Divya Darshan is a special darshan system organized by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). It is a privilege for pilgrims who choose the traditional and devotional path of walking up the holy hills to reach the temple of Lord Venkateswara.
This system helps manage the large number of pilgrims and rewards the spiritual effort of those who undertake the journey on foot with a more organized and faster darshan experience.
What is Divya Darshan?
Divya Darshan, often called “Footpath Darshan,” is a special category of darshan at the Tirumala temple.
- It is exclusively for devotees who climb the sacred hills to Tirumala on foot, using one of the two traditional walking paths.
- The program was created by the TTD to recognize the devotional commitment and physical effort of these pilgrims.
- Pilgrims who complete the walk receive a time-slotted token that grants them access to a dedicated darshan queue.
- The main benefit is significantly reduced waiting time inside the temple complex compared to the general Sarva Darshan queue.
- On a typical day, the waiting time for Divya Darshan can be around 4 hours, whereas general darshan can sometimes exceed 10-12 hours or more.
- This system ensures an organized and systematic flow for footpath pilgrims upon reaching the hilltop.
- It provides a spiritually meaningful experience by connecting the physical journey with the ultimate darshan.
- The darshan is free of cost, with the “ticket” being the effort of the pilgrimage itself.
- It follows the principle of first-come, first-served at the token counters.
- The darshan is a way to follow ancient tradition, walking the same paths as countless devotees for centuries.
Two Sacred Walking Paths to Tirumala
There are two main footpath routes that pilgrims can take to qualify for Divya Darshan. Each has its own characteristics and level of difficulty.
- Alipiri Footpath: This is the most popular and widely used route by pilgrims.
- It has a total of approximately 3,550 steps.
- The total walking distance is about 9 kilometers.
- It generally takes a pilgrim 3 to 5 hours to complete the climb, depending on fitness and rest stops.
- The path is open for access from early morning (around 4 AM) until 10 PM.
- Facilities like shelters, drinking water, and restrooms are available along this well-maintained route.
- Srivari Mettu Footpath: This is the traditional ancient path to the temple.
How to Get Your Divya Darshan Token
Getting the token is a crucial step, and the process is designed to be fair and organized.
- No Online Booking: Tokens for Divya Darshan cannot be booked online. They are only issued in person at the designated starting points.
- Current Token Counter Location: As of mid-2025, TTD has temporarily shifted all token counters for both routes to the Bhudevi Complex at the Alipiri Bus Station.
- One Location for Both Paths: This means pilgrims choosing either the Alipiri or Srivari Mettu route must first go to the Bhudevi Complex at Alipiri to collect their token.
- First-Come, First-Served Basis: Tokens are issued on this basis until the daily quota is exhausted.
- Arrive Early: It is highly recommended to arrive very early in the morning to secure a token, as there is a limited daily quota.
- Daily Quotas: Approximately 10,000 tokens per day are issued for the Alipiri route, and about 5,000 tokens for the Srivari Mettu route.
- Mandatory ID: You must present your original Aadhaar card (or another valid photo ID) to get a token.
- Biometric Verification: Your token will be linked to you through biometric verification (like fingerprint) at the time of issuance.
- Non-Transferable: The token is strictly personal and cannot be transferred to another person.
- Children’s Entry: Children below 12 years of age do not need a separate token for entry. They can accompany their parents.
Important Rules and the Token Scan
Following the rules is essential to ensure you are allowed to enter the special darshan queue.
- Keep Your Token Safe: You must carry your token with you at all times during the climb and until you finish your darshan.
- Critical Scan Point (Srivari Mettu Route): If you are climbing via the Srivari Mettu path, you must scan your token at the 1,200th step.
- No Scan, No Darshan: The TTD has clearly stated that pilgrims who fail to scan their token at this point will not be allowed into the Divya Darshan queue at the top.
- Token Checks: Your token will be checked at multiple points along the route and before entering the temple queue.
- Reporting at the Top: After your climb, you must report to the designated queue complex (like Vaikuntam-2) at the time specified on your token slip.
- Do Not Lose the Token: You must retain the token even after darshan until you collect the sacred prasadam (laddoo).
- Use Assigned Time Slot: You should enter the queue line within your assigned time slot. You may be allowed in up to an hour early if crowds are low.
- Follow Instructions: Always listen to and follow the instructions given by TTD officials, security, and volunteers (Srivari Sevaks).
- No Shortcuts: The privilege is for those who complete the entire walk. Taking alternative transport invalidates your token.
- Respect the Process: The rules are in place to ensure fairness, safety, and smooth management for the thousands of pilgrims.
Facilities for Footpath Pilgrims
TTD provides several free facilities to support pilgrims undertaking the challenging walk.
- Free Bus Transport: TTD runs free buses from the Tirupati Railway Station and Central Bus Stand to the footpath starting points at Alipiri and Srivari Mettu.
- Luggage Deposit: You can deposit your heavy luggage at luggage deposit centers at the base (Alipiri or Srivari Mettu) and collect it later at counters in Tirumala.
- Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at regular intervals along both footpaths.
- Restroom Facilities: Public restrooms and bathrooms are provided at points along the routes for pilgrims’ convenience.
- Shelters and Rest Areas: There are shelters and shaded areas where pilgrims can rest during their climb.
- 24/7 Security: For safety, security personnel are present and accessible round the clock on the footpaths.
- First Aid: Basic first aid and medical assistance are available if needed.
- Free Meals (Annaprasadam): TTD often arranges for the distribution of free meals (annaprasadam) to pilgrims at designated points.
- Volunteer Support: Srivari Sevak volunteers are often present to guide and assist pilgrims during their journey.
- Information Counters: For any queries or help, pilgrims can approach the information counters at the base and key points.
