Tirupati: an ancient and sacred place of pilgrimage

Tirupati: an ancient and sacred place of pilgrimage.

Area 10.33 square miles
Telegu and English language
The best time to visit is from September to February.
STD code Code08574

Tirupati: About the place

The city of Tirupati is one of the oldest and most sacred pilgrimage sites in India. The name ‘Tirupati’ means the “Lord of Lakshmi”, and should have been applied to the village on Venkat Hill, the abode of Lord Venkateswara. However, Tirupati is the city and transportation hub at the foot of the hill. The hill near the temple is called ‘Tirumala’ or the ‘holy hill’. The temple here is said to be the busiest in the world, eclipsing even Rome, Jerusalem, and Mecca in the number of pilgrims who visit.

History of Tirupati

All the great dynasties of rulers in the southern peninsula have paid homage to Lord Sri Venkateswara at this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Thanjavur (a century later), the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings and chiefs of Vijaynagar (14th-15th centuries AD) were devotees of this shrine.

It was during the rule of the Vijaynagar dynasty that contributions to the temple increased. Krishnadevaraya had statues of him and his consorts installed on the temple portals, and these statues can be seen to this day. There is also a statue of Venkatapati Raya in the main temple. The Maratha General Raghoji Bhonsle visited the temple and established a permanent endowment to worship at the temple. He also gave valuable jewels to the Lord, including a large emerald that is still kept in a box bearing the general’s name. Later rulers who have endowed large amounts include the rulers of Mysore and Gadwal.

Places to visit in Tirupati

1. Vaikuntha Tirtham Tourist Spot
2. Swami Pushkarani Tourist Spot
3. Journey to temple architecture

HOW TO REACH?

BY AIR: It is possible to visit Tirupati on a day trip from Chennai. There are direct flights from Hyderabad and Chennai. Buy Air Tickets with a discount.

BY TRAIN: Direct rail services are available from Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and Bangalore.

BY ROAD: We will provide you with all Indian Tourist Permit Vehicles for local transportation and intercity travel.