the day. On regular days sanctum doors are open for approximately 18 hours a day. Meanwhile, on festivals and special occasions, this time period is increased to 20 hours.
Complimentary milk, tea, and coffee are provided at three-hour intervals for waiting devotees. You will also have access to water, washrooms, and medical facilities.
How should I plan my visit to the temple?
Before beginning the pilgrimage, devotees must pay respect to their own ancestral gods. Once in Tirumala, pilgrims must first bathe in Swami Pushkarini, a lake within the complex, and then pay their respects at Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy temple before proceeding to seek the blessings of Sri Venkateshwara.
Are there any restrictions to be followed in Tirumala?
Devotees should not consume non-vegetarian food or alcohol while they are in Tirumala.
How can I volunteer at the temple?
Those seeking to donate their service to the temple can register for the Srivari Seva program online. Openings are released on the first Friday of every month.
Is there a dress code at the temple?
Since 2013 the temple has initiated a strict dress code. Men need to wear a dhoti (a loose piece of cloth wrapped around the lower body) or a pyjama (a loose trouser) with an upper garment. Women must wear a saree (a long piece of cloth wrapped around the body), a half saree, or a churidar kurta (a long tunic with trousers).
The Tirupati Balaji kitchen
The most well-known aspect of the temple is its mega kitchen, one of the largest in the world. Since its commencement in 1985, the temple trust aimed to provide 2,000 free meals daily. Today, that number has increased to over 200,000 meals. These meals are referred to as annaprasadam, anna meaning grain, and prasadam meaning food and water that was first offered to the deity and then to the devotee. These are essentially meals that are prepared and first offered to Lord Venkateswara before being shared with the pilgrims.
In addition to serving meals at the original Annaprasada Complex, the trust also serves meals at several other locations around Tirumala. Moreover, it helps to serve meals in hospitals and temples in the nearby cities of Tirupati and Tiruchanoor.
Up to 12 tons of rice, 7.5 tons of vegetables, and 10,000 liters (2641.72 gallons) of milk are used daily. The kitchen at the Tirupati Balaji temple runs on donations, and as of 2019, it costs approximately 3,300,000 INR (39938.88 USD) daily to prepare meals.
What are some must-visit sites in Tirumala?
The Swami Pushkarini holy lake
Devotees who wish to pay respects to Lord Venkateshwara must first take a purifying bath in the holy lake, Swami Pushkarini before proceeding to the temples. Later, visitors can also have a bath in Papavinasanam and Akasha Ganga teerthams or holy water bodies.
Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple
Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple dedicated to the Adi Varaha incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who was residing in the hills before Lord Venkateshwara. The latter requested Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy for land so he too could reside in the sacred hills, and the presiding deity agreed. To thank him for his kind gesture, Lord Venkateshwara gifted him the honor of being the first stop for devotees.
Hence, pilgrims continue to pay their respects to the third avatar of Lord Vishnu before proceeding to Tirupati Balaji.
Silathoranam or garland of rocks
Officially known as the Natural Geological Arch, Silathoranam is a 2.5-million-year-old natural structure located within the Tirumala Hills. It is a protected Geo-Heritage Site, 2.3 kilometers (1.43 miles), from the Tirupati Balaji temple. Interestingly, the arch also has a connection to Hindu mythology. One of the mythological references claims that the height of the arch is supposed to be the same as that of Lord Venkateswara.
Many also believe that the arch resembles the hood of the serpent, a conch, and a discus, all of which are elements associated with Lord Vishnu.
What is the best way to reach Tirumala?
Although Tirumala has the designation of a town, there is no privately owned property here. The town is overseen by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which operates guesthouses, provides food, and manages local transport. The closest major city is Tirupati, 24.3 kilometers (15.10 miles) away.
By Air
Tirupati Airport is well-connected to all major cities in India so flight is the most convenient mode of transport for devotees. From the airport, it is easy to hire a taxi to the hotel.
By Train
Tirupati Railway Station is regularly serviced by trains from all major parts of the country. From here, devotees can head to Sri Venkateswara Bus Station, which is located at the back of the station.
By Road
It is also possible to drive to Tirupati from major South Indian cities such as Chennai and Bengaluru.
From Tirupati, it is easy to reach the temple even for those with no private vehicles. The state government operates frequent buses from the railway station, as well as from other bus stations, to Tirupati Balaji.
A free bus service also runs from the railway station for those who wish to complete the journey to the temple on foot. The route ends at either Alipiri or Srivari Mettu, the start-points of the climb. The stone pedestrian walkways, known as sopanamargas, are well-lit routes. They are equipped with drinking water, sheltered rest points, washrooms, and medical assistance. These routes are under continuous security surveillance and are safe at all times of the day.
Alipiri is the older and more commonly used route, boasting a length of 11 kilometers (6.84 miles), while Srivari Mettu is 6 kilometers (3.73 miles) long.
Where to stay when visiting Tirupati Balaji
Hotels near Tirupati Balaji (from USD 50)
Pai Viceroy Hotel Tirupati
Address: No 18-1-5/6,18th Ward,Ramachandra Nagar Near Kapila Teertham Tirumala Bypass Road, Ramchandra Nagar, Tirupati, India, 517501
1.25 km (0.8 mi) from TIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING
FabHotel Aditya Yatri Nivas
Address: 18-3-60/3A, Near Alipiri Police Station, Sri Hari Colony Tirupati, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh
951 meters (0.6 ft) from TIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING
Marasa Sarovar Premiere Tirupati
Address: Upadhyaya Nagar, Karambadi Road, Tirupati, Tirupati, India, 517507
1.98 km (1.3 mi) from TIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING
Homestays near Tirupati Balaji (from USD 24)
Reasonable pricing for spacious, clean rooms with smart TV and kitchenette.
New property, well-maintained with good facilities and accommodating staff.
Proximity to highway and important places like Tiruchanur, peaceful surroundings.
Option to order food, nearby restaurants available, but limited kitchen equipment.
FOUR SEASONS HOME STAY
Address: Tirupati Bypass Road
3.85 km (2.4 mi) from TIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING
Sri Balaji Residency (AC) 2 BHK Apartment
Address: Sri Padmavati Mahila University road Padmavati nagar
2.97 km (1.9 mi) from TIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING
G k Homestay
Address: Plot no-36,Nethaji Nagar, Tiruchanoor flyover junction
4.12 km (2.6 mi) from TIRUMALA TIRUPATI DEVASTHANAMS ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING
Vacation rentals near Tirupati Balaji (from USD 40)
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Plan a divine journey to Tirupati Balaji
The Tirupati Balaji temple in the town of Tirumala is one of the most significant sites among Hindus. The temple has been expanded over several years and continues to hold a reverential spot in the hearts of Lord Vishnu devotees. Remember to refer to this guide to learn more about the historic Tirupati Balaji, including its glorious history, and find the best places to stay nearby.
History
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