Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh – Facts And History

Situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is renowned for housing the Sri Venkateswara Temple, also referred to as the Tirumala Temple, which is among the most visited pilgrimage sites across the globe. Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is worshipped in this temple, which is situated atop the Seven Hills of Tirumala.

Tirupati is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with many ancient temples, monuments, and traditional festivals. The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air, with the nearest airport being located in Renigunta, just 15 km away. Apart from the temple, some other popular tourist attractions in Tirupati include the Sri Venkateswara National Park, Chandragiri Fort, and the Sri Vari Museum.

Other Names Of Tirupati:

Tirupati is also known by several other names, including:

1. Venkatachalam – Referring to the Seven Hills of Tirumala where the Sri Venkateswara Temple is located.
2. Balaji – A popular name for Lord Venkateswara, the presiding deity of the Sri Venkateswara Temple.
3. Kaliyuga Vaikuntham – Meaning the abode of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have descended to earth in the form of Lord Venkateswara

Nicknames Of Tirupati:

Tirupati is commonly referred to by the following nicknames:

1. Temple City – Due to the presence of the Sri Venkateswara Temple, which is one of the most visited temples in the world.
2. Kaliyuga Vaikuntham – Referring to Tirupati as the abode of Lord Vishnu, who is believed to have come to earth in the form of Lord Venkateswara.
3. Andhra Vatican – A name given to Tirupati due to its large number of religious sites and the influence of the Sri Venkateswara Temple in the region.
4. Laddu City – In reference to the famous Tirupati Laddu, a sweet made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee, which is offered to Lord Venkateswara and distributed as prasadam to devotees.

Historical Importance Of Tirupati:

Tirupati has a rich history dating back to the ancient times, with mentions in various Hindu scriptures and literary works. The region was ruled by various dynasties such as the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara Empire, all of whom contributed to the growth and development of the Sri Venkateswara Temple and the surrounding region.

The earliest mention of Tirupati is found in the Rigveda, where it is referred to as Adi Varaha Kshetra. The Varaha Purana, one of the eighteen Mahapuranas of Hinduism, also mentions Tirupati as one of the important holy places in India. According to the belief, the temple was constructed by the Pallavas during the 9th century AD, and subsequently, it underwent several expansions and renovations by different rulers.

During the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th and 15th centuries, the temple gained prominence as one of the major pilgrimage centers in South India. The emperor Krishnadevaraya is said to have made many donations to the temple, and the festival of Brahmotsavam, which is celebrated annually, was also introduced during this period.

In the 16th century, the temple came under the control of the Golconda Sultanate, and later the Mughals, who granted it several privileges and donations. The temple was further expanded and renovated by the rulers of the Maratha Empire in the 18th century.

After India gained independence in 1947, the Sri Venkateswara Temple was brought under the control of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam, a trust established by the Andhra Pradesh government. TIn present times, Tirupati has become one of the most renowned pilgrimage destinations globally, luring millions of devotees from various corners of the world annually.

How To Reach Tirupati:

Tirupati is well-connected by road, rail, and air, and can be easily reached from various parts of India. Here are the different modes of transport to reach Tirupati:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Tirupati is the Tirupati International Airport, located about 15 km from the city center. It is well-connected to major cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Tirupati.
• By Train: Tirupati Railway Station is the main railway station in the city and is well-connected to major cities in India. Several trains run from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad to Tirupati. One can also take a train to Renigunta Railway Station, which is about 10 km from Tirupati, and hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city.
• By Road: Tirupati is well-connected by road to major cities in Andhra Pradesh and the neighboring states. National Highway 71 passes through Tirupati, connecting it to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Several buses run from major cities to Tirupati, both by the state-owned APSRTC buses and private operators. One can also hire a taxi or self-drive to reach Tirupati.
• Local Transport: Tirupati has a well-established local transport system comprising buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. APSRTC buses run within the city and to nearby places like Tirumala. Taxis and auto-rickshaws can be hired from the railway station, bus stand, or the airport to reach the Sri Venkateswara Temple or other tourist attractions in and around Tirupati.

