The Karnataka Pravasi Soudha (KPS) in Tirumala is a facility established by the Government of Karnataka to assist pilgrims traveling to Tirumala from Karnataka. Here are some key details about it:
Purpose: KPS provides accommodation and other amenities for Karnataka residents visiting the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple in Tirumala, which is one of the holiest sites for Hindus worldwide.
Lord Venkateshwara is believed to have taken this form to save humanity during the Kaliyuga.
Facilities: KPS offers rooms at reasonable prices.
Each room can accommodate up to two adults and one child. Devotees must wear traditional attire (male: dhoti, shirt/kurta, pyjama/pants; female: saree/half saree/chudidar with dupatta).
Entry with footwear is not allowed in the queue lines and temple premises.
Booking: Rooms can be booked for a maximum of three days, and no refunds or cancellations are allowed.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, devotees must maintain social distancing, wear masks, and cooperate with thermal screening.
History: KPS has historic relevance, dating back over 700 years. It was initially supported by the Vijayanagara empire and later by the Mysore Wodeyars. After India’s independence, the facilities are owned and managed by the Government of Karnataka
Tell me more about the history of Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple.
Certainly! The Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple, also known as the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, holds a rich historical legacy. Here are some key points:
- Ancient Origins:
- Medieval Period:
- The temple was built by a Tamil king, Thondaman, and underwent periodic reforms by the Cholas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagar dynasties.
- Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Vishnu, is believed to have appeared here to save humanity from the trials of Kali Yuga.
- The temple’s architecture follows the South Indian Tamil style and stands at a height of 853 meters on the Tirumala Hills23.
- Vijayanagara Empire:
- The temple gained much of its current wealth and size during the Vijayanagara Empire.
- In 1517, Emperor Krishnadevaraya donated gold and jewels, gilding the Ananda Nilayam (inner shrine) roofing.
- After the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire, leaders from states like the Kingdom of Mysore continued to support the temple with valuable offerings2.
- Ramanujacharya’s Influence:
- The revered philosopher Ramanujacharya visited Tirupati multiple times.
- He streamlined temple rituals according to the Vaikanasa Agama tradition and introduced the recitation of the Naalayira Divya Prabandham.
- Ramanujacharya also established the Tirupati Jeeyar Mutt to supervise temple rituals, a tradition that continues to this day2.
- Notable Renovations:
- In 1417 CE, Madhavadasa constructed the Tirumamani Mandapam in front of the Bangaru Vakili of the Garbhagriha.
- In 1535 CE, Pedda Tirumalacharya renovated the Temple Tank and the Adivaraha shrine2.
The Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple remains a sacred pilgrimage site, drawing devotees from all over the world.
What are the rituals performed at Tirumala?
Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple in Tirumala hosts a rich tapestry of sacred rituals and pujas, meticulously orchestrated by the revered custodians of the temple, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). Let’s explore some of these rituals:
- Suprabhatam: The day begins with the melodious chanting of “Suprabhatam.” This ritual involves singing hymns and offering prayers to awaken Lord Venkateswara from His divine slumber.
- Abhishekam: During Abhishekam, the deity’s idol is bathed with various sacred substances like milk, ghee, and honey. This purifying bath signifies the cleansing of one’s soul.
- Archana: Devotees perform Archana, offering flowers, fruits, and sacred leaves to the deity while reciting His thousand divine names. It’s an expression of devotion and gratitude.
- Alankaram: The deity is adorned with beautiful silk clothing and precious jewelry, enhancing the divine splendor. Witnessing this captivating transformation fills devotees with awe and reverence.
- Naivedyam: Naivedyam involves offering cooked food to Lord Venkateswara. Devotees believe that the Lord partakes in this offering, sanctifying the food and bestowing blessings upon all.
- Deepa Aradhana: As night falls, the temple comes alive with the Deepa Aradhana ritual. Oil lamps are lit, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and ignorance.
- Sarvadarsanam: The most awaited moment for devotees is when they glimpse Lord Venkateswara during Sarvadarsanam. This divine sight is believed to absolve sins and bring immense spiritual bliss
How can I participate in these rituals as a devotee?
As a devotee, participating in the sacred rituals at the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple is a deeply spiritual experience. Here’s how you can engage:
- Darshan: Visit the temple during the darshan hours. The main darshan timings are Suprabhatam, Thomala Seva, Archana, and Ekantha Seva. Join the queue and patiently await your turn to see the deity.
- Special Sevas:
- Arjitha Sevas: These are paid services that allow you to participate actively. Book in advance for sevas like Thomala, Archana, and Sahasra Deepalankara Seva.
- Kalyanotsavam: Witness the celestial wedding of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Lakshmi during this grand seva.
- Free Services:
- Sarvadarsanam: The general darshan is free. Arrive early to avoid long queues.
- Anna Prasadam: Partake in the free meal (Anna Prasadam) served to devotees.
- Dress Code:
- Wear traditional attire: Men should wear dhoti, shirt/kurta, and pyjama/pants. Women can wear saree, half saree, or chudidar with a dupatta.
- Avoid western outfits and footwear inside the temple premises.
- Devotional Attitude:
- Maintain reverence and silence.
- Offer your prayers sincerely and with devotion.
Remember, participating in these rituals is not just a physical act but a spiritual journey. May your visit be blessed!
How can I plan a visit to the temple?
