🙏 Types of Darshan at Tirumala
Sarva Darshan (Free Darshan)
✅ Cost: Free
🕒 Timing: 24/7 in shifts, but with high waiting time
📍 Location: Vaikuntham Queue Complex (VQC 2)
📷 ID Proof: Aadhaar or any Govt. ID required
Who it’s for: All pilgrims. Best for those who don’t mind long queues. Waiting time can go from 4 to 18 hours during peak season.
Facilities Available:
- Free laddus (1 per person)
- Annaprasadam, water, toilets, medical aid
- LED screens showing devotional videos inside waiting halls
Special Entry Darshan (₹300 Ticket)
✅ Cost: ₹300 per person
🕒 Slots: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM in 1-hour intervals
🌐 Booking: tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in (high demand – book in advance!)
🎁 Includes: 2 Free Laddu Prasadams
Benefits:
- Faster entry (2–3 hour queue max)
- Designated entry points
- Ideal for working professionals, senior citizens, and families
Pro Tip: Tickets are released monthly, usually on the 1st or last Friday of each month — book as early as possible!
Divya Darshan (Footpath Darshan)
🚶♂️ For those walking via Alipiri or Srivari Mettu paths
🧑🤝🧑 Only valid if you walk the entire way (no skipping allowed)
📷 Bio-metric token is issued en route
✅ Free of cost with faster queue than Sarva Darshan
Recommended for: Devotees performing padayatra (pilgrimage by foot) for vows or spiritual merit
Timings for Entry Tokens:
- Alipiri: Open 24/7
- Srivari Mettu: Open 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
VIP Break Darshan
💰 Cost: Varies based on eligibility (₹500–₹10,000+)
🔐 Reserved for:
- High-level donors (₹10,000+)
- Protocol VIPs (Ministers, Judges, etc.)
- TTD employees and their referrals
- Recommendations from MLAs/MPs with formal letter
🕒 Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM (Break Darshan slot)
Fastest darshan option, typically 30–45 minutes. Entry is through Mahadwaram (East Gate).
Senior Citizen & Physically Disabled Darshan
✅ Free Darshan with priority queue
👵 Eligibility:
- Age 65+
- Medical certificate for disability
📍 Entry Point: Supatham Gate (near Vaikuntham 2)
🕒 Timings: 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM daily (report at least 1 hour early)
Wheelchairs, volunteers, and shaded seating provided.
🧾 How to Book Darshan Online
- Visit: https://tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in
- Register with Aadhaar or mobile OTP
- Choose “Special Entry Darshan” or “Accommodation”
- Select date, slot, and pay online
- Download your QR code darshan ticket
Note: Carry original Aadhaar and ticket printout or softcopy with ID when visiting.
📅 Best Time to Visit for Shorter Queues
- Off-season months: January, February, June, and August
- Weekdays: Tuesday to Thursday (avoid weekends & holidays)
- Darshan during early morning or late night has fewer crowds
- Avoid major festivals like Brahmotsavam, Vaikuntha Ekadashi, and New Year
🪔 Additional Tips for Devotees
- Arrive 2–3 hours early even for ₹300 darshan
- Dress modestly and traditionally (saree, dhoti, kurta-pajama)
- No electronic gadgets allowed inside temple
- Tonsuring is optional, not compulsory
- Use TTD free buses within Tirumala area
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get ₹300 darshan tickets?
Online only via tirupatibalaji.ap.gov.in. Book early!
Which darshan is fastest?
VIP Break Darshan, followed by ₹300 Special Entry Darshan.
Can I get darshan without booking?
Yes, but you’ll need to stand in the Sarva Darshan (Free) queue.
Are kids allowed for darshan?
Yes. Children below 12 years don’t require tickets but need age proof.
Can I get extra laddus?
Yes, you can buy additional laddus at TTD counters near Laddu Complex.
