Tirupati Packages

Spl Story on Thula Bharam at Srivari Padi Kavali

2011-02-10T01:56:00.006+05:30

On the left corner of the Padi kavili of the Srivari Temple one will see a large steel balance kept for weighing persons who want to fulfil their vow to Lord Venkateswara.

Nearly 100-200 persons fulfill their vow at this spot by donating commodities, metals or even coins worth their weight to Lord Venkateswara. Legend says that Lord Venkateswara had become heavily indebted and had taken huge loans from \kubera, the lord of wealth and hence his devotees were contributing their mite to reduce his burden.

Devotees paid in all formats to theri beloved deity. To facilitate the devotees to fulfill their vow the TTD had set up the Tula Bharam at the entrance itself in association with the Indian Bank. Value of weight of coins was listed out and also the weight of commodities like rice, sugar, jaggery, sugar candy, etc.

"Devotees could bring their own coin or grains which they can deposit in the Hundi. But we offer to deposit only if they take it from us. Our rates are as per the commodity and coin rates at which TTD had made the purchases" says Guna Sekhar Reddy, the officer in charge of the Tula Bharam.

Tula Bharam is available in two shifts of 12 hours and devotees can utilise the facility as per their convenience, says temple officials.

It is well known that devotees of Lord Venkateswara made strange vows for fulfillment of their wishes. Many walked long distances, some crawled and also rolled as well.

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam

2010-12-28T14:23:00.000+05:30

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam is also known as TTD. It is a management committee in tirumala which controls the pilgrims of tirumala-tirupati area. TTD is not only controlling the tirupati-temples but also participate in various social, religious, literary and educational activities within Andhra Pradesh and India

Background of TTD trust
In 1933 AD, the Madras government passed a special act, and empowered the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) committee to control all the activities of temple in tirumala-tirupati area, through a commissioner appointed by the madras government. Again in 1951, the act which was passed in 1933, replaced by enactment whereby the administration of TTD was entrusted to a Board of Trustees and an executive officer was appointed by the government.
The Executive Officer is the chief executive of TTD. He controls all activities of TTD. It includes arrangement and record of collection of income and payment of expenses, safety of pilgrims and other related work with tirupati temple. Now-a-days, TTD employs about 14000 people to maintain the 12 temples and their sub-shrine under its control along with the execution of its social activities.

Objectives of TTD
The main objective of the TTD is to provide convenient facilities to the devotees of lord Venkateswara. All facilities which we show in tirumala- tirupati, these facilities are mostly provided by TTD. Other objective of TTD is given below.
1) TTD works towards preserving the serenity and sanctity of the sacred Tirumala-Tirupati area.
2) It participated in various social, religious, literary and educational activities within Andhra Pradesh and India.
3) TTD also provides aid to authors and subsidised equipment to other temples.
4) Provision for water supply, sanitary arrangements, roads and communications, lighting and electricity were also included.
5) To provide training to priests.

Address/ contact office :Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams,TTD Administrative Building,
K.T. Road, Tirupati 517 501,
Andhra Pradesh, India.
Phone No. : +91-0877-2230166 (Tirupati)
+91-0877-2277214 (Tirumala)
+91-0877-2228358 (Fax)
Email Address: ttdt@md3.vsnl.net.in

108 Names of Lord Venkateswara

2010-12-28T14:14:00.002+05:30

We all known Lord Venkateswara is the main deity of Tirumal, Tirupati.
Lord Vekateswara is also known by other names.

