Before visiting the renowned Tirumala Temple in Andhra Pradesh, many pilgrims and devotees visit other temples in the vicinity to seek blessings and prepare spiritually for their journey to Tirumala. Here are some temples you may consider visiting before heading to Tirumala:
- Sri Padmavathi Temple, Tiruchanur:
- This temple, dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara, is located in Tiruchanur, just a few kilometers from Tirupati. Many pilgrims visit this temple to seek the blessings of Goddess Padmavathi before proceeding to Tirumala.
- Sri Kalyana Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Srinivasa Mangapuram:
- Located near Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and is believed to be the place where Lord Venkateswara stayed before heading to Tirumala to marry Goddess Padmavathi. It’s often visited as part of the pilgrimage.
- Sri Govindarajaswamy Temple, Tirupati:
- This temple is dedicated to Lord Govindaraja, the elder brother of Lord Venkateswara. It’s one of the important temples in Tirupati and is visited by devotees before or after visiting Tirumala.
- Sri Kapileshwara Swamy Temple, Tirupati:
- Located at the foothills of Tirumala, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Kapileshwara. Devotees often visit this temple as part of their pilgrimage to Tirumala.
- Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple, Tirupati:
- This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana. It’s another prominent temple in Tirupati and is often visited by pilgrims.
- Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple, Karvetinagaram:
- Located about 48 kilometers from Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in the form of Venugopala. It’s believed to be a place where Lord Krishna played his flute. Many pilgrims stop here en route to Tirumala.
- Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Appalayagunta:
- Situated about 16 kilometers from Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and is often visited by devotees as part of their pilgrimage.
- Sri Veda Narayanaswami Temple, Nagalapuram:
- Located about 70 kilometers from Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Lord Veda Narayana. It’s known for its tranquil surroundings and is occasionally visited by devotees on their way to Tirumala.
Visiting these temples before Tirumala can enhance the spiritual experience and set a sacred tone for your pilgrimage to the Tirumala Temple, which is one of the most revered and visited temples in India. Be sure to check the temple timings and local customs before your visit.