Tirupati is a famous pilgrimage destination located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is known for its ancient temples and scenic beauty, and a number of places to visit in Tirupati.
A trip to Tirupati can be enjoyable and memorable for many people. Mostly, religious people are sure to have a great time at this destination.
Tirupati is a city located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh in India. The city is located in the foothills of the Eastern Ghats and is surrounded by lush green forests and scenic hills, comprising many places to visit in Tirupati.
In addition to its temples, Tirupati is also known for its natural beauty. The city is home to several scenic waterfalls, including the Talakona Waterfalls and the Kailasakona Waterfalls. The Sri Venkateswara National Park is also located in Tirupati and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
So, you can have a great time in Tirupati, provided you explore the top places to visit in Tirupati. We have all the places covered for you! Check them out now.
Places to visit in Tirupati (1-2)
Sri Venkateswara Temple – Religious places to visit in Tirupati
This is one of the most famous and visited temples in India, dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. It is located on the Seven Hills in Tirumala and is an important site of pilgrimage for Hindus and one of the must-visit places to visit in Tirupati.
Here are some things you can do at the temple:
- Darshan – Darshan is the act of seeing and worshipping the deity in the temple. Sri Venkateswara Temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, and devotees come from all over the world to have the darshan of Lord Venkateswara. There are various types of darshan available, including the free Sarva Darshan and the paid Special Darshan, which allows you to see the deity from a closer distance. So, you must witness this site by including it in your places to visit in Tirupati list.
- Participate in Sevas – Sevas are special rituals that are performed for the deity in the temple. There are several types of Sevas available, including the Suprabhatam, Thomala Seva, and Archana. These sevas are performed every day, and you can participate in them by booking in advance.
- Visit the temple museum – The temple museum is located near the main entrance of the temple and houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and mythology of the temple. The museum also has a model of the temple complex that gives visitors an idea of the layout of the temple. The temple museum is one of the best places to visit in Tirupati.
- Take a dip in the temple tank – The temple has a sacred tank known as Swami Pushkarini, which is located near the main entrance of the temple. It is believed that taking a dip in the tank before entering the temple purifies the soul and cleanses the body.
- Explore the temple complex – The temple complex is vast and consists of several halls, shrines, and other structures. You can explore the various parts of the complex, including the main temple, the Ananda Nilayam hall, and the Garuda shrine. Like other places, it is also one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
- Attend religious events – Sri Venkateswara Temple is home to several religious events throughout the year, including Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and Rathasapthami. These events are a great way to experience the temple’s rich cultural heritage and witness the devotion of the local people.
Sri Govindarajaswami Temple – Top places to visit in Tirupati
This is another important temple in Tirupati dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is located in the heart of the city and is famous for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. To witness its glorious architecture, you must include it in your places to visit in Tirupati list.
Here is some information about the temple:
- History – The temple was built in the 12th century by Saint Ramanujacharya, who was a great philosopher and social reformer. The temple was later expanded by the Vijayanagara emperors, and the temple complex was completed in the 15th century. So, if you are a history buff, it is one of the most important places to visit in Tirupati.
- Architecture – The temple has a unique blend of Dravidian and Rajasthani architecture. The temple has a tall tower known as the gopuram, which is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The temple also has a large courtyard, which is surrounded by various halls and shrines.
- Deities – The main deity of the temple is Lord Govindaraja, who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple also has shrines dedicated to Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, and other deities. You must definitely put it in your top places to visit in Tirupati list.
- Festivals – The temple is famous for its festivals, which are celebrated with great fervour and devotion. The annual Brahmotsavam festival is one of the major events in the temple, which is celebrated for nine days in the month of September. The Vaikuntha Ekadasi festival and the Rama Navami festival are also celebrated with great enthusiasm.
- Darshan – The temple offers several types of darshan, including the free Sarva Darshan and the paid Special Darshan. The temple is open from early morning until late at night, and devotees can have darshan at any time during this period. For darshan, it is one of the most important places to visit in Tirupati.
- Other Attractions – The temple complex also has a large kitchen, where food is prepared for the devotees. The temple also has a large hall, where several social and religious events are conducted.
Places to visit in Tirupati (3-4)
Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple – Top places to visit in Tirupati
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located at the base of the Kapila Teertham waterfall. It is a popular spot for picnics and trekking. Also, it is one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
Some interesting things to know about the temple are as follows.
