Vakula Mata Temple

Vakula Mata Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Vakula Devi, regarded as the foster mother of Lord Venkateswara, located in Peruru village in Tirupati district, Andhra Pradesh, about 10 km east of Tirupati city. Situated on a small hillock, the temple is notable for its association with Tirumala traditions and its recent renovation by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. It attracts devotees who traditionally visit here before proceeding to Tirumala.

Visitors can expect a small hilltop temple complex in Peruru with a sanctum enshrining Vakula Mata, mandapa halls, and views of the surrounding plains and Tirupati area. The approach involves climbing stone steps to the hillock. The premises are generally quiet compared to Tirumala, with space for darshan, prayer, and circumambulation. Priests conduct daily pujas and visitors can receive prasadam. The setting is simple and devotional with basic facilities.

The temple is associated with the legend of Vakula Devi, believed to be Yashoda of Krishna avatar who wished to witness the marriage of Lord Venkateswara. The shrine at Peruru is considered her abode. The original structure is regarded as ancient and has been renovated in recent years under Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams to restore its traditional architecture.

Vakula Mata is venerated as the mother figure who arranged the marriage of Lord Venkateswara to Goddess Padmavathi. Devotees believe that darshan of Vakula Mata before visiting Tirumala brings completeness to the pilgrimage. The temple is an important part of Tirupati's religious circuit and sees increased gatherings during festivals such as Brahmotsavams and Vaikuntha Ekadashi.