<div>VenkatanAtha’s (later Raghavendra Swamy) married a simple yet virtuous lady by name Saraswathi. She belonged to a very pious family. Saraswathi proved to be an ideal life partner for him. Venkatanatha and the couple had a son whom they named as Lakshminarayana.<br></div><div><br></div><div>They carried on with their married life under abject poverty. Many days in the week they had to contend with no food at all. Records say that he had no means to even buy a drop of oil for taking an oil bath on festival days. He could not afford to give his wife and son new clothes for years.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>These difficult circumstances did not deter Venkanna from the path of God. He continued with his study and imparted free lessons.</div><div><br></div><div>To tide over the circumstances he decided to seek refuge under Sri Sudhindra tirtha, even then his primary aim was to continue his education underhim. Sri Sudhindra tirtha was the pontiff of what was then known as the Vijayeendra muta (now Raghavendra swamy mutt).</div><div><br></div><div>Seeing the brilliant spark in him Sudheendra tiirtha’s wished to appoint him as the next pontiff. But Venkanna refused the offer as he had a wife and a son to look after. Moreover his son`s upanayana was also not yet been performed. Later on, Vidya, the goddess of learning appeared in his dream and directed him to take up this great responsibility. Now he could not refuse any longer. Sudheendra tiirtha asked Venkatanatha to perform the Upanayana samskara of his son at the earliest. As fate would have it during the celebration of his pontification, his wife fell into a well and died. After becoming Peethadhipati Raghavendra swamy provided salvation to his wife.</div>

<div>Raghavendra Swamy did 12 years of penance at Pachamukhi Anjaneya temple at the bank of Tungabhadra River. He was blessed with the vision of Lord. The Lord instructed him to take Samadhi at Manchale(Mantralayam). As Rayaru, decided to take samadhi, his devotees were inconsolable. He consoled them by saying that he will be alive in this very Brindavana (Samadhi) for 700 years. Till that time he will hear the woes of his beloved devotees. He thern asked his closest disciples and Divan Venkanna to help him build the Brindavana.<br></div><div><br></div><div>Raghavendra Teertha entered Brindavan in 1671 AD. His Brindavan is made with a black stone structure. The stones had a special significance, they were procured from Madhavaram, a place frequented by Shri Rama during his Vanabas(exile).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Last moments before Samadhi&nbsp;</b></div><div>Guru Rajaru as he is fondly called by his devotees began reciting the Pranava mantra. Within no time he was totally immersed in meditation. His face shined with a rare brilliance and his whole persona was serene.</div><div><br></div><div>The rosary beads ( Japamala ) in his hand became still. Venkanna and other disciples with a heavy heart understood the signal and started arranging the slabs. They arranged the slabs up to his head. As per the instruction of their beloved master then they placed a copper box containing 1200 Laxminarayana Saligrams. These were specially brought from Gandaki River. The covering slab was put over and then the area filled with earth.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>As Rayaru was attaining Samadhi his most devout Shishya Appannacharya could not make it in time to reach mantralaya. On his way, Appancharya was composing Raghavendra stotra. He arrived when the construction of the Brindavan was already completed. Surprisingly, it was Rayaru who completed the sloka from inside the Vrindavana. The words were ``Sakshi Haya storage.</div>

