Darshan in Tirupati
Visiting the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala is a dream for many. Tirumala attracts thousands of pilgrims every single day, so it's a good idea to book your darshan slot in advance through the official TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams) website or at designated counters. There are different types of darshan:
Free Darshan (Sarva Darshan) - Open to all, but often involves long queues.
Special Entry Darshan (300 INR) - Faster access, ideal for weekend travellers.
Divya Darshan - For those who walk up the hills through Alipiri or Srivari Mettu paths.
Best Route from Chennai to Tirupati
There are three main ways to get there, each with its own convenience:
By Road - The best route from Chennai to Tirupati is via NH16 and NH716 - around 135 km, taking roughly 3.5 to 4 hours. You can drive, take a taxi, or hop on frequent buses, including overnight options.
By Train - Several trains like the Sapthagiri Express and Chennai-Tirupati Express run daily from Chennai Central.
By Air - Short on time? Direct flights from Chennai to Tirupati (Renigunta Airport) take just 45 minutes.
Where to Stay: Raj Park Hotel - Tirupati
For a peaceful and convenient stay during your Chennai to Tirupati trip,
Raj Park Hotel - Tirupati checks all the boxes. Located close to major temples and landmarks, the hotel makes it easy to catch early morning darshans or explore the city without long commutes. After a day of spiritual visits, unwind in spacious, comfortable rooms equipped with premium amenities. The in-house restaurant ensures you’re well-fed without leaving the property, and their travel assistance for darshan trips adds extra ease, especially helpful for first-time visitors.
Beyond the Main Temple
While the Lord Venkateswara Temple at Tirumala is the main draw, there’s much more to explore on your 2-day trip to Tirupati from Chennai:
Padmavathi Temple in Tiruchanur
Kapila Theertham - a Shiva temple near waterfalls
ISKCON Tirupati - a peaceful place with clean surroundings
Chandragiri Fort - for those who want to mix in a bit of heritage
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park - great if you’re travelling with kids
A Chennai to Tirupati trip is more than a weekend escape - it’s a journey inward. The spiritual energy, combined with the simplicity of the town and the devotion of fellow travellers, makes it a unique experience.
Whether it’s your first time or one of many visits, planning a 2-day trip to Tirupati from Chennai gives you the chance to reset and reconnect. And with the best route from Chennai to Tirupati just a few hours away and a reliable place like Raj Park Hotel - Tirupati to come back to, the whole experience becomes effortless.
So pack your bags, book your darshan slot, and get ready for a spiritual journey that stays with you long after you're back.