1) Om Shri Ventakeshaya Namaha
2) OM Sreenivasaya Namaha
3) OM Laxmipataye Namaha
4) OM Anaamayaaya Namaha
5) OM Amruthamsaya Namaha
6) OM Jagadvandyaya Namaha
7) OM Govindaya Namaha
8) OM Shashvataya Namaha
9) OM Prabhave Namaha
10) OM Sheshadrinilayaya Namaha
11) OM Devaya Namaha
12) OM Keshavaya Namaha
13) OM Madhusudhanaya Namaha
14) OM Amrutaya Namaha
15) OM Madhavaya Namaha
16) OM Krishnaya Namaha
17) OM Sriharaye Namaha
18) OM Jnanapanjaraya Namaha
19) OM SreeVatsavakshase Namaha
20) OM Sarveshaya Namaha
21) OM Gopalaya Namaha
22) OM Purushotamaya Namaha
23) OM Gopeeshwaraya Namaha
24) OM Parasmyjyotishe Namaha
25) OM Vaikuntapataye Namaha
26) OM Avyayaya Namaha
27) OM Sudhaatanave Namaha
28) OM Yadavendraya Namaha
29) OM Nithyayavvanaroopavate Namaha
30) OM Chaturvedatmakaya Namaha
31) OM Vishnave Namaha
32) OM Achutyaya Namaha
33) OM Padminipriyaya Namaha
34) OM Dharapataye Namaha
35) OM Surapatye Namaha
36) OM Nirmalaya Namaha
37) OM Devapoojitaya Namaha
38) OM Chaturboojaya Namaha
39) OM Chakradaraya Namaha
40) OM Tridamne Namaha
41) OM Trigunashrayaya Namaha
42) OM Nirvikalpaya Namaha
43) OM Nishkalankaya Namaha
44) OM Niranthakaya Namaha
45) OM Niranjanaya Namaha
46) OM Nirabasaya Namaha
47) OM Nityatruptaya Namaha
48) OM Nirgunaya Namaha
49) OM Nirupadravaya Namaha
50) OM Gadhaadharaya Namaha
51) OM Shaarangapanaye Namaha
52) OM Nandakine Namaha
53) OM Shankhadarakaya Namaha
54) OM Anakemurtaye Namaha
55) OM Avyaktaya Namaha
56) OM Katihastaya Namaha
57) OM Varapradaya Namaha
58) OM Anekatmane Namaha
59) OM Deenabandhave Namaha
60) OM Aartalokabhayapradhaya
61) OM Akasharajavaradhaya Namaha
62) OM Yogihrutpadmamandhiraya Namaha
63) OM Dhamodharaya Namaha
64) OM Karunakaraya Namaha
65) OM Jagatpalayapapagnaya Namaha
66) OM Bhakthavatsalaya Namaha
67) OM Trivikramaya Namaha
68) OM Shishumaraya Namaha
69) OM Jatamakutashobhitaya Namaha
70) OM Shankamadyolasanmanjookinkinyadyakarakandakaya Namaha
71) OM Neelameghashyamatanave Namaha
72) OM Bilvapatrarchanapriyaya Namaha
73) OM Jagatvyapine Namaha
74) OM Jagatkartre Namaha
75) OM Jagatsakshine Namaha
76) OM Jagatpataya Namaha
77) OM Chintitarthapradaya Namaha
78) OM Jishnave Namaha
79) OM Daasharhaaya Namaha
80) OM Dhasharoopavate Namaha
81) OM Devakinandanaya Namaha
82) OM Shauraye Namaha
83) OM Hayagreevaya Namaha
84) OM Janardhanaya Namaha
85) OM Kanyashravanatharejyaya Namaha
86) OM Peetambharadharaya Namaha
87) OM Anagaya Namaha
88) OM Vanamaline Namaha
89) OM Padmanabhaya Namaha
90) OM Mrughayasaktamanasaya Namaha
91) OM Ashvaroodaya Namaha
92) OM Kadghadharine Namaha
93) OM Dhanarjanasamootsukaya Namaha
94) OM Ganasaralasanmadhyakasturitilakojjwalaya Namaha
95) OM Sachitandharoopaya Namaha
96) OM Jaganmangaladayakaya Namaha
97) OM Yajnaroopaya Namaha
98) OM Yajnabokthre Namaha
99) OM Chinmayaya Namaha
100) OM Parameshwaraya Namaha
101) OM Paramarthapradhaya Namaha
102) OM Shanthaya Namaha
103) OM Sreemathe Namaha
104) OM Dordhandhavikramaya Namaha
105) OM Paratparaya Namaha
106) OM Parasmaibrahmane Namaha
107) OM Sreevibhave Namaha
108) OM Jagadeeshwaraya Namaha

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Ninth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Pallaki Seva and Chakrasnana Mahotsavam

2010-12-20T01:07:00.000+05:30

On the last day, Pallaki Seva and Chakrasnana Mahotsavam in the morning and Dhwajavarohanam are performed in the evening.

The processional images are anointed with oil, turmeric powder and other auspicious ingredients and Abhishekam is performed. Sudarsan Chakram is given a bath in the Swami Pushkarini. The Garuda flag is then lowered.

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Eighth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Rathotsavam

2010-12-20T01:04:00.000+05:30

On the penultimate day, Rathotsavam is celebrated, in which the Lord is seated in a ratham (chariot) and taken in a procession in the morning.

It is believed that those who witness Rathotsavam will not be reborn (rathostham kesavam dristva punarjanma na vidyate).

The idols of Daruka (the charioteer of Lord Sri Krishna) and the four horses (Saibyam, Sugreevam, Meghapushpam and Valahakam) are placed before the decorated idols of the Lord and his consorts. This symbolises that the lord’s charioteer is driving the chariot.

The chariot is pulled along by devotees, who chant Govinda!, Govinda! This is the only opportunity that devotees get to be of service to the Lord during Brahmotsavam.

After the Unjal Seva in the night, the deities are taken in the Aswa (horse) Vahana.

Horses formed one of the four wings (ratha, gaja, turanga and pada) of the military forces in ancient times. Aswam, a symbol of energy, means 'one who runs fast'.

Lord Venkateswara travels on a horse when he goes for paruveta. According to Hindu mythology, the horse was born along with Sri Mahalakshmi, Airavatham and Amritam during Sheerasagaramadhanam.

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Seventh Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is on Suryaprabha Vahana

2010-12-20T00:58:00.001+05:30

On the morning of the seventh day, the Lord rides on Suryaprabha Vahana (Sun chariot).

Surya (the Sun), the son of Aditi, is another form of Lord Vishnu (Surya Narayana).

Hindu mythology supports the heliocentric theory, and believes that Lord Vishnu is the centre of the universe (dhyassada savitrumandala madhyavarthi). To symbolise this, Lord Venkateswara uses the Suryaprabha (light of the Sun) Vahana.

