Two footpaths climb the Tirumala hill, and TTD runs both as systems rather than trails. The Alipiri Mettu — the ancient, commonly-used route, listed at roughly 11 km on TTD’s own page — carries pilgrims’ luggage free (deposit at the Alipiri Toll Gate, collect at the Central Reception Office), with free APSRTC buses from Tirupati railway station every 30 minutes. The Srivari Mettu is the shorter western climb. Walking either enrolls you in Divya Darshan — biometric counters on the path issue tokens that unlock free darshan, free accommodation (P.A.C.) and free food. Checked 02 October 2026.
The two routes
| Alipiri Mettu | Srivari Mettu | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | ~11 km (official) | Shorter climb |
| Steps | ~3,550 (unofficial figure) | ~2,388 (unofficial figure) |
| Hours | ~5 AM–9:30 PM (unofficial) | 6 AM–5:30 PM (unofficial) |
| Extras | Free luggage service; free buses from station | Steeper, faster |
Official facts: tirumala.org footpath page · Step counts and hours: unofficial — verify on site.
Doing it well
- Start early — the hill heats after 9 AM; the forest sections are the climb’s reward.
- Use the biometric counters at the route entrances — the Divya Darshan token is the whole point of walking.
- Hand in luggage at Alipiri — carrying a pack up 3,550 steps is a self-inflicted test.
- Elders: the ghat road or the bus is the honest choice; the footpaths are a fitness commitment (the senior darshan guide covers the alternatives).
Frequently asked questions
How many steps to Tirumala on foot?
About 3,550 (Alipiri) and 2,388 (Srivari Mettu) by guide consensus — unofficial figures; the routes’ lengths and services are official.
What does Divya Darshan give me?
Free darshan token plus free accommodation and food for walking pilgrims (official).