Your phone starts buzzing at 3:45 in the morning. You hit the snooze button twice before reality hits your mind – wait, today’s the day! Bangalore to Tirupati Distance Travel Guide, you’ve been talking about since forever? It’s actually happening.
My neighbour did the same thing last month. My neighbour packed his entire family into the SUV of the cab service provider, TaxiYatri at 4 AM for Tirupati darshan. They reached by 9 AM, completed their temple visit, and were back home by evening. Meanwhile, my colleague took a bus, waited 18 hours for free darshan, and came back exhausted two days later. Same destination, totally different experiences.
And honestly, choosing the right transport makes or breaks this pilgrimage. That’s where services like TaxiYatri come into play – but more on specific options later. First, let me share everything I’ve learned from speaking with dozens of people who’ve made this trip, as well as my own three visits to Lord Venkateswara’s abode.
Bangalore to Tirupati Distance Travel Guide
The Main Route Everyone Uses (Via Kolar)
Distance: 247 km
Time: About 4.5 to 5 hours if traffic’s good
Roads: Pretty smooth throughout
Towns You’ll Pass Through
- Start from Bangalore, hit Hoskote in 25 km
- Then Kolar comes up at the 70 km mark
- Palamaner is where you enter Andhra (135 km from Bangalore)
- Chittoor appears around 185 km
- Finally Tirupati at 247 km
What the Drive’s Actually Like
Honestly, this is the route me and my family take most often. The highways are well-maintained. You’ll see those massive windmills near Kolar – looks pretty cool when the sun rises behind them. Once you cross into Andhra at Palamaner, the landscape changes a bit. More rural, greener.
Who Should Take This Route?
- First-timers definitely
- Anyone wanting the quickest way
- If you’re traveling between October and May
The Longer Route (Via Hosur and Krishnagiri)
Distance: 264 km
Time: 5 to 6 hours, sometimes longer with stops
Roads: Even better than Route 1 actually
Towns You’ll Cross
- Hosur is just 40 km out (basically next door)
- Krishnagiri at 85 km
- Then Ambur, Vellore
- Finally Tirupati
Why Some People Prefer This
Last monsoon, my friend got stuck on the Kolar route because of waterlogging. That’s when I learned about this alternative. The highways are wider here. More restaurants, better fuel stations. You’re basically taking the main NH48 highway that goes all the way to Chennai before cutting towards Tirupati.
Yes, it adds 15-20 km. But during rainy season? Totally worth it. Also, if you’re driving at night, this route has better street lighting.
Best For
- Monsoon travelers (seriously, don’t ignore this)
- If you have kids who need frequent bathroom stops
- Night driving
- People who get anxious on smaller roads
The Scenic Route Nobody Really Talks About
Distance: 241 km (shortest on paper)
Time: 5.5 to 6 hours (sometimes more)
Roads: Mixed bag – some good, some not so much
The Route Goes Through
- Chintamani (75 km from Bangalore)
- Madanapalle (another 80 km)
- Then Tirupati
Real Talk About This Route
My GPS suggested this once. Looked shorter, so I tried it. Big mistake during monsoon. The roads through Chintamani and Madanapalle are narrower. Some stretches are perfect, others need work. Very few commercial stops compared to the other routes.
That said, if you like countryside views and don’t mind slower driving, this route’s actually quite beautiful. Just don’t attempt it if:
- It’s rainy season
- You’re in a hurry
- You’re driving at night
- It’s your first time
How Far is Tirupati Really?
People keep asking me this. The answer? It depends on where exactly you’re starting from in Bangalore and which route you take.
If you’re near Electronic City, you’re looking at roughly 240 kilometers via the Hosur route. Living in North Bangalore near Hebbal? Add another 20-25 kilometers to that. Most folks end up driving between 247-264 kilometers depending on their chosen path.
My GPS has shown me three different routes over various trips. Let me share what actually works on the ground.
The Route Everyone Takes
You head out through Hoskote, then Kolar. Cross into Andhra Pradesh at Palamaner, pass through Chittoor, and you’re in Tirupati. That’s about 247 kilometers. Takes around 4.5 hours if you’re not stopping much.
I like this route because the roads stay decent throughout. You’ll see those huge windmills near Kolar. Pretty sight early morning when the sun’s coming up behind them.
The Longer But Safer Option
Some people prefer going via Hosur and Krishnagiri. Yes, it adds 15-20 kilometers and another 30-40 minutes. But the highways are wider. More fuel pumps. Better restaurants for breakfast.
