Poll code shuts the recommendation-letter route to Tirumala darshan and rooms

Pilgrims hoping to reach Tirumala on the strength of a recommendation letter will have to find another way in. Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams said on 20 October that it will accept no recommendation letters for Srivari darshan or for accommodation in Tirumala while the model code of conduct for the local body elections is in force.

The one exception is protocol dignitaries who come in person; TTD will arrange darshan and rooms for them. TTD has given no end date. The bar stays for as long as the code of conduct remains in effect, and the temple body has asked devotees to note the change and cooperate.

What still works

The notice deals only with recommendation letters and does not mention online booking. TTD’s January 2027 schedule, announced on 17 October, sets these releases:

• 22 October: Kalyanotsavam, Unjal Seva, Arjitha Brahmotsavam and Sahasradeepalankara Seva at 10 am; virtual seva and darshan slots at 3 pm.
• 23 October: Anga Pradakshina tokens at 10 am, Srivani Trust tickets at 11 am, and the quota for senior citizens, the differently abled and the chronically ill at 3 pm.
• 24 October: Rs 300 special entry darshan at 10 am; rooms in Tirumala and Tirupati at 3 pm.

Devotees picked in the electronic dip for Suprabhatam, Thomala, Archana and Ashtadala Pada Padmaradhana must pay by 12 noon on 23 October. TTD has asked pilgrims to book only through its official website, ttdevasthanams.ap.gov.in.