10 Interesting Facts About Tirupati:

1. Sri Venkateswara Temple – The Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati is one of the most visited temples in the world, with over 50,000 to 100,000 devotees visiting it every day.
2. Laddu Prasadam – The famous Tirupati Laddu, a sweet made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee, is offered to Lord Venkateswara and distributed as prasadam to devotees. It is considered auspicious and is believed to have medicinal properties.
3. Seven Hills of Tirumala – The Sri Venkateswara Temple is located on the Seven Hills of Tirumala, which are considered sacred in Hinduism. The hills are named after the seven heads of the Adisesha, the serpent on which Lord Vishnu rests.
4. Hundi Collection – The hundi collection at the Sri Venkateswara Temple is one of the highest in the world, with an estimated annual collection of over Rs. 3,000 crore ($400 million) from donations and offerings by devotees.
5. Vaikuntha Ekadasi – The Vaikuntha Ekadasi festival, which falls in the Hindu month of Margashirsha (December-January), is celebrated with great fervor in Tirupati. It is believed that Lord Vishnu opens the gates of his abode, Vaikuntha, on this day.
6. Lord Venkateswara – Lord Venkateswara, the presiding deity of the Sri Venkateswara Temple, is considered to be one of the richest and most powerful gods in Hinduism, also known as Balaji, Srinivasa, and Govinda.
7. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam – The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) is a trust established by the Andhra Pradesh government to manage the Sri Venkateswara Temple and its affairs. It is one of the richest religious organizations in the world.
8. Akasa Ganga – Akasa Ganga is a waterfall located near the Sri Venkateswara Temple. It is believed to be the source of the holy water used for the daily rituals at the temple.
9. Chandragiri Fort – The Chandragiri Fort, located about 12 km from Tirupati, is a historical monument built by the Vijayanagara Empire. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and is a popular tourist destination.
10. Sri Kalahasti Temple – The Sri Kalahasti Temple, located about 36 km from Tirupati, is another famous temple in the region. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built in the 5th century AD.

15 Places To Visit In Tirupati

1. Sri Venkateswara Temple – The Sri Venkateswara Temple is the most popular attraction of Tirupati, and is visited by millions of devotees every year. Lord Venkateswara, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, is worshipped in the temple. It is located on the Seven Hills of Tirumala and is believed to be one of the richest and most powerful temples in India.
2. Akasaganga Teertham – Akasaganga Teertham is a holy waterfall located near the Sri Venkateswara Temple. According to legend, Lord Vishnu created the waterfall by striking the ground with his Sudarshana Chakra. It is believed that the holy water from the waterfall is used for the daily rituals at the temple.
3. Silathoranam – The Tirumala hills are home to Silathoranam, a natural arch formation. Composed of rock, the arch is speculated to be millions of years old, and is a favorite site for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
4. Sri Varahaswami Temple – Sri Varahaswami Temple is a small temple located near the Sri Venkateswara Temple. It is dedicated to Lord Varaha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Tirupati and is famous for its beautiful architecture.
5. Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple – The Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple is a famous temple located in Tiruchanur, about 5 km from Tirupati. The temple is devoted to Goddess Padmavathi, who is the spouse of Lord Venkateswara. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is visited by thousands of devotees every day.
6. Chandragiri Fort – Chandragiri Fort is a historical monument located about 12 km from Tirupati. It was built by the Vijayanagara Empire in the 11th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and scenic views. The fort is a popular tourist destination in Tirupati.
7. Swami Pushkarini Lake – Swami Pushkarini Lake is a sacred lake located near the Sri Venkateswara Temple. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Vishnu and is considered to be very holy. The lake is surrounded by beautiful temples and is a popular spot for devotees and tourists alike.
8. Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple – Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple is a famous temple located in Srinivasa Mangapuram, about 12 km from Tirupati. It is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
9. TTD Gardens – TTD Gardens is a beautiful garden located near the Sri Venkateswara Temple. The garden is spread over an area of 460 acres and is known for its beautiful flowers and plants. The place is a popular destination for picnics and family outings.
10. Kapila Theertham – Kapila Theertham is a beautiful waterfall located about 4 km from Tirupati. The waterfall is believed to have medicinal properties and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
11. Sri Venugopalaswamy Temple – Sri Venugopalaswamy Temple is a famous temple located in Karvetinagaram, about 45 km from Tirupati. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple is renowned for its picturesque architecture and tranquil ambiance.
12. Sri Kondandarama Swamy Temple – Sri Kondandarama Swamy Temple is a famous temple located in Tirupati. The temple is devoted to Lord Rama and is renowned for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings.
13. Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Vignan Mandiram – Sri Venkateswara Dhyana Vignan Mandiram is a meditation center located near the Sri Venkateswara Temple. It is a peaceful and serene place, perfect for those who want to meditate or seek spiritual guidance.
14. Sri Govindarajaswami Temple – The famous Sri Govindarajaswami Temple, located in Tirupati, is devoted to Lord Vishnu and is renowned for its splendid architecture and intricate carvings.
15. Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple – Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple is a famous temple located in Appalayagunta, about 18 km from Tirupati. It is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

