Walking to Tirumala All About the Sri Alipiri Mettu Route
Introduction
Walking to Tirumala through the Sri Alipiri Mettu footpath is a special journey for many devotees. It is one of the two routes available for pilgrims to reach the sacred Tirumala hills on foot. The path is 12 km long, with a total of 3,550 steps. Although the walk may seem challenging, it is filled with devotion and a deep spiritual experience. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) provides many helpful facilities for pilgrims along this path, making the journey as comfortable and safe as possible.
Balaji Travels offers customized Tirupati tour packages that cater to the needs of pilgrims, making your spiritual journey seamless and stress-free. In this blog, we will look at everything you need to know about walking the Sri Alipiri Mettu route, from the facilities offered to tips for preparing for your walk.
Facilities Provided for Pilgrims on Alipiri Mettu Route
- Free Luggage Service: Pilgrims can deposit their luggage at specific points in Tirupati or at the Alipiri Toll Gate. After reaching Tirumala, they can collect their luggage at the Central Reception Office, all at no cost.
- Drinking Water and Toilets: There are water facilities and toilets along the path, ensuring that pilgrims can stay refreshed throughout their walk.
- Shelters for Resting: Pilgrims will find shelters at different points along the route, allowing them to rest whenever needed.
- Security Patrols: Security teams constantly patrol the route to make sure pilgrims are safe and protected from any harm.
- Medical Help: Medical services are available at all times along the route in case of any emergencies.
- Food and Refreshments: There are canteens along the way that provide food and refreshments to keep pilgrims energized.
- Free Bus Service: For those starting their journey at the Tirupati Railway Station, free buses run every 30 minutes to take them to the starting point at Alipiri.
Balaji Travels offers convenient Tirupati car packages that include transport services for devotees traveling from different cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Kanchipuram. Their Tirupati car packages also allow pilgrims to start their journey at Alipiri Mettu without worrying about logistics.
Sri Alipiri Mettu vs. Srivari Mettu
While Alipiri Mettu is the longer and more popular path, another option available to pilgrims is the Srivari Mettu footpath. Located about 15 km away in the village of Srinivasa Mangapuram, Srivari Mettu is shorter, covering a distance of 2.1 km with 2,388 steps.
- Though it is less strenuous and shorter, Srivari Mettu is open only between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM for safety reasons. Alipiri Mettu, on the other hand, is open 24 hours a day. Many devotees prefer Alipiri because of its length and the deeper spiritual experience it offers. Balaji Travels can help you plan your Tirupati darshan whether you choose the Alipiri or Srivari Mettu route.
Planning Your Walk: Tips and Suggestions
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Make sure you wear loose, comfortable clothing and supportive shoes. The walk is long, so comfort is important.
- Start Early: Try to start your walk early in the morning to avoid the heat. The earlier you begin, the more time you have to complete the journey at your own pace.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the walk, even though there are drinking water facilities along the way.
- Take Breaks: Don’t rush. Use the shelters along the path to rest and regain your energy.
- Travel Light: Use the free luggage service so you don’t have to carry heavy bags with you. This will make your walk much easier.
By booking a package with Balaji Travels, you can also schedule your walk according to your preferred darshan slot and plan the rest of your visit accordingly.
Safety and Timing
- The Alipiri Mettu route is open all day and night, unlike the Srivari Mettu route, which closes at 5:00 PM. However, walking in groups or with a companion is recommended, especially if you are walking at night. TTD has made sure that the path is safe, with security patrols, medical services, and proper lighting in place for all pilgrims.
- For those concerned about safety, especially when walking at night, it’s good to know that the route is constantly monitored to ensure pilgrims can make their journey without fear. Balaji Travels offers transport solutions to ensure you have a safe and timely journey to Tirupati
Conclusion
Walking the Sri Alipiri Mettu footpath to Tirumala is a special and memorable experience. With the support of TTD’s services and the deep spiritual connection that comes with walking this ancient path, pilgrims are sure to feel a sense of accomplishment when they reach the temple. Whether you choose the longer Alipiri route or the shorter Srivari Mettu path, the journey brings you closer to the divine blessings of Lord Venkateswara.
For bookings and inquiries, contact us at:
- Phone: +91-9787747750, +91-9787747751
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- Website: Balaji Travels
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