Your pilgrimage to Tirumala traditionally begins at the Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple. As the sacred guardian of the hills, a visit here is considered essential before the darshan of Lord Venkateswara. Here’s a simple guide to its timings, location, and profound significance.
📍 Temple Location
The temple is situated north of the main Venkateswara Temple, directly beside the holy Swami Pushkarini tank. It is easily accessible on foot within the Tirumala temple complex.
🕒 Simple Daily Timings
Please note: Timings can vary. Always check the official TTD website for live updates.
- Morning Opening: 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM
- Evening Closing: Around 9:00 PM
- Note: There may be a short afternoon break. For specific darshan slot details, refer to the official TTD daily schedule.
Before seeking the darshan of Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala, devotees first offer prayers at the Sri Varaha Swamy Temple. Located near the holy Pushkarini tank, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Varaha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that worshipping here ensures a complete and fruitful pilgrimage to Tirumala.
The Legend: Why This Temple Comes First
According to temple lore, when Lord Venkateswara decided to reside on the Tirumala hills, he asked Sri Varaha Swamy (who was already present there) for permission. In return, Varaha Swamy requested a promise:
“All devotees must visit me first before coming to you.”
Lord Venkateswara agreed. Hence, the tradition continues. Visiting Sri Varaha Swamy is seen as seeking permission and blessings for a successful darshan of Lord Balaji.
Who is Lord Varaha?
- Incarnation: Lord Vishnu took the form of a divine boar (Varaha) to rescue Goddess Earth (Bhudevi) from the demon Hiranyaksha.
- Significance: He represents protection and the triumph of good over evil. Here in Tirumala, he is revered as the Kshetra Palaka (Guardian of the Sacred Land).
What to See at the Temple (Temple at tirumala)
- The Main Deity: The idol of Sri Varaha Swamy is a majestic, black stone statue depicted with Goddess Bhudevi on his left lap.
- Sacred Tank: The temple is situated beside the Swami Pushkarini, a holy tank where many devotees take a dip before worship.
- Architecture: A classic example of ancient South Indian temple architecture, offering a serene and powerful atmosphere.
Think of Sri Varaha Swamy as the divine gatekeeper. Offering your prayers here first is not just a ritual; it’s a gesture of respect and gratitude, setting a peaceful and blessed tone for your entire Tirumala journey.
Tips
- Visit Early: Go right after your bath in the Pushkarini tank to avoid longer queues later in the day.
- Check Officially: For the most accurate daily schedule, especially during festivals, always confirm timings on the official Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) website.
- Complete the Pilgrimage: This darshan is a vital first step, blessing and completing your journey to Tirumala.
A visit to the ancient Sri Bhu Varaha Swamy Temple is a beautiful and auspicious start to your Tirumala pilgrimage. By honoring this timeless tradition, devotees seek the guardian’s blessings for a fulfilling spiritual experience.
