Appalayagunta Temple, officially known as Sri Prasanna Venkateswara Swamy Temple, is a revered Vaishnavite shrine located in Appalayagunta, Andhra Pradesh. Situated just 12 km from Tirupati, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and is considered one of the important pilgrimage sites in the region. The temple is famous for its unique idol of Lord Venkateswara in a standing posture, unlike the sitting posture at Tirumala.
Appalayagunta Temple Timings Today (2025)
The temple follows a daily schedule with slight variations during festivals. Here are the current timings for 2025:
Regular Darshan Timings
| Session | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Opening | 5:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Temple Closure | 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Night Closing | 8:00 PM |
Special Pooja Timings
- Suprabhatham: 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM
- Thomala Seva: 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
- Archana: 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM
- Sahasra Namarchana: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Rajabhogam (Noon Pooja): 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
- Evening Pooja: 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Ekantha Seva (Night Pooja): 7:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
- Early Morning (5:00 AM – 7:00 AM): Least crowded, peaceful darshan
- Evening (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Pleasant weather, special poojas
- Avoid Peak Hours (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Long queues expected
Festivals at Appalayagunta Temple (2025)
- Brahmotsavam (September): 9-day grand festival with processions
- Vaikunta Ekadasi (December): Special entrance opening ceremony
- Rathasapthami (February): Sun God worship festival
- Anivara Asthanam (April): Annual celestial wedding celebration
- Pavithrotsavam (August): Purification ritual ceremony
How to Reach Appalayagunta Temple
- By Air: Tirupati Airport (20 km away)
- By Train: Tirupati Railway Station (15 km away)
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Tirupati (12 km)
- From Tirumala: Regular buses available (25 km distance)
Appalayagunta Temple FAQs
1. What are the current Appalayagunta Temple timings?
The temple opens at 5:00 AM, closes at 12:30 PM, reopens at 3:00 PM, and closes at 8:00 PM.
2. Is there any entry fee?
No entry fee, but special darshan tickets (₹50-300) are available for quicker access.
3. What is the dress code?
Traditional attire preferred (men: dhoti/shirt; women: saree/salwar kameez).
4. How is this temple different from Tirumala?
The deity here is in standing posture and the temple is less crowded than Tirumala.
5. Can non-Hindus enter the temple?
Yes, all are welcome but must respect temple customs.
6. Are mobile phones allowed inside?
Allowed but photography prohibited in sanctum sanctorum.
7. What are the nearby attractions?
Tirumala Temple (25 km)
Kapila Theertham (15 km)
Srinivasa Mangapuram Temple (18 km)
Chandragiri Fort (20 km)
8. Is there accommodation available?
Yes, both free and paid lodges available in Tirupati (12 km away).
Special Features of the Temple
- Standing Deity: Unique posture of Lord Venkateswara
- Sacred Tank: Temple has a holy pushkarini for ritual baths
- Vimana Venkateswara: Special shrine of Lord in the tower
- Less Crowded: More peaceful darshan compared to Tirumala
Tips for Visitors
- Combine Visit: Can be visited along with Tirumala pilgrimage
- Transport: Auto rickshaws available from Tirupati bus stand
- Prasadam: Free laddus available (similar to Tirumala)
- Queue Lines: Covered pathways available for sun protection
Conclusion
Appalayagunta Temple offers a serene alternative to the crowded Tirumala temple, with the unique blessing of seeing Lord Venkateswara in a standing posture. With its convenient location near Tirupati and peaceful atmosphere, it’s an ideal addition to any pilgrimage itinerary in 2025. The well-maintained timings and facilities make it accessible for all devotees seeking divine blessings.