By Santosh Kumar 
If you’re planning a visit to Tirumala this year, you’ll find a blend of ancient devotion and modern convenience that makes the journey smoother than ever. Below we break down the latest updates, practical tips, and insider insights that help you experience the holy hill with confidence and reverence.
- Location – Perched about 860 m above sea level in the Eastern Ghats, Tirumala houses the world‑renowned Venkateswara Temple.
- Footfall – In 2024‑25 the shrine welcomed over 50 million devotees, making it one of the busiest religious sites on the planet.
- Digital Push – The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) now runs a suite of online services—from e‑tokens to live‑streamed rituals—so pilgrims can plan ahead without standing in endless queues.
All of these factors set the stage for the most talked‑about events of the season: the Chief Minister’s visit in December 2025 and the grand Vaikunta Ekadasi celebrations.
On 29 December 2025, Telangana’s Chief Minister Sri Revanth Reddy arrived at the hill for a brief yet symbolic stop. Greeted by TTD Chairman Sri B. R. Naidu with a floral bouquet, the CM’s presence underscored a few key points:
- Political goodwill – State leaders often use pilgrim sites to demonstrate cultural respect, and Reddy’s visit highlighted Telangana’s support for the temple’s charitable activities.
- Focus on common devotees – The CM’s schedule included a quick darshan of Lord Venkateswara the following morning, reinforcing the message that the hill is for everyone, not just for those who can afford premium tickets.
- Future collaborations – Officials hinted at potential joint initiatives between Telangana and TTD, ranging from transportation improvements to pilgrim‑welfare schemes.
For a pilgrim, the visit signals that the temple administration is keen on keeping the hill accessible and well‑maintained, especially during high‑traffic festivals.
Vaikunta Ekadasi falls on the 11th lunar day of the month of Dhanur (December 2025) and is considered the most auspicious day for Vaishnavites. According to tradition, the gate of Vaikunta (the heavenly abode) opens for a brief window, allowing sincere devotees to attain spiritual merit.
TTD has rolled out a 10‑day special darshan window that starts on Ekadasi day. The schedule is designed to spread crowds evenly, offering nearly 20 hours of darshan on the first day alone.
For the first three days, all paid darshan categories are on hold. Only Sarva Darshan (also called Dharma Darshan) tokens—issued for free via the TTD app—are accepted.
- Why the change?
- Equity – It ensures that the most devout, regardless of income, get a chance to see the deity.
- Crowd control – With a clear cap of 1.76 lakh token‑holders for the opening days, TTD can manage foot traffic more efficiently.
After the three‑day free‑token window, Srivani tickets and Special Entry Darshan become available from 2 January onward.
- Download the TTD mobile app (available on Android and iOS).
- Create a profile with your name, phone number, and a valid ID number.
- Select “Sarva Darshan”, choose your preferred date and slot (morning, afternoon, or night), and confirm.
- Receive a QR code that serves as your virtual ticket.
The QR code is scanned at three dedicated entry points, each matched to a specific time slot:
| Time Slot | Entry Route | Typical Waiting Time |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Krishna Teja Guest House (KTGH) | 10–15 min |
| Afternoon | ATGH (A. T. G. H.) area | 15–20 min |
| Night | Silathoranam Circle | 5–10 min |
Ravi, a first‑time pilgrim from Hyderabad, booked a morning Sarva Darshan token for 30 December. He arrived at the KTGH gate at 6:30 am, scanned his QR code, and was ushered into the queue within ten minutes. By 7:45 am he completed his darshan, leaving ample time to explore the temple’s inner precincts.
This streamlined process reduces the traditional hours‑long wait that many travellers dread.
| Tip | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Book your Sarva Darshan token early (as soon as the portal opens) | Guarantees a slot and avoids last‑minute scrambling. |
| Carry a portable charger | The QR code must be scannable; a dead phone means a missed darshan. |
| Dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes | Long walking distances and frequent crowd checks require practical attire. |
| Plan meals around the schedule | TTD runs “Free Meals” (annadanam) at specific times; aligning your darshan slot with these can save money. |
| Use the official TTD live‑stream | If you can’t get a token for a particular day, you can still watch the rituals online. |
TTD isn’t just tweaking ticketing; it’s also investing in green infrastructure. This year the hill saw:
- Solar‑powered lighting at all three entry gates.
- Biodegradable waste bins placed every 200 meters.
- Digital signage that updates crowd density in real time, helping pilgrims choose less‑busy routes.
These measures align with India’s broader push for eco‑friendly tourism and make the pilgrimage experience more pleasant for everyone.
1️⃣ How do I know if my Sarva Darshan token is confirmed?
After you select a slot in the app, you’ll receive an on‑screen confirmation and an email with the QR code. The app also sends a push notification 24 hours before your darshan window.
2️⃣ What happens if I miss my allotted time slot?
Tokens are time‑bound. If you arrive after the designated window, you’ll be redirected to the next available slot (subject to availability) or asked to re‑book for a later day.
3️⃣ Are there any COVID‑19 safety measures still in place?
As of 2025, TTD follows standard hygiene guidelines: hand‑sanitizer stations at each entry point, mandatory mask‑wearing for anyone showing symptoms, and regular surface cleaning in high‑traffic areas.
4️⃣ Can I combine my Sarva Darshan token with a donation?
Yes! The app offers an optional “Seva Contribution” where you can add any amount to support the temple’s charitable projects (e.g., free meals, educational scholarships).
Below are the most useful online resources for planning your Tirupati pilgrimage. Click the action buttons to jump straight to the relevant pages.
| Resource | Description | Action |
|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp Channel | Join our official updates channel | Join Now |
| Official TTD Portal | Main hub for token booking, festival schedules, and live streams | Visit Site |
| Telangana Tourism | Information on transport options from Telangana to Tirupati | Explore |
| Sustainable Pilgrimage Guide | PDF guide on eco‑friendly practices during your visit | Download |
The combination of political attention, innovative darshan policies, and green initiatives makes 2025 a landmark year for the Tirumala temple. Whether you’re a devotee seeking spiritual solace, a cultural enthusiast curious about one of India’s most vibrant festivals, or a traveler looking for a well‑organized pilgrimage, the hill now offers tools and infrastructure that respect both tradition and modern convenience.
By securing a Sarva Darshan token, arriving early, and using the official channels listed above, you can enjoy a stress‑free experience while honoring the sacred legacy of Lord Venkateswara.
May your journey be blessed, your steps steady, and your heart full of devotion.
Keywords: Tirupati, Tirumala darshan, Vaikunta Ekadasi 2025, Sarva Darshan token, TTD ticket policy, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy visit, sustainable pilgrimage, pilgrim tips, Indian temple crowd management.
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