Alipiri Footpath

Alipiri Footpath, also known as Alipiri Mettu, is the historic pedestrian pilgrimage route from Alipiri at the foothills of Tirupati to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The 9 km path comprises approximately 3,550 stone steps and is fully roof-covered. Maintained by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, it is the oldest and most used footpath to Tirumala, notable for its religious importance and facilities for pilgrims.

Visitors can expect a 9 km uphill trek with about 3,550 stone steps from Alipiri to Tirumala, mostly covered with a roof and lighting. The path passes through forested hills of the Seshachalam range, with rest shelters, drinking water points, toilets and food stalls at intervals. Along the route are shrines, statues and the Gali Gopuram gateway. Security checkpoints and Divya Darshan token counters are at the base. The climb is steep in sections and takes several hours on foot.

Alipiri Footpath is the ancient and traditional pedestrian route used for centuries by pilgrims to reach the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple. It is considered the oldest of the two footpaths to Tirumala, later developed, paved, roofed and illuminated by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams to facilitate safe pilgrimage.

The footpath holds deep religious significance for devotees of Lord Venkateswara, as walking to Tirumala is considered an act of devotion and penance. Pilgrims undertaking the Alipiri Mettu receive Divya Darshan privileges at Tirumala. The route is lined with religious structures and is an integral part of the Tirumala pilgrimage tradition.