<div>In the early morning hours, when a blanket of mist silently envelops the tall, magnificent Gopurams of the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple at Srisailam, it certainly creates the heart-stealing environs for the devotees who want to flow in the capsized notions of devotion and holiness. Perched on the right bank of Krishna River in Kurnool District in Central Andhra Pradesh, Southern India, the picturesque valley surrounded by Kronchgiri &amp; Nallamalai Hills, shines with an aura of the holy lantern of gods and goddesses. The pilgrims would definitely find this place more spell bounding to their senses when they will feel that they are lucky enough to find god amidst the serene Zion’s of Earth. Famous for its rapturous ambiance and known amongst the 12 Lord Shiva`s Jyotirlingas, the aspiring devotees may feel a sporadic trance that will relinquish them from all the sins.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div>Traversing back into the time, Lord Rama and demon Hiranyakasipu-father of Vishnu’s boy devotee --Prahalad also made a visit to this temple, to seek blessings of Lord Shiva. Strolling to the real mythology, this temple fortifies an interesting history, when Lord Shiva’s younger son Lord Ganesh Ji got married earlier and plying to this event, the elder son of Lord Shiva, Lord Kartikey Ji got outraged. He with his rude tones took refuge at Kronchgiri Hill. In a stance to convince him, Lord Shiva when ventured to the hill, Lord Kartikey Ji vigorously stepped back and after, noticing this kind of attitude, the almighty didn’t made any further advancement to console him. Reminiscently, till the date, the Lord Kartikey’s idol has been ensconced in the form of Shiva Linga and hence, it was named Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga. According to Shiv Puraan, the Lord Shiva still resides in that Linga and it is known amongst the 12 Jyotirlinga’s in India. There are five Shiva Lingas in the temple that are said to have been installed by the Pandvas themselves. The Puranas state that those offer worship with devotion, standing in any corner of the temple of Mallikarjuna, will certainly attain ‘salvation’. This temple has been refurbished many times in the 12th century during the reign of Kalyana Chalukyas. Anna Reddy the king of the Reddy dynasty, further added more innovation to the temple. Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara ‘Kingdom, and Chhatrapati Shivaji, visited the temple and made gopurams, know by their respective names. The outer wall, 700m long and 6m high encompasses the entire temple complex. There are carved panels, depicting various images and icons, superimposed on the wall. The swathe of peacock ferns, emblazoned on the lower part of the fortification turns out to be the real piece of charm for the leisure travelers as well devotees. Intricately ingrained with the four gopurams, set in each cardinal direction of Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, the enthusiasts would feel highly gratified after watching the tallest and grandest domes, which will further add something unique to their experience.</div><div><br></div><div>Peeping deeper into the premises of the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple, this spiritual sanctum, exhibits the spectacular sight of the gopurams. The height of the tall brass dwajasthamba, set upon a granite lotus pedestal, greets the visitor with bewilderment. The apex tip of this tall pillar is adorned with the pyramid construction of brass Kalasa. The visitors who are really anxious to watch the oblations known as ‘UtsavMurti, carried by Sevakartas, can surely gather around the temple by 6:00 PM in the evening. These processions led by an elephant and two horses are genuinely an eye feasting experience for the spiritually inclined person. Such is the magic of cosmic energy disseminated by the idols that every individual would feel blessed and fortunate to unwind its burden of pains and miseries eventually, steering their deeds towards right directions.