Tirumala is widely famous as a pilgrimage site where Hindu devotees have a high footfall every year. But many people don’t know that there are other tourist places to visit in Tirumala, which hold importance as historical and cultural heritage sites. These spots are often ignored as people plan a trip considering only the religious aspect of visiting Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala. However, no need to worry as we have got your back. You can extend your stay by a day or two and cover the other attractions that you were earlier missing out on!
6 Places To Visit In Tirumala
Here is a well-curated list of the best places to visit in Tirumala that you can stop by on your spiritual sojourn. Scroll down to know more!
1. Sri Venkateswara Temple
Devoted to Sri Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Sri Venkateswara Temple is a famous pilgrimage site in India. Also known as Kaliyuga Vaikuntha, it is believed that Lord Vishnu took the form of Sri Venkateswara to save humankind from the adversities of Kali Yuga, the fourth yuga in the Yuga Cycle. Sri Venkateswara is the Lord of Seven Hills, known as Sapthagiri, that represents seven heads of Adishesha, a serpent on whom Lord Vishnu lies.
The temple is built in Dravadian-style architecture with three entrances that lead to the main sanctorum. Apart from the pious self-manifested shrine of Lord Venkateswara, there are shrines of Lord Ram with Mata Sita, Lakshman & Hanuman, Lord Krishna with Rukmini, and more. Devotees from far-off places come to this pilgrimage site to seek blessings in large numbers, making it one of the best pilgrimage places to visit in Tirumala.
Location: Tuda Park Rd, Tirumala, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517504, India, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517504
Timings: 4 am to 10 pm
VIP Darshan: ₹ 500
Must Read: 9 Mesmerising Hill Stations In Andhra Pradesh For A Scenic Getaway
2. Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
Image Credit: iMahesh for Wikimedia Commons
Named after Lord Venkateswara, Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park was established on the theme of Mythology. The incarnations of Lord Vishnu like Varaha, Mastya, Kurma and Narasimha avatars are exhibited at the entrance of the zoo, hence, justifying the theme. Also known as SV Zoo Park or Tirupati Zoo Park, it is a haven for 49 species of birds, 7 species of reptiles and 32 species of mammals. The park has facilities for Lion Safari and Deer Safari. If you are interested in being close to nature and wildlife, Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park is one of the best tourist places in Tirumala.
Location: Po, Pudipatla, Sv Zoo Road, Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh 517505
Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (March to August) and 9 am to 5 pm (September to February), closed on Tuesdays
Ticket Price: ₹ 10 for children, ₹ 50 for adults
3. Sri Venkateswara Museum
Established in 1980, Sri Venkateswara Museum is an ideal place for people who want to dive deep into the history of Tirumala. The museum lies within walking distance of Sri Venkateswara Temple, and the outer structure of the museum resembles that of the temple. The museum is divided into various sections that exhibit pictures, musical instruments, coins, pottery, inscriptions, and many other artefacts. A special section of the museum displays models of the temple in different shapes and sizes, made of different materials. Sri Venkateswara Museum is among the top places in Tirumala for history buffs and students who want to know the heritage of the spiritual town.
Location: 294, Gandhi Rd, Varadaraja Nagar, Tirupati Urban, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Suggested Read: 9 Exotic Hotels In Andhra Pradesh Where You Can Plan A Lavish Stay
4. Chandragiri Fort
Spread over an area of around 25 acres, Chandragiri Fort dates back to the 11th century and is said to be built by the Yadava emperors. The historical fort is nestled atop a hill, also known as Chandragiri and exhibits Vijayanagara architecture. It houses a Raja Mahal or the King’s Palace (now converted into a museum of antiques) that is presently managed by the Indian Archaeological Survey, a Rani Mahal or the Queen’s Palace, and a reservoir.
The Raja Mahal, constructed in Indo-Saracenic architecture exhibits sculptures, wooden carvings, artefacts, and other items dating back thousands of years. The Rani Mahal is a double-storied palace that has a similar construction to that of the Raja Mahal. Although the fort was ruled by several dynasties, it has stood the test of time and retained the art, culture and architectural heritage of the area.