After the Unjal Seva in the night, the Lord is taken in the Chandraprabha Vahana (moon-shaped vehicle) around the brightly-lit streets of Tirumala.

Chandra means the Moon, which is considered cool and pleasant. According to Hindu mythology, Chandra is the commander of the mind (chandrama manaso jataha). He is also the king ofaushadha (medicine).

It is believed that riding in the Chandraprabha Vahana is a soothing experience for the Lord. The Lord's contentment will bring peace to devotees' minds and result in a good crop.

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Sixth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations on Gaja Vahana

2010-12-20T00:52:00.000+05:30

On the morning of the sixth day, the deities are carried on a beautifully-decorated Hanumad Vahana.

Hanuman was one of the greatest devotees of Sri Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Hanuman served the Lord so faithfully, that even the Lord could not thank Hanuman enough. Devotees believe that they are indeed blessed if they catch a glimpse of the Lord on Hanumad Vahanam.

Unjal Seva is not performed on the sixth day. Instead, Vasantotsavam (spring festival) is celebrated.

In the night, the Lord is mounted on the Gaja Vahana.Gajam (elephant) is also called the samajam(born from Samaveda). It symbolises wealth (gajamtam aishwaryam). It also symbolises the Airavatam – the vehicle of Devendra, the head of the heavens in Hindu mythology. It also can be attributed to the elephant in Gajendramoksham (story from the Mahabhaghavatam), which is saved from a crocodile by Lord Vishnu.

Therefore, the Lord is taken in a procession seated on a Gaja Vahana during Brahmotsavam.

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Fifth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Mohini Avatarotsavam

2010-12-20T00:45:00.000+05:30

On the fifth day, Mohini Avatarotsavam is celebrated to commemorate the Lord's incarnation as Mohini, in the morning

According to legend, the Devatas and the Demons performed Ksheerasagaramadhanam that resulted in amrit (nectar which when consumed grants immortality) and other sacred qualities. The Devatas and the Demons fought for possession of the Amrit. Lord Vishnu then assumed the form of Mohini (a beautiful woman) and procured the Amrit for the Devatas.

The Lord is dressed like Mohini, and He is

taken in a procession in a Pallaki (palanquin).Lord Krishna is also taken in the same procession. This is to celebrate the assistance rendered by Lord Vishnu to the Devatas during Ksheerasagaramadhanam.

After the Unjal Seva in the night, the Lord and his consorts are seated on Garuda Vahana. Lord is decorated with Mahaakanti, Sahasranaramala that day.

According to the ancient Hindu texts, Garuda, the king of birds, is a replica of the Vedas (vedatma vihamgeswara), while Lord Vishnu is the God of the Vedas. Therefore, the Lord sees Himself in Garuda. In the Vaishnava Puranas, Garuda is also called periyatiruvadi, meaning the first devotee.

Therefore, Lord Venkateswara selected Garuda as his vehicle for the most important day of the Brahmotsavam. Garuda Vahana is the greatest of all the Vahanas. A large number of pilgrims visit the temple on this day.

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Fourth Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Kalpavriksha Vahana

2010-12-20T00:41:00.000+05:30

On the fourth day, the deities are carried in a Kalpavriksha Vahana in the morning.

Kalpavriksham is a tree that is believed to grant boons and fulfil devotees’ wishes. The vehicle shaped like the Kalpavriksham signifies that the Lord grants boons and fulfils the wishes of his devotees.

In the night, after the Unjal Seva, the deities are carried in a Sarvabhoopala Vahana.

Sarvabhoopala means 'all the kings of Mother Earth'. According to the Hindu religion, kings, like Lord Vishnu, should always protect their people (na vishnuhu prithivi pathihi).

To thank Lord Vishnu for his ideals and pray to him, the kings take the form of the Sarvabhoopala Vahana on the fourth day of Brahmotsavam.

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Third Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Simhavahana

2010-12-20T00:36:00.001+05:30

On the morning of the third day, the deities are carried on the Simhavahana.

Simha (lion) is a symbol of regality and power. According to the Bhagvad Gita, the Lord is the Simha among animals (mriganamcha mrigandroham). The Lord is also called Hari (which in turn means Simha) and Hari sits on Simha. In other words, we have the phenomenon of the Lord sitting on Himself.

It is also believed that the Lord assumed the form of Narasimha (half man and half lion) to kill the demon Hiranyakasipu. Therefore, Lord Venkateswara uses the Simha as his vehicle on the third day of Brahmotsavam.

In the night, Unjal Seva is conducted. The deities then ride in the Mutayalapandiri Vahana, which is decorated with a pearl canopy. Mutyam (pearl) is a symbol of purity and royalty.

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Second Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations in Tirumala

2010-12-20T00:32:00.002+05:30

On the second day, the Lord is taken around the streets of the temple on the Chinna Seshavahana in the morning.

In the night, the deities are taken to the Uyala Mandapam for the Unjal Seva. They are then taken around the streets of Tirumala on the Hamsavahana.

Hamsa or swan means ‘pure’. Hamsa is believed to have a high intellectual capability, and can distinguish the good from the bad. In addition, Hamsa is visually appearing. It is for these reasons that Lord Brahma uses Hamsa not only as his vehicle, but also to chant the Vedas (the Vedas are believed to have emanated from the soul of Vishnu).

