Have you been to Tirupati?
I bet most of you have been without any doubt.
Tirupati is a famous pilgrimage place in the southern part of India. It is located in the state of Andra Pradesh. And we all know why Tirupati is famous among people from all over India. And that makes our today’s topic! Tirupati is the most visited pilgrimage place in India. And is considered one of the holiest places on earth by the devotees. It is directly related to the incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
So, let’s get to know more about the abode that people love to the core!
Table of Contents:
- About the City – Tirupati
- History of Tirupati
- Things to do while you are at Tirupati
- Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple
- Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple
- Kapila Theertham
- Natural Arch
- Sri Venkateshwara Zoological Park
- Chandragiri Fort
- Srivari Mettu
- Frequently Asked Questions
About the City – Tirupati
Tirupati is famously known for the Venkateshwara Temple situated on the top of Tirumala Hill. This temple attracts thousands of devotees from over India on a daily basis. However, apart from this famous temple, there are many other things that can be explored while you are in here.
Before going in to explore the vicinity take a look into the mythical history of the place and get mesmerized.
Also Read:Â Top 5 Places To Visit In Andra Pradesh
History of Tirupati
The history of Tirupati goes way back to mythology time. It is also called Bhuloka Vaikuntam. Which actually means that the lord himself arrived here during this era. During the reign of Pallava, Kings Tirupati was built which was almost around the 6th century. And since then, the place holds a special place in the heart of Hindu devotees. It was around the 19th century the place become one of the most visited tourist places as well. And since then, it has been a major economical imparting pilgrimage center in India.
Things to do while you are at Tirupati
1. Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple
2. Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple
3. Kapila Theertham
4. Natural Arch
5. Sri Venkateshwara Zoological Park
6. Chandragiri Fort
7. Srivari Mettu
1. Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple
Sri Venkateshwara Swamy Temple is situated at the top of the Tirumala Hills and is considered as one of the most famous landmarks of Tirupati. This holy temple is dedicated to the lord Venkateswara Swamy, who is a form of Vishu who visited the earth during the Kalyug. The Thirumala Temple is also known as Tirupati temple and Tirupati Balaji Temple. The entire temples run under the Thirumala Tirupati Devathanams. Which is completely under the control of the Andra Pradesh Government.
Thousands of tourists and devotees come here every day to seek the blessings of their favorite deity making this place one of the crowed pilgrimage centers ever!
2. Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple
Goddess Padmavati is considered the wife of Lord Venkateshwara, the main deity of Tirupati. The idol at Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple looks sacredly beautiful. People who visit the Tirupati temple also visit the Ammavari Temple to seek her blessings. The goddess sitting with lotus and in a padmasana posture is a sight worth watching for a lifetime. Also, there are many other deities housed inside the temple, such as Lord Krishna and Balrama.
Also Read:Â Check Out Shri Sharda Devi Temple – A Place For Devotion
3. Kapila Theertham
Kapila Theertham is a holy place in Tirupati. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva with a mythological back story to back the place. It is said that Sage Kapila did a long Tapasya to get a glimpse of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva not only summoned but also gave him a vision of himself and his consort. Sage Kapila then built a temple here in order to serve his Lord. It is said that during the regime of the Kings of Vijayanagara the temple flourished to its core.
People love to visit the temple for the theertham that falls in a pond-like space. It is considered holy water. Â This theertham is located at the Sri Kapileshwara Temple that we had mentioned above.
4. Natural Arch
If you are looking for tourist destinations other than a holy pilgrimage, then you are at the right place. The Natural Arch is a Geo Heritage site located one kilometer from the main temple. This place is also called Silathoranam by the locals of Tirupati. The natural arch in Tirupati is one of the few natural and original arch locations in entire Asia. The arch is formed by natural rock that looks like a serpent’s head.
It is a pleasant place with less crow and a perfect place to click some wonderful pictures.
5. Sri Venkateshwara Zoological Park
Yet another place in Tirupati that goes very well for the people looking for outdoor activities. Sri Venkateshwara Zoological Park is a park that is surreal and serene in itself. Which makes the place worth a visit. The SV Zoological Park allows the public to be an equal part to protect endangered species and nature. It is quite a place for outdoor activity with kids and family. This place is also good if you are looking for a picnic spot or a weekend gateway.
6. Chandragiri Fort
Chandragiri Fort is a historical fort that has been built around the 11th century. This Fort is mainly a product of the Vijayanagara Emperors, but it is also said that the fort was built in the early times of the Yadava rulers. It is in this fort the palaces of the Raja and Rani have been built. So, while you visit the palace you also explore the architectural eminence that will blow your mind.
Chandragiri Fort is a historical landmark in the city which after the Venkateswara temple visit people loved to explore.
7. Srivari Mettu
Can you imagine a footpath getting these famous and garnering all the credits? It is the highest and the easiest way to reach the Balaji Temple. When you count the steps there are exactly 2000 steps. People consider these steps the holy steps to reach their favorite deity. And with each step, the devotees imagine reaching to their lord one more step closer. And reach the holy temple of Tirupati.
Pilgrimage tourism in India is a boon. Both consider religious aspects as well as economic aspects. And in the Southern States of India, it has been eminent that temple tourism is been a major part of their culture and tradition. Tirupati without any doubt is one of the largest temples in India that is equally important for tourism as well as architectural exploration. Visit the benevolent Tirumala once in a lifetime, make sure to add this name to your next bucket list.
Also Read:Â Top 10 Cultural, Traditional and Spiritual Tour of Vrindavan
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tirupati the best place to visit?
Tirupati is one of the best places to visit in Andra Pradesh. With Temples, historical places, rich traditions and food, this place is best to visit all-round the year.
What is the Best Time to visit Tirupati?
All around the year, particularly during the winter and vacation time.
Is Tirupati best for outdoor activities?
Yes, Tirupati has the best outdoor activities with sightseeing, temples, historical places and Zoological Parks.
Things to keep in mind while visiting Tirupati.
Just keep in mind to book your stay during your visit. It is peak all around the year.
What languages are spoken in Tirupati?
Telugu is the official language, but locals speak and understand English as well.
How safe to visit Tirupati?
Tirupati is the safest place to visit for tourism.
Are there any historical places in Tirupati?
There are several historical significances place apart from temple visits places in Tirupati.
Can I get cheaper accommodation in Tirupati?
Accommodations are not that cheaper in Tirupati, particularly during peak times.
Is Tirupati a good honeymoon destination?
Yes! Tirupati is without any doubt popular among honeymooners and couples who are looking for explorations and some time for serendipity.