</div><div><br></div><div>A large idol of Nandi, facing the sanctum, presides over a pillared hall. A space has been sanctioned for breaking coconuts near here. Ravishing carving on different patterns embellish the pillars with the symbols of mythological over tones, which generously extend to the silver plated sanctum. To its left is the idol of Ratnagarbha Ganpati. To the right are Veerbhadra Swamy(Gaurdian Deity) and Bhadrakali, in niches. The small black Shiv linga has a hooded golden cover. The Garbha Friha is small and only priests are allowed inside. Walking to the North of the sanctum, in the prakara, are the five lingas installed by the Pandvas, a temple for Veerbhadra Swamy, and a well is in the same cardinal direction, from where water is drawn for Puja or other religious ceremonies. There is exorbitant devotional warmth as chants of ‘Om Namah Shivayah’ fill the air. Nearly 30 meters away from the sanctum of the main temple, the Western Gopuram is infested with the statues that depict the tableau of Chandravati, a legendry maiden whose devotion to Shiva was an example in totality. Venturing 20 meters to the North of the sanctum is another marble statue, depicting the Bhramaramba handling over a sword to Chattrapati Shivaji.</div><div><br></div><div>Keeping the all needs in mind, the aspiring devotees looking for a delightful stay can plan their accommodation at Hotels in Srisailam. With the balanced profusion of spirituality, tranquility and world class hospitable standards, the Srisailam Hotels are genuinely blessed with the facilities as expected by the discerning devotees exclusively. There are immense numbers of budget as well as luxurious Srisailam Hotels which are stupendously built and cater to the every mindset seeking for complete peace and solace. The visitors can most probably plan their stay at accommodation at Haritha Hotel, Telega kapu balija satram and Velema choultry, generously, suiting their tastes and preferences. The travelers can also avail Srisailam Tour Packages which include a stay at one of the finest hotels in Srisailam, platter of meals and a cab service to commute with in the precincts of the region.</div><div><br></div><div>But as the matter of fact, like other temples, the Mallikarjun Temple in Andhra Pradesh is not adhered to any harsh rules. The devotees are not befitted to any dress code. During the darshan, all the visitors are advised to keep their cell phones switched off and its better they should avoid taking any pictures inside the temple premises. The Darshan lines are free for the common man but foreigners have to pay 30 Rupees respectively. Those who want to offer hair in fulfillment of their vow can do so at the Kalyana Katte, 10 m South of the sanctum, for a fee of Rs 20. Sharing the series of similar price tags, Vibhuti(Rs 20), Laddoo(Rs 20), Vada(Rs 15) and Pulihotra(Tamrind Rice, Rs 15). Prasad Counters are in the front as well as in the back of the temple. This temple receives large number of pilgrims during the festive season of Maha Shivaratri(mid-Mar), Makar Sakranti(mid-Jan), Ugadi(March/April) and Kartika(Nov-Dec) exclusively. The Suprabhata Darshan and Viswarupa Darshan, may be witnessed daily at 3:00AM or 5:00AM generally depending upon the month. Mahamangal aarti is performed at 4:00AM, and 5:20-5:45 PM. There are several Saswatha Sewas(permanent) that are carried out when specified amounts are deposited. There are also special services offered by the state owned buses. Located 2KMs, North of the RTC bus stand, and with in the radius of 100m of the bazaar, the visitors can board the local bus or taxi between 3:30 AM to 8.30 PM. Besides the daily schedule, the visitors while leaving this place would feel a great transition in their lives forever. Nevertheless, the change will not be seen in material facets but it will affect every dimension of their life, making the visitors feel highly blessed</div>

