Tirupati Balaji Temple, Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
The Tirupati Balaji Temple, also known as the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, is one of the most revered and richest temples in the world. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara (a form of Lord Vishnu), the temple is a major pilgrimage destination, attracting millions of devotees annually. It is believed that offering prayers here fulfills wishes and brings prosperity. The temple is also famous for its laddu prasadam and hair tonsuring ritual, where devotees offer their hair as a sign of devotion.
Tirupati Balaji Features
- The temple is about 50 feet tall and has a gold gilt roof
- It has a colorful main entrance gate called Singhdwar
- The temple is divided into three parts: Garbha Griha, Darshan Mandap, and Sabha Mandap
- The temple is open for six months in a year
Tirupati Balaji Location
The temple is located on the Tirumala Hills, in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, about 22 km from Tirupati city. Tirupati is well connected by air, rail, and road.
- Nearest Airport: Tirupati International Airport (40 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Tirupati Railway Station (22 km)
- Road Connectivity: Regular buses and private taxis are available from all major South Indian cities.
Tirupati Balaji History
The temple’s origins date back to the 8th century AD, with contributions from several dynasties, including the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara rulers. According to legend, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Sri Venkateswara to save mankind and chose Tirumala as His abode. The temple gained significant prominence under the Vijayanagara Empire, with Krishnadevaraya donating gold and jewels for its enhancement. The temple continues to receive donations, making it one of the wealthiest religious institutions globally.
Tirupati Balaji Nearby Attraction
- Sri Padmavathi Temple (5 km): Dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara.
- Kapila Theertham (3 km): A sacred Shiva temple with a waterfall, located at the base of Tirumala hills.
- Sri Varahaswami Temple (1 km): An important temple near the Balaji shrine, dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s Varaha incarnation.
- Silathoranam (2 km): A natural rock formation, believed to be related to Lord Vishnu’s presence in Tirumala.
- Chandragiri Fort (16 km): A historical site with ties to the Vijayanagara Empire.
