Your Guide to Travelling from Tirupati to Tirumala via the Scenic Tirumala Ghat Roads

1. By Road (Private Car/Taxi/Bus)

The route takes you through the Tirumala Ghat Roads, which serve the uphill and downhill flow of vehicles between Tirupati and Tirumala.

Alipiri Ghat Road: Traditionally used for descent, this older route winds through more than 35 hairpin bends, offering stunning valley views.

New Tirumala Ghat Road: Opened for uphill travel, it’s designed for a smoother, safer drive up to the hill shrine.

The total travel time by road is around 1 hour, depending on traffic. Vehicles undergo checks at the Alipiri checkpoint, and speed limits are strictly enforced to ensure safety. The curves are sharp, so it’s best to hire local, experienced drivers or authorised taxi services who are well-versed with the route.

2. By APSRTC Bus

The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) runs frequent, well-maintained buses from Tirupati to Tirumala. Buses start from major points like the Tirupati Railway Station and the Alipiri Bus Stand.

Travel Time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours

Tickets: Easily available at counters or online

Comfort: Choose from regular and deluxe options

Ideal For: Budget-conscious travellers or those who prefer not to drive on winding roads

The frequency and affordability make APSRTC buses a popular and reliable option, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.

3. By Foot - A Spiritual Trek

For many devotees, walking up the hills is a form of devotion and penance. There are two popular trekking paths:

Alipiri Footpath:This is the longer route, stretching about 9 km with over 3,500 steps. It starts near the Alipiri Toll Gate and is covered with a roof to shield from the sun and rain. The path is well-lit and has resting spots, water points, and even snack stalls.

Srivari Mettu Trail:A shorter, steeper climb of about 2.1 km with 2,400 steps, this is ideal for seasoned walkers. It starts from Srinivasa Mangapuram and is open only from 6 AM to 6 PM.

Both routes offer free token services for darshan, and many pilgrims say the walk deepens the spiritual connection.
 

Plan your timing:Early mornings or late evenings are best for road travel - cooler weather and lighter traffic. Monsoon months (July to September) may bring fog and slippery roads, so be extra cautious.

Use authorised transport:Especially when hiring taxis - stick to trusted operators who know the Tirumala Ghat roads well. They’re better equipped to handle the curves and terrain.

Book early:During festival seasons and weekends, the crowds swell. If you’re taking a bus or staying overnight, pre-book to avoid stress.

Stay hydrated:Whether you’re driving, busing, or walking, carry water and some light snacks, especially on warmer days.
 

If you're arriving in Tirupati and want a comfortable base before heading uphill - or a restful spot to return to afterwards, Raj Park Hotel - Tirupati is a great pick. Conveniently located close to Tirupati Railway Station and major bus terminals, it’s ideal for pilgrims who want peace and comfort without being too far from the action. The rooms are clean, spacious, and suited for families or solo travellers alike.

Being near the base of the Tirumala Ghat roads, it makes your onward journey easy, whether you’re walking, driving, or taking the bus. Explore stay options and amenities on their Home page and see how it fits your travel plans.
 

Travelling from Tirupati to Tirumala is part of a spiritual narrative that has played out over centuries. Whether you choose to drive, take the bus, or trek, each path offers its own version of the journey - some fast, some slow, all unforgettable. As you prepare to make this climb, remember that the route is more than the road, it’s the anticipation, the emotion, the reflection. And at the heart of it all lies Tirumala, waiting quietly in the hills, blessing each pilgrim who finds their way.

So travel safe, stay rested, and begin your divine journey with the right start at Raj Park Hotel - Tirupati.