Who is Divya Darshan For?
Divya Darshan is designed for a specific group of devotees.
- It is for devotees physically capable of undertaking a long walk and climb of several hours.
- It is for those who seek a traditional, spiritual pilgrimage experience by connecting with the ancient practice of walking to the temple.
- It is ideal for pilgrims who wish to avoid the much longer waiting times in the general Sarva Darshan queues, which can last over 10 hours.
- It is suitable for pilgrims who have planned their day to include the time for both the climb and the darshan.
- It is for devotees who have the required original identification document (Aadhaar card).
- It is not recommended for very elderly people, very young children, or those with serious health or mobility issues due to the physically demanding nature of the climb.
- It is for pilgrims who can follow a disciplined process of token collection, scanning, and queue management.
- It is for those who do not mind starting their journey very early in the day to secure a token.
- It is a good option for pilgrims who travel light or are willing to use the luggage deposit service.
- It is for all devotees who feel a calling to offer their journey as a form of devotion to Lord Venkateswara.
Preparing for Your Divya Darshan Journey
Good preparation will make your pilgrimage safer and more comfortable.
- Physical Fitness: Assess your physical fitness honestly. Start with shorter walks in the weeks before your pilgrimage if you are not used to long treks.
- Right Footwear: Wear well-fitted, broken-in, and comfortable sports shoes or trekking sandals. Avoid new shoes that can cause blisters.
- Light Clothing: Dress in light, breathable, and modest clothing suitable for walking and the weather. Carry a light jacket as it can be cooler in the early morning or at the hilltop.
- Travel Light: Carry only a small backpack with absolute essentials: water bottle, snacks, towel, medicine, ID, and phone.
- Stay Hydrated and Energized: Drink water regularly during the climb. Carry light, energy-giving snacks like nuts, fruits, or chocolate.
- Start Early: Plan to reach the token counter at Bhudevi Complex, Alipiri, as early as possible, ideally before sunrise, to get a token.
- Know the Route: Have a basic idea of the route you are taking (Alipiri or Srivari Mettu) and its key points like the 1,200th-step scanner.
- Check Weather: Check the weather forecast for Tirupati/Tirumala. Avoid climbing during heavy rain or extreme heat if possible.
- Carry Essentials: Carry a small first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic, and any personal medication.
- Mental Preparation: Prepare yourself mentally for a journey of devotion and patience. Go with a calm and positive mind.
The Spiritual Significance of the Walk
The footpath journey is much more than just a physical challenge; it is a core part of the spiritual experience.
- It is an act of sacrifice and dedication, offering your physical effort as a form of prayer and devotion.
- Walking the path allows you to follow in the sacred footsteps of millions of devotees who have made this pilgrimage for centuries.
- The climb provides time for mental preparation, reflection, and chanting, making you more receptive for the darshan.
- It helps deepen your personal connection with Lord Venkateswara through the act of striving to reach Him.
- The natural surroundings of the hills are considered conducive to spiritual focus and leaving worldly worries behind.
- Each step can be taken as a form of meditation or with a mantra, turning the entire climb into a continuous prayer.
- The shared experience with fellow pilgrims fosters a sense of spiritual community and equality.
- Overcoming the physical difficulty can be seen as overcoming personal obstacles on the spiritual path.
- It embodies the traditional values of pilgrimage (yatra) where the journey is as important as the destination.
- The final darshan after the long walk often feels more earned, fulfilling, and spiritually rewarding.
Other Darshan Options at Tirumala
It is helpful to know that Divya Darshan is one of several options available to pilgrims.
- Sarva Darshan (Free Darshan): This is the general darshan for all pilgrims. It is free but often involves very long waiting times (from 4 to 20+ hours depending on crowd). Sarva Darshan (SSD) tokens are also available at counters like Bhudevi Complex for a more organized entry.
- Special Entry Darshan (Rs. 300 Darshan): This is a paid, faster darshan option. Pilgrims buy a ticket (around Rs. 300) for access to a queue with a shorter waiting time, typically around 3 hours.
- Sudarshan Token System: This is an online advance booking system for free Sarva Darshan, allowing pilgrims to book a time slot days in advance through the TTD website. Availability is limited.
- Seva Tickets: Various ritual services (sevas), like Archana or Suprabhatam, include darshan. These are paid and must be booked well in advance, often months ahead, through the TTD website.
- Darshan for Special Categories: TTD sometimes has arrangements for senior citizens, differently-abled persons, and infants, which may involve separate queues. It is best to inquire on arrival.
Latest Updates and Final Tips
Pilgrims should always check for the latest information before their journey.
- Check Official Sources: For the most current information on token counter locations, quotas, and timings, always check the official TTD website (www.tirumala.org) or their official news portal.
- Recent Change: Remember that as of the token counter for both walking routes is at Bhudevi Complex, Alipiri. This is a temporary shift until permanent counters are set up.
- Aadhaar is Mandatory: Do not forget to carry your original Aadhaar card. It is mandatory for token issuance.
- Be Patient and Flexible: Crowds can be unpredictable. Be patient, follow instructions, and maintain a peaceful demeanor throughout your pilgrimage.
- Respect the Environment: Help keep the holy paths clean. Use trash bins and respect the natural surroundings.
- Safety First: Walk at your own pace, take breaks when needed, and do not rush or push yourself beyond your limits.
- Post-Darshan: After your darshan, proceed calmly to collect your prasadam (laddoo). You can then use the TTD buses to return to Tirupati.
- Accommodation: If you plan to stay, you can book accommodation online through the TTD website or inquire at the Central Reception Office (CRO) in Tirumala.
- Connect with Devotion: Ultimately, focus on the spiritual purpose of your visit. Let your journey be an offering of devotion.