AP Government Announces Special Darshan Slots for Senior Citizens at Tirumala

There is no need to elaborate on the crowd situation at the sacred Tirumala temple. Sometimes, it can take over 30 hours to have a darshan (sighting) of the deity. Standing in queues for such long hours is challenging for anyone, especially senior citizens. Despite the existence of a special darshan facility for the elderly, many seniors face difficulties due to a lack of awareness about the online system.

The government has now changed. The Chandrababu Naidu administration has taken steps to revamp the TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams). In this process, good news has emerged for senior citizens from the TTD. Two time slots have been arranged for free darshan of Lord Venkateswara specifically for senior citizens: one at 10 AM and another at 3 PM.

To avail of this, seniors must present proof of age along with their photo identity (Aadhaar or other documents). These documents need to be submitted at the S-1 counter. To ease the process, seniors will not have to travel long distances in queues. They can enter through the gallery under the bridge without having to climb any steps.

Additionally, comfortable seating will be made available for seniors. In the queues, seniors will be provided with hot sambar rice, curd rice, and hot milk. The TTD has clarified that all these services will be free for the elderly.

Moreover, two laddus will be given to seniors at a nominal price. They can obtain two laddus for Rs. 20. If additional laddus are needed, each will cost Rs. 25. A battery car service will be available from the car parking area near the exit gate to drop seniors at the counter.

During these special darshan slots, all other queues will be halted, allowing only senior citizens to have darshan without any pressure. After having darshan, seniors can exit the temple within 30 minutes.

For further details, TTD has made a special helpline number 08772277777 available.