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First Day Brahmotsavam Celebrations is Dhwajarohana

2010-12-20T00:26:00.002+05:30

On the first day, Dhwajarohana is conducted by hoisting the Garudadhwaja (flag with the emblem of a black garuda), near the Srivari Alaya Dhwajasthambham.

A spectacular procession of Lord Venkateswara on the Pedda Seshavahana is taken around the four streets of the main temple from 2200 hrs till midnight.

The meaning of Sesha is ‘to serve’. Adi Sesha is a thousand-headed serpent, on whom Lord Sri Maha Vishnu rests in his abode, Vaikuntam.

Tirumala Hills, the abode of Lord Sri Venkateswara, is believed to be the manifestation of Adisesha. In commemoration of this event, the Lord is carried in a procession around the streets of Tirumala on the Seshavahana (vehicle shaped like Adisesha) during the first two days of Brahmotsavam (Pedda Seshavahana and Chinna Seshavahana).

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Brahmotsavam in Tirumala is celebrated for 9 days

2010-12-20T00:02:00.009+05:30

Day	Morning	Evening	Ankurarpana and Senadhipati Utsavam are celebrated on the day preceding the first day of Brahmotsavam.
First	Dwajarohanam	Pedda Sesha Vahanam
Second	Chinna Sesha Vahanam	Hamsa Vahanam
Third	Simha Vahanam	Mutyapu Pandiri Vahanam
Fourth	Kalpavriksha Vahanam	Sarva Bhoopala Vahanam
Fifth	Mohini Avataram	Garuda Seva
Sixth	Hanumantha Vahanam	Swarna Ratham, Gajavahanam
Seventh	Suryaprabha Vahanam	Chandraprabha Vahanam
Eighth	Rathotsavam	Aswa Vahanam
Ninth	Pallaki Utsavam, Chakrasnanam	Golden Tiruchi Utsavam, Dwajavarohanam

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Attractions of Tirupati: Chandragiri Fort

2010-11-27T05:32:00.001+05:30

Chandragiri is famous for the historical fort, built in the 11th century, and the Raja Mahal (Palace) within it. Chandragiri was under the rule of Yadava rayas for about three centuries and came into control of Vijayanagar rulers in 1367. It came into prominence during Saluva Narasimha Rayalu,he got the title of Mahamandaleswara and his illustrious Prime minister Chitti Gangarayalu (Ganganamatyudu) was known for his vision, wisdom and rectitude and was revered as a Bhisma Pitamaha in his times, he was the person who identified intellectualism of Timmarasu and taken him into the service of Chandragiri and later promoted to the Prime minister of Vijayanagar Empire. Gangaraya discendents served the Vijayanagara empire as trusted Generals and Governors for several generations, Chandragiri was the 4th capital of Vijayanagar Empire, Rayas shifted their capital to here when Golconda sultans attacked Penukonda. In 1646 the fort was annexed to the Golkonda territory and subsequently came under Mysore rule. It went into oblivion from 1792 onward. The fort encircles eight ruined temples of saivite and vaishnavite pantheons, Raja Mahal, Rani Mahal and other ruined structures.

Raja Mahal Palace, Chandragiri
The Raja Mahal Palace (shown in picture) is now an archeological museum. The palace is three storeyed, is an example of Indo-Sarcen architecture of Vijayanagar period. The crowning towers represents the Hindu architectural elements. The palace was constructed using stone, brick, lime mortar and devoid of timber.

Koneti Naidu, who was made the king of Penukonda by the Vijayanagar Raya was the great-grandson of Kanaka Naidu of Chandragiri Royal Family, Koneti Naidu belonged to Vasarasi family of Balijas and he ruled for about fourteen years.

Laser show is organized in fort premises during weekends, 7pm

The Seven Sacred Hills of Tirumala, Tirupati:

2010-11-27T04:53:00.006+05:30

The picturesque Tirumala hills is situated 2820 ft above MSL and is about 100sq.m in area. It comprises seven peaks, representing the seven hoods of Audisesha, thus earning the name Seshachalam.

The seven peaks are called Seshadri, Vedadri, Garudadri, Anjandri, Vrishabhadri, Narayandri and Venkatadri (Adri in sanskrit means Hill).

The Venkatam hill is believed to be a part of the celestial mount meru, brought to the earth from Vaikuntam by Garuda.The sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak,Venkatdri and there are several legends associated with the manifestation of the lord in Tirumala. The shrine of the lord is very ancient and there are ample references to it in the early inscriptions belonging to the Chola and Pallava periods as well in the Sangam literature.

The abode of the lord is about 10 Km north-west of Tirupati and there are footsteps leading to the hill as well as two separate serpentine roads to reach the shrine. According to legend, God Vishnu revealed himself earlier in the previous incarnations as Varahaswamy on the banks of the present temple tank. This manifestation of the white boar (Sveta Varaham) is enshrined in the Adi Varahaswany temple situated on the northeastern banks of the tank.

The Sanctum sanctorum called the Garbha Griha is where the main idol of lord Venkateswara resides. The idol stands majestically to a height of eight feet, in the centre of the sanctum directly beneath a gold guilded dome called the Ananda Nilaya Divay Vimana. The exquisitely wrought idol called the Mulabera is believed to be Svayambhu(self manifested), according to the legends. Further, no human being is known to have either sculpted or installed the idol in the shrine.

