Situated in Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati is a popular temple town that is believed to be a celestial home of Lord Vishnu. Being the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus, lakhs of devotees visit Tirupati every year. Ten kilometers North West of Tirupati is Venkateswara Swamy Temple that is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and is also admired by devotees. If you are planning to visit Tirupati, then make sure that you are well acquainted with these five things and book your Bangalore to Tirupati cab in advance.
- Tirumala Brahmotsavam – This is one of the most auspicious and significant festivals celebrated in Tirupati. It is believed that Lord Brahma on the banks of Pushkarini River worshipped Lord Balaji to thank him for protecting mankind. Since, then Brahmotsavam is celebrated every year in Tirumalai during the month of October.
- Where to eat – Being a pilgrimage center, people can get only vegetarian food in Tirupati. Most of the hotels and restaurants serve variety of vegetarian cuisine that includes idli, vada, dosa, upma, pongal and regular meals. While visiting Tirupati, you must try Rayalseema delicacies that include Aalasananda Vadalu, Akukura Pulagura and Ragi Sangati. If you are fond of eating on banana leaf, then Tirupati is the right place to tickle your taste buds and savor the yummy food.
- Where to shop – Famous for handicrafts, you can always shop for woodcarving and Calamari work. If you are an art lover, you can enjoy bargaining for traditional Tanjore style gold leaf paintings, which are done at Madanpalli. Apart from this, whitewood toys, idols and unique handicraft items are also available in Tirupati.
- Where to stay – Tirupati being a popular destination offers plethora of accommodation options ranging from five star hotels to budgeted dormitories. Many people while traveling to Bangalore plan a short trip to Tirupati and book cabs in Bangalore to pay a visit to the deity. If you are also among those, you can easily book a budgeted stay online and save on your booking. However, others preferring a lavish stay can opt for independent bungalows.
- When to visit – Although Tirupati can be visited at anytime of the year, but from September to March is considered to be the best time, as the weather becomes pleasant. If you want to visit the pilgrimage center only, then December is the ideal season, as the temple is little less crowded during this time. Otherwise for sightseeing October to March is preferable.