<div>Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple celebrates a festival called the <i><b>Kalyanotsavam </b></i>(marriage of the Lord). It is celebrated every day at the Kalyanmandapam except during the Brahmotsavam and on certain other festive occasions.</div><div><br></div><div>Kalyanam" means Wedding in Sanskrit. Performing or watching a divine wedding is considered to be very auspicious by the Hindus. It is believed to cleanse the family of all sins. This can be performed only by wedded couples accompanied by their family not exceeding 5 at an admittance fee of Rs.2500/-. It starts around 10 AM and continues till 3.30 PM. After completing all the participating families have a free view of the deity. The couples are then gifted with silk upper clothes and about 20 pounds of "Prasadams" or a meal that is cooked only inside the temple`s boundaries and consecrated to the Lord earlier.</div><div><br></div><div>Lord Balaji is the bridegroom while his two consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi are the brides in this celestial wedding. The rituals followed are exactly the same as the one carried out during Hindu marriages. The idols of Lord Malayappaswami (Balaji), Sridevi and Bhoodevi are placed in a manner that Lord faces his brides. A screen to separate the bridegroom and brides is then placed in between After the observance of rituals the screen is then removed so that the deities now face to face. This auspicious ceremony is held amid the chant of Vedic mantras by the priests. This also includes pronouncing the family lineage of the brides as well as the bridegroom. It`s a divine feeling out there.</div><div><br></div><div>There also good numbers of budget, as well as luxury Hotels in Tirupati located near the Venkateswara temple, which provides all the comforts and luxuries at best price tags. The travelers can also avail <i><b>Tirupati Tour Packages</b></i> which include a stay at one of the finest <i><b>Hotels &amp; Homestays in Tirupati</b></i>, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

