Paths to the Seven Hills – Tirumala Access Explained

 

Tirumala, the abode of Lord Venkateswara, is revered as the Vaikuntha of Kali Yuga. Every year, during the grand Salakatla Brahmotsavam, the hills overflow with devotees. Whether by foot or vehicle, all roads lead to Tirumala — and every chant echoes the divine name of Srinivasa.

While most pilgrims are familiar with the Alipiri footpath, Srivari Mettu, and Ghat roads, there are actually eight distinct routes to reach the Seven Hills. Let’s explore each one in detail.

1. Alipiri Footpath (Adipadi)

• Historical name: Adipadi (built in 1387 CE)
• Current route: Alipiri to Tirumala — 12 km walk
• Steps: 3,550
• Time: 3–4 hours
• Popularity: Most widely used route today

2. Srivari Mettu

• Starting point: Srinivasa Mangapuram
• Distance: 3 km walk
• Time: Around 1 hour
• Note: Short but steep and physically demanding

3. Mamandur Forest Trail

• Used by: Pilgrims from Kadapa, Rajampet
• Route: Mamandur → Karivepaku Kona → Gogarbham Dam → Tirumala
• Status: Ancient forest path, rarely used today

4. Kukkala Doddi – Thumburu Theertham Route

• Starting point: Kukkala Doddi (Chittoor district)
• Route: Thumburu Theertham → Papavinasanam → Tirumala
• Distance: 12 km
• Usage: Limited, scenic and spiritual

5. Kalyani Dam – Syamala Kona Route

• Distance: 15–28 km
• Destination: Narayanagiri, Tirumala
• Travel time: Around 1 hour
• Note: Connects through serene forest terrain

6. Renigunta – Avvachari Kona Route

• Starting point: Anjaneyapuram near Renigunta
• Route: Mokalla Parvatham → Ramanujacharya Temple → Lakshmi Narasimha Temple → Tirumala
• Note: Rich in spiritual landmarks

7. Enugula Daari (Elephant Path)

• Historical use: Transporting stone pillars via elephants during Sri Krishnadevaraya’s era
• Route: Srivari Mettu → Avvachari Kona
• Status: Unsafe and rarely used today

8. Talakona – Jandapet Route

• Starting point: Talakona Waterfalls
• Distance: ~20 km
• Route: Through Jandapet forest trail to Tirumala
• Note: Ideal for nature lovers and trekkers

One Destination, Many Paths

Whether you choose the well-trodden Alipiri steps or the serene Talakona trail, the goal remains the same — divine darshan of Lord Srinivasa. Each route carries its own history, devotion, and spiritual experience. This Brahmotsavam, choose your path and embrace the journey to the Seven Hills.