Tirupati is one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in India. Located in the extreme southeast of southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh in Chittor district, devotees from all over India and abroad throng the place by thousands to have darshan at the temples. The name 'Tirupati' means 'Lord of Lakshmi.' According to rough estimates, the number of devotees who come to the place even exceed the numbers to popular holy places like the Vatican and Mecca.  

Accommodation and connectivity

Direct flights operate from Hyderabad and Chennai to Tirupati. Direct railway services are also available from important destinations like Hyderabad, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata and Mumbai. Both private and government buses operate between Tirupati and other important places of the state.

There are plenty of dhramshalas and guest houses in Tirupati offering comfortable stay at reasonable rates, hence accommodation is not a problem here.

Tourist Attractions

Sri Venkateswara Temple

The most famous of Tirupati's temples, Tirupati Tirumala Balaji or Lord Venkateswara temple is located on the seventh peak Venkatachala of the Tirupati Hills. According to ancient texts, one can attain moksha in Kaliyug only by worshipping Lord Venkateshwara. Regarded as the richest temple in the world, the architecture of the temple is magnificent. The Cholas, Pandyas and Pallavas have all contributed immensely in building the temple.


Sri Varahaswami Temple

Sri Varahaswami Temple is located to the north of Sri Venkateswara temple. The temple is located on the banks of Swami Pushkarini. The idol of Sri Varahaswami in Tirumala is that of Adi Varaha.

Sri Anjaneyaswami Temple

Located opposite the Sri Varahaswami temple on the north eastern banks of Swami Pushkarini, the hands of the idol of Sri Anjaneyaswami are joined in supplication and look very attractive.


Swami Pushkarini

The tank of Swami Pushkarini is believed to be a pleasure tank of Lord Vishnu. It is , therefore said that a bath in the Swami Pushkarini cleanses all sins and bestows prosperity. Pilgrims take a dip here before entering the nearby temples.

Sri Govindarajaswami Temple

Sri Govindarajaswami Temple is another Tirupati temple known for its architecture. The imposing gopuram of the temple could be seen from a distance. It is interesting to note that there are many sub temples within the main temple premises.

Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple

Situated in the heart of Tirupati town, the presiding deities in the temple are Sita, Rama and Lakshmana. According to legend, the temple commemorates the visit of Sri Rama to Tirupati.

Excursion Delights

Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple

This is the only temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Tirupati. It is situated 3 kms to the north of Tirupati at the foot of Tirumala Hills.

Sri Kariya Manikyaswami Temple

Sri Perumala Swami Temple is located 51 kms from Tirupati in Nagiri. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu killed Makara- the crocodile and saved Gajendra, an elephant and his ardent worshipper from this place.

Sri Veda Narayanaswami temple

This temple is located 70 kms southeast of Tirupati. According to ancient texts, Lord Vishnu in the form of Matsya had killed the demon Somakudu at the place and took possession of the Vedas from the latter. The sanctum sanctorum also has an image of the Matsya form of Vishnu. The idol could be seen holding the Sudarsana Chakra ready for release. The temple is a fine example of Vijaynagar style of architecture.


Tirupati is a pantheon of Vaishnavite temples. All the temples have their own festivals. The Navratra and Dussehra festivals are celebrated with pomp and gaiety in this sacred temple town.