On normal days the imposing idol is adorned with a golden Kiritam which has a large emerald embedded on its front. On special occasions like the Brahmothsavam, he is adorned with his precious diamond crown worth Rs 30 Crores. On his forehead, the lord has a thick double patch of upright Namam drawn with refined camphor which screens his eyes. In between the two white patches is the Kasturi tilakam. His ear's are bedecked with shinning golden Makara Kundalas. The fist of his right raised hand is implanted with a gem-set chakra and the correponding left fist is with the Sankha. The slightly outstretched right hand has its finger pointing to his lotus feet, as the only recourse to his devotees to attain oneness with him and enjoy eternal bliss. His right hand is akimbo to assure his devotees of protection and to show the proverbial SamsaraSagara, the ocean of mundane life,is only hip deep if they seek refuge in him.

He has on the right side of his chest a clear impression of Goddess Lakshmi's, his consort. The deity has a unique magnetism, many devotees who go through the fleeting Sarvadarsanam have unusual psychic experience. They leave with a sense of spiritual satisfaction, coupled with a religious hunger to stand in front of Lord Venkateswara and experience the bliss again and again.

Recommended Restaurants in Tirupati

2010-11-26T18:28:00.001+05:30

Nitya Anna Dana Hall
Basic free meals consisting of vegetable dishes, chutney, rice, sambhar, rasam and buttermilk are provided at the Nitya Anna Dana Hall. The hall is one km from temple, next to the shopping complex. Over 25,000 pilgrims eat in this big hall every day. Food is served on tables, either in stainless steel plates or on banana leaves.
Location: Tirumala Temple Premises

Balaji Woodlands
Balaji Woodlands, near the bazaar, is clean and a good option for South Indian tiffin meals.
Location: 206, Achalukya Complex, TP Area

The Saptagiri Woodlands Restaurant
The restaurant is recommended for its hot and tasty South Indian veg snacks and meals. The long dosa and pesarattu are some of the most loved dishes here.
Location: Near the Saptagiri Guesthouse

Woodside Restaurant
The restaurant serves some delicious tiffin meals. The prices are affordable and the restaurant has clean surroundings.
Location: Near the SV Museum

Bhimas Paradise
The restaurant at Bhimas Paradise Hotel serves traditional authentic vegetarian South Indian, North Indian, Chinese, and Mughlai cuisine.
Location: 3-37, Renigunta Road

Hotel Mayura
Hotel Mayura takes pride in its on-site restaurant that whips up pure vegetarian North Indian and South Indian delicacies. The gourmet can also place orders for scrumptious Chinese and Mughlai dishes. The flavor of the food will leave even the most finicky foodie thoroughly pleased.
Location: 209, T.P Area

Vrinda
Vrinda is a pure vegetarian restaurant in Sindhuri Park Hotel. The restaurant serves delicious North Indian, Chinese and South Indian food. The hotel provides an unforgettable experience of dining in a restaurant adorned with appealing wall-hangs and gorgeous Radha-Krishna idols. There is also an adjoining mini dining hall for small parties and family dinners.
Location: TP Area, Opp. Govindaraja Swamy Temple, Pushkarini

Quick facts about Tirupati

2010-11-26T17:59:00.001+05:30

Tirupati Information & Fact file

	Altitude	750 meters
	Temp	Summer: 45 (max) and 40 (min) Degrees Celsius Winter: 30 (max) & 15 (min) Degrees Celsius
	Best time to Go	Oct - March
	Monsoon	July - Sept
	Summer	March - June
	Winter	Oct - Feb
	Clothes	Light cottons in summers and woolen clothes during winters as it is usually cold in Tirumala.
	Nearest Airport	Tirupati
	Railway Station	Tirupati
	Bus Station	Tirupati
	Hospital & Doctor	SVIMS, Tirupati
	Sightseeing	Tirumala Balaji Temple, Silathoranam, Theerthams, Papvinasanam...

Overview on Tirupati

2010-11-26T17:54:00.002+05:30

Tirupati, the place which constantly reverberates with the holy chanting of Om Namo Narayanaya and reminds of delicious laddus distributed as prasadam, is a major pilgrimage city drawing devotees from all over the country and abroad.

Tirupati is prominently known for Tirumala, the place of seven hills which is the abode of great lord Balaji usually called as lord Venkateswara or Srinivasa. The city is located in the southeastern part of Andhra Pradesh, in Chittoor district, located at the foothills of Eastern Ghats. The temple here is said to be the busiest in the world, eclipsing even Rome, Jerusalem and Mecca with the number of pilgrims visiting it.

The term 'Tirupati' is made of two words, where 'Tiru' means 'Sri' and 'Pati' means 'Husband'. Thus, 'Tirupati' suggests 'Maha Vishnu' or 'Lord of Maha Lakshmi'. Tirumala is located atop the hill which comprises of seven peaks, representing the seven hoods of Adisesha, thus earning the name, Seshachalam.

