In a move aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience for elderly devotees, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is providing special arrangements for senior citizens visiting the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala. Senior citizens aged 65 years and above can now avail themselves of a dedicated, more comfortable darshan experience.
This initiative acknowledges the challenges that older pilgrims might face in the regular queues and aims to provide them with a smoother, more fulfilling spiritual journey.
Key Features of the Senior Citizen Darshan:
- Designated Time Slots: To manage the flow and ensure a peaceful experience, darshan for senior citizens is arranged during specific time slots:
- 10:00 AM (morning)
- 3:00 PM (afternoon)
- Eligibility and Documentation:
- Senior citizens must be 65 years or older.
- Devotees are required to present a valid photo ID with proof of age. Accepted documents typically include Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, or passports.
- Pilgrims should report at the designated S1 counter.
- Easy Access and Comfortable Facilities:
- The entry point for senior citizens is designed for easy accessibility. Devotees can access the designated area from the gallery under the bridge, crossing the road near the temple’s right wall.
- Importantly, the route is designed to be stair-free, minimizing any physical strain on elderly pilgrims.
- The temple administration provides excellent seating arrangements, allowing senior citizens to wait comfortably before their darshan.
- Complimentary Refreshments: As a gesture of care and hospitality, the TTD offers free refreshments to senior citizens while they wait. Devotees are served hot Sambar Rice, Curd Rice, and hot milk.
- Convenient Exit: After the darshan, TTD facilitates a smooth exit for senior citizens. A battery-operated car service is available at the temple exit gate to transport devotees to the car parking area near the counter. This service helps to reduce walking distance and any inconvenience.
- Exclusive Darshan Experience: During the designated time slots for senior citizens, regular queues are generally suspended. This ensures that only senior citizens are present for the darshan, creating a more serene and less crowded atmosphere. This thoughtful arrangement allows for a more relaxed and focused spiritual experience, free from the usual rush and pushing.
- Efficient Process: The entire process, from entering the queue to exiting the temple after darshan, is designed to be completed within approximately 30 minutes, minimizing the time senior citizens need to spend at the temple.
Important Contact Information:
- TTD Helpline Tirumala: 0877-2277777
This initiative by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams is a welcome step towards making the sacred pilgrimage more accessible and comfortable for senior citizens. By providing dedicated time slots, easy access, and comfortable facilities, the temple authorities are demonstrating their commitment to the well-being of all devotees, especially the elderly.
