Tirumala

Tirumala, located in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, is famously known for the Venkateswara Temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Vishnu who is believed to have appeared on earth to save humanity from the trials of Kali Yuga.

The temple, situated on the Seshachalam Hills at an altitude of about 853 meters, is a masterpiece of South Indian architecture with intricate carvings and a gold-plated sanctum. Its history dates back over a millennium, with early contributions from the Pallava and Chola dynasties and significant expansions during the Vijayanagara Empire under kings like Krishnadevaraya.

The temple rituals and administration were formalized by the 12th-century saint Ramanujacharya, who established the Tirupati Jeeyar Mutt to oversee temple services. Recognized as one of the richest and most visited religious sites globally, Tirumala draws millions of devotees annually, who partake in prayers, offerings, and the temple’s famous free meal service known as Dhana Annaprasadam.

The temple has survived various historical changes and continues to be a vital spiritual and cultural center.