Popular as the richest and most opulent temple in the world, this temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries maintained by Tirumala Tirupati Devastanam (TTD). It is thronged by the devotees all around the year that it is not unusual for pilgrims to stand in line for hours together to witness a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few seconds, which take you to experience the pinnacle of divinity within those few precious seconds standing before God in the temple.

Apart from the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, there are plethora of other temples in and around the city which are worth visiting. In addition to various shrines scattered all over Tirupati and beyond, there are holy water falls, sacred rivers and archaeological wonders too.

Most of the devotees visit the temple to give their offerings on fulfillment of their vows, by either dropping them in Hundi or by tonsuring their heads. Walking up to the tmple is also treated as one offering to God. The path up to the doors of the Tirupati temple is around 12 km, comprising nearly 3500 plus stairs in total as one crosses seven hills.

Tirupati also offers some delicious cuisines reflecting the authentic Rayalaseema food, famous for its spiciness and hot chili flavor.

How to reach Tirupati by Train

2010-11-26T17:14:00.003+05:30

Trains connected to Tirupati from all places of India

Tirupati Railway Station is connected by trains from Bangalore, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Madurai and Mumbai. A major railhead nearby is Renigunta, which is 15 km away. Renigunta is located in Trivandrum – Delhi route, which is connected to all cities in India by rail.

Starting Station	Train	Arrival at Tirupati	Service Days
Bangalore (SBC) 5 more trains	Seshadri Expres (7209)	07:55 PM (duration: 6h 35m)	All Days
Chennai (MAS) 1 more train	Sapthagiri Exp (6057)	09:30 AM (duration: 3h 5m)	All Days
Chennai (MAS) 1 more train	Tirupathi Exp (6053)	05:00 PM (duration: 3h 10m)	All Days
Delhi (NDLS) 5 more trains	Kerala Express (2626)	09:05 PM (duration: 33h 35m)	All Days
Hyderabad (SC) 6 more trains	Narayanadri Exp (2734)	06:05 AM (duration: 12h)	All Days
Hyderabad (SC) 6 more trains	Padmavati Exp (2764)	07:00 AM (duration: 12h 30m)	Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat & Sun
Mumbai (CSTM)	Nagarcoil Exp (6351)	10:45 AM (duration: 22h 40m)	Tue & Sat
Mumbai (CSTM)	Kanyakumari Exp (6381)	02:30 PM (duration: 22h 45m)	All Days
Adilabad (ADB)	Krishna Exp (7406)	09:25 PM (duration: 24h 25m)	All Days
Bhubaneswar (BBS) 3 more trains	Bbs Ypr Sup Exp (2845)	03:45 AM (duration: 20h 15m)	Sun
Bilaspur (BSP)	Bsp Tpty Expres (7481)	04:05 PM (duration: 30h)	Tue & Sat
Chamarajanagar (CMNR)	Tirupati Passr (213)	05:35 AM (duration: 14h 35m)	All Days
Chittoor (CTO) 15 more trains	Venkatadri Exp (2798)	06:30 PM (duration: 1h)	All Days
Coimbatore (CBE) 9 more trains	Cbe Tirupaty Ex (0623)	07:30 AM (duration: 8h 55m)	Tue
Ernakulam (ERS) 6 more trains	Nizamuddin Exp (2645)	07:30 AM (duration: 12h 40m)	Sat
Ernakulam (ERS) 6 more trains	Ers Patna Exp (6359)	12:10 PM (duration: 13h 25m)	Sat
Guntur (GNT) 2 more trains	Gnt Tpty Pas (440)	11:45 AM (duration: 10h 45m)	All Days
H Nizamuddin (NZM) 3 more trains	Ers Millenum Ex (2646)	05:10 PM (duration: 35h 10m)	Tue
H Nizamuddin (NZM) 3 more trains	Swarna Jayanti (2644)	05:10 PM (duration: 35h 10m)	Fri
Hatia (HTE)	Hte Ypr Express (2835)	10:00 PM (duration: 27h 40m)	Tue & Sun
Howrah (HWH)	Hwh Pdy Exp (2867)	01:20 AM (duration: 25h 50m)	Sun
Howrah (HWH)	Hwh Ypr Express (2863)	11:40 PM (duration: 27h 5m)	All Days
Hubli (UBL) 1 more train	Ubl Tirupati Pa (271)	09:00 PM (duration: 15h)	All Days
Hyderabad Decan (HYB)	Sabari Exp (7230)	12:30 AM (duration: 12h 30m)	All Days
Hyderabad Decan (HYB)	Rayalaseema Exp (7429)	08:45 AM (duration: 15h 20m)	All Days
Jammu (JAT)	Navyug Express (6688)	01:20 AM (duration: 49h 35m)	Thu
Jammu (JAT)	Himsagar Exp (6318)	01:20 AM (duration: 49h 35m)	Mon
Kacheguda (KCG) 2 more trains	Venkatadri Exp (2797)	07:30 AM (duration: 11h 25m)	All Days
Kakinada (CCT) 1 more train	Sheshadri Exp (7210)	05:25 AM (duration: 11h 50m)	All Days
Kakinada Port (COA)	Tirupati Psgr (274)	02:40 AM (duration: 19h 40m)	All Days
Kanyakumari (CAPE)	Cape Mumbai Exp (6382)	03:20 AM (duration: 21h 50m)	All Days
Kanyakumari (CAPE)	Himsagar Exp (6317)	09:08 AM (duration: 19h 8m)	Fri
Kolhapur (KOP)	Haripriya Exp (7416)	08:45 AM (duration: 21h 10m)	All Days
Machelipatnam (MTM)	Mtm Tpty Exp (7402)	04:35 AM (duration: 9h 35m)	All Days
Mangalore Cntl (MAQ)	Navyug Exp (6687)	09:08 AM (duration: 16h 48m)	Mon
Nagercoil (NCJ) 2 more trains	Gurudev Express (2659)	09:08 AM (duration: 18h 33m)	Sun
Nagercoil (NCJ) 2 more trains	Ncj Mumbai Exp (6352)	09:40 PM (duration: 16h 50m)	Thu & Sun
Narasapuram (NS)	Ns Tpty Exp (7402A)	04:35 AM (duration: 11h 20m)	All Days
Okha (OKHA)	Rameswaram Exp (6734)	06:10 AM (duration: 48h 5m)	Tue
Patna (PNBE)	Pnbe Ers Expres (6360)	09:50 AM (duration: 41h 20m)	Tue
Pondicherry (PDY)	Pdy Howrah Exp (2868)	07:30 PM (duration: 8h)	Wed
Puri (PURI) 4 more trains	Puri Tpty Exp (7479)	04:05 PM (duration: 27h 5m)	Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri & Sun
Rameswaram (RMM) 3 more trains	Rmm Okha Expres (6733)	11:10 AM (duration: 14h 20m)	Fri
Shalimar (SHM)	Gurudev Express (2660)	03:45 AM (duration: 28h 45m)	Wed
Tatanagar Jn (TATA)	Tata Ypr Exp (2889)	10:00 PM (duration: 27h 25m)	Fri
Tirunelveli (TEN) 1 more train	Ten Jammu Exp (06317)	09:08 AM (duration: 17h 23m)	Mon & Fri
Tirunelveli (TEN) 1 more train	Ten Jammu Exp (06687)	09:08 AM (duration: 17h 23m)	Mon
Trivandrum (TVC) 4 more trains	Sabari Express (7229)	12:30 AM (duration: 17h 15m)	All Days
Trivandrum (TVC) 4 more trains	Kerala Express (2625)	03:50 AM (duration: 16h 35m)	All Days
Visakhapatnam (VSKP) 6 more trains	Tirumala Exp (7488)	05:00 AM (duration: 15h 10m)	All Days
Yesvantpur Jn (YPR) 2 more trains	Ypr Howrah Exp (2864)	02:30 AM (duration: 6h 55m)	All Days
Yesvantpur Jn (YPR) 2 more trains	Ypr Tata Exp (2890)	02:35 PM (duration: 6h 5m)	Mon

