Tirupati

The Holy City

Set amidst the lush green landscapes of Eastern Ghats, Tirupati is the abode of the lord of the seven hills - Lord Venkateshvara. The shrine of “Kaliyuga” deity Lord Venkateswara, widely known as Balaji, is the richest temple in the world. The town is one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers in India, with the temple here said to sideline even Rome, Jerusalem and Mecca in the number of pilgrims visiting it. This divine city is located in Chittoor district on the southeast borders of the state of Andhra Pradesh.

Tirupati has been cherished for centuries as a top pilgrimage spot. Pilgrims of every stature, from the mighty kings to the paupers, have paid their homage to this temple town. History tells that the temple was under the patronage of the Pallavas, Cholas, Pandyas and the Vijayanagar kings in different periods of time. The great emerald gifted by the Maratha general Raghoji Bhonsle still remains in the temple.