- History – The temple is believed to have been built during the 11th century by the Pallava dynasty. It is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the region.
- Legend – According to legend, the sage Kapila performed penance at this site, and Lord Shiva appeared before him and granted him a boon. The temple is named after the sage Kapila. It is one of the best places to visit in Tirupati if you wish to explore the best.
- Architecture – The temple has a traditional Dravidian style of architecture, with a large gopuram (tower) at the entrance. The temple also has a mandapam (hall) where various events are held.
- Deities – The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, in the form of a lingam. The temple also has shrines dedicated to Lord Ganesha and other deities. It is one of the best places to visit in Tirupati.
- Festivals – The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Maha Shivaratri, Brahmotsavam, and the annual float festival. The temple is particularly crowded during the Brahmotsavam festival, which is celebrated for nine days in the month of February/March.
- Scenic location – The temple is located in a picturesque setting, at the base of the Tirumala Hills, near the Kapila Theertham waterfall. The area is known for its natural beauty, and visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk or a picnic in the nearby gardens. To enjoy scenic locations, it is one of the best places to visit in Tirupati.
Talakona Waterfalls – Fun places to visit in Tirupati
This is a beautiful waterfall located in the Sri Venkateswara National Park. It is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for trekking and nature walks. Those looking forward to a relaxing time can include this in their top places to visit in Tirupati list.
Here is some information about this waterfall.
- Height – Talakona Waterfalls is one of the highest waterfalls in the Andhra Pradesh region, with a height of about 270 feet (82 meters).
- Location – The falls are located in Sri Venkateswara National Park, near the town of Tirupati. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forests, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is one of the most easily accessible places to visit in Tirupati.
- Trekking – The waterfall is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers. The park offers several trekking routes that take visitors through the forests and lead to the waterfall. The trek to the waterfall is a relatively easy one and is suitable for all age groups. For people who love to trek, it is one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
- Bathing – Visitors can take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters of the falls. There is a small pool at the base of the waterfall, which is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- Wildlife – The national park is home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of birds, deer, and wild boar. Visitors can enjoy bird watching and wildlife spotting while trekking through the forests. To explore wildlife, it is one of the best places to visit in Tirupati.
- Accommodation – The national park offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, including forest lodges and camping facilities. Visitors can stay overnight and enjoy the beauty of the forest and the waterfall at their leisure.
Places to visit in Tirupati (5-6)
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple – Religious places to visit in Tirupati
This temple is dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the wife of Lord Venkateswara. It is located in the town of Tiruchanur and is a popular site of pilgrimage for devotees. Also, it is one of the most-visited places to visit in Tirupati.
Here are some interesting things to do at the temple:
- Seek blessings – The temple is a popular destination for devotees of Goddess Padmavathi. Visitors can seek the blessings of the goddess and offer prayers and offerings.
- Witness the architecture – Among all places to visit in Tirupati, the temple has beautiful Dravidian-style architecture with intricate carvings and a large gopuram (tower) at the entrance. Visitors can admire the temple’s design and appreciate the skilled craftsmanship of the temple’s artisans.
- Visit the museum – The temple has a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of the region. The museum features artifacts, sculptures, and paintings that date back to the 10th century. It is one of the top places to visit in Tirupati for people who love to explore artifacts.
- Attend festivals – The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the annual Brahmotsavam festival, which is celebrated for nine days in the month of September/October. The festival features colourful processions, cultural performances, and other events.
- Take part in Abhishekam – Visitors can take part in the Abhishekam ceremony, which involves the pouring of water, milk, and other offerings over the idol of the goddess. This ritual is believed to be a way to purify and cleanse the soul. So, it is one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple
This temple is located in the town of Srinivasa Mangapuram and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. It is believed to be the place where Lord Venkateswara stayed after his marriage to Goddess Padmavathi.
There are many things that you can do and explore at this temple among all places to visit in Tirupati. The temple has a rich history and is believed to have been built in the 12th century.
The temple underwent several renovations and expansions over the years, with the most significant one being carried out by the Vijayanagara Empire in the 16th century. To witness its great architecture, you must consider visiting this as one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
The temple has beautiful architecture with intricate carvings and sculptures. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the idol of Lord Venkateswara in a standing posture, along with his consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi.
The temple also has separate shrines dedicated to other deities, including Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru, Sri Andal Ammavaru, and Sri Krishna.
The temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the annual Brahmotsavam festival, which is celebrated for nine days in the month of February/March. The festival features colourful processions, cultural performances, and other events. Other important festivals celebrated at the temple include Vaikunta Ekadasi, Ugadi, and Rathasapthami. To witness these amazing celebrations, you must consider such places to visit in Tirupati.
Places to visit in Tirupati (7-8)
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park – Fun places to visit in Tirupati
This is a popular zoo located in Tirupati and is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, lions, and elephants. This zoological park is one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
Some of the main attractions of the park include the lion safari, deer park, bear safari, tiger safari, and elephant safari. Visitors can take a ride on the safari vehicles to get a closer look at the animals in their natural habitat. The park also has a large aviary that houses several species of birds, including parrots, eagles, and owls, that make this place, among all places to visit in Tirupati, worthwhile.
The park is divided into two zones, the wildlife zone and the leisure zone. The wildlife zone covers an area of about 4500 acres and houses various animal safaris. The leisure zone, on the other hand, covers an area of about 1032 acres and has several picnic spots, a children’s park, and a butterfly park. So, you can enjoy some fun activities with your family at such places to visit in Tirupati.
One of the unique features of the park is its night safari. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park at night and witness the nocturnal behaviour of the animals. The night safari is a great way to experience the park in a different light and see the animals in their natural habitat at night.
Overall, Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park is a great destination for nature lovers and animal enthusiasts, among other places to visit in Tirupati. The park’s vast size, a diverse range of flora and fauna, and unique attractions make it a must-visit destination in Andhra Pradesh.
Chandragiri Fort – Historical places to visit in Tirupati
This is a historic fort located on a hilltop near Tirupati. It was built in the 11th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and scenic views. Also, it is one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
Chandragiri Fort is a historical monument located in the Chandragiri town of Andhra Pradesh, about 12 km from Tirupati. The fort was built in the 11th century by the Yadava Naidu dynasty and was later captured by the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century. If you are a history buff, you must consider such places to visit in Tirupati.
The fort was further strengthened and expanded by the Vijayanagara kings, who made it their second capital after Hampi. The fort complex includes the Raja Mahal palace, the Rani Mahal palace, and several other structures, including a temple and a mosque. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Tirupati.
The Raja Mahal palace is the main attraction of the fort and is an excellent example of Vijayanagara architecture. The palace has several rooms and courtyards and was once the residence of the Vijayanagara kings. The palace has been restored and converted into a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region, making it one of the top places to visit in Tirupati.
Conclusion
Tirupati is a popular pilgrimage destination located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. The city is known for its ancient temples, historical monuments, and scenic landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for all types of travellers.
Some of the top places to visit in Tirupati include the Sri Venkateswara Temple, Sri Govindarajaswami Temple, Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple, Talakona Waterfalls, Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park, and Chandragiri Fort.
Visitors can explore the ancient temples, witness the stunning natural beauty, and learn about the rich history and culture of the region by visiting these sites. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history enthusiast, or a nature lover, Tirupati has places to visit in Tirupati for everyone.
If you are looking for some other travel destination, you can consider Puri.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Tirupati?
The best time to visit Tirupati is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and mild. The summer months from March to June can be very hot, while the monsoon season from July to September can be rainy and humid.
Is it necessary to take a guide to visit the temples in Tirupati?
It is not necessary to take a guide to visit the temples in Tirupati, as they have detailed information and signage in multiple languages. However, if you want to learn more about the history and culture of the temples, you can hire a guide to accompany you.
What is the dress code for visiting temples in Tirupati?
The dress code for visiting the temples in Tirupati is traditional Indian attire. Men are expected to wear a dhoti and shirt or kurta, while women are expected to wear a saree, salwar kameez, or other traditional Indian clothing. Shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops are not allowed.
Are cameras and mobile phones allowed inside the temples in Tirupati?
Cameras and mobile phones are generally not allowed inside the temples in Tirupati, as photography is strictly prohibited in some areas. However, you can check with the temple authorities to see if there are any designated areas where photography is allowed.
How much time should I spend at the Sri Venkateswara Temple?
The amount of time you should spend at the Sri Venkateswara Temple depends on your interest and the crowd. Generally, it takes around 2-3 hours to complete the darshan, but it can take longer during peak season and festivals when there are more visitors. It’s advisable to plan your visit ahead of time and arrive early to avoid long queues.
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