<div>India has a long trail of 5,000-year-old spiritual history which allures an infinite number of enthusiasts from different parts of the world. There are infinite numbers of temples, Shaktipeeth, monasteries, and mosques which carry the epitome of real spiritualism. Every spiritual destination in India has strong mythological history which binds the aspiring devotees in a pristine thread of faith and equanimity. Garlanded with the presence of diverse faith, ideals, age-old traditions, saints and seers, India is suffused with every flavor, satiating enough to purify your soul to the apex levels of enlightenment.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div>Reminiscently, Shirdi’s Sai Baba Shrine is a similar place professing the legacy of ‘Sufism’. Complying with the various beliefs, it is said that Sai Baba’s soul present in the astral form listens to the prayer of every devotee. Attesting the other school of thought, Sai Baba was said to be re-incarnated on Earth after 8 years of his death at Puttaparthi. Supporting all believes, born in the poor family of Puttaparthi in South India, Andhra Pradesh, this soul was entirely different from other kids in the same village. Named as Brahmajnani during the auspicious festivity, the priest told them that “this child has an exceptional configuration of the astral chart. Born under the strong astrological influence, he will work for the noble human cause and would spread the message of peace all over the world”. Instance to some more historical events at the 14 years of age, he was blessed with spiritual enlightenment which received its testament with the declaration of his new avatar radually named as ‘Sri Sathya Sai Baba’(incarnation of Shirdi’s Sai Baba).&nbsp; With the chain of various co-incidents matching with the myths of Shirdi’s Sai Baba, people from the region started hailing him as the superficial divine power spreading its hallowed effect to everyone suffering from pain, poverty, misery, disease and unforgivable sins.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>In the year 1950, his followers inaugurated the ashram with the name ‘Prasanthi Nilayam’. From that year the wheel of transforming the society into a spiritual haven never stopped. Infinite numbers of super-specialty hospitals, schools, universities and free homes for poor loomed up in many parts of the country. Following the trail blaze of his divinity and grace, today Puttaparthi has mushroomed into a full-fledged ‘Prasanthi Nilayam’ ashram. Encompassed in the color of spiritualism and inner sanctity, this divine sanctum is weaved in the blend of strict ethics and highly sophisticated modernistic infrastructure.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>For the uttermost convenience of the devotees, ‘Prasanthi Nilayam’ is festooned with all faculties needed during the seven days stay at the ashram. The ashram authorities provide the devotees with an immense number of facilities like free accommodation, different types of canteen catering to the tastes of every mindset, bus stand, availability of taxis, and SBI bank in the premises for quick transactions. If you have come far away from your native place then there is also a facility for sending fax, telegram, and e-mails at an affordable price tag. Moreover, during a stay at the ashram, the disciples are provided with porters and laundry services to make their entire tenure more suave and simple. With the presence of Shopping centers in close proximity, the shopping timings are fixed for ladies which are 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM in the morning and 05:00 PM to 7:30 PM in the evening. The ashram has a well-appointed locker and safe deposit facilities for all the devotees carrying loads of precious items with them. The NRI, foreigners and Indian counterparts can plan their stay at ashram only after taking the prior permission from the public relation authorities. In fact, the accommodation will be booked only when Sri Sathya Sai Baba is available especially at the peak time of summer months. In case if the devotees reach to ashram during the non-working hours, then they will be provided with the one day stay and 12:00 PM in the noon will be their check out time for leaving the premises. There are different rooms available for NRIs, Foreigners and Indian counterparts. Whenever the folks hailing from parts of the world desire to visit this spiritual sanctum, they could reach Room 7, North-8(A-1) and North 8(A-1). These are the accommodations and registration offices within the ashram, which could bestow the travelers with every possible support they desire. However during the stay, as the part of precautionary measures, the devotees are not allowed to consume alcohol, tobacco products or non-vegetarian food inside the premises Bundled by the hard-edged rules and ethics, the devotees have to wear the yellow or blue clothes and any kind of socialization by males or females is strictly prohibited by the authorities of the ashram. By a further co-incidence if an individual fails to get a room at Prasanthi Nilayam, then Hotels in Puttaparthi could provide them with the options best matching their preferences. Chaitanya International Hotel, Sai Towers and Sai Plaza are some of the peerless Puttaparthi Accommodations intricately nestled nearby the premises of ‘Prasanthi Nilayam’.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from all the ethics, hard-edged rules, facilities and personal succor provided by the ashram, devotees are heralded with a particular schedule which is to be followed with the feeling of strong commitment and conviction. The morning at ashram commences at 5:20 AM when the clusters of devotees accumulated in the hall, recite Aumkar for 21 times. Followed by the devised schedule at 5:40 AM, just for the sake of cleansing the inner shades of the soul, devotees have to chant Vedic Mantras and sing Nagar Sankeertan, professing the feeling of thanks and gratitude towards Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Going through the trail of sublime events, the soul of devotees reverberates with the pious aura of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. After giving ‘Darshan’ at 7:00 AM in the morning, the trail of the whole schedule followed by the Aarti at 9:30 AM to 7:45 PM(watching spiritual videos) in the evening, this procedure of spiritual syndication is repeatedly carried in a disciplined manner.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>It is to be noted that during these spiritual sessions no amount is collected for Darshan, and the order in which the meetings are carried, is generally decided by the authorities through a draw of lot system. The procedure is conducted separately for ladies and giants.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The schedule at the ashram is so rigid instance to the ethics that you would definitely feel the subtle purification process going on in different lengths and breadths of spiritual spaces. In order to unwind your tired senses under the shadow of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the aspiring devotees have to follow the simple road map. Before reaching Puttaparthi, the devotees have to take permission from authorities to book accommodation in the ashram. Located 8 KMS from the Sai Prasanthi Railway Station and 40 KMS away from the Dharmavalam Railway Station, the devotees can board a direct train to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkota. If you are looking for some more feasible options, then you can also board a direct flight from Delhi or Mumbai to Puttaparthi. Nestled 120 KMS away from the ashram, this airport is the nearest ones bringing a huge influx of Sri Sathya Sai Baba followers to this divine center of spiritual enlightenment. Ending the deep insight of ‘Prasanthi Nilayam’, Sri Sathya Sai Baba preached a few lines in the context of his presence.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Always find a quiet corner after my darshan, where you may enter the stillness and receive the completion of my blessings. My energy goes out from me as I pass by you. If you proceed to talk to others, immediately after darshan this precious energy is dissipated and returns to me unused by you. Rest assured that whatever my eye sees becomes vitalized and transmuted. You are changed day by day. Never underestimate what is being accomplished by this act of darshan. My walking among you is a gift yearned for by the gods of the highest heaven, and here you are, daily receiving this grace. Be grateful. The travelers can also avail Puttaparthi Tour Packages which include a stay at one of the finest hotels in Puttaparthi, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