VISITING TIRUPATI & TIRUMALA

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Visiting Lord Balaji (Venkateshwara), is considered to be one of the toughest jobs in the world is today!

We need tremendous information and updation of information since the rules keep on changing without any notice. The crowd is so much that the Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam (TTD) authorities are a law unto themselves and bother the least about the general crowd. VIPs also keep exerting pressure on them and the aam-aadmi is left uncared for. They will stop darshan abruptly, form a new queue and allow them to join the existing one, open various gates at various times to let in various groups of people known at various hierarchies within the TTD administration!

This is one place where we cannot plan our trip properly and it is always advisable to keep at least half-a-day extra for the darshan!

We can try to find a pattern in this chaos. Let us know if you want any assistance in planning your trip.

We can arrange customised tour packages from www.TirupatiPackages.com

TTD Devasthanam Information Centre Chennai:

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New No.26, Old No.50, Venkatnarayana Road, Chennai. Phone : 2434 3535, 2434 6219

Working hours= 9am-1pm and 4-8pm on all days except Tuesdays and 2nd Mondays.

We can buy Sudarsanam Token Rs.50 /head & a few other tickets such as Suprabatham (Rs.120), Thomala Seva (Rs.220), Archana (Rs.220), Kalyanotsavam (Rs.1000 for 2) etc. 60 days prior to the date of dharshan at the Vijaya Bank counter here between 10am-1pm and 2-4pm Mon-Fri except Tue, 10-1pm and 2-7pm Sat-Sun, popular darshan tickets should be obtained early in the morning (go there at 9am) since the tickets are limited in number.

All members have to go in person for photo & finger scanning. You can book for 2 different dates, if we choose dates 15 days apart. We can also book accommodation by paying Rs.100, the dates on which AAD tickets and Accommodation are available are displayed near the booking counter daily.

TIRUPATI LADDU:

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Laddu token is available in the sarva dharshan queue at Rs.10/laddu/person, extra laddus available at Rs.10 but at 2 different points in the same queue; for other dharshan, laddus are included in the ticket cost

Tried to get laddu after free darshan at 12 midnight; too much of crowd since counter opens only at 2 am, so don't wait. Get laddus fast in the early morning (4 am to 8 am).

2 laddus/head for AAD at Laddu Counter No.1, for Rs.50 ticket and Rs.300 ticket 2 laddus / person, this laddu counter is separate but all in one place beside of the temple.