During last year’s monsoon, when the Palamaner route had minor flooding, this route saved everyone. Something to remember if you’re traveling between June and September.
The Shortcut Nobody Really Uses
Your phone might suggest going through Chintamani and Madanapalle. Shows 241 kilometers, looks tempting. Don’t fall for it unless you know those roads well. They’re narrower. Some stretches get pretty bad during rains.
My friend tried this once thinking he’d save time. Ended up taking longer than the regular route because of road conditions. Even his TaxiYatri driver advised against it, but he insisted. Learned his lesson.
What’s Your Best Way to Get There?
I’ve tried almost everything except flying. Each method has its own vibe.
Driving Your Own Car
This gives you total freedom. Stop where you want, leave when you want, come back when you want. No waiting for anyone.
Fuel costs around Rs 2,000-2,500 for a round trip depending on your car’s mileage. Toll charges add another Rs 400-500. If you’re going with 4-5 people, this works out cheaper per person than buses.
One tip though – your car will struggle on those ghat roads going uphill to Tirumala if it’s a small engine. My friend’s old Santro was huffing and puffing. Overtaking became impossible.
Hiring a Cab
Don’t feel like driving? Hire someone else to do it. Costs anywhere from Rs 4,500 to Rs 6,500 one way. Round trips are cheaper, usually Rs 8,000-12,000 total.
The driver knows the route, handles the driving stress, and you can nap in the back seat. Worth it if you’re traveling with elderly parents or young kids who need attention during the journey.
Pro tip: Many cab drivers will offer to help with darshan tickets. Some are genuine, some aren’t. Better to book your tickets yourself online before you go.
Taking the Bus
Cheapest option hands down. Regular buses cost Rs 400-600. You’ll stop at every town, take 6-7 hours, but you’ll save money.
Volvo AC buses are better. Around Rs 800-1,200 per ticket. Comfortable seats, fewer stops, reaches faster. I took one once when my car was in the service center. Not bad actually.
Buses leave from Majestic (Kempegowda Bus Station) every hour starting 5 AM. The early morning ones are smartest – you reach Tirupati by 10-11 AM with the whole day ahead.
Train Journey
I’ll be honest – I’ve never taken the train for Tirupati. Too slow for a place that’s just 240 kilometers away. But lots of people do it, especially senior citizens who find long car rides uncomfortable.
About 33 trains run on this route. Some take 6 hours, others take 12. Prices start at Rs 200 for the cheapest class, go up to Rs 1,500 for AC compartments.
Makes sense if you board at night, sleep through the journey, wake up in Tirupati. My aunt does this every time. She says she actually rests better on the train than in a car.
Flying There
Tirupati has an airport, but honestly? Doesn’t make much sense unless you’re extremely short on time or have mobility issues.
By the time you reach Bangalore airport, check-in, fly 45 minutes, land, and drive from Tirupati airport to the temple town, you’ve spent as much time as driving directly. Plus it costs way more.
Bangalore to Tirupati Cab Prices – TaxiYatri
Distance is 252 kilometers. Here’s what different vehicles will cost you.
Small Cars (Fits 4 People)
Toyota Liva / WagonR with AC
- You pay: ₹3,374 (was ₹4,048)
- Extra km charges: ₹12/km
- Works well if it’s just you and your family of 3-4
Tata Indica / Ford Figo with AC
- You pay: ₹4,034 (was ₹4,840)
- Extra km charges: ₹12/km
- Slightly roomier than the first option
My take: These cars are fine for couples or small families. Don’t pick this if you have lots of luggage though.
Medium SUVs (Fits 6 People)
Ertiga / Tavera with AC
- You pay: ₹5,775 (was ₹6,930)
- Extra km charges: ₹25/km
- Decent space for 5-6 people
This one’s good when you need that extra row of seats. Kids can spread out a bit more.
Premium SUV (Fits 6 People)
Innova Crysta with AC
- You pay: ₹9,245 (was ₹11,094)
- Extra km charges: ₹35/km
- Most comfortable ride by far
Yeah it costs more. But if you have elderly parents or want proper legroom, this is worth every rupee. I’ve done the Tirupati trip in an Innova through TaxiYatri– makes a huge difference on those ghat roads.
Places You’ll Cross Along the Way
The journey itself has some interesting stops. Not tourist spots really, but places where you can stretch your legs and grab food.
