Alipiri / Srivari Mettu Padayatra – Walk to Tirumala 2026: Distance, Steps, Time, Facilities & Complete Guide

Quick Stats – Alipiri (Traditional Path): Distance: 11.5 km | Steps: 3,550 | Average Time: 3–5 hours | Opens: 5 AM | Closes: 9 PM
Quick Stats – Srivari Mettu (Shorter Path): Distance: 2 km | Steps: 2,388 | Average Time: 1.5–2 hours | Opens: 6 AM | Closes: 5:30 PM

Walking to Tirumala is a spiritual journey undertaken by thousands of devotees daily. Whether you choose the traditional Alipiri Mettu or the shorter Srivari Mettu, proper planning regarding timings and token procedures is essential for a smooth pilgrimage.

Walking Path Timings 2026

Is It Safe to Walk to Tirumala at Night?

Due to reported wildlife movement (leopards, bears) in the forest flanking the paths, TTD has imposed restrictions:

• Alipiri Mettu is open until 9 PM but supervised group walk only after 2 PM. Elders or Families with Children are advised to walk only in the morning hours.
• Srivari Mettu strictly closes at 5:30 PM. Night walking on this path is not permitted.
• Security personnel are stationed throughout both paths 24 x 7.
• Best time to start: Early morning (5–6 AM) on Alipiri for safest and most comfortable conditions.

How Long Does the Walk to Tirumala Take?

Darshan Tokens for Walkers (SSD Tokens)

Walking the steps does not automatically give you a shorter darshan queue. You still need an SSD (Slotted Sarva Darshan) token. Darshan will takes 3–5 hours. You will be allowed in SSD queue line only. There is no separate queue line for those going by walk.

Alipiri Mettu – Token Process

• No exclusive tokens for Alipiri walkers
• Collect SSD tokens one day in advance at: Bhudevi Complex, Srinivasam, or Vishnu Nivasam (opens at midnight 12 AM one day before)
• Daily quota: approximately 10,000–15,000 tokens issued across all counters
• Tip: Due to high demand, many pilgrims queue from 9 or 10 PM at counters. Once you have a token, you can walk OR take the bus to Tirumala.

Srivari Mettu – Token Process

• Tokens collected one day in advance at Bhudevi Complex only
• Counter opens at 12 AM one day before. Daily quota: approximately 1,500–2,000 tokens
• Critical: You must get your token scanned at Step No. 1200 on the path on your darshan date only. If you skip the scan, your token becomes invalid and you are diverted to the general free darshan queue at Tirumala.

Note: Currently, Divya Darshan tokens (separate quota for walkers) are issued only for the Srivari Mettu side.

Path Comparison – Alipiri vs Srivari Mettu

What to Carry for the Walk

Essentials:

• Original Aadhaar card — mandatory for token verification and temple entry
• Physical copy of your SSD token — keep it safe and dry
• Cash (small change) — most stalls prefer cash as mobile network is spotty on the steps
• Refillable water bottle — filtered water stations are available throughout the route
• Traditional dress or a change of clothes — many pilgrims wear comfortable clothes while walking, then change into traditional attire (dhoti/saree) before darshan
• Light jacket/shawl — Tirumala can be cold especially mornings and evenings

Recommended:

• Glucose biscuits, dates, or energy bars for the climb
• Band-aids for blisters and a small tube of pain relief spray (like Volini) for knees
• Phone with 50%+ battery before starting (signal drains battery fast on the hill)

Leave at base (luggage counter):

• TTD provides a free luggage transport service at the bottom of both paths. Deposit heavy bags there — they will be transported to Tirumala for you to collect after your climb.

Facilities Along the Walking Path

• Drinking water stations: Multiple filtered water points throughout both paths
• Toilets: Available at regular intervals
• Food stalls: Light snacks, buttermilk, fruits, and packaged foods
• Rest shelters: Covered resting areas at several points along Alipiri
• Medical points: First aid posts and emergency medical assistance points on both paths
• Luggage transport: Free service at the foot of both paths
• Security: TTD security staff present throughout operating hours

Padayatri Darshan – Special Queue for Walkers

There is no separate queue line for pilgrims coming by walk. All will be allowed in SSD token queue line.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many steps are there in Alipiri Padayatra?
There are 3,550 steps in the Alipiri Mettu path from the foothills to Tirumala. The total walking distance is approximately 9 km.

How long does it take to walk to Tirumala from Tirupati?
A fit adult typically takes 2.5–3 hours. With rest breaks, plan for 3–4 hours. Elderly pilgrims or families with children should plan for 4–5 hours.

Is Alipiri walk safe at night?
TTD allows the Alipiri path until 9 PM but only for supervised groups after 2 PM. Solitary night walking is discouraged due to wildlife in the surrounding forest. Srivari Mettu closes at 5:30 PM daily.

Do I need a ticket to walk to Tirumala?
Ideally ticket is not required, You can take an SSD token (free darshan token) collected one day in advance at Bhudevi Complex, Srinivasam, or Vishnu Nivasam, so that you can get a quicker darshan compared to going in free darshan. The walk itself is free.

Can senior citizens or elderly walk to Tirumala?
Yes, but it is challenging. Elderly pilgrims are advised to walk Alipiri only if they are physically comfortable with long treks. Srivari Mettu’s shorter 2,388 steps is a better option for those with limited stamina. If in doubt, take the bus.

What is the difference between Alipiri and Srivari Mettu?
Alipiri is the traditional 9 km path from Tirupati with 3,550 steps, associated with greater spiritual merit. Srivari Mettu starts near Srinivasa Mangapuram (17 km from Tirupati), is only 2 km long with 2,388 steps, and is easier but has a smaller daily token quota.