Srivari Mettu is one of the two walking routes to Tirumala, offering a shorter alternative to the Alipiri Padala Mandapam trail. The path starts near Chandragiri Road in Tirupati and is popular with pilgrims who want a quicker ascent on foot. TTD manages the route with a daily token system to keep the trek comfortable and safe.
Srivari Mettu Timings
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Opening time | 6:00 AM |
| Closing time | 6:00 PM |
| Days open | All days (subject to special event cancellations) |
| Daily token quota | 6,000 tokens per day |
| Night trekking | Not permitted |
During major festivals like Garuda Seva and Vaikunta Ekadashi, the Srivari Mettu token quota may be suspended without prior notice. Always call TTD on 0877-2233333 before planning your walk on festival days.
How the Darshan Token Works
Srivari Mettu grants free darshan (Sarva Darshan) — no online booking is required. The token system works like this:
Looking for a room in Tirupati?
- Collect your darshan token at the 10th step from the base of the route
- Walk up to Tirumala (approximately 1,200 steps total)
- At Step 1,200, get your token stamped — you are assigned a darshan time slot here
- Enter the queue complex during your assigned slot for Lord Balaji darshan
With 6,000 tokens issued daily, they can run out well before noon on weekends and peak seasons. Arriving by 7 AM gives you a comfortable window.
Free Bus Service to Srivari Mettu
TTD operates free shuttle buses to the Srivari Mettu trailhead from two points in Tirupati:
| Boarding Point | Notes |
|---|---|
| Tirupati Railway Station | TTD free bus counter near the main exit; buses from 6 AM |
| Tirupati Central Bus Stand | Look for TTD free bus signs on the eastern side |
Buses run from 6 AM onwards, roughly every 30–45 minutes. Frequency increases on weekends and peak pilgrimage seasons. For current schedule, call TTD Helpline: 0877-2233333.
Luggage Drop Facility
A free luggage drop counter is available at the Srivari Mettu base — hand in your suitcases, trolley bags, or bulky baggage before you begin the climb. TTD transports it to Tirumala; collect after darshan at the designated luggage counter on the hill.
Leave here: large suitcases, trolley bags, heavy backpacks, extra clothing bags.
Carry with you: water, light snacks, phone and charger, your Aadhaar card, a small bag with essentials.
Srivari Mettu vs Alipiri — Which Route Should You Take?
| Feature | Srivari Mettu | Alipiri Mettu |
|---|---|---|
| Total steps | ~1,200 steps | 3,550 steps |
| Walk duration | 1 – 1.5 hours | 3 – 4 hours |
| Night trekking | Not available | Permitted (until 11 PM) |
| Crowd level | Less crowded | More crowded |
| Luggage drop | Available at the base | Available at Alipiri |
| Dress code check | At the entry point | At Alipiri entrance |
Srivari Mettu suits pilgrims who want a shorter walk and are comfortable with daytime-only trekking. Alipiri is better if you prefer the full traditional padayatra experience, want night-walk flexibility, or are joining a group pilgrimage that typically takes the longer route.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Dress code is strictly enforced — men must wear dhoti or pyjama; women must wear saree, salwar kameez, or churidar with dupatta. Jeans, shorts, and T-shirts are turned away at the entry.
- Carry your original Aadhaar card — it is mandatory for token issuance. One token per person, no exceptions.
- Remove footwear at the designated point near the top before entering the main temple complex area.
- TTD provides free drinking water at points along the route, but carry a bottle — the climb can take over an hour.
- Mobile signal is weak on parts of the trail. Download offline maps if you need navigation.
📞 TTD Helpline: 0877-2233333 — for token availability, bus timings, and any festival-day changes.
More on the walk to Tirumala
- Complete walking guide to Tirumala — both routes compared, what to carry, night-walk safety.
- Alipiri Mettu pathway — steps & distance — the longer, traditional padayatra route.
Sir, We want to have a Darsan of Sri Balaji on 3rd November 2026, We want to go through the srivari mettu, we dont have any reservation darsan booking. we want sarvadarsanam. can you suggest us how can we proceed….
Take the Srivari Mettu SSD token at Bhudevi Complex in Tirupati on Nov 2nd. As of now tokens are issued in the evening 5 PM.
On 3rd Nov you can go via srivari mettu and get your token stamped in the middle of the pathway.