Quick Guide: TTD Car Parking in Tirumala (Fees, Locations, and Rules)
Visiting the sacred hill shrine of Tirumala is a spiritual journey for millions of pilgrims. To ensure your experience is smooth and stress-free, mastering the car parking in Tirumala is essential. This guide provides the official TTD (Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams) rules, main parking locations, fees, and smart strategies for a hassle-free darshan.
1. Important TTD Parking Locations in Tirumala
Tirumala has designated parking areas managed by the TTD. Knowing their location relative to the temple entrance (Vaikuntam Queue Complex – VQC) is key.
| Parking Lot Name | Location Proximity | Best For | Pro Tip |
| ATC Car Parking | Closest to the main temple, Laddu counters, and VQC. | Pilgrims with ₹300 SED tickets or those with minimal walking capacity. | Fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and auspicious days. |
| SMC (Second Multi-level Car Parking) | Located near the Central Reception Office (CRO). | Weekends/Peak Season Overflow. If ATC is full, head here immediately. | TTD Free Link Bus service connects SMC directly to the temple. |
| Ram Bagicha / Varaha Guest House Parking | Designated areas near major TTD Guest Houses. | Pilgrims with TTD accommodation in those specific areas. | Often safer and less chaotic, but may require a short shuttle or walk. |
| Akashaganga / Papavinasanam Parking | Located farther away, near pilgrim attractions. | Pilgrims visiting multiple sites. Not ideal for direct temple access. | Use the free TTD buses to commute back to the main temple complex. |
Tip: You can navigate to the parking lots by searching for “ATC Car Parking Location” or “CRO Car Parking Location” directly on Google Maps.
ATC Car Parking Location
CRO Car Parking Location
Rambagicha Car Parking Location
Papavinasanam Parking
2. TTD Car Parking Fees (As of 2025)
The TTD regulates the charges for car parking in tirumala hills. These are subject to change, but generally follow a standard structure.
| Vehicle Type | Fee Structure (Per 24 Hours) | Key Notes |
| Two-Wheelers (Bikes/Scooters) | Free | Designated parking areas must be used. |
| Cars / Jeeps | ₹50 – ₹100 (Varies based on location/TTD circular) | Fee is collected at the entry point/toll gate or within the parking lot. |
| Mini Bus / Tempo Traveller (TT) | ₹150 – ₹200 | Confirm latest rates at the Alipiri Toll Gate. |
| Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV) | ₹300+ | Heavy vehicles may be restricted in certain areas. |
Important: Parking fees for official TTD lots are typically collected upon entry or managed through the FASTag system (see below).
3. Mandatory Vehicle Entry & Parking Rules
A hassle-free visit starts with knowing the TTD’s strict vehicle regulations.
A. FASTag Mandate for Entry
- Mandatory: As of August 2025, TTD has made FASTag mandatory for all private vehicles entering Tirumala via the Alipiri Toll Gate.
- Action: Ensure your vehicle has a functioning FASTag with a sufficient balance to cover the toll fee. Vehicles without one may be refused entry or directed to a temporary issuance counter at Alipiri, causing delay.
B. Ghat Road Timings
- The two ghat roads (one up, one down) operate 24/7, but the TTD monitors the journey time to ensure safety.
- You must adhere to the specified time limits (usually around 28-30 minutes) for climbing and descending. Failure to do so results in a fine or is considered an offense.
C. Sticker/Emblem Prohibition
- Absolutely Prohibited: The TTD announced a strict ban on any vehicle carrying non-Hindu religious emblems/stickers or political party flags / emblems while entering Tirumala.
- Enforcement: These are strictly checked and removed at the Alipiri Toll Gate. To avoid delays or vehicle seizure, remove all such stickers before starting your journey.
4. Tips for a Hassle-Free Car Parking in Tirumala
- Arrive Early (or Late): For the best chance at a spot in the prime ATC Parking, plan to reach Tirumala before 6:00 AM. If arriving later, prepare to park at SMC.
- Utilize the Free Link Bus: The TTD operates free bus services (often called DHARMARADHAMS) that circulate through Tirumala, connecting all major parking lots, guest houses, and the temple entrance. If you park far away, use this service—it is frequent and free.
- Drop-off First: If traveling with elderly family members or heavy luggage, drive directly to the designated Drop-off Point near the VQC/Special Entry Darshan counter, drop off passengers and luggage, and then proceed to park your car. This minimizes their walking.
- Security and Valuables: While TTD lots are monitored, always lock your vehicle and do not leave valuable electronics (phones, cameras) or money in the car. These items are not allowed inside the temple, but TTD offers free locker facilities near the queue lines for depositing prohibited items (except wallets/car keys, which are allowed inside).
- Note Your Spot: The lots are huge. Take a photo of your parking spot marker, nearest landmark, or column number to avoid confusion upon exit, especially when tired after Darshan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there any option of free charges for car parking in Tirumala? A: No, generally it is not free for cars and commercial vehicles. There is a nominal fee (usually ₹50-₹100 per 24 hours for cars) collected by TTD. Two-wheelers are usually parked for free.
Q: Where is the best parking for ₹300 Special Entry Darshan (SED)? A: The ATC Car Parking is the most convenient spot for SED entry as it is the closest to the Vaikuntam Queue Complex (VQC), the entry point for ticketed darshans.
Q: Can I leave my luggage in the car while doing Darshan? A: It is generally safe, as the lots are TTD-managed and monitored. However, it is not recommended to leave highly valuable items. TTD provides free luggage transport service from the Alipiri check point to Tirumala for pilgrims trekking the hill.
Q: Is FASTag mandatory for car parking in Tirumala?
A: Yes, FASTag is mandatory for all vehicles to pay the toll/entry fee at the Alipiri Toll Gate. It simplifies the entry process and may be used for internal parking fee collection as well.
Conclusion: Focus on Darshan, Not Parking
By planning your parking strategy using the official TTD locations, understanding the fee structure, and adhering to the strict rules, you can eliminate parking stress entirely. A prepared pilgrim is a peaceful pilgrim! Use these tips to secure your spot and focus on the spiritual heart of your trip.
Ready for Darshan? Read our Complete Tirumala Darshan Guide or check out the TTD’s official website for real-time announcements.