Tirupati - Admist the thickly-wooded hills in Chittoor district lies the temple town of Tirumala with Tirupati at the foothills, the abode of Lord Venkateswara. The range of hills is said to resemble a snake with Tirumala forming the hood. Lord Venkateswara, the residing god, is known as ‘Lord of the Seven Hills' and ‘Balaji'.
Tirupati and Tirumala today are modern destinations of pilgrim tourists. Not only the bliss of a divine 'darshan' but added attractions provided by nature make them the ideal pilgrimage-cum-holiday destination.
While Balaji remains the main draw, the beauties of nature and the serene surroundings have made Tirupati today a much visited town. A beautiful road leads up across the Seven Hills to Tirumala.
Asthana Mandapam (Sadas Hall) This is a venue for holding devotional programs, music concerts, harikathas and Bhajans conducted under the auspice of Dharma Prachara Parishat.
Chandragir Chandragiri was the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, located about 12 kms from Tirupati. Chandragiri Fort is a living testimony to the greatness of the Vijayanagara Empire housing palaces and temples.
Lord Venkateswara Temple Sri Venkateshwara temple, the abode of Lord Venkateshwara or Lord Balaji is located at Tirumala, 18 kms. northwest of Tirupati. Within the sanctum is the majestic "Swayambhu" or naturally formed image of the Lord.
Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple At the foot of Tirumala Hills, Sri Kapileswaraswami Temple is the only temple dedicated to Lord Siva, in Tirupati. Annual Brahmotsavams and festivals like vinayaka Chavithi, Maha sivaratri and Annabhishekam are performed in a grand scale.
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple Tiruchanoor, also known as Alamelumangapuram is about 5 kms. from Tirupati housing this large temple dedicated to goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. It is said that a visit to Tirumala is fruitful only after visiting this temple.
Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple Tiruchanoor, also known as Alamelumangapuram is about 5 kms. from Tirupati housing this large temple dedicated to goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. It is said that a visit to Tirumala is fruitful only after visiting this temple. |