Location: Chandragiri Fort Road, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517101
Timings: 9 am to 5:30 pm, closed on Fridays
Entry Fee: ₹ 45 for adults, ₹ 35 for children aged 5-12
Laser Lighting Show Timings In Summers: 7 pm to 7:45 pm (first show in Telugu), 8 pm to 8:45 pm (second show in English)
Laser Lighting Show Timings In Winters: 6:30 pm to 7:15 pm (first show in Telugu), 7:30 pm to 8:15 pm (second show in English)
5. Akasa Ganga
Image Credit: Chandrashekhar Basumatary for Wikimedia Commons
Akasa Ganga is a sacred waterfall in Tirumala amidst the lush greenery, which offers breathtaking views of the surroundings. As per the beliefs, Akasa Ganga Teertham originates from the lotus feet of Lord Venkateswara. One can trek their way to the scenic waterfalls or board either bus, cab or jeep. Earlier, the holy water of the teertham was taken for Lord Venkateswara’s bath, but now the pipelines have been installed to carry water directly to Sri Venkateswara Temple from Akasa Ganga. However, on special occasions, the priests carry the water themselves for completing the daily ritual. Akasa Ganga is one of the best places to visit in Tirumala, and your trip will be incomplete without a visit to this pious spot.
Location: 3 km from Tirumala Bus Stand
Timings: 6 am to 6 pm
Suggested Read: 8 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Andhra Pradesh That The Animal Lovers Shouldn’t Miss
6. Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple
Devoted to Hanuman, Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple is located opposite Sri Venkateswara Temple. “Bedi” means “cuffs,” and the backstory of this temple is that once, a young Hanuman wanted to leave Tirumala in search of a camel when his mother Anjana Devi, in the wake of stopping him tied his hands with a bedi and commanded him to stay there till the time she returns. To this, Hanuman agreed, but Anjana Devi never returned. Hence, till date, Hanuman is seen standing in front of the Mahadwaram with folded hands, bowing to pay respect to the Lord. Every Sunday, abhishekam is performed, whereas, a special abhishekam is performed every year on Hanuman Jayanti.
Location: Opposite Lord Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Sannidhi Street, Tirumala, Tirupati Urban, Andhra Pradesh 517504
Timings: 5:30 am to 9 pm
Further Read: Araku Valley Guide: 6 Experiences To Go Off The Beaten Path In Andhra Pradesh
Now that you have read the list of places to visit in Tirumala, you can bookmark it for your next trip to Andhra Pradesh. These tourist sites are ideal for any kind of traveller, from religious souls to history buffs to nature lovers. Although, every year many tourists visit the holy pilgrimage site of Sri Venkateswara Temple, you can extend your short trip and pay a visit to the other major attractions of Tirumala as well.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Tirumala
What are the 6 visiting places in Tirumala?
The top 6 places to visit in Tirumala are:
1. Sri Venkateswara Temple
2. Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
3. Sri Venkateswara Museum
4. Chandragiri Fort
5. Akasa Ganga
6. Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple
Which day is less crowded in Tirumala?
Tirumala being a religious place is always crowded by devotees. However, one can visit on weekdays, late afternoons and non-festival days to experience less crowd.
What is not allowed in Tirumala?
Non-vegetarian food, liquor and other intoxicants are not allowed in Tirumala. One must follow other rules and regulations and maintain decorum.
What is the cost of VIP darshan in Tirumala?
The cost of VIP darshan in Tirumala is ₹ 500. There is no online booking and the VIP tickets are divided into three categories- L1, L2 and L3, all of which require a recommendation letter from different higher authorities. After getting the recommendation approved, one has to submit the letter at the JEO office in Tirumala and pay ₹ 500.
Are phones allowed inside Tirumala?
Mobile phones, electronic devices and accessories are strictly prohibited inside the Tirumala temple.
Can I get free rooms in Tirumala?
Yes, there are numerous choultries (resting places) with facilities for free rooms. For free accommodation options, one can contact the Central Reception Office near Tirumala Bus Stand. Also, the facility of dormitory halls is available by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
People Also Read:
Places To Visit In Tenkasi Places To Visit In Keylong Places To Visit In Devprayag
