The historical and holy temple Sri Venkateswara is situated in the 7th peak of the Venkata Tirupati Hill that lies in the south banks of Sri Swami Puskharini. The 80 meter wide and 123 meters long temple covers an area of 2.2 acres. A fine example for Dravidian temple architecture, Venkateswara temple has witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties.
The Sanctum sanctorum is adorned by the Venkateswera idol, which stands to a height of eight feet under the gold gilded dome called the Ananda Nilaya Divay Vimana. Idol is believed to be Swayambhoo and it looks exquisitely wrought in its jet-black stone structure. The deity bears a clear impression of Goddess Lakshmi on the right side of his chest. His two upper arms hold a (conch-shell) sankha and (disk) chakra. His lower left hand is turned inward, the palm of his lower right hand is turned outward offering blessings. Since the lord’s eyes are so beautiful it is covered with a tilak of camphor. It is also believed that his eyeballs are enclosed because his gawk would singe the whole planet.
The deity in the shrine is ornamented with precious stones, which gives it a unique appeal. Devotees are filled with a bizarre experience, when they stand in front of the lord. It is firmly believed that the deity is so benevolent that he grants the wish of anyone who offers him something.
Though there are bus services to clear off the 16 kilometers uphill path, many devotees prefer walking since it offers aesthetic feelings and awesome vistas. The walk up the hill takes two to four hours of steady climbing that covers about 4,000 steps. Non-Hindus are not permitted to enter in to the inner most temple of this township. Foreigners are allowed to visit if they put in papers their belief in Hinduism.
It is to be worthy to note that this is the wealthiest temple in the entire subcontinent. It is said that around 25,000 people visits here daily.