Art And Culture Of Tirupati:

Art and culture play an important role in the city of Tirupati, reflecting its rich heritage and history. Here are some details about the art and culture of Tirupati:

1. Music and Dance – Tirupati has a rich tradition of classical music and dance. The city hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including classical music and dance performances, and other cultural shows.
2. Literature – Tirupati has produced many notable writers and poets who have contributed significantly to Telugu literature. The city has a rich tradition of literature, and many libraries and bookstores can be found throughout the city.
3. Architecture – Tirupati is renowned for its beautiful temples and intricate carvings. The city’s architecture is a blend of various styles, including Dravidian, Vijayanagara, and Chola styles.
4. Festivals – Tirupati is known for its vibrant festivals, which are celebrated throughout the year. The most famous festival in Tirupati is the Brahmotsavam, which is celebrated in the Sri Venkateswara Temple. Other festivals include Ugadi, Diwali, and Dussehra.
5. Handicrafts – Tirupati is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including wood carvings, Kalamkari textiles, and Tanjore paintings. These handicrafts are available in local markets and make great souvenirs for tourists.
6. Cuisine – Tirupati’s cuisine is a blend of various South Indian dishes, with a focus on vegetarian cuisine. The city is famous for its traditional dishes, including Tirupati laddu, sweet pongal, and Venkateswara ruchulu.

Overall, Tirupati’s art and culture reflect the city’s rich history and traditions, making it a unique and fascinating destination for tourists and devotees alike.

Trade And Commerce In Tirupati:

Tirupati has a thriving economy, driven primarily by the city’s trade and commerce. Here are some details about the trade and commerce of Tirupati:

1. Agriculture – Agriculture is the primary source of income for many people in and around Tirupati. The city is known for its cultivation of crops such as sugarcane, paddy, and groundnut.
2. Handicrafts – Tirupati is famous for its traditional handicrafts, which are sold in local markets and contribute significantly to the city’s economy.
3. Textiles – The textile industry is another significant contributor to Tirupati’s economy. The city is home to several textile mills and factories, producing a range of textiles, including cotton, silk, and rayon.
4. Tourism – Millions of devotees flock to Tirupati every year, making it one of the world’s most popular pilgrimage destinations. Tourism contributes significantly to the city’s economy, with a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops catering to the needs of tourists.
5. Education – Tirupati is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the Sri Venkateswara University and the Indian Institute of Technology Tirupati. These institutions contribute significantly to the city’s economy, providing employment opportunities for many people.
6. Retail – Tirupati is a major retail hub, with a range of shops and markets selling everything from traditional handicrafts to modern electronics. The city’s retail sector is a significant contributor to its economy.

Overall, Tirupati’s trade and commerce are diverse and vibrant, reflecting the city’s growing economy and status as a major pilgrimage destination.

