Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, located atop the sacred Tirumala Hills, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in the world. Millions of devotees visit Tirupati Balaji every year to seek blessings and experience divine darshan. However, planning your visit properly can help you avoid long queues and have a smooth spiritual journey.
In this guide, we cover darshan timings, types of darshan, and essential tips to make your visit seamless.
For a hassle-free pilgrimage experience, you can book a customized Tirupati tour package with Tirupati Balaji Package.
Types of Darshan at Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple
1. Sarva Darshan (Free Darshan)
- Available to all devotees free of cost.
- No pre-booking required; tokens issued at various locations.
- Waiting time: 8 to 24 hours, depending on the crowd.
2. Special Entry Darshan (₹300 Ticket Darshan)
- Cost: ₹300 per person.
- Booking: Online via TTD Official Website.
- Waiting Time: 2-4 hours.
- Tip: Book at least 2-3 months in advance as tickets sell out fast.
3. Divya Darshan (For Footpath Pilgrims)
- Available for those who walk up the Tirumala Hills via:
- Alipiri Mettu (9 km trek, 4-6 hrs).
- Srivari Mettu (2.1 km trek, 2 hrs).
- Free darshan token issued en route.
4. VIP Break Darshan
- Reserved for donors, special guests, and high-ranking officials.
- Cost: ₹500 per person.
- Requires a recommendation letter or donation-based booking.
5. Senior Citizens & Differently-Abled Darshan
- Eligibility: Above 65 years or those with physical disabilities.
- Timings: 10:00 AM & 3:00 PM.
- Entry Point: Supatham Entrance.
- Tip: Arrive early with valid ID proof for verification.
6. Seva Darshan (Suprabatha Seva, Thomala Seva, Kalyanotsavam, etc.)
- Includes morning poojas and special rituals.
- Cost: ₹200 – ₹12,500 (varies based on seva type).
- Requires advance booking on the TTD website.
Sri Venkateswara Swamy Darshan Timings
| Sarva Darshan | 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM | 8-24 hours |
| ₹300 Special Entry Darshan | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 2-4 hours |
| Divya Darshan | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 4-6 hours |
| VIP Break Darshan | 5:30 AM – 6:30 AM | 30-60 minutes |
| Senior Citizens Darshan | 10:00 AM & 3:00 PM | 1-2 hours |
Best Practices for a Smooth Darshan Experience
✅ Book Your Darshan in Advance
- Special entry darshan tickets should be booked 2-3 months before.
- Book a Tirupati travel package with Tirupati Balaji Package to avoid last-minute rush.
✅ Follow the Temple Dress Code
- Men: Dhoti & shirt or kurta-pajama.
- Women: Saree, salwar-kameez, or a fully covered outfit.
✅ Reach Early & Carry Essentials
- Arrive at least 2 hours before your darshan slot.
- Carry original ID proof used during booking.
✅ Use Free TTD Facilities
- Free Anna Prasadam (food) is served at Matrusri Tarigonda Vengamamba Hall.
- Free luggage and mobile deposit counters are available.
✅ Avoid Crowded Days
- Best time: Tuesday to Thursday (weekdays).
- Peak seasons to avoid: Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and New Year.
How to Reach Tirupati & Tirumala?
🚍 By Road
- Regular bus services from Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Vijayawada.
- Book a Bangalore to Tirupati one-day package via Tirupati Balaji Package.
🚆 By Train
- Tirupati Railway Station (TPTY) has direct trains from Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.
✈️ By Air
- Renigunta Airport (TIR) is 15 km from Tirupati.
- Direct flights from Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore.
Book Your Tirupati Darshan Package Today!
For a stress-free pilgrimage, book a customized Tirupati tour package with Tirupati Balaji Package. Packages include:
✔ Bangalore to Tirupati one-day tour (bus/car package).
✔ Chennai to Tirupati VIP darshan package.
✔ Hyderabad to Tirupati 2-day pilgrimage package.
🔹 Let us take care of your travel & darshan, while you focus on devotion!
