The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has officially opened online bookings for the highly anticipated Vaikunta Ekadasi Darshan at the Lord Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala. This significant spiritual event will take place from January 10 to 19, 2025, attracting lakhs of devotees from across the country.
Online Ticket Booking Details
- Vaikunta Dwara Darshan Tickets: Booking opened at 11 a.m. on December 23, 2024.
- Special Entry Darshan (SED) Tickets: Available online from 11 a.m. on December 24, 2024.
Devotees can conveniently book their tickets via TTD’s official website. The Vaikunta Dwaram, a sacred passage that encircles the sanctum sanctorum, will remain open throughout the 10-day Vaikunta Ekadasi celebrations, providing a unique and divine experience for all attendees.
Slotted Sarva Darshan Tokens
To manage the large influx of devotees expected during this festival, Slotted Sarva Darshan (SSD) tokens will be distributed at several centers in Tirupati and one in Tirumala. The distribution points are as follows:
Distribution Centers:
- Tirupati:
- MR Palli
- Jeevakona
- Ramanaidu School
- Ramachandra Pushkarini
- Indira Maidan
- Srinivasam
- Vishnu Nivasam
- Bhudevi Complex
- Tirumala:
- Kaustubham Guesthouse
The TTD Chief Engineer has confirmed that all necessary facilities will be set up at these centers to streamline the process. It is essential to note that only individuals with valid darshan tokens will be permitted entry for Vaikunta Dwara Darshan. While those without tokens may visit Tirumala, they will not have access to the darshan queue.
Highlights of Vaikunta Ekadasi and Dwadasi
Vaikunta Ekadasi Day (January 10, 2025):
- VIP protocol darshan starts at 4:45 a.m.
- A grand Swarna Ratham (golden chariot) procession will occur from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Dwadasi Day (January 11, 2025):
- The Chakrasnanam ritual will be held at the Srivari Pushkarini (temple pond) between 5:30 a.m. and 6:30 a.m.
Facilities for Pilgrims
TTD has made extensive arrangements to accommodate the large number of devotees expected during this festival:
- Free Food Distribution (Annadanam): Operating from 6 a.m. to midnight, serving tea, coffee, milk, upma, sugar pongali, and pongali.
- Laddu Distribution: A buffer stock of 3.5 lakh laddus will be maintained to meet high demand.
- Traffic Management: Local police have coordinated with TTD to ensure smooth traffic flow around the temple.
Conclusion
Vaikunta Ekadasi is a deeply revered festival that draws lakhs of devotees from across the country to Tirumala. The divine experience of passing through the Vaikunta Dwaram is considered spiritually uplifting and auspicious. With TTD’s meticulous arrangements for ticket booking, darshan management, and facilities, pilgrims can look forward to a seamless and enriching experience during the festival.
Make sure to book your tickets early and participate in this grand spiritual event to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara during the holy Vaikunta Ekadasi.
Disclaimer: Ticket availability is subject to change based on demand and other factors. It is advisable for devotees to check TTD’s official website for the latest updates and information regarding ticket bookings and event schedules.