Akasaganga Teertham

Sri Venkateswara Temple

Silathoranam

Swami Pushkarini Lake

TTD gardens

Vedadri Narasimha Swamy Temple

Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple

Sri Govindarajaswami Temple

Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Vignan Mandiram

Sri Venugopalaswami Temple

Sri Varahaswami Temple

ISKCON Tirupati

Tumburu Teertham

Kapila Teertham

Deer Park, Tirupati

Talakona Waterfall

Papavinasam Theertham

Rock Garden, Tirupati

Chandragiri Fort

Japali Teertham

<Count> Tirupati Tour Packages: Holiday Deals Starting @Rs.<PRICE>

Tirupati

Yelagiri

Srikalahasti

<div><b>"Venkatadri Samam Sthanam Brahmande Naasthi Kinchana"</b></div><div>Tirupati is located at the foothills of Tirumala. The city owes its existence to the sacred temple situated on the Tirumala Hills. Tirumala is the abode of Lord Venkateshwara. It's considered that he is one of the Avatars of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located atop Seshachala hills, often called as "Yaedu Kondalu" (seven hills). The temple of Lord Venkateshwara was built by the Tamil king Thondaimaan. Then reformed periodically by Cholas and later Telugu Kings.</div><div>Tirupati is the richest and the busiest pilgrimage center in the world (of any faith). The Balaji Temple is visited by millions of devotees from all over the world throughout the year a common site over here is the tonsured heads.</div>

Find complete information about tirupati tourism including attractions, things to do, weather, festivals, how to reach and much more. Don't forget to read this guide before you plan your trip!

Tirupati Travel Guide, How to Reach, Places to Visit - Kiomoi

<div>Tirupati, the holy city is located in the southeastern part of Andhra Pradesh, in Chittoor district. Known as the house of the Hindu god `Sri Venkateshwara`, Tirupati is famous for the Venkateswara temple in the hallowed Tirumala hills at an elevation of 860m.</div><div><br></div><div>Tirupati, the abode of Lord Venkateswara, is accessible by air, rail as well as road. Getting to the temple town is quite easy since a well-planned network of railways and roadways connects it with other parts of India. It is sited at a distance of 592 km, 145 km and 247 km from Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore, respectively. Tirupati boasts of its own airport and railway station, which are connected with major cities across the country.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Driving Direction</b><br></div><div><b><br></b></div><div>Tirupati is a famous temple nestled in the Chittor district, Andhra Pradesh, South India. This temple is also known as the Triumala temple consecrated to Lord Venkateshwara also known as Lord Vishnu in North India. The attractions dotted in and around Tirupati includes Visweswaraswami temple, Sri Bedi Anjananeya Swami temple, Sri Chennakesavaswami temple, Sri Venkateswarami temple, and Vaikuntha Teertham. The Tirupati airport is the nearest airport from which operates many international flights. Located at Renigunta, this airport is just 15 km away from this holy city. Seamless flights to Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkota, and Delhi operate from the Tirupati International Airport. The Tirupati railway station connects this sacred city with the other neighboring cities of the South India region. The NH 205 is the main link road that connects with Tirupati with the cities bordering it.<br></div>

