Dwaraka Tirumala, also known as Chinna Tirupati, is a famous temple town located in West Godavari District of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is famous for its temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, which is considered to be an important religious destination for Vaishnavites.
Dwaraka Tirumala can be reached by bus or private vehicle from Eluru, which is around 42 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is situated in Eluru and the nearest airport is Gannavaram Airport in Vijayawada, which is approximately 91 kilometers away. From these points, visitors can hire taxis or take buses to Dwaraka Tirumala.
The main deity worshipped in Dwaraka Tirumala is Lord Venkateswara, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who is also worshipped at the more renowned Tirumala Venkateswara Temple near Tirupati.
Dwaraka Tirumala can be visited throughout the year. However, the festive seasons, mainly during 'Brahmotsavams' and auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, like 'Vaikuntha Ekadasi', are particularly popular times for pilgrimage, as the temple hosts special events and rituals.
Visitors to Dwaraka Tirumala can find accommodation in various guesthouses and lodges run by the temple administration and private entities. There are options to suit different budgets, but it's recommended to book in advance, especially during festival times.
The surroundings of Dwaraka Tirumala offer scenic beauty and a peaceful environment. The Kolleru Lake, which is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India, is located nearby and is a popular spot for bird-watching, especially during the winter migration season. The Eluru town itself has historical significance with several ancient temples and monuments.
The temple typically opens around 4:00 AM with Suprabhata Seva and closes around 9:00 PM after the Ekantha Seva. However, these timings may vary during festivals and special events. It is advisable to check with the temple administration for the latest timings during your visit.
Photography is generally not permitted inside the main temple complex, especially in the sanctum sanctorum where the deity is housed. This is to maintain the sanctity of the temple and avoid disturbances during worship.
Facilities for pilgrims in Dwaraka Tirumala include free meal services (prasadam), drinking water, shoe stands, queue complexes for darshan, restrooms, and locker rooms. Additionally, the temple administration provides assistance for special rituals and offerings.
Yes, the temple administration advises visitors to dress modestly and traditionally while visiting the temple. For men, traditional attire like dhoti and shirt is recommended, and for women, sarees, salwar kameez, or traditional dresses are suggested. Western casuals like shorts, miniskirts, and sleeveless tops are usually discouraged.
