TIRUPATI VACATIONS

Tirupati - A Divine Terminus

One of the most venerated shrines for the Hindus, the beatified city of Tirupati is positioned in the south-eastern part of Andhra Pradesh in south India. The abode of Lord Venkateswara, the Balaji temple is regarded to be one of the oldest testaments of Indian history, being patronised by the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas and Vijaynagara kings. The place also secures advert in the holy Sastras, Puranas and Sthalamahattyas according to which, the Tirumala hills symbolizes the body of the serpent Adisesha, the carrier of the protector God, lord Vishnu. The busiest pilgrimage centre on the globe is also one of the very few temples which allow non Hindus inside the sanctum sanctorum.

Sites to Check Out

Tirupati Tirumala Balaji Temple
The ancient shrine of Lord Venkateswara stands on Venkatachala, the seventh peak of the Tirupati Hills. It is by his presidency over Venkatachala that has earned him the appellation Venkateswara and the Lord of Seven Hills. The temple has achieved an exceptional position in the Indian religious lores being declared by the Hindu epics as the place worthy of bestowing mukti upon a person, just by worshipping here.

Sri Padmavati Samovar Temple
The consort of lord Venkateswara, Sri Padmavati Devi resides at Tiruchanoor, just 5 km from Tirupati. According to popular belief, a pilgrimage to Tirupati is considered fruitful only after a visit to the Padmavatidevi Temple.

Sri Govindrajswami Temple
The temple of Sri Govindrajswami, the elder brother of Lord Balaji is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city housing an imposing Gopuram which can be seen from a great distance, providing an awesome spectacle. The annual Brahmotsava celebrations witness devotees thronging to the place in large numbers.

Hot Getaways

Horsely Hills
The ideal getaway to beat the intense heat of summers, the pleasant hill resort, Horsley Hills is situated just 140 km from Tirupati. The delightful weather and the imposing views with gentle breeze blowing at an altitude of 1265 mts. is sure to grip you into a trance. The 150 year old Eucalyptus tree is a major attraction bearing testimony to the history of the place.

Puttaparthi
The abode of Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Prasanthi Milayam ashram is situated in Puttaparthi, a short distance from Tirupati. A large number of devotees that include followers from western countries throng to the place in large numbers to get a glimpse of the abode of their revered God.