I have been to one of the most ancient and spectacular place of pilgrimage in India , The Tirupathi Temple, last week. It really was a wonderful experience . Lord Venkiteswara is supposed to be the richest God in the world !
Approximately 50 – 75 thousand pilgrims are visiting Sri Venketeswara Temple every day. The Thirumala Thirupathi Devasthanams (TTD) maintains the place very well. Security measures are tight and good . The surroundings in and around the temple are unbelievably clean. TTD has organized efficient systems to ensure the , transportation, stay , food and smooth movement of the pilgrims. TTD generate the electricity required to run the township using wind mills and solar system. They do have 2 dams, Papavinasam and Kalyani , for meeting the water requirements. I also understand the flowers required for the Pooja is cultivated there itself.
The enchanting hills , the thick / dense forest and the cool air sooths your body and mind .The Tirumala Hill is 3200 ft above sea level, and is about 10.33 sq miles in area. It comprises seven peaks, Seshadri, Neeladri, Garudadri, Anjanadri, Vrishabhadri, Narayanadri and Venkatadri. The temple is located on the seventh peak, Venkatadri (Venkata Hill). TTD is protecting the forest very well. In addition to the main temple ,there are many other small temples located inside the forest on top of the hill. Taxi services, jeep/cars , are available at a moderate cost to visit these temples.
TTD has a beautifuly maintained Museum which is worth watching. There are art forms, photos, musical instruments, curios , weapons ,ornaments and many more to watch. I have seen a beautiful art piece, a picture of Lord Venkateswara made of ancient coins, donated by the cine actor Sri Mohanlal.
In short , the visit to Thirupathi was a refreshing experience. The fresh green forest, pollution free cool refreshing air , clean surroundings and the small water falls…the hill station is truly a nice place to visit.
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