The Sri Venkateswara Temple is a must-visit for any tourist coming to Tirupati. Considered to be one of the most ancient and sacred temples in India, the temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. You'll need at least 3-4 hours to explore the temple complex, so make sure to plan accordingly. Keep in mind that the temple usually gets crowded during peak hours, so try to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the rush.
After visiting Sri Venkateswara Temple, head to Sri Varahaswami Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu's boar incarnation. The temple is located on the banks of the Swarnamukhi River and is known for its beautiful architecture. Later in the day, take a trip to the Talakona Waterfalls, surrounded by lush green forests and beautiful streams. The falls are located in the Sri Venkateswara National Park and offer breathtaking views. Keep in mind that the falls close by 4 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.
On the last day, visit the Regional Science Center, where you’ll find interactive exhibits on science and technology and the history of the region. The center also houses a 3D theatre. After spending a few hours at the science center, head to Chandragiri Fort, which was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The fort offers panoramic views of the surroundings and is known for its beautiful architecture. Make sure to carry water and sunscreen as there can be a long trek up to the fort.
If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple or the Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Temple. Both temples take around 2-3 hours to explore. You can also take a trip to the Srikalahasti Temple, located around 50 km from Tirupati, which is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. If you have less time, skip the Chandragiri Fort as it requires a fair bit of trekking, and the infrastructure can be a little lacking. Keep in mind that the best time to visit Tirupati is from November to February when the weather is pleasant.