If you are planning to visit Tirumala for darshan, this simple guide will help you book your ticket and travel with peace.
A trip to Tirumala Tirupati is a special moment for many Indian devotees. It is more than visiting a temple. It is a heart-filled journey of faith, hope, tradition and a wish to take a break from daily life. Every year, millions of people travel here. Because of the big crowd, knowing the right darshan type, ticket plan, temple timing, place to stay and travel route makes a huge difference. With a little planning, you can avoid worry, long waits and confusion. This guide explains everything you need to know in clear and easy words.
Step 1: Pick the Right Darshan Type
Your Tirupati darshan starts when you choose the best line option for you. Here are the main types:
1. Online Special Entry Darshan (Seeghra Darshan)
You can book this on the TTD website or app.
How to book:
- Tickets open every month at 10 a.m. at TTD official Website
- You can choose the day and time you want
- The ticket price is about ₹300
- On darshan day, reach the Vaikuntam Queue Complex
- Take your ticket copy and a valid ID
Why it is easy:
You get a fixed time, shorter wait and better entry. It is very helpful for families and seniors.
2. Free Darshan (No Ticket Needed Before) / Sarva Darshan
This is a free entry for all devotees.
Know this:
- You don’t book early
- You stand in the common line
- The wait time can be long on busy days
Tip:
Go early morning or late night. Carry water and light snacks.
3. Darshan for Seniors and Differently Abled Devotees
This darshan is for:
- Age 65+
- Persons with disability
How to get tickets:
- Open on 23rd of each month at 3 p.m. on TTD portal
- Carry age or medical ID proof
Best days:
Try to book on weekdays for a calmer experience.
4. Devotees With Infants and Young Children (Below 12 months)
Kids below 12 Months get easier entry with parents.
What helps:
- Add child details if booking Special Darshan
- Go early morning or after late Evening.
- Carry biscuits, umbrella, small fan, extra clothes
Why it works:
You move faster in line, and kids stay relaxed.
5. VIP Darshan With SRIVANI Trust Donation
This is for very quick temple entry.
Important points:
- Needs a donation of about ₹10,000
- Very limited tickets
- The donation does not include the darshan ticket fee
- You can book at some offline or online donation counters with rules
Who is this for?
Devotees with less time or those helping elders.
Step 2: Choose the Best Day and Time For Tirupati Darshan
The day and time you visit can change your experience a lot.
Weekdays are easier than weekends
Best: Monday to Thursday
Quietest: Tuesday and Wednesday
Best hours for darshan:
Very early after temple opens or after 8 p.m. at night To Avoid rush
❗Avoid these if you can:
- Big festival days
- New Year
- Long holidays
- Special pooja seasons (heavy crowd)
Best months for less crowd:
- February to April
- July to September
Book darshan fast when new tickets open, they fill in minutes!
Check Darshan Ticket Release Dates
TTD darshan tickets open every month. They get booked fast. Look for the new release date and time. Try to book for weekday mornings. This helps you avoid big crowds and get easier darshan.
Step 3: Know the Common Costs
Here is a simple list to help you plan:
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Special Fast Darshan | Around ₹300 |
| Free Darshan | ₹0 (Free) |
| SRIVANI Trust Donation | Around ₹10,000 |
| Laddoo Prasadam | TTD rates apply |
| Rooms at Tirumala or Tirupati | Based on room type |
Knowing costs early helps you plan better.
Step 4: Book Your Stay Early
You can stay in:
TTD Rooms
- On hill or in town
- Online quota opens monthly
- Fills very fast
Local Hotels in Tirupati
- More choices
- Good for a calmer stay before climbing the hill
Tip:
Keep your ID and ticket copy ready at check-in.
Step 5: Plan Your Travel
By Road
- Buses from Tirupati to Tirumala
- Taxis also available
By Train
- Reach Tirupati Station
- Take bus or taxi to the hill
By Flight
- Tirupati Airport at Renigunta
- Short ride to Tirumala
Note:
Ghat road rules may change depending on weather and crowd. Check timing before travelling uphill.
Step 6: Carry These Useful Items
Keep these ready for a smooth darshan day:
Your ticket print or download
A valid government ID for adults
Water bottle
Light food like fruits or biscuits
Power bank for phone
Sanitiser, small medicine kit
Simple footwear and soft clothes
A small zip pouch for wallet, phone and coins
Remember: Big bags are not allowed inside.
Final Tip: Keep Your Mind on Prayer, Not Stress
A small amount of planning makes your entire Tirumala visit peaceful, safe and smooth. When your ticket, stay and travel are sorted, you stand in less worry and more devotion.
Book early. Reach on time. Stay calm. Pray freely.
May Lord Balaji bless your trip.