The Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, nestled in the hills of Tirumala at Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, India, stands as a revered Hindu sanctuary dedicated to Venkateswara, a manifestation of Vishnu. Legend has it that Venkateswara descended to Earth to alleviate the challenges of Kali Yuga, earning the temple the moniker "Kaliyuga Vaikuntha" and its deity the title "Kaliyuga Prathyaksha Daivam." Also known as Tirumala Temple, Tirupati Temple, and Tirupati Balaji Temple, this sacred site is managed by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), under the governance of the Andhra Pradesh Government.
Venkateswara, revered under various names such as Balaji, Govinda, and Srinivasa, holds significant spiritual importance, especially as part of the Pancha Kshethram, where Maha Lakshmi incarnated as Bhargavi, daughter of Maharishi Bhrigu. The temple sits atop the seventh peak of the Seshachalam Hills range, symbolizing the seven heads of Adisesha, overlooking the holy Sri Swami Pushkarini water tank. This picturesque location has earned the temple the epithet "Temple of Seven Hills."
Covering an area of approximately 10.33 square miles, Tirumala town serves as the sacred abode of Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, drawing devotees from far and wide seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
Wednesdays and Fridays are considered the best days to visit Siddhivinayak Temple. These days usually have fewer visitors, allowing for a better darshan of the deity and more time in the sanctum sanctorum.
The Venkateswara Temple, also known as Tirupati Balaji or Shree Venkateshwara Swami temple, is renowned because it's believed to be the dwelling place of Lord Vishnu during the current era, known as Kali Yuga. Situated in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, this temple holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and is considered a pivotal landmark.
The most economical option is to take a train from New Delhi to Secunderabad Junction, then another train to Tirupati, which takes approximately 38 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, the quickest way is to fly from New Delhi to Chennai International Airport, then take a cab to Tirupati, which takes about 7 hours and 12 minutes.