Taste And Cuisines Of Tirupati:

Tirupati is famous for its unique cuisine, which is a blend of the traditional Telugu and Tamil styles of cooking. The cuisine of Tirupati is mainly vegetarian and is dominated by the use of rice, lentils, and spices. Here are some of the famous dishes and food items that one must try while visiting Tirupati:

1. Tirupati Laddu: This is a famous sweet dish that is offered as prasadam at the Sri Venkateswara Temple. The laddu is made of gram flour, sugar, ghee, and dry fruits, and has a unique taste and texture.
2. Pongal: It is a traditional South Indian breakfast dish made of rice, lentils, and spices and it is served with chutney, sambar, and ghee.
3. Dosas: Tirupati is famous for its crispy dosas, which are made of rice and lentil batter and are served with sambar and chutney.
4. Pesarattu: It is a healthy breakfast dish made of green gram and is a specialty of Andhra Pradesh and is served with ginger chutney and coconut chutney.
5. Upma: It is a popular breakfast dish made of semolina, vegetables, and spices and it is served with chutney and sambar.
6. Pulihora: It is a tangy rice dish made of tamarind, rice, and spices and it is served with pickle and curd.
7. Curd Rice: It is a simple and refreshing dish made of rice and curd and it is served as a side dish or as a main course.
8. Bobbatlu: It is a sweet dish made of jaggery and wheat flour and it is similar to a pancake and is served with ghee.
9. Vadai: It is a crispy fritter made of lentil batter and spices and it is served with chutney.
10. Appam: It is a sweet pancake made of rice and coconut milk and it is served with coconut chutney.

Tirupati also has many restaurants and eateries that serve a variety of cuisines such as North Indian, Chinese, and Continental. However, while visiting Tirupati, one must try the local delicacies to experience the unique taste and flavor of the city’s cuisine.

10 Hotels To Stay In Tirupati:

1. Marasa Sarovar Premiere: This luxury hotel is located close to the railway station and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, spa, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
2. Fortune Select Grand Ridge: This hotel is known for its spacious rooms and scenic views of the Tirumala Hills. It also features a fitness center, swimming pool, and multiple dining options.
3. Pai Viceroy: This budget-friendly hotel is located in the heart of Tirupati and offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop pool.
4. Ramee Guestline Hotel: Amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness center, and multi-cuisine restaurant are provided at this hotel, which also boasts modern decor. The hotel is conveniently located near the Tirupati airport.
5. Kalyan Residency: This hotel is located near the railway station and is known for its spacious and well-maintained rooms, as well as its vegetarian restaurant.
6. Keys Select Hotel Vihas: This hotel features contemporary rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop swimming pool. It is located close to the Sri Venkateswara Temple.
7. Hotel Bliss: The hotel is conveniently located near the railway station and features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop swimming pool that offers stunning views of the Tirumala Hills.
8. PLR Grand: This hotel is located close to the Sri Venkateswara Temple and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop swimming pool.
9. Best Western Tirupati: This hotel features spacious and modern rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Indian and international cuisine.
10. Hotel Regalia: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, a vegetarian restaurant, and a fitness center. It is located close to the railway station and the Sri Venkateswara Temple.

10 Dine-In Restaurants In Tirupati:

1. Bheema’s – Bheema’s is a popular restaurant in Tirupati that serves authentic Andhra cuisine. The restaurant is known for its biryani and other non-vegetarian dishes.
2. Andhra Spice – Andhra Spice is another popular restaurant that specializes in Andhra cuisine. The restaurant is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, including biryani, curries, and seafood.
3. Blue Fox – Blue Fox is a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The restaurant is known for its vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis.
4. Sweet Magic – Sweet Magic is a bakery and confectionery that serves a variety of cakes, pastries, and snacks. The restaurant is also known for its chaat and other street food.
5. Sindhuri Park – Sindhuri Park is a vegetarian restaurant that serves North Indian and South Indian dishes. The restaurant is known for its thalis and combo meals.
6. Madhura Restaurant – Madhura Restaurant is a vegetarian eatery renowned for its South Indian cuisine. The restaurant’s specialty is its dosas, idlis, and vadas.
7. Swagruha Foods – Swagruha Foods is a vegetarian restaurant that serves authentic Telugu cuisine. The restaurant is known for its thalis, biryani, and curries.
8. Rasoie – Rasoie is a multi-cuisine restaurant that serves Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The restaurant is known for its biryani and other non-vegetarian dishes.
9. Udupi Bhavan – Udupi Bhavan is a well-known vegetarian restaurant in Tirupati that serves both South Indian and North Indian cuisine. The restaurant is especially famous for its thalis, which consist of a variety of dishes served on a banana leaf. They also serve a wide range of dosas, including masala dosa, onion dosa, and paneer dosa, among others. Udupi Bhavan is known for its cleanliness, prompt service, and reasonable prices, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
10. Hotel Bliss – Hotel Bliss is a vegetarian restaurant that serves North Indian and South Indian dishes. The restaurant is known for its thalis and biryani. The restaurant also has a bakery and confectionery that serves cakes, pastries, and snacks.

