Spiritual Purification
Hair offering symbolizes pilgrimage and spiritual purification, as emphasized in Hindu scriptures like the Padma Purana.
It's quite common for pilgrims to prioritize securing accommodation upon reaching Tirumala. Accommodation options vary, including free lodging, rented rooms, or staying at Matas (religious shelters). Once accommodation is arranged, pilgrims typically proceed to the 'Kalyanakatta' for head tonsuring or fulfilling their vow offerings, such as giving three scissors of hair or three fists of hair.Tonsuring at Tirumala is free of cost, and the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) provides sterilized blades at no charge. Pilgrims can take a bath after tonsuring in the common washrooms available at each location. There is no online booking for the Kalyanakatta. Pilgrims can visit any of the below-mentioned locations and get their heads tonsured within 10 to 15 minutes.
| S.No | Location in Tirumala | Hair offering Timings |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kalyanakatta | 2 AM – 12 AM |
| 2 | Kalyanakatta 2 | 2 AM – 12 AM |
| 3 | Rambageecha Guest House | 6 AM – 6 AM |
| 4 | Sri Venkateswara Guest House | 6 AM – 6 AM |
| 5 | Padmavathi Guest House | 6 AM – 6 AM |
| 6 | Pilgrim Amenities Complex (Opp. To Tirumala Bus Stand) | 6 AM – 9 AM |
| Additionally, TTD now employs lady barbers for the convenience of female pilgrims visiting Tirumala who wish to have their heads tonsured by women. | ||
Tirumala, as a sacred site, acknowledges no restrictions regarding auspicious timings or astrological considerations for hair submission, emphasizing its inclusive nature. This openness extends to devotees who, in reverence to tradition, offer their children's hair before their first birthday, ensuring the continuity of this sacred ritual across generations. Such practices not only foster a deep connection to spirituality but also strengthen familial bonds within the community.
The term 'Kalyanakatta' is unique and stems from Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu words referring to hair offering. It's associated with the submission of hair at barber platforms near the 'Kalyani' river by Srinivasa Mangapuram.
This practice predates a thousand years when the route to Tirumala, known as "Sri Pati Mettu," was established during the construction of Chandragiri Fort. Today, devotees continue to use this ancient route, preserving its historical significance as they journey to Tirumala for pilgrimage.
In recent years, Kalyanakatta has introduced specialized services catering to female pilgrims. This initiative aims to enhance the comfort and convenience of women visiting Tirumala for hair tonsuring.
With the introduction of female barbers, women can now undergo the traditional ritual of head tonsuring with added ease and privacy.
Additionally, these services reflect a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that all devotees can participate in sacred rituals regardless of gender.
Since 1992, Venkateshwara Travels has been a trusted provider of Chennai to Tirupati tour packages by car, renowned for our commitment to excellence. Our experienced and skilled drivers ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, while our customizable darshan packages cater to the specific preferences of each customer.
At Venkateshwara Travels, we prioritize customer satisfaction and are dedicated to providing round-the-clock assistance to pilgrims, making their pilgrimage experience truly memorable and hassle-free.
No, entry to the temple is free for all visitors.
Temple is open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.
Yes, various rituals like Thomala Seva, Sahasranamarchana, and Abhishekam are conducted.
Yes, you can perform Nithyarchana or Sasvatha Nithyarchana for one or a lifetime.
Yes, the temple offers prasadam like Chakkara Pongali, Pulihora, and Pongal.
Photography might be restricted in certain areas of the temple premises.
Yes, there are lodging facilities available nearby for devotees.
The temple is located 12 km west of Tirupathi.
Yes, special pujas can be arranged for families upon prior request.
Yes, the temple premises are accessible, and assistance is available for those in need.