Kolar – Your First Major Town
About 70 kilometers out of Bangalore, Kolar makes a perfect breakfast stop. Loads of small restaurants serving hot idlis and filter coffee.
There’s this place called Antara Gange nearby. Ancient temple with natural spring water and rock climbing if you’re into that stuff. Takes about 30 minutes extra, skip it if you’re in a hurry.
Palamaner – Where You Enter Andhra
Small town, not much to see. But the food changes here. You start getting proper Andhra meals with that spicy sambar. Good place for a bathroom break and fuel top-up.
Chittoor – The Last Big Town
Comes up 65 kilometers before Tirupati. Has this Chandragiri Fort that looks interesting from the road. Never stopped there myself but people say the views are good.
If you have kids getting restless, there’s Talakona Waterfalls about 45 minutes from here. Highest waterfall in Andhra Pradesh apparently. Looks amazing during monsoon.
When Should You Actually Go?
Timing matters more than you’d think. I learned this the hard way.
Weather-wise
September to February is perfect. Not too hot, not too cold. You can walk around comfortably. December and January get slightly chilly early morning, so carry a light jacket.
March and April start heating up. By May, it’s brutal – touching 38-40 degrees. I went once in May. Biggest mistake. Standing in queues in that heat? Not fun.
Monsoon brings rain obviously. June through September sees heavy downpours. The hills look beautiful, all green and misty, but you’ll get wet waiting in temple queues.
Crowd-wise
Here’s something most people don’t know – Tuesday and Wednesday mornings between 4-6 AM have the smallest crowds. Why? No idea. But my cabbie told me this and it checked out both times I went on weekdays.
Weekends are madness. Fridays through Sundays, expect double the usual crowd. Long holidays like Diwali or Dussehra? Forget it. You’ll wait forever.
Brahmotsavam festival in September-October brings lakhs of people. Unless you’re specifically going for the festival, avoid those dates completely.
Understanding How Temple Darshan Works
This confused me big time on my first visit. Nobody explained properly. Let me break it down simply.
Free Darshan (Sarva Darshan)
Completely free. You collect a token, join the queue, and wait. How long? Depends on your luck and the crowd. I’ve waited 12 hours. My friend waited 22 hours during a weekend.
They give you free food every few hours while you wait. Coffee, tea, meals – all free. There are sitting areas, fans, everything. But yeah, you’re basically spending a day standing and sitting in queues.
Best for people who have time and don’t mind waiting as part of their spiritual journey.
Paid Darshan (Special Entry – Rs 300)
Changed my Tirupati experience completely. You pay Rs 300 per person, your waiting time drops to 1-2 hours on regular days. Even during festivals, maximum 3-4 hours.
Book these online through the TTD website. They open bookings 90 days in advance. Set a reminder because popular dates get booked fast.
You need Aadhaar cards or passports for everyone. Can book maximum 10 tickets at once. The Rs 300 is totally worth it unless you specifically want the free darshan experience.
Walking Up (Divya Darshan)
Some people walk up the hill as part of their pilgrimage. There are steps – thousands of them. If you do this, you get a separate queue. Waiting time is usually 2-4 hours.
My colleague did this. Said his legs hurt for three days after, but felt spiritually satisfied. Not for everyone, but it’s an option.
Where Will You Stay?
Depends on your budget and how you’re traveling.
TTD Guest Houses
The temple management runs accommodations. Cheapest option – dormitory beds for Rs 100. Private rooms go up to Rs 3,000 for AC ones.
Book these on the TTD website. They fill up weeks in advance during peak season. For regular days, book at least 2 weeks ahead.
Rooms are basic but clean. Location is convenient. You’re paying for proximity to the temple, not luxury.
Private Hotels
Tirupati town has hundreds of hotels. Budget ones cost Rs 800-1,500 per night. Mid-range goes Rs 2,000-4,000. Fancy hotels charge Rs 5,000-10,000.
Most cluster around the railway station area. Book ahead during weekends and festivals. Last-minute walk-ins are risky.
Many hotels offer packages – darshan ticket help, transport to temple, food – everything bundled. Sometimes it’s worth it if you don’t want to plan everything separately.
What to Wear (This is Important!)
The temple has strict dress codes. I’ve seen people turned away at the entrance. Don’t let that be you.
For Guys
Wear traditional clothes. Dhoti-kurta is safest. Regular formal shirt-pants also work if they’re modest. No shorts, no sleeveless shirts, no caps inside the temple.