<div>The ancient and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatachala (Venkata Hill) of the Tirupati Hill, and lies on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini. It is by the Lord’s presidency over Venkatachala, that He has received the title, Venkateswara (Lord of the Venkata Hill). He is also called the Lord of the Seven Hills.<br></div><div>The temple has its origins in Vaishnavism, an ancient sect that advocates the principles of equality and love, and prohibits animal sacrifice. The sanctum sanctorum which houses the awe-inspiring idol of the Lord of the Seven Hills is situated in the main temple complex of Tirumala. The temple of Sri Venkateswara has acquired unique sanctity in Indian religious lore. The Sastras, Puranas, Sthala Mahatyams and Alwar hymns unequivocally declare that, in the Kali Yuga, one can attain Mukti, only by worshipping Venkata Nayaka or Sri Venkateswara. The benefits acquired by a pilgrimage to Venkatachala are mentioned in the Rig Veda and Asthadasa Purana. The temple has its origins in Vaishnavism, an ancient sect which advocates the principles of equality and love, and prohibits animal sacrifice</div><div><br></div><div><b>Devotional Activities</b></div><div>Devotional Activities Performed: There are several devotional activities performed at the temple premises.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Tonsuring (Getting your head shaved):</b> The objective behind tonsuring is to demonstrate that he/she completely surrenders his/her ego at the feet of the Lord. Pilgrims can have their heads tonsured at the Kalyanakatta (opposite the Annanadanam Complex). There are seventeen sub-centers for tonsuring. Pilgrims can also request to be tonsured at the cottages where they are staying.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Walking up the Hills:</b> Many pilgrims walk up the hills to fulfill vows they have taken, for which Tirumala - Tirupati Devsthanam has constructed a walkway from Alipiri to Tirumala. It takes approximately three and a half hours to walk up the hill.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Angapradakshinam:</b> Angapradakshinam is when pilgrims lie prostrate, and then roll around the temple, chanting the Lord`s name. The objective is to show their devotion to the Lord, and thank Him for protecting them. It is performed in the Vimana Pradakshinam, one of the pathways around the temple. Pilgrims who wish to undertake the Angapradakshinam have to take a dip in the Swami Pushkarini and reach the Main Temple Complex by 0200 hrs (through a special queue that starts from the PPC Sheds).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Tulabharam: </b>Tulabharam is offering one`s weight in coins or other items such as sugar, candy according to one`s vows to the Lord. Tulabharam is generally performed for children. Pilgrims can weigh their offerings in the temple complex. The coins can be deposited in the temple hundi and other items can be handed over to the temple authorities present. The queue for Tulabharam is the regular queue that starts from the Vaikuntham Queue Complex or PC Queue Complex.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Niluvudopidi:</b> Niluvudopidi is offering to the Lord the ornaments, etc., that one is wearing when one takes the vow. The objective is to sacrifice one`s belongings to the Lord, with the philosophy `what is mine is the Lord`s`.</div>

<div>Tirupati is also famous for handicrafts like Woodcarving and Kalamkari; special Whitewood toys are also available here. Traditional Tanjore style Gold leaf Paintings, which are done at Madanapalli town, are also popular and available in shopping outlets in Tirupati. These paintings have mythological themes as motifs.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Publication</b></div><div>Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, which has a publication department, publishes books &amp; periodicals on Hindu religious treatises. Certain catalogue books are published in various categories such as Ithihas, Sthothras, etc.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>