Certainly! Planning a visit to the Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple (commonly known as Tirumala Balaji Temple) in Tirupati is an enriching experience. Here’s a guide to help you plan your pilgrimage:
- Ideal Duration: Allocate 1-2 days for your visit to explore the temple and its surroundings1.
- Best Time to Visit:
- The months from September to March offer pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for darshan and exploration1.
- Temple Details:
- Location: Tirumala Hills, Andhra Pradesh.
- Deity: Lord Venkateswara (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu).
- Significance: One of the world’s richest and most visited temples.
- Prasad: Don’t miss the famous Tirupati Laddoo (available at the temple).
- Rituals: Witness the grand rituals like Suprabhatam, Abhishekam, and Alankaram1.
- Darshan:
- General darshan is free. Arrive early to avoid long queues.
- Explore special paid darshanas and VIP experiences2.
- Dress Code:
- Wear traditional attire: Men (dhoti, shirt/kurta, pyjama/pants) and Women (saree, half saree, or chudidar with dupatta).
- Footwear is not allowed inside the temple premises.
- Other Temples:
- Visit the Padmavathi Temple (Goddess Padmavati) in Tiruchanoor before Tirumala darshan.
- Explore other temples in Tirupati, such as Sri Kalahasti, Sri Govindarajaswami, and ISKCON1.
- Silathoranam:
Remember, your visit to Tirumala is not just a journey but a spiritual quest. May your pilgrimage be blessed!
Karnataka pravasi soudha room price
Karnataka Pravasi Soudha (KPS) in Tirumala offers accommodation for Karnataka residents visiting the Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple. Here are the details regarding room prices:
- Room Types:
- Non-AC Rooms: ₹1,400 (including GST).
- Non-AC Corner Rooms: ₹1,550.
- Booking Details:
- Children under 12 years old can enter for free.
- Each room accommodates up to two adults and one child.
- Maximum booking of 2 rooms per user.
- Rooms can be booked for a maximum of 3 days.
- No refunds or cancellations allowed.
- Caution deposit (in cash) required at check-in.
Remember to adhere to the dress code (traditional attire) and other guidelines during your visit
Karnataka pravasi soudha room booking
Certainly! If you’re planning to book a room at the Karnataka Pravasi Soudha (KPS) in Tirumala, here’s how you can do it:
- Online Booking:
- Visit the KarnatakaOne website to book rooms online1.
- Provide your name and other necessary details to secure your reservation.
- Online booking allows you to plan your stay well in advance, ensuring a hassle-free pilgrimage.
- Details:
- KPS offers non-AC rooms at reasonable prices.
- Each room can accommodate up to two adults and one child.
- Maximum booking is for 3 days, and no refunds or cancellations are allowed.
- Remember to carry the caution deposit in cash during check-in.
- Follow the dress code: Male (dhoti, shirt/kurta, pyjama/pants) and Female (saree/half saree/chudidar with dupatta).
- Temple Significance:
- The Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple in Tirumala is one of the holiest sites for Hindus worldwide.
- Lord Vishnu took this form to save humanity during the challenges of Kaliyuga.
- Seeking blessings here is believed to bring prosperity and spiritual enlightenment.
- Facility History:
- KPS has historic relevance, dating back over 700 years.
- It was initially supported by the Vijayanagara empire and later by the Mysore Wodeyars.
- After India’s independence, the facilities are owned and managed by the Government of KarnatakA
Karnataka Pravasi Soudha Tirumala online booking
Certainly! To book rooms at Karnataka Pravasi Soudha (KPS) in Tirumala online, follow these steps:
- Visit the KarnatakaOne website.
- Provide your name and other necessary details to secure your reservation.
- Enjoy the convenience of online booking, ensuring a hassle-free pilgrimage.
Karnataka Pravasi Soudha Tirumala contact number
If you need to contact the Karnataka Pravasi Soudha (KPS) in Tirumala, here are the details:
- Address: Karnataka Pravasi Soudha, Ring Road (opposite Tirumala Museum), Tirumala, Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh 517504.
- Phone: +91 94903 38426
- Email: sokpstirumala@gmail.com
Feel free to reach out if you have any further inquiries
Karnataka Pravasi Soudha reviews
The Karnataka Pravasi Soudha (KPS) in Tirumala provides affordable and comfortable accommodation for devotees during their pilgrimage. Here are some details and reviews:
- Room Types and Booking:
- KPS offers non-AC rooms at reasonable prices.
- Each room can accommodate up to two adults and one child.
- Maximum booking is for 3 days, and no refunds or cancellations are allowed.
- A caution deposit must be deposited in cash during check-in.
- No food should be carried inside the room.
- Devotees must wear traditional attire (male: dhoti, shirt/kurta, pyjama/pants; female: saree/half saree/chudidar with dupatta).
- Temple Significance:
- The Sri Venkateshwara Swamy temple in Tirumala is one of the holiest sites for Hindus worldwide.
- Lord Vishnu took this form to save humanity during the challenges of Kaliyuga.
- Visiting the temple and seeking blessings is believed to bring prosperity, good fortune, and spiritual enlightenment.
- Facility History:
- KPS has historic relevance, dating back over 700 years.
- It was initially supported by the Vijayanagara empire and later by the Mysore Wodeyars.
- After India’s independence, the facilities are owned and managed by the Government of Karnataka
