Tirupati is a city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Its Sri Venkateswara Temple sits atop one of the the 7 peaks of Tirumala Hills, attracting scores of Hindu pilgrims. Sri Venkateswara National Park, home to the temple, also contains the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park with lions and primates. Nearby, next to a waterfall and cave believed to be sacred, Sri Kapileswara Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
When to visit: The most common time to visit Tirupati is during the milder, drier months (Dec–Mar). Summers (Mar–Jun) are very hot, followed by the monsoon season (Jul–Sep). Popular events include the Rathasapthami festival (Jan/Feb), when deities of Hindu gods are carried in a procession. The city is busy during the festival of Sri Ventakeswara Brahmotsavams (Sep/Oct), which attracts thousands of pilgrims for 9 days of celebrations.
