Choosing between NRI Darshan and ₹300 Special Entry Darshan at Tirumala can be confusing for many devotees. Both options offer faster access compared to Free Darshan, but the eligibility, entry process, ticket booking, and required documents are different. This guide will help you understand which darshan option suits you best.
What is NRI Darshan at Tirumala?
NRI Darshan is a priority darshan provided for:
- Non-Resident Indians
- OCI / PIO card holders
- Foreign passport holders
This darshan allows entry through a separate queue and offers faster access compared to normal devotees. This service is helpful for those traveling from the USA, UK, Dubai, Canada, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Germany, France, and other countries with limited time in India.
Eligibility for NRI Darshan
To get NRI Darshan, devotees must have:
- Valid Passport
- Visa / OCI / PIO
- Recent arrival proof (within 30 days)
Key Points
- Entry through Supadham / Supatham Gate
- Children below 12 years free with original passport
- Ticket price approx. ₹300 per person
- Available only for NRIs, not for local residents
What is ₹300 Special Entry Darshan?
The ₹300 Special Entry Darshan (also called Sheegra Darshan) is open to all devotees, including NRIs, Indian citizens, and domestic travelers.
Key Points
- Ticket price: ₹300 per person
- Available for everyone
- Online booking opens every month on the TTD website
- Suitable for families and regular visitors
- Entry via Vaikuntam Queue Complex
NRI Darshan vs 300 Special Entry Darshan – Comparison Table
| Feature | NRI Darshan | ₹300 Special Entry Darshan |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Only NRIs / OCI / PIO / Foreign passport holders | Available for everyone |
| Entry Gate | Supadham Entry | Vaikuntam Queue Complex |
| Booking Method | Offline at Temple / Travel Assistance | Online at TTD website |
| Queue Time | Faster | Depends on crowd |
| Ticket Price | ₹300 | ₹300 |
| Children below 12 | Free | Free |
| ID Required | Passport + Visa / OCI | Aadhar / Passport / ID |
| Time Allowed | Recent arrival within 30 days | No travel restriction |
| Benefit | Quick access for short-time travelers | Affordable faster darshan for all |
Which Darshan Should You Choose?
Choose NRI Darshan if:
✔ You arrived in India recently
✔ You have very limited time
✔ You are visiting from abroad with family
✔ You want the fastest possible queue movement
Choose ₹300 Special Entry Darshan if:
✔ You are an Indian resident
✔ You want a planned online booking slot
✔ You want a low-cost option
FAQs – NRI Darshan vs 300 Rupees Darshan
1. Can NRIs use the ₹300 Special Entry Darshan?
Yes, NRIs can use both options.
2. Can Indian citizens use NRI Darshan?
No, only eligible NRIs and foreign nationals.
3. Is NRI Darshan ticket different from ₹300 ticket?
The price is the same, but entry gate and eligibility differ.
4. Is offline NRI Darshan available?
Yes, through Supatham counter depending on availability.
5. Can NRIs get VIP Break Darshan?
Yes, through Srivani Trust donation or package assistance.
Conclusion
Both NRI Darshan and ₹300 Special Entry Darshan make Tirupati Balaji Darshan easier and faster. The best choice depends on whether you are an NRI or a domestic traveler and how much time you have.