The tinkling echoes of temple bells, the rhythmic chants of mantras, the fragrance of incense, and the serpentine queues of devotees- welcome to the religious fervor peaking at the abode of Lord Balaji in the hills of Tirumala.
This little temple town in Chittoor district of Andhra is the gateway to the world-famous Tirupati Balaji temple on the hills of Tirumala. Home to many temples and shrines, dedicated mainly to Lord Venkateswara and his consorts, Tirupati is considered the religious and spiritual soul of the south.
A meandering road through lush landscapes takes you to the seventh hill of Tirumala where Lord Venkateswara dwells with his consorts, Goddesses Srilakshmi and Padmavati. A magnificent temple complex, spread over an area of 2.2 acres, with gold-plated towers is home to an 8ft tall mesmerizing idol of Lord Balaji dressed in glittering gold and trimmings.
Thousands of pilgrims flock the temple and tonsure their heads as an offering to Lord Venkateswara.
According to the temple legend, Goddess Padmavathi emerged on a golden lotus in the center of the temple tank and was later married to Lord Venkateswara. Pilgrims to Tirupati seek blessings of Goddess Padmavati before visiting Sri Venkateswara Temple.
The only Shiva temple in Tirupati, Kapileswara temple lies at the mouth of a cave at Tirumala foothills. The Vinasanam Waterfalls near the temple form a scared lake, ‘Kapila Theetham’, where pilgrims take a holy bath before proceeding to Tirupati Balaji temple.
Consecrated in 1130 AD, this Vishnu temple is one of the largest temples in Tirupati. The complex houses many smaller shrines and is characterized by a tall Gopuram.
Built by the Chola kings in the 10th century, this Rama temple is believed to mark the spot where Lord Rama, Goddess Sita and Lakshamana stayed for a few days on the return leg from Lanka.
Located around 12kms from Tirupati, this temple marks the divine union of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavati and it is thus considered propitious for newlyweds to offer their first prayers.
Tirupati Laddus are delicious sweets made of gram flour dipped in ghee with delicious fillings of dry fruits & nuts. Also, Tirupati Vada, an offering to Lord Venkateswara is equally delicious.
This temple town is flocked by devotees all round the year. However, the months from September to March are considered best to visit Tirupati.
By Air: Tirupati International Airport, Renigunta, around 15kms from Tirupati, connects the temple town with major cities in India.
By Rail: Tirupati Railway Station connects the Tirupati to cities in the region by an extensive network of Indian Railways.
By Road: A well-maintained network of roads & highways connects Tirupati with major cities in the region.
Tirupati Laddus are delicious sweets made of gram flour dipped in ghee with delicious fillings of dry fruits & nuts. Also, Tirupati Vada, an offering to Lord Venkateswara is equally delicious.
Book your Tirupati Temple Tour Package and join us on a soul searching journey to the spiritual realm of Lord Venkateswara. Do reach us for customized tour packages to help us create a memorable India tour for you.
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