Swami Pushkarini Tirumala: Holy Bath Timings, Significance & Guide
Discover the sacred Swami Pushkarini at Tirumala — learn about its 24/7 access, the auspicious bath tradition, how to reach and what to expect.
Contents
Brief Summary
- Swami Pushkarini is the sacred temple-tank next to the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala.
- Devotees believe a dip here purifies the soul and body before entering the main shrine.
- The tank remains open 24 hours a day, all year.
- Changing rooms available; follow dress code and rituals.
- Best times: early morning or late evening for fewer crowds.
- IST-time zone (Andhra Pradesh, India); no fixed closing time unless for maintenance.
- Travel tips: wear modest attire, keep belongings safe, follow temple guidelines.
Nestled in the sacred hill-town of Tirumala, the temple tank known as Swami Pushkarini holds deep religious significance for pilgrims visiting the Sri Venkateswara Temple. A ritual bath here is considered more than just a cleanse of the body — it symbolises purification of the soul, preparing devotees for darshan and worship. In this guide we explore the history, bath timings, practicalities and useful tips to make the most of your visit to this holy water-body.
What is Swami Pushkarini?
The term Pushkarini refers to a temple tank or sacred pond typically adjacent to or part of a major temple complex. In Tirumala, the Pushkarini lies just outside the main sanctum of the Venkateswara temple.
Legend holds that the tank was originally in Vaikuntha (the celestial abode of Lord Vishnu) and brought to Earth by the divine eagle Garuda to serve the Lord here. Pilgrims are encouraged to take a dip in this tank before entering the temple, as an act of purification.
Bathing here is believed to bestow moksha (liberation) and cleanse past sins.
Bath Timings & Access
According to multiple sources, the Pushkarini in Tirumala is open 24 hours a day for pilgrims. This means you can visit at any hour, day or night.
However, there are some practical caveats:
- While open “24×7”, certain portions may be closed temporarily for maintenance or festival-preparations.
- Though accessible, fewer services (such as changing rooms or help-staff) may be available in late night hours.
- It’s still wise to plan an early morning or late-evening dip for comfort and fewer crowds.
So, for your bath at the Pushkarini: arrive in modest dress, change if required, take the dip, then proceed to the temple for darshan. It’s recommended that you complete the bath before entering the Sri Venkateswara Temple, as tradition prescribes.
Why Bathing Matters (Significance)
- Spiritual symbol: Taking a dip in a sacred water-body symbolises washing away of sins and spiritual renewal.
- Ritual order: In Tirumala’s pilgrim route, many devotees first visit the Pushkarini, then move on to shrines like the Bhu Varaha Swamy temple, and then to the main temple.
- Festivals: On key occasions such as the “Teppōtsava” (float festival) and “Chakra Snānam” the tank becomes the venue of special rituals.
Practical Guide for Visitors
1. Dress Code & Behaviour
- Wear modest clothing appropriate for a temple: no shorts or sleeveless tops.
- After bathing you may need to change into dry clothes. Changing rooms are available for men and women.
- Keep your valuables safe while you bathe — better to carry a minimal bag or use lockers if available.
2. How to Reach & Where to Bathe
- The tank lies within the Tirumala hill-temple precinct, near the north-mada street.
- Follow sign-boards for “Pushkarini” or ask temple staff on site.
- If the main tank area is closed, alternate arrangements may be made for bathing nearby.
3. Best Time to Visit
- Early morning hours shortly after day-break often offer lesser crowd and serene atmosphere.
- Late evening or night can also be peaceful since the tank is open 24 hrs.
- Avoid peak pilgrim hours (mid-day, festival times) if you prefer a calm experience.
4. Other Tips
- Respect the sanctity: no loud conversations, maintain decorum.
- After your dip, dry off and change clothes before heading into the temple complex.
- Check local temple notices — during heavy rain, renovation or festivals access to the tank may be temporarily restricted.
- Hydrate and protect against sun/hill-weather if you are waiting outside.
FAQs
| Q | A |
|---|---|
| Is there a charge to take a bath in Swami Pushkarini? | No entry fee is normally mentioned for the tank itself. |
| Can women also take a dip? | Yes — both men and women are permitted, with appropriate dress and changing rooms. |
| Is the tank ever closed? | Yes — during repair works or special rituals, access may be limited. |
| Do I need a special ticket to bathe? | No separate ticket is required for the bath; you just need to enter the temple area via standard pilgrimage entry. |
| What after the bath? | After the bath, dry/change clothes, then proceed for darshan of Lord Venkateswara. |
Key Takeaways
- The Pushkarini bath is an important precursor to temple worship in Tirumala.
- You can visit anytime — the tank remains open 24/7 — but check for temporary closures.
- Respect rituals, dress appropriately, and take the bath before entering the main temple for darshan.
- Visiting early or late gives a more serene experience.
- Always check updated local temple notices upon arrival.
Author: Vijaya Durga Pemmasani
References & Helpful Links
- “Swami Pushkarini — Lake, Timings” (MakeMyTrip) — MakeMyTrip link MakeMyTrip
- “Swami Pushkarini — History, Location, Directions” (GoTirupati) — GoTirupati link Our Sanskriti & Gyan
- “Timing & Bathing Guide for Pushkarini, Tirumala” — TirumalaTirupatiOnline link Tirumala Tirupati Online
- “Srivari Pushkarini Remains Closed for Maintenance” — GoTirupati archive link Our Sanskriti & Gyan
- “Pushkarini Timings: Remains Open for 24×7” (Thrillophilia) — Thrillophilia link thrillophilia.com