I usually wear a simple shirt and formal pants. Never had issues.
For Ladies
Sarees or salwar kameez. Traditional wear is safest. Jeans, short skirts, sleeveless tops – all banned. Make sure your dupatta is long enough.
My sister wore leggings with a long kurta once. They let her in, but gave her looks. Better to just wear a proper salwar suit and avoid any hassle.
Everyone
No leather anything inside the main temple area. No phones once you enter the sanctum. No photos obviously. They have lockers where you deposit your stuff.
Practical Tips That Actually Help
These are things I wish someone told me before my first trip.
Leave Bangalore Early
Can’t stress this enough. 4-5 AM departure is ideal. You miss Bangalore traffic, drive in cool morning weather, and reach Tirupati with the full day ahead.
My best trip was when we left at 4:30 AM. I reached Tirupati by 9 AM, had breakfast, went up the hill, completed darshan by 1 PM, came back down, and went home by 7 PM same day.
Tank Up in Bangalore
Yes, petrol bunks exist along the route. But early morning? Some are closed. Fill your tank before leaving. One less thing to worry about.
Book Darshan Tickets Beforehand
Don’t assume you’ll manage something once you reach. Peak times? You won’t get tickets. Even regular days, advance booking saves massive stress.
Rs 300 per person for 2-3 hours wait versus free with 12-hour wait. Do the math.
Carry Cash
ATMs in Tirupati often run out of cash during festivals. Temple donations, offerings, buying prasadam, tips – you need cash for everything.
I carry around Rs 2,000-3,000 extra per person. Better to have it and not need it than the other way around.
Getting from Town to Temple
Tirupati town and Tirumala temple are 20 kilometers apart. Government buses run every 15-20 minutes for Rs 50-70. Taxis charge Rs 400-600. Sharing autos also available.
If you’re staying at TTD guest houses on the hill, you’re already near the temple. Otherwise, factor in this 45-minute journey while planning your day.
Beyond Just the Main Temple
Most people come for Venkateswara Temple and leave. But there’s more if you have time.
Govindaraja Swamy Temple
Located in Tirupati town itself. Beautiful old temple, way less crowded. You can actually stand and pray peacefully instead of being pushed through.
Takes about 30 minutes to visit. Good option if you reach Tirupati early and have time before heading up the hill.
Padmavathi Temple
About 5 kilometers from Tirupati in a place called Tiruchanur. Dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, Lord Venkateswara’s consort.
Many people visit both temples. Considered incomplete if you don’t, according to traditional belief. Your call.
Akasaganga Waterfall
On the way up to Tirumala. Natural spring water, considered holy. You can stop briefly, click photos. Refreshing after the hot drive up.
Heading Back Home
Most people want to leave Tirupati by afternoon after darshan. That’s when everyone else wants to leave too. Traffic jam going down the hill between 2-5 PM is real.
Two options: Either leave really early, like 5-6 AM if you stayed overnight. Or wait till after 5 PM when traffic clears up. Reach Bangalore by 10-11 PM.
I prefer the evening departure. Less rush, cooler weather for driving, and you’re not exhausted rushing around.
My Final Thoughts
Look, the Bangalore-Tirupati trip is not at all complicated. It’s roughly a distance of 250 kilometers which takes 4-5 hours, and costs whatever you want to spend, depending on your choices.
But small decisions make huge differences. Leaving early versus late. Booking darshan tickets versus not booking. Going on weekdays versus weekends. All these change your entire experience.
Here’s one decision that’s made my trips consistently better – booking with TaxiYatri. They’ve got transparent pricing (no surprise charges at the end), professional drivers who actually know the route, and vehicles for every budget from sedans to 20-seater tempo Traveller. I’ve used them three times now. The drivers leave on time, they know which rest stops are clean, and they don’t haggle about waiting time at the temple. Makes the whole journey less stressful.
Plan beforehand, book the best service online, start early, dress appropriately, also do carry cash, and be patient with crowds. Do these basics right, and you’ll have a good experience.
The temple visit itself? That’s between you and the Lord. I can only help you get there smoothly. And honestly? A reliable cab service like TaxiYatri takes care of half your worries before you even start.
I’m a wanderer who loves venturing on to unknown and unseen places. I explore freely to various fun and adventurous places, whether it be spiritual temple tours, captivating landscapes, and more. I wonder around in search of hidden gems and tourist attractions, temples, and other places.
