I am quite surprised to find that we can go on a unplanned trip to Tirupati at such a low cost. Last time when I went to Tirupati, it was a full planned family trip with special darshanam tickets (worth of Rs. 300/-) and accomodation at cottage (Rs. 1000/- for a single day) that too for one day booked 3 months in advance. This time I was on an official tour to Kadiri, a small town in Anantapur Dist. I was able to complete my work by 6th and I suddenly made up my mind to visit Tirupati which was 5 hours away. So, immediately took a bus, late in the evening which took me to Tirupati by 3:30 AM. I was worried as where to get accomodation, then I went straight to Srinivasam near Bus Complex and one of the person working there suggested that there is free locker facility with Rs 500/- as refundable deposit. So, I got myself freshed up in the bathroom at the Srinivasam and it is quite well maintained when compared to free services provided by any Govt agencies. I appreciate TTD Board for that. Those lockers are located in the halls which can be used as resting rooms with mats and blankets also available at reasonable deposit amounts of Rs. 100/- each which are also refundable. I have seen fair number of families who have used the facility. I would say it is also well mainted, litter free and clean.
I locked my things in the locker and started my trip to Tirumala. I reached Alipiri by road and started my trek of 9 km (3500 steps). It was quite tiring for the initial 250 steps and then as I proceded I was able to cover more steps after each interval. On the way, the Seven Hills presented quite picturesque scenes and I made my trek less tiring and more pleasant. Finally, I could reach the Tirumala in 3 hrs. And was able to complete Darshanam in 6 hrs. Then I had lunch at Annaprasadam and returned back to Tirupati by evening. So, I would say the trip quite adventurous and enjoyed alot.
