Discover the detailed cost, booking steps and guidelines for the Kalyanotsavam Seva at Tirumala, including eligibility, dress-code, and darshan after the ceremony.
Contents
Brief Summary
- The Kalyanotsavam Seva at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) is a special ceremonial worship of Lord Venkateswara and his consorts in a “marriage-festivity” format.
- Cost per ticket is approximately ₹1,000 for two people (some references show varying cost).
- Booking is online via the official TTD website, subject to availability.
- Dress code is strictly enforced: traditional attire for men and women.
- Each ticket admits two adults; children below 12 may accompany under certain conditions.
- After the ceremony you also get darshan and prasadam.
- Key tips: Book early, carry photo ID, carry print-out of ticket, be at the reporting point on time.
What is the Kalyanotsavam Seva?
The Kalyanotsavam Seva (literally “marriage festivity”) conducted by TTD is a special ritual offered to the Utsava Murti of Sri Venkateswara (also referred to as Malayappa Swami) and his consorts. The ceremony imitates a divine wedding, following the Vaikhanasa Agama tradition with the recitation of Vedic mantras, homas (sacrifices) and marriage-rituals.
For many devotees this is a sought-after “couple seva” where one attends the ritual and afterwards gets darshan of the Lord along with special prasadam and privileges.
Cost of the Seva
According to multiple guides:
- Many sources list the cost as ₹1,000 per ticket for two persons (adults) for the Kalyanotsavam Seva at Tirumala.
- Some older or alternate sources mention a cost of ₹1,500.
Given this variation, it is advisable to check the latest cost directly on TTD’s official booking portal before payment.
Who can attend & how many persons per ticket?
-
Each ticket typically allows two adult devotees (or in some cases one couple) to attend the ceremony.
-
Children below 12 years may be allowed without separate ticket in some cases but must check the specific terms.
-
Some forums mention that only married couples were allowed in past, but newer information suggests any two adults may book.
-
Strict matching of names and photo ID as per booking is enforced; additional persons without tickets may be denied entry.
Booking Process (Step-by-Step)
- Visit the official TTD e-services portal (for example via the TTD Seva online booking page) and log in/register as a devotee.
- Select the category “Sevas → Kalyanotsavam Seva – Tirumala”. Choose the available date and time slot.
- Fill in the required details: Name, Age, Gender, Mobile number, Email, ID-proof type & number, Address etc.
- Make payment online using accepted methods (net banking, debit/credit cards) as per TTD’s e-services guidelines.
- After successful payment you will receive a booking confirmation receipt/download link. It is important to download/print this as it’s required for entry.
- On the day of the seva, report at the designated reporting point (often near Supadham/Vaikuntam queue complex) at the stated time—usually about 1 hour before the scheduled ceremony.
Timings & Reporting
- The Kalyanotsavam Seva is typically scheduled between 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM, though exact slot may vary.
- Devotees are advised to arrive early at the reporting point, carry the printed ticket and original photo-ID.
- Dress code is enforced: Men must wear a dhoti (shirt may be removed upon entry), women must wear a saree or traditional attire with an upper cloth/dupata.
Dress Code & Important Guidelines
- Traditional dress is mandatory. Use of mobile phones and electronic items inside the seva hall may be restricted.
- Only the ticket-holders (and the allowed number of persons) may enter the Kalyanotsavam hall; others (even relatives) may not be admitted without separate booking.
- After completion of the ceremony devotees are guided into the darshan queue and then issued prasadam and bahumanam (mementos) such as blouse piece, upper cloth etc.
Benefits & What You Receive
-
Participants receive special darshan entry (often merging into general queue with some priority).
-
Prasadam and bahumanam: Many devotees report receiving two big laddus, several small laddus, vadas etc.
-
Memories of participating in this unique ritual experience inside the temple complex.
Tips & Best Practices
- Book early: Tickets are subject to availability; slots fill up quickly.
- Check correct details: Name, age, ID proof must match at entry.
- Keep printout and ID: Bring both ticket print and original ID used during booking.
- Arrive early: To avoid being late and missing the seva.
- Follow dress code: Not being in proper clothing may cause entry denial.
- No extra persons: Only those named on ticket allowed; unbooked persons may not be permitted.
- Use official portal only: Beware of touts or middlemen; book only via TTD website.
- Refunds/process issues: If payment fails but is debited, TTD policy indicates refunds within ~7 working days.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I book the seva if I am not married? | Yes—recent guides suggest any two adults can book; earlier it was restricted to couples. |
| Can children accompany me? | Children below 12 years may be allowed, but best to check specific slot terms. |
| Is darshan included with the seva? | Yes—after the seva you proceed for darshan, included as part of the experience. |
| What if I booked but cannot attend? | Check with TTD for cancellation/reshuffling policy—some sevas may not be refundable. |
| Is the cost fixed always at ₹1000? | The commonly referenced cost is ₹1,000 for two persons; however some sources mention ₹1,500. Always verify. |
Key Takeaways
- The Kalyanotsavam Seva is a cherished ritual at Tirumala where participants witness a divine marriage-ceremony.
- Cost is approximately ₹1,000 per ticket (typically for two people).
- Booking is done online via TTD’s official portal; seats are limited and fill up quickly.
- Strict guidelines apply for arrival, attire, identification and number of persons.
- It’s a spiritually rich experience combining ritual, darshan and prasadam—plan ahead for a smooth visit.
Author: Vijaya Durga Pemmasani
References & Helpful Links
- How to Book Kalyanotsavam Seva – TirupatiTirumalaInfo — detailed step-by-step.
- TTD Advance Booking – TTD official site — guidelines for online bookings.
- Kalyanotsavam Online Booking Guide – SribalajiTravel — checklist for booking & eligibility.
Related Articles
- How to Book Special Darshan Tickets at Tirumala — guide for darshan booking.
- Dress Code and Etiquette for Pilgrims at Tirumala — what to wear & bring.