Chennai to Tirupati Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Chennai to Tirupati? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 135km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Chennai to Tirupati
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 3h 30m | ₹1,289 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | 1h 00m | ₹473 - ₹945 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹145 – ₹417 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹192 – ₹1,490 |
How to Travel: Chennai to Tirupati
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Flight
Speed, long distances, business travel
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 135km journey, driving is your best option. The 3h 30m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Chennai
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Idli and Sambar - Soft, steamed rice cakes served with lentil soup and chutney (try at Murugan Idli Shop).
- local_dining Dosa - Crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with potatoes or other fillings (try at Saravana Bhavan).
- local_dining Chettinad Chicken - Spicy chicken curry with a blend of aromatic spices (try at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant).
Saravana Bhavan • Various locations
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Chennai to Tirupati route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Tirumala
Kalahasti
Sriperumbudur
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram, also known as Mamallapuram, is a historic town in Tamil Nadu renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed group of monuments. These monuments, primarily carved from granite, date back to the 7th and 8th centuries during the Pallava dynasty. The town also boasts a beautiful coastline and is a hub for stone carving.
attractions Top Attractions
Shore Temple
The Shore Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest stone temples in South India. It comprises three temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu, built in the 8th century.
Arjuna's Penance
Arjuna's Penance is a massive bas-relief carved onto two huge boulders. It depicts scenes from the Mahabharata and is one of the largest open-air reliefs in the world.
Five Rathas
The Five Rathas are monolithic rock-cut temples, each carved in the shape of a chariot. They are named after the Pandava brothers and Draupadi from the Mahabharata.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Seafood - Freshly caught fish, prawns, and crabs (try at Moonrakers)
Top Attractions in Tirupati: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Tirupati, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Venkateswara Temple
⏱ 4-12 hours • 💰 Free (but special darshan tickets cost ₹300) • 🕐 Varies, typically 02:30-01:30 dailyThe main attraction of Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. It's one of the richest and most visited religious sites in the world.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for shorter queues, but plan for delays
💡 Insider Tip: Book your darshan tickets online in advance to minimize wait times. Consider the Divya Darshan option if you're willing to trek up the hill.
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Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-21:00 dailyDedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara. It is believed that a pilgrimage to Tirupati is complete only after visiting this temple.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for a peaceful visit
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during non-peak hours to avoid crowds. The temple's 'kumkum prasadam' is considered very auspicious.
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Govindaraja Swamy Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 05:00-21:00 dailyOne of the largest temple complexes in Tirupati, dedicated to Lord Govindaraja Swamy, the elder brother of Lord Venkateswara. The temple showcases impressive Dravidian architecture.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day
💡 Insider Tip: Explore the different shrines within the temple complex. The temple's 'chakrapongal' is a popular offering.
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ISKCON Tirupati
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 04:30-13:00, 16:30-20:30 dailyA beautiful ISKCON temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple promotes the teachings of Krishna consciousness.
Best Time to Visit: Attend the morning or evening aarti (prayer ceremony)
💡 Insider Tip: Attend the Sunday feast for a delicious vegetarian meal. The temple offers accommodation for devotees.
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Silathoranam
⏱ 30-60 minutes • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-18:00 dailyA natural rock arch formed over millions of years. It's believed to be related to the Venkateswara Temple.
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for stunning views
💡 Insider Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to other nearby attractions in Tirumala.
-
Talakona Waterfall
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 ₹50 per person • 🕐 08:00-17:00 dailyThe highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh, surrounded by dense forest. It's a popular spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon season (September-December) for the fullest flow
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a local guide for a safer and more informative trekking experience.
Where to Eat in Tirupati: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Tirupati
Don't leave Tirupati without tasting these local specialties:
- Tirupati Laddu - A must-try sweet offering at the Venkateswara Temple.
- Pulihara - Tamarind rice, a popular South Indian dish.
- Vada - Savory fried snack, often served with sambar and chutney.
- Dosa - Thin pancake made from fermented batter, served with various fillings.
Recommended Restaurants in Tirupati
Moksha
South Indian • ₹₹ (₹600-800 for two)
Specialty: South Indian Thali
Popular vegetarian restaurant serving authentic South Indian dishes. Known for its clean atmosphere and good service.
📍 Central Tirupati
Hotel Dwaraka
Indian • ₹₹ (₹500-700 for two)
Specialty: Biryani
Serves a variety of Indian dishes, including biryani and curries. A local favorite for its flavorful food.
📍 Near Railway Station
The Hangout
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Continental
Offers a mix of Continental and Indian dishes. Has a pleasant ambiance and is suitable for families.
📍 TTD Area
Minerva Grand
South Indian, North Indian, Chinese • ₹₹₹ (₹700-1000 for two)
Specialty: Andhra Meals
A well-regarded restaurant known for its diverse menu and delicious Andhra-style meals. The service is efficient and the atmosphere is comfortable.
📍 Near Bus Stand
Where to Stay in Tirupati: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Sindhuri Bhavan
Price: ₹800-1200/night
Location: Near Railway Station
Simple and clean rooms, close to transportation hubs. Good for a short stay.
Hotel Bliss
Price: ₹900-1400/night
Location: Central Tirupati
Decent budget hotel with basic amenities. Offers easy access to local attractions.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Fortune Select Grand Ridge
Price: ₹3000-5000/night
Location: Near Alipiri
Comfortable rooms and good service. Includes a restaurant and other facilities.
Hotel Mayura
Price: ₹2500-4000/night
Location: TTD Area
Well-maintained hotel with modern amenities. Close to the temple and other attractions.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Taj Tirupati
Price: ₹6000+/night
Location: Near Tirupati Airport
Luxurious hotel with excellent service and amenities. Offers a comfortable stay with top-notch facilities.
Marasa Sarovar Premiere
Price: ₹5500+/night
Location: Near Srinivasa Mangapuram
Upscale hotel with spacious rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. Offers great dining options.
Best Time to Travel from Chennai to Tirupati
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Tirupati:
Best Time: September to March
Temperature: 20-30 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities and temple visits. The humidity is lower, making the climate more comfortable.
Why Visit: The weather is perfect for climbing the hills and participating in temple rituals. Major festivals also occur during this time, adding to the spiritual atmosphere. This period avoids the monsoon rains and extreme summer heat.
Important Note: Expect large crowds, especially during festival times. Book accommodation and darshan tickets well in advance.
Shoulder Season: July to August
Temperature: 25-35 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season brings moderate to heavy rainfall. The landscape turns lush green, but humidity is high.
Why Visit: The crowds are relatively smaller compared to peak season. The scenery is beautiful, and accommodation prices may be slightly lower.
Important Note: Be prepared for rain and potential disruptions to travel. Some outdoor activities might be limited.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: Extremely hot and humid weather makes it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Heatwaves are common.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during these months due to the scorching heat, which can make temple visits and trekking very difficult. The high temperatures can also lead to dehydration and heatstroke.
Important Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Air-conditioned accommodation is essential.
Practical Travel Tips for Tirupati
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹6000+
ATMs: ATMs are widely available in Tirupati.
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for small transactions and street food. Cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaws.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Dehydration and heatstroke are common during summer. Carry ORS packets or electrolyte drinks.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. A SIM card costs around ₹200-300 with necessary documents.
WiFi Availability: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and some restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Dress modestly when visiting temples. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing. Traditional Indian attire is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions: Chennai to Tirupati
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