The Tirupati Balaji Temple, also known as the Venkateswara Temple, has a history dating back to around 300 AD. It's one of the oldest temples in India.
The Lord of the Seven Hills, Venkateswara, has his home in Tirupati. In the Sri Venkateshwara Sanctuary and National Park, the holy hill of Tirumala can be found about six miles (10 kilometres) northwest of Tirupati. Non-Hindus were forbidden from ascending the hill until 1870 because it was regarded as holy. An ancient temple sits atop the hill, at a height of approximately 850 metres (2,800 ft). One of India’s most revered temples is surrounded by sacred waterfalls and tanks (reservoirs) and devoted to Lord Venkateshwara.
The Tirupati Temple celebrates 433 festivals each year, making it feel like a celebration every day. ‘Brahmotsavam’ is Tirupati’s most well-known festival out of the others. Celebrations for ‘Brahmotsavam’ take place over the course of nine days. Pilgrims and tourists alike flock to attend the event from across the country. The festival is known as ‘Brahmotsavam’, which translates to ‘the festival performed by Brahma’ because tradition has it that Lord Brahma descends to Earth each year to perform it. ‘Vaikunta Ekadashi’ is another prominent event observed in the temple. On this specific day, it is said that the gates of heaven (Lord Vishnu’s dwelling) will be open. As a result, the festival has a significant cultural value. The temple also celebrates Rathasapthami, Rama Navami, Janmashtami, Vasanthotsavam, Pushpa yagam, Teppotsavam, among other notable festivals.
