Tirumala Footpath Darshan Guide 2026: Srivari Mettu vs Alipiri Steps

Footpath Darshan, also called Divya Darshanam, is a special way for pilgrims to see Lord Venkateswara. It is not just a walk; it is a spiritual journey. When you choose to climb the holy hills of Tirumala on foot, you show deep devotion. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) respects this effort.

As a reward for your devotion, they offer a special darshan with a much shorter waiting time. This is the heart of Footpath Darshan. It turns a physical climb into a sacred act. It connects the pain of your body with the peace in your soul. For many, it is the most meaningful way to complete their pilgrimage.

Table of Contents

Why Climb? Spiritual and Practical Benefits

Choosing the footpath has two big kinds of benefits. First, the spiritual benefits. Climbing the hill is an old tradition.
It is a test of your faith and determination. Each step is a prayer. It is believed that the Lord blesses those who make this effort more.
The climb helps you leave your worries behind and focus only on the divine. Second, the practical benefits.
The main benefit is a faster darshan. The general free darshan (Sarva Darshan) can have a waiting time of 12 to 20 hours or even more.
But for those who complete the footpath, the waiting time is usually only 2 to 6 hours. This is a huge difference. It saves you a full day of standing in a crowded queue.

Choosing Your Path: Alipiri vs Srivari Mettu

There are two footpaths to reach Tirumala. You must choose one. They are different in length and difficulty.
The Alipiri footpath is the older and more famous route. It starts at the Alipiri gate at the bottom of the hill. This path is longer.
It has about 3,500 steps and is about 11 kilometers long. The climb usually takes between 4 to 6 hours for an average person.
The path is well-built with shelters, drinking water, and toilets. Many pilgrims find it more scenic.
The Srivari Mettu footpath is the newer and steeper route. It starts near Srinivasa Mangapuram. This path is shorter but tougher.
It has about 2,400 steps and is about 6 kilometers long. Because it is steeper, the climb can take 2.5 to 4 hours.
It is less crowded than Alipiri. Your choice depends on your fitness and how much time you have.

Essential Numerical Data for 2026 Planning

Here are the most important numbers you need to know to plan your footpath journey in 2026.

Aspect	Alipiri Footpath	Srivari Mettu Footpath
Total Steps	Approximately 3,500 steps	Approximately 2,400 steps
Total Distance	About 11 kilometers	About 6 kilometers
Average Climbing Time	4 to 6 hours	2.5 to 4 hours
Gate Opening Time	5:00 AM	6:00 AM
Gate Closing Time	8:00 PM	6:00 PM
Daily Token Quota	Up to 10,000 tokens	Up to 5,000 tokens
Darshan Waiting Time	Approximately 2 to 6 hours after token	Approximately 2 to 6 hours after token
Luggage Counter Fee	Free of cost	Free of cost

Getting Your Free Darshan Token

You must get a token to use the Footpath Darshan queue. This token is free, but it is mandatory. Do not start your climb without it.
For both paths, tokens are now issued at the Bhudevi Complex near the Alipiri Bus Station. Do not go to the old Srivari Mettu counter.
The token system works on “first come, first served” basis until the daily quota is finished. You must carry your original Aadhaar Card.
Your Aadhaar details will be scanned and linked to your token. The token counter opens early, around 5:00 AM.
It is best to arrive by 4:30 AM to be in the front of the line. Tokens often run out by mid-morning. Children below 12 years do not need a token.

What to Carry and What to Wear

Packing correctly makes your climb safe and comfortable. What to carry: A small backpack with a water bottle is most important.
Carry some light dry snacks like nuts or biscuits. A small towel, a cap or hat, and basic medicines are good.
Your Aadhaar Card and some cash are must-carry items. What to wear: Wear the most comfortable sports shoes or walking shoes you have.
Your feet will thank you. Wear light, cotton clothes. Avoid jeans or heavy fabrics. What NOT to carry: Do not carry heavy luggage.
Do not wear slippers or sandals for climbing. The TTD provides a free luggage transfer service. You can deposit your bags at the start of the footpath and collect them in Tirumala.

The Climb: Facilities and Safety Tips

Both paths have good facilities, but you must be prepared. The paths have shelters at regular distances where you can sit and rest.
Drinking water points and toilets are available. Security personnel are present 24 hours a day. For your safety, follow these tips.
Start early. Begin your climb at dawn to avoid the hot sun. Walk at your own pace. Do not try to run or compete with others.
This is a pilgrimage, not a race. Take breaks often. Sit down, drink water, and catch your breath. Listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or have chest pain, stop immediately and ask for help. Use the walking stick if needed.

Reporting for Darshan in Tirumala

Once you reach the top at Tirumala, your journey is not over. You must report for darshan. All Footpath Darshan pilgrims must go to the Vaikuntham Queue Complex No.2
You must report at the time written on your token. Do not be late. You will join a queue system. The waiting time here is usually between 2 to 6 hours. Y
ou will pass through several queue compartments. This waiting time is still much shorter than the general queue. Be patient and follow the instructions of the volunteers.

Free Services for Footpath Pilgrims

TTD provides excellent free services to help you. The most helpful service is the free luggage transfer.
You can leave your bags at the luggage counter at the start of your chosen footpath. You will get a token. After your darshan in Tirumala, you can collect your bags from the luggage counter near the temple. They also run free buses from Tirupati.
You can take a free TTD bus from the Tirupati Railway Station or Bus Station to the starting points of both footpaths. This saves you money on an auto-rickshaw. Drinking water on the path is also free.

Common Questions Answered (FAQs)

Q1: Can I get the token if I start my climb in the afternoon?
You can only get a token if they are still available. The daily quota of tokens is often finished by 10:00 AM or earlier. To be safe, you must start very early in the morning. Afternoon climbs are risky if you want the special darshan.

Q2: I am an NRI. Can I use my passport for the token?
The current rule requires an Aadhaar Card for token issuance. If you are an NRI without Aadhaar, it is best to check the latest rules on the official TTD website before your journey. The rules can change.

Q3: What if I am too tired to climb back down?
You do not have to walk down. After your darshan, you can use the TTD-operated buses to go down from Tirumala to Tirupati. These bus tickets are available for a small fee at the bus station.

Q4: Is there a dress code for the footpath darshan queue?
For the climb, wear comfortable clothes. However, when you enter the temple for darshan, you must follow the temple dress code. Men should be in dhoti or pants with a shirt. Women should be in a saree or salwar kameez. You can carry these clothes in your bag and change before entering the temple queue.