Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple TTD
Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located in Tiruchanoor, near Tirupati in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Padmavati, the consort of Lord Venkateswara (Balaji) of Tirumala. This temple is managed by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the same organization that oversees the world-famous Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati.
History:
The history of Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple is closely intertwined with the legend of Goddess Padmavati. According to mythology, Goddess Padmavati emerged from a golden lotus in Padmasarovaram, a celestial lake in present-day Tiruchanoor. She is believed to have undergone severe penance to unite with Lord Venkateswara. It is said that Lord Venkateswara, impressed by her devotion, married her, making her the presiding deity of the Tiruchanoor Temple.
Background:
The temple holds immense significance for devotees of Lord Venkateswara as it is believed that visiting Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple completes their pilgrimage to Tirumala. The temple architecture reflects a blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles, showcasing intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various episodes from Hindu mythology.
Hidden Story:
One lesser-known story associated with the temple revolves around Goddess Padmavati’s manifestation. Legend has it that when Lord Venkateswara incarnated as Srinivasa, a prince of the Yadava dynasty, he met and fell in love with Princess Padmavati, the daughter of Akasa Raja. Their divine union is celebrated annually during the Brahmotsavam festival, where the celestial wedding of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavati is reenacted with great fervor and devotion.
Highlights:
The temple is known for its serene ambiance and the sanctity associated with Goddess Padmavati. Some of the key highlights include:
The sanctum sanctorum where the idol of Goddess Padmavati is adorned with exquisite jewelry and garments.
The sacred Padmasarovaram (lotus pond) nearby, where devotees often take a dip before entering the temple premises.
The annual Brahmotsavam festival, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from across the country, featuring vibrant processions, cultural performances, and rituals.
Timings:
The temple is open to devotees from early morning till late evening. The timings may vary slightly during festival days and special occasions. It is advisable to check the official TTD website or local sources for accurate timings before planning a visit.
Entry Ticket:
There is no entry fee to visit Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple. However, devotees have the option to participate in various sevas (rituals) and offerings conducted at the temple, which may involve a nominal fee.
Address:
Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple, Tiruchanoor, Tirupati, Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh, India – 517503.
How to Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Tirupati Airport, approximately 16 km away from Tiruchanoor. It has regular flights connecting major cities in India.
By Train: Tirupati Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Visakhapatnam. From Tirupati, taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws are available to reach Tiruchanoor.
By Road: Tiruchanoor is easily accessible by road from Tirupati. National Highway 71 passes through Tirupati, connecting it to other parts of Andhra Pradesh and neighboring states. Private taxis, buses, and auto-rickshaws ply regularly between Tirupati and Tiruchanoor.
Visiting Sri Padmavati Ammavari Temple is not only a spiritual journey but also an opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor of South India. Devotees flock to this sacred site seeking blessings and divine grace, making it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.