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Divine
Spots Around Tirumala – Exploring the Sacred Abode of Lord Venkateswara
Introduction
Tirumala,
located in Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most
significant pilgrimage centers in India. Nestled at an altitude of about 2800
feet above sea level, this divine abode of Lord Venkateswara, the
manifestation of Lord Vishnu in Kaliyuga, is surrounded by forests, mysteries,
and sacred landmarks. Beyond the famous Tirumala temple, several holy sites
enrich the spiritual journey of devotees.
Sacred
Places Around Tirumala
1.
Srivari Paadaalu (Sacred Feet) – Narayanagiri
- Believed to
be the footprints of Lord Vishnu when He descended from Vaikuntam.
- Located on Narayanagiri
Hill, the highest point in Tirumala.
- Special
worship is performed on Ashadha Suddha Ekadasi with the Bhuchakra
umbrella.
- Accessible
via bus from Tirumala Bus Stand.
2.
Silathoranam – The Rock Arch
- A rare natural
rock formation spanning 25 feet, symbolizing antiquity of the Seshachalam
Hills.
- Mythologically,
Lord Venkateswara placed His foot here before proceeding to the temple.
- A geological
wonder, believed to have formed when the area was once under the sea.
3.
Chakrateertham
- One of the
108 sacred Teerthas mentioned in the Puranas.
- Located 3 km
northwest of Tirumala temple.
- Legend: Lord
Vishnu killed a demon with His discus to save a Brahmin, and Sudarshana
Chakrathalwar manifested here.
- Annual
procession occurs in Vrushicam month (Scorpio).
4.
Sri Abhaya Anjaneya Swamy Mandiram
- Dedicated to
Lord Hanuman, worshipped as Abhaya Anjaneya.
- Located
northwest of Tirumala temple in serene surroundings.
- Linked to
ancient pilgrim paths used during the Vijayanagara era.
5.
Nagula Bavi (Naga Teertham)
- Features
carvings of snakes on a large boulder and a sacred pond.
- Symbolizes Adisesha,
the serpent form associated with Tirumala.
- Special
worship on Nagula Chaviti.
6.
Nakshatravanam (Forest of Stars)
- A unique
forest where trees representing the 27 astrological stars are
planted.
- Located near Papa
Vinashanam and Paruveta Mandapam.
- A serene spot
blending nature, astrology, and devotion.
7.
Kaltheru – The Rock Chariot
- A stone
chariot built in 1527 A.D. during the Vijayanagara dynasty.
- Originally
located near the temple streets, later shifted during road expansion.
- Symbolizes
devotion and artistry of the Vijayanagara kings.
8.
Kshetra Palaka Gundu (Guardian Boulder)
- Dedicated to
Lord Rudra, guardian of Tirumala.
- Believed to
roll around at night to protect the temple.
- Worshipped
annually on Maha Shivaratri at Gogarbha Teertham.
9.
Hatheeramji Mutt
- Founded by Hathiram
Bavaji, a staunch devotee of Lord Venkateswara.
- Legend says
he played dice with the Lord.
- The mutt
managed Tirumala temple administration until 1933.
- Houses
shrines of Lord Krishna, Vishnu’s incarnations, and Hanuman.
10.
Ananthalvan Poola Thota (Flower Garden)
- Established
by Ananthalvan, a devotee who continued the tradition of offering
flowers to the Lord.
- Associated
with the legend of Ananthalvan injuring the Lord in child form while
digging a lake.
- Annual Bagh
Savari festival is celebrated here after Brahmotsavams.
Other
Worth Visiting Spots
- Shanku
Teertham
- Tarigonda
Vengamamba Brindavanam
- Japali
Teertham
- Akasha Ganga
- Papavinashanam
Teertham
- Rock Garden
near Silathoranam
Tips
for Devotees
- Best Time to
Visit: Early mornings or festival days for
vibrant rituals.
- Dress Code:
Traditional attire is recommended for temple visits.
- Travel
Planning: Allocate at least 2–3 days to
explore Tirumala temple and surrounding sacred sites.
- Accessibility:
Local buses and autos connect most of these places from Tirumala Bus
Stand.
- Spiritual
Circuit: Combine visits to Srivari
Paadaalu, Silathoranam, and Chakrateertham for a complete divine
experience.
Conclusion
Tirumala
is not just the abode of Lord Venkateswara but a treasure trove of sacred
legends, natural wonders, and spiritual landmarks. Each site—from the
footprints of the Lord at Narayanagiri to the pillarless rock arch of
Silathoranam—adds depth to the pilgrim’s journey. Visiting these places with
faith and devotion transforms the pilgrimage into a truly divine experience.