10 Schools In Tirupati:

1. Sri Venkateswara Higher Secondary School: This reputable school in Tirupati provides education from kindergarten to higher secondary level and is affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and it is renowned for its academic excellence.
2. Sri Padmavathi Higher Secondary School: This is another popular school in Tirupati that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the Andhra Pradesh Board of Secondary Education (APBSE) and is known for its excellent facilities and experienced faculty.
3. St. Ann’s English Medium School: This is an English medium school that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the CBSE board and is known for its holistic approach to education.
4. Kendriya Vidyalaya, Tirupati: This is a Kendriya Vidyalaya school that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the CBSE board and is known for its excellent facilities and experienced faculty.
5. Sri Venkateswara Montessori School: This is a Montessori school in Tirupati that offers classes from kindergarten to primary level. The school is known for its child-centered approach to education and for providing a nurturing environment for young children.
6. Johnson Grammar School: This is an English medium school that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the CBSE board and is known for its excellent facilities and experienced faculty.
7. Bala Vidyalaya High School: This is a high school in Tirupati that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the APBSE board and is known for its academic excellence and extracurricular activities.
8. DAV Public School: This is an English medium school that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the CBSE board and is known for its focus on character development and academic excellence.
9. Little Angels High School: This is a high school in Tirupati that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the APBSE board and is known for its excellent facilities and experienced faculty.
10. Ravindra Bharathi School: This is a school in Tirupati that offers classes from kindergarten to higher secondary level. The school is affiliated with the APBSE board and is known for its academic excellence and extracurricular activities.

10 Colleges In Tirupati:

1. Sri Venkateswara University (SVU) – Established in 1954, SVU is a premier university in Tirupati offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in various disciplines such as Arts, Science, Engineering, Law, Management, and Pharmacy.
2. Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (SPMVV) – Founded in 1983, SPMVV is a women’s university located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in various disciplines such as Arts, Science, Management, and Education.
3. Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeetha (RSVP) – Established in 1961, RSVP is a deemed university located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in various disciplines such as Vedas, Shastras, Sanskrit Literature, Linguistics, and Fine Arts.
4. Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University (SVVU) – Established in 2005, SVVU is a state university located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in various disciplines related to veterinary science and animal husbandry.
5. Sri Venkateswara Institute of Medical Sciences (SVIMS) – Established in 1993, SVIMS is a medical school and hospital located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in various disciplines related to medical science.
6. Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering (SVCE) – Established in 1985, SVCE is an engineering college located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines such as Engineering, Management, and Computer Applications.
7. Sri Venkateswara Degree College (SVDC) – Established in 1979, SVDC is a degree college located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate programs in various disciplines such as Arts, Science, and Commerce.
8. Narayana Engineering College (NEC) – Established in 1998, NEC is an engineering college located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines such as Engineering and Management.
9. Sri Venkateswara College of Pharmacy (SVCP) – Established in 2007, SVCP is a pharmacy college located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines related to pharmacy.
10. Annamacharya Institute of Technology and Sciences (AITS) – Established in 2007, AITS is an engineering college located in Tirupati, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines such as Engineering and Management.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Tirupati is a vibrant city located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Ine of the major attractions of Tirupati is the Sri Venkateswara Temple, which is renowned as one of the most visited pilgrimage sites across the globe. Tirupati has a rich history and culture, and is home to several other temples, natural attractions, and markets that offer a glimpse into the city’s traditions and way of life. The city also has a diverse culinary scene and a range of accommodation options to cater to the needs of visitors. With its blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty, Tirupati is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the essence of India.