Planning your pilgrimage to Tirumala? How to Get Rooms or Private Rooms in Tirumala, Securing accommodation is a key part of your journey. This simple guide explains the two main ways to get a room: the highly recommended online booking system for a guaranteed stay, and the walk-in process at the Central Reception Office (CRO) for last-minute arrangements. We cover official portals, timings, costs, and pro tips to ensure a smooth and comfortable visit to the sacred hills.
How to Book a Room in Tirumala / Tirupati
The table below summarizes the two main pathways to secure TTD accommodation:
| Feature | Online Advance Booking (Recommended) | Offline / Spot Booking at CRO Office |
|---|---|---|
| Booking Window | Opens 60 days in advance (120 days for Seva-linked bookings). | Same-day only, based on real-time vacancy from check-outs. |
| Portal / Location | Official TTD portal: ttdevasthanams.ap.gov.in | CRO Office, opposite the Tirumala Bus Stand. |
| Key Timings | Portal accessible 24/7. ARP Counter for key collection: 24 hours. | Registration: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (often closes early when list is full). |
| Process | 1. Log in via OTP. 2. Select date & room type. 3. Pay online. 4. Collect key at ARP Counter upon arrival. | 1. Arrive very early (before 7 AM). 2. Register, provide Photo ID & darshan ticket. 3. Facial scan for waitlist. 4. Wait for SMS allocation. |
| Room Types & Cost | Dormitory: ₹100-200 Ordinary Room: ₹500-800 Special/Cottage: ₹1,000-4,000+ | Basic rooms from the available pool, typically for groups. Not allotted to single individuals. |
| Guarantee & Wait Time | Room is guaranteed. Minimal wait at ARP counter for key collection. | No guarantee. Long queues; wait can be 4+ hours after registration. |
Key Takeaways & Pilgrim Tips
- Book Online If Possible: This is the most important advice. Securing a room online 60 days ahead saves you from uncertainty and a potentially long, tiring wait at the CRO after your journey.
- For Offline Booking: Be Prepared to Queue: If you must use the CRO, plan to be at the office by 5:00 AM or earlier. Have your original Photo ID (Aadhaar) and darshan ticket ready. The waitlist often fills by mid-morning.
- Understand the Allotment Rules: Accommodation is generally for groups/families. Single occupancy is typically not allowed for basic CRO-allotted rooms.
- Check Your SMS: If you register offline, you will receive an SMS when a room is allotted. You usually have about 30 minutes to report to the counter and collect your key.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the ARP counter, and is it the same as the CRO?
No, they are separate. The ARP (Advance Reservation Portal) Counter is where you collect keys for pre-booked online rooms. It is open 24 hours and is located near the CRO office. The CRO counter is only for same-day, walk-in registration.
Q2: I have an online booking. Where do I go when I reach Tirumala?
Go directly to the 24-hour ARP Counter (not the CRO queue). Show your booking confirmation and photo ID to collect your room key.
Q3: What if the CRO waiting list is full for the day?
If the CRO stops accepting registrations, your options are to check for last-minute cancellations at the ARP counter (unlikely) or seek accommodation in private lodges outside the TTD complex.
Q4: Is facial scanning mandatory for offline booking?
Yes, based on current procedures, a facial scan is part of the biometric registration process at the CRO to manage the waitlist efficiently.
By planning ahead and choosing the right booking method, you can ensure your stay in Tirumala is comfortable, allowing you to focus on your spiritual journey.