You can avail 4 extra luddus per person by paying Rs. 100. The counter for buying is near the the exit of the Tirumala Temple, just before the luddu counter.

CONTACT INFO OF ADMINISTRATION AT TIRUPATI/TIRUMALA:

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Call Centre: 10.00am to 5pm only: (0877) 223-3333; 227-7777, 223-1777; 223-1901; they give correct info & are courteous; they sit in Hyderabad and so are unaffected by the callous attitude of Tirumala staff!

Call them first, confirm all details before sending DD for booking because some Sevas are not there on a few days.

For Seva call (0877) 226-3277, 226-3679.

For accommodation, call (0877) 226-3281,

Online booking Enquiry: (0877) 226-3883.

Online booking:

www.ttdsevaonline.com (donations, seva, accommodation can be booked online).

www. tirumala.org.

Or send DD favouring “The EO, TTD” payable at Tirupati to Arjitham Office, Opp.Vaikuntam Q complex, Tirumala. OR buy at Tirumala: 25% of tickets are issued by Vijaya Bank on previous day where all have to stand in queue at 7 am and tickets are issued at 10.30 am for the next day darshan.

PRO Tirumala Tel= 0877- 227-9693 (10-5 pm).

PRO, Tirupati Tel= 0877- 223-2813 (10-5 pm).

The Executive Officer, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams

TTD Administrative Building, K.T.Road, Tirupati 517 507.

Ph:0877-2231777, 0877-2232813 at TTD Public Relations Office, Tirupati. 0877-2277777

GENERAL INFORMATION OF SEVA IN TIRUMALA, TIRUPATI:

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ARJITHA SEVA:

3 Ways of booking: (1) Internet, (2) Advance Booking even at Venkatnarayana Road from 2010 & (3) Current Booking (at Vijaya Bank, Tirumala).

(1) Internet booking for seva: www.ttdsevaonline.com; only Citicard accepted; ID needed (DL,Voter ID, PP, PAN); take print out and submit at Padmavathi GH 24-hour Internet Counter in the last 24 hours with same ID; date advancement or postponement is possible if vacancy is there but 25% penalty needs to be paid; No cancellation; if cancelled this amt is added to hundi.

(2) Advance Booking: DD favg “EO, TTD, Tirupati” at least 90 days in advance; give 3 choices of dates; send DD to Peishkar, Sr Tirumala Temple, TTD, Tirumala 517504; within 15 days of receipt of DD we geta Seva Ticket; postpone/advance = check availability over phone and send original Ticket with DD for 25% penalty.

(3) Current Booking: from 8 am on previous day at Arjitham Office opp to Vaikuntham Q Complex-1; in person because biometric needed; no cancellation/postponement.

SEVA: To be booked 2 to 3 months in advance:

0230 am: Suprabhatam for Main Deity: all 7days; Rs.120; 200 tickets; 2 small laddus free.

0330 am: Thomala Seva for Main Deity: 4 days a week from Mon to Thu; none in May, June, July; Rs.220/head; 3.30 am; 200 tickets; 2 small laddus.

0430 am: Archana for Main Deity: 4 days a week from Tue to Sat; none in May, June, July; Rs.220/head; 4.30 am; 200 tickets; 2 small laddus.

0530 am: Archana Anantara Darshanam (AAD) for Main Deity: Except Fridays (when u can choose Nija Pada Dharshanam); 05.30am soon after Archana; Rs.200 =2 small laddus free; 1000 tickets/day.

0530 am: Nija Pada Dharshanam for Main Deity: Fridays only.Rs.200 for 1 person.

1130 am: Kalyanotsavam for Utsava Moorthy Rs.1000 for 2 (will get one silk dupatta, blouse piece, 1 big laddu, 1 small laddu and 5 vadas); at 12pm daily; 60 tickets. Rs.5000 for 5 (more prasadam ).

0200 pm: Arjitha Brahmotsavam daily at 2pm; Rs.1000 for 5 persons;

0300 pm: Dolotsavam daily at 3pm; Rs.1000 for 5 persons;

0330 pm: Vasantotsavam daily at 3.30 pm; Rs.3000 for 10 persons;

0530 pm: Sahasra Deepa Alankara Seva: daily at 5.30 pm; Rs.1000 for 5 persons;

1030 pm: Ekantha seva: daily at 10.30 pm; Rs.120 for 1 person;

ABHISHEKAM: To be booked 5 years in advance:

0400 am: Fridays: Vastra alankara seva: Rs.12500 for 2;

0400 am: Fridays: Poora abhishekam: Rs.750 for 1;

0400 am: Fridays: Civet vessel/Punugu Ginne: Rs.300 for 1;

0400 am: Fridays: Musk Vessel/Kasturi Ginne: Rs.150 for 1;

0730 am: Wednesdays: Sahasra Kalasabhishekam: Rs.5000 for 6;

0730 am: Thursdays: Thiruppavada Seva: Rs.5000 for 6;

0830 am: Mondays: Visesha Pooja: Rs.3000 for 1;

Thiru manjanam Abishekam every Fri Rs.750/head book 5 years in adv.

RESCHEDULING: of all sevas is allowed ONCE 5 days in advance subject to availability on payment of 25% extra cost and on production of original receipt.