Tirupati, Sacred pilgrimage center in Chittoor district, India
Tirupati is a city at the base of the Seshachalam Hills in southeastern Andhra Pradesh, known for its large temple on the nearby Tirumala hilltop. The settlement spreads across a wide area with residential neighborhoods, market streets, and open spaces leading up to the forested slopes where the main temple stands 850 meters above sea level.
The development as a religious center began in the 16th century when Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire funded major temple constructions. Later dynasties added more structures and expanded the infrastructure to handle the growing number of pilgrims arriving from across India.
Pilgrims visit the city year-round and bring hair offerings as a sign of devotion, which has created a local tradition noticed worldwide. The streets are lined with shops selling religious items, and families often spend several days performing spiritual rituals and praying together.
Temperatures range from about 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) in winter to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) in summer, with September to December offering milder weather. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the area involves uphill walks and long distances, and bring enough water especially during hotter months.
The Tirumala Hills contain red sanders trees and rare bird species and are considered the second oldest rock formation on Earth. The area is biologically protected and offers rare plants and animals that visitors rarely find at other religious centers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
