Two main free darshan systems in Tirupati—Slotted Sarva Darshan (SSD) and Divya Darshan (DD). The processes for these are distinct, so I’ve broken them down clearly.
Here is a summary of the two main free darshan options to help you plan for Tirumala Darshan:
| Feature | Slotted Sarva Darshan (SSD) | Divya Darshan (DD) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | General free darshan for all pilgrims. | Reward for pilgrims who trek the footpaths to Tirumala. |
| How to Obtain | Offline tokens from TTD counters in Tirupati. | Offline tokens at the start points of the footpaths (Alipiri or Srivari Mettu). |
| Key Requirement | Aadhaar card for each adult. No specific travel mode required. | Must trek the corresponding footpath (Alipiri or Srivari Mettu) to validate the token. |
| Typical Timing | Counters open early (5 AM or 9 AM); tokens for same-day or next-day darshan. | Counters open at 4 AM (Alipiri) or 5 AM (Srivari Mettu). Tokens are for same-day use. |
| Best For | Devotees traveling by bus, car, or other transport to Tirumala. | Devotees undertaking the traditional pilgrimage by foot. |
Slotted Sarva Darshan (SSD)
SSD is the standard free darshan system designed to manage crowds with a time slot, significantly reducing wait times.
- Where to Get Tokens: Tokens are issued only offline at specific TTD complexes in Tirupati:
- Srinivasam Complex (opposite the main bus stand)
- Vishnu Nivasam (opposite the railway station)
- Govindaraja Swamy Choultry (behind the railway station)
- Process & Timings: Tokens are issued on a first-come, first-served basis until the daily quota (reportedly 10,000-15,000) is exhausted. Counter timings may start as early as 5:00 AM for same-day darshan or around 9:00 AM for next-day darshan. Always arrive very early.
- What You Need: A physical Aadhaar card is mandatory for each adult. Children under 12 do not need a separate token.
- After Getting the Token: Report to the ATGH Circle in Tirumala at the time printed on your token for darshan.
Divya Darshan (DD) for Footpath Trekkers
Divya Darshan is a free darshan privilege specifically for pilgrims who walk to Tirumala via the sacred footpaths.
- Two Paths, Two Counters: You must collect your token at the starting point of the path you choose to walk:
- Alipiri Mettu Path (3,550 steps, ~9 km): Tokens are issued at the Bhudevi Complex near the Alipiri bus stand. The counter opens around 4:00 AM.
- Srivari Mettu Path (2,550 steps, ~2.1 km): Tokens are issued at the 1240th step on this path. The counter opens around 5:00 AM.
- The Crucial Rule: This is the most important point. The DD token is only valid if you complete the trek on the same path where you collected it. For Alipiri, you must scan your token at the 2083rd step. Taking a bus or another route will invalidate your token.
- What You Need: Any government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar is commonly used) for adults. Children under 12 need ID but do not get a separate token.
| Location | Key Purpose | Best For | Timing / Token Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Srinivasam Complex | TTD Accommodation | Pilgrims arriving by bus | Book in advance via TTD website |
| Vishnu Nivasam | TTD Accommodation | Pilgrims arriving by train | Convenient for railway station access |
| Govindaraja Swamy Choultry | Budget Accommodation | Large groups & budget travelers | Basic facilities, near station |
| Alipiri Path Token Counter | Trekking queue management | Early morning trekkers | Opens ~4:00 AM at Bhudevi Complex |
| Srivari Path Token Counter | Trekking queue management | Shorter, steeper climb | Opens ~5:00 AM at 1240th step |
📋 Your Essential Pilgrim Checklist
To avoid confusion and disappointment, keep these key points in mind:
- Choose Your Path First: Decide if you will travel by vehicle (get SSD) or by foot (get DD). They are completely different systems.
- Carry Original ID: Aadhaar is mandatory for SSD and highly recommended for DD. Carry originals for all adults.
- Arrive Extremely Early: For both SSD and DD tokens, queues form hours before counters open, especially on weekends and holidays. Plan accordingly.
- Verify Official Info: Token systems and timings can change. Always confirm the latest rules by calling the TTD Helpline at 155257 or checking official TTD announcements.
🗺️ How to Plan Your Darshan
Your choice between SSD and DD depends on your pilgrimage plan:
- Option A: I will travel to Tirumala by bus or car.
Go to an SSD counter in Tirupati (Srinivasam/Vishnu Nivasam), get your token with your Aadhaar, then proceed to Tirumala by road and report at your allotted time. - Option B: I will trek the Alipiri footpath.
Go to Bhudevi Complex at Alipiri very early in the morning, get your DD token, and then start your walk, ensuring you scan your token at the 2083rd step. - Option C: I will trek the Srivari Mettu footpath.
Go directly to the Srivari Mettu starting point, collect your DD token at the 1240th step, and then continue your walk to Tirumala.
May your pilgrimage be smooth and filled with divine blessings.
I hope this guide helps clarify the darshan process. If you know which mode of travel you plan to use (vehicle or foot), I can offer more specific tips for that option.