<div>Every day is a day of festivity at Tirumala. Tirupati Temple celebrates many festivals like Kalyanotsavam, Arjita Brahmotsavam, Dolotsavam, Vasanthotsavam but the annual festival of `Brahmotsavam` is particularly important. The most famous festival, `Brahmotsavam`, which is celebrated on grand scale for nine days in September, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all parts of the country. The fifth and ninth days of the festival are especially significant in as much as Garudostavam and Rathotavam takes place on those days.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Brahmotsavam: </b>The Brahmotsavam is the most important temple festival celebrated at Tirupati-Balaji. The festival is celebrated annually in September. The festival is grand every third year and is called Navratri Brahmotsavam. On the third day of the Brahmotsavam, the temple car festival called Rathotsavam is held.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Vijayanagar Festival: </b>The Vijayanagar Festival is held for three days at the historic Chandragiri Fort near Tirupati-Balaji in the third week of October every year. The fort is a living testimony to the heroism of the rulers of Vijayanagar, and the festival coincides with the annual Brahmotsavam at the Tirupati-Balaji Temple. Musicians and dancers from all over the state come here to perform during the festival. The Rayalseema Food Festival is also held at the same time. During this festival, most of the local delicacies of the state are presented.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kalyanotsavam:</b> Tirupati also celebrates a festival called the Kalyanotsavam (marriage of the Lord). It is celebrated every day at the Kalyanmandapam except during the Brahmotsavam and on certain other festive occasions. Kalyanam" means Wedding in Sanskrit. Read More...&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Gangamma Jathara:</b> Gangamma Jathara is also celebrated as a major festival. The Goddess Gangamma is offered animal sacrifices and also pongal and other offerings by the devotees. She is considered as the sister of The Lord Almighty, Govinda.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Rathasapthami:</b> Rathasapthami (Magha Shuddha Saptami) is another festival, celebrated during February, when Lord Venkateswara idol will be taken procession around the temple chariots.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Arjita Brahmotsavam:</b> For those that not present during the biggest event of the year, the Brahmotsavams, a mini version is celebrated every day at Rs.500 per 5 persons starting at about 1 PM. The devotees performing this have a choice of selecting which particular vehicle they want to see their God on, such as the Lion, the Elephant, The Eagle or Others. However, the Float festival that is celebrated during the Brahmotsavams is not included in this ceremony. It starts at around 1:30 PM in the afternoon.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Dolotsavam: </b>This festival is for those who wish to see Lord Venkateswara and his Consorts in all their regalia, on a tastefully decorated float amidst the waves of the sacred temple tank. This Utsavam is performed at Rs.750 per family of 6 persons.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Vasanthotsavam:</b> Vasanthotsavam is the festival of colors. This is of 3-day duration starting in Mid-April or 1st fortnight of May. The Lord and HIS consorts "play" and the devotees also spray colors on them. It costs Rs.3000 per family of 10 persons, per day. On the scheduled day, the function starts at 2 PM in the afternoon&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>English New Year Day: </b>Lakhs of devotees throng the hill shrine to have darshan of the Lord on the New Year Day. The crowds begin to throng a couple of days before and continue for another two days after January 1&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Some Tourism Events</b></div><div><br></div><div><b>Rayalseema Food and Dance Festival: </b>Held in - September - October Held to coincide with the Brahmostsavam of Lord Sri Venkateshwara of Tirupati. Artisans, craftsmen, and weavers from all parts of the country take part while the food courts offer mouth-watering cuisine of Rayalseema.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>The Vijayanagar Festival at Chandragiri:</b> Held in - October The historic Chandragiri fort near Tirupati (where a Sound &amp; Light Show is held daily) stands testimony to the grandeur of the Vijayanagar rulers. This festival coincides with the annual Brahmotsavam at the Tirumala temple. The visitors who witness the most reputed musicians and dancers perform embark on a journey into the past. Through the Rayalseema Food Festival which is also held at the same time, the most traditional delicacies of the region are brought forth exclusively for the gourmet`s delight.</div>

<div>Summer Temperature: Min 35° C; Max: 45°C | Winter Temperature: Min 10°C; Max 18°C</div><div>Best Time to Visit: October to February</div><div>The region experiences tropical climate round the year.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Summers: </b>The summer season lasts from March to June with a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius. The temperature is at its peak during the two months i.e. the months of May and June. Even the nights during these months are very warm.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Monsoon:</b> Monsoon showers begin around the end of June or the beginning of July and last till the end of September. The region does not receive a heavy shower but the heat is reduced to some extent. With the beginning of October, the weather also begins to become pleasant.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Winters:</b> The winters in Tirupati begin from the month of November and lasts till February. The temperature is not freezing cold. The maximum temperature during the winters is around 180 C. The nights are cooler as compared to the nights. The winter season (around October to February) is the best time to visit the holy place.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Useful facts</b></div><div><br></div><div>Location – Chittoor district | State – Andhra Pradesh</div><div>Climate – Hot and Humid</div><div>Temperature - Max -45 C, Min -10 C</div><div>Languages – Tamil, Telgu, English</div><div>Best Time to Visit – September to February</div><div>Main Festivals – 10 days of Brahmotsavam, Gregorian new-year day.</div><div>Attractions – Venkateshwara temple, Varahaswamy temple, Tiruchanur</div><div>Nearest Airport – Tirupati airport (15 kms)Nearest Railway station – Tirupati, Reningunta (15 kms)</div>

Venkateswara Temple And Devotional Activities in Tirupati

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