A complete guide to the freeSpecial Darshan for Physically Disable offered by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) for physically disabled and elderly devotees—covering eligibility, timings, booking procedure and on-site support.

Brief Summary 

• The TTD offers dedicated free darshan slots for differently-abled and senior citizen pilgrims.
• Eligibility requires certificate & only one attendant allowed.
• Timings: typically morning and afternoon slots, with some variations on specific days.
• Booking is not online; tickets are issued on-site on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Entry via “Supatham/Su­patham” entrance near Vaikuntha Queue Complex.
• Wheelchair facility available; special assistance (Srivari Sevakulu) provided.
• Bring disability certificate, photo ID and Aadhaar.
• Arrive early (counter opens around 7 a.m.).
• Frequently asked questions (FAQ) covered for clarity and planning.

The sacred shrine of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has made special arrangements for the physically disabled / differently-abled and senior citizens / medical-cases so that these devotees can have a smoother and more dignified darshan experience. This article explains the eligibility, timings, booking procedure, entrance details, and on-site support you should know before you visit.

Who qualifies for this special darshan?

• Differently-abled persons who hold a valid certificate issued by a State or Central Government.
• Only one attendant (typically spouse or guardian) is allowed to accompany the eligible person.
• Medical-case category (e.g., open heart surgery, dialysis etc.) and senior citizens (age 65+) are included under this special darshan.

Timings & Ticket availability

• There are two main time-slots for specially-abled darshan: 10:00 a.m. for morning and 3:00 p.m. for afternoon.
• On certain days (like Wednesday & Friday) the afternoon slot may be the only one available.
• Free tickets for this category are issued on-site; usually quota of ~700 tickets per slot as per older guide.
• Counter for issuance typically opens at 7 a.m. near the Vaikuntha Queue Complex (VQC-2) and closes when quota is exhausted.

Booking / Token procedure

• No online booking is currently available for this specific category (for specially-abled & senior citizen quota) as per multiple sources.
• Tickets are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis at the “Senior Citizen / Specially-abled Ticket Counter” near the VQC-2 complex.
• The cost of the ticket is free for the eligible person in this category.

Entry, venue & on-site support

• Entry for this special darshan category is via the “Su­patham” entrance (just around 50 metres from the Vaikuntha Queue Complex entrance).
• Wheelchair facility is provided; a dedicated assistance team (Srivari Sevakulu) helps during the movement.
• Note: While wheelchairs are available, movement inside the inner sanctum may still require some walking or assistance; check in advance if severe mobility impairment.

Documents & conditions

• Differently-abled person must bring:
• A valid disability certificate issued by government authority.
• Photo-ID (Aadhaar or equivalent).
• Only one attendant allowed; extra companions will generally not be permitted under this quota.
• The same person cannot avail this special darshan more than once within 90 days (as per older guidelines).
• Arrive well before the darshan time; lines can build quickly even for special quotas.

Pro Tips for a smoother visit

• Arrive at the ticket counter by 7 a.m. or soon after to secure the slot.
• Carry all original certificates and copies for backup.
• If using a wheelchair or need support, request assistance early at the help-desk.
• Plan your travel-time to the temple so as to reach before the designated slot time, since delay may lead to missing the quota.
• While the slot is free, any extra services (like guided assistance or specific vehicles) may cost; check with TTD staff.
• Even though the special quota is separate, peak days will still have crowds — stay patient and follow instructions.
• Use the official site Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) for updates in case of schedule changes.

 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I book this special darshan online in advance?
A: No — the special quota for physically disabled / senior citizen category is issued on-site only at the counter, not via online booking.

Q: My disability certificate shows 45% disability; am I eligible?
A: Yes, typically certificates issued by government for disabilities qualify — always carry original document. Some sources mention threshold (e.g., 20%+) for “privilege darshan”.

Q: Can more than one companion accompany me?
A: No — only one attendant (spouse or guardian) is permitted alongside the eligible person under this category.  What if I cannot walk at all or need stretcher / extremely reduced mobility?
A: The TTD provides wheelchair assistance and special entry; however you should contact the help desk at the temple in advance to check for any additional support arrangements.

Q: Are there any fees for this darshan slot?
A: No fee for eligible specially-abled / senior citizens in this quota.

Key Takeaways

• The special darshan for physically disabled and aged devotees at Tirumala is a free, priority facility with dedicated counter and slots.
• Booking is not online; you must go to the ticket counter early.
• Carry correct disability certificate & ID; only one attendant permitted.
• Arrive well in advance, use the designated entrance, and avail assistance as needed.
• Always check for latest updates on the official TTD website before your visit.

Author: Vijaya Durga Pemmasani

References & Helpful Links

• Special Darshan for Physically Disabled and Aged — TTD official page: [link] Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams+1
• Physically Challenged Darshan Tirumala – MyOksha guide: [link] Myoksha Travels
• Privilege Darshan for Differently-Abled Pilgrims – TripTirupati article: [link] Trip Tirupati
• Differently Abled Darshan in Tirumala – Travel guide: [link] Tirupati Balaji Tours Travels