Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala is not just another festival; it is one of the most spiritually powerful and sacred days in the Hindu calendar. On this holy day, devotees believe that the Vaikunta Dwaram opens, allowing them to seek the divine blessings of Lord Venkateswara in a deeply meaningful way.
In 2026, the celebrations at Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) are expected to witness record-breaking pilgrim footfall. Lakhs of devotees from across India and overseas begin preparing months in advance, actively searching for TTD Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 tickets, Vaikunta Dwara Darshan, darshan timings, and online booking details.
This complete guide on Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 at Tirumala brings together everything a devotee needs to know in simple, easy-to-understand language. From darshan schedules and ticket booking to important tips for a smooth visit, the information is explained clearly to help you plan a peaceful, well-organized, and spiritually fulfilling darshan at Tirumala.
By reading this guide, devotees can prepare confidently and experience the true spiritual significance of Vaikunta Ekadasi without confusion or last-minute stress.
Vaikunta Ekadashi at Tirumala 2026–26 – Complete Darshan & Date Guide
Vaikunta Ekadashi at Tirumala is one of the most sacred and awaited events for devotees of Lord Venkateswara. In 2026, Vaikunta Ekadashi falls during Dhanurmasa, making it even more spiritually significant. Due to its importance, Tirumala witnesses an extremely heavy rush, and special darshan arrangements are made by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
According to the official schedule, Shuddha Ekadashi in Dhanurmasa, known as Vaikunta Ekadashi, will be observed on December 30, 2026 (Tuesday). On this auspicious day, the sacred Vaikunta Dwaram will be opened in the early morning hours and will remain open for a limited period.
Vaikunta Dwaram Opening Dates at Tirumala
The Vaikunta Dwaram, also known as the Gate of Heaven, is opened only once a year during Vaikunta Ekadashi. It remains closed throughout the rest of the year.
- Vaikunta Dwaram Opens: December 30, 2026 at 03:00 AM
- Vaikunta Dwaram Closes: January 8, 2026 at 11:59 PM
- Total Darshan Period: 10 days
It is strongly believed that devotees who pass through the Vaikunta Dwaram during this period will attain moksham. Because of this belief, Tirumala experiences massive crowds during these days.
Vaikunta Ekadashi Festival Schedule
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Vaikunta Ekadashi | December 30, 2026 |
| Vaikunta Dwadasi | December 31, 2026 |
| Vaikunta Dwara Darshan Period | Dec 30, 2026 to Jan 8, 2026 |
During these 10 days, darshan is arranged in a regulated and phased manner, allowing nearly eight lakh devotees to have Vaikunta Dwara Darshan peacefully.
Special Rituals During Vaikunta Ekadashi
On Vaikunta Ekadashi day, a grand procession of Sri Malayappa Swami, along with Sri Devi and Bhu Devi, will be conducted in the Golden Chariot between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, followed by Asthanam inside the Srivari Temple.
On Vaikunta Dwadasi, the sacred Chakra Snanam will be performed at Swamy Pushkarini between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, which marks the conclusion of the Vaikunta Ekadashi celebrations.
Vaikunta Dwara Darshan Ticket Booking Update 2026–26
For the peak days of December 30, December 31, and January 1, TTD followed the Electronic Lucky Dip system for darshan allotment.
- Electronic Lucky Dip Results: Announced
- Darshan tokens were issued online only through the Electronic DIP system
- Devotees can check the results through the official TTD portal
Online Darshan Availability (January 2 to January 8, 2026)
- SRIVANI Darshan: Sold Out
- ₹300 Special Entry Darshan: Sold Out
- Sarva Darshan: Available
For Sarva Darshan between January 2 and January 8, 2026:
- Devotees can directly enter through Vaikuntam Queue Complex-2
- No tokens are required during these days
- Darshan is allowed without advance booking
However, devotees should be prepared for long waiting hours, which may range from 12 to 24 hours or more, depending on the crowd.
Vaikunta Dwara Darshan at Tirumala – Most Sacred Darshan of the Year
Vaikunta Dwara Darshan at Tirumala is the most important and spiritually powerful part of Vaikunta Ekadasi celebrations. The Vaikunta Dwaram, a special northern entrance to the sanctum of Lord Venkateswara, remains closed throughout the year and is opened only during Vaikunta Ekadasi and the following days. Because of this rare opportunity, lakhs of devotees gather at Tirumala to seek divine blessings.
Due to the massive crowd expected during Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) follows strict crowd control and darshan management systems. Walking queues, barricaded routes, holding halls, and time-based entry slots are arranged to ensure safety, smooth movement, and fair darshan for all devotees.
TTD Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 Darshan Ticket Categories
To manage devotees from different sections, TTD releases multiple darshan categories during Vaikunta Ekadasi. Availability depends on crowd conditions and official announcements.
| Darshan Category | Details |
|---|---|
| ₹300 Special Entry Darshan | Paid darshan with regulated entry and comparatively shorter waiting time |
| Sarva Darshan (Free Darshan) | Free darshan arranged through SSD tokens issued in Tirupati |
| VIP Break Darshan | Very limited darshan allowed only for approved donor and protocol categories |
| Senior Citizen & Differently Abled Darshan | Separate darshan slots announced by TTD, subject to availability |
Among all options, ₹300 Special Entry Darshan tickets are the most popular and highly demanded. These tickets usually sell out within minutes after release due to heavy demand during Vaikunta Ekadasi.
Devotees planning Vaikunta Dwara Darshan at Tirumala are advised to monitor official TTD updates, book tickets as early as possible, and prepare for long waiting hours. With proper planning and patience, Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan becomes a deeply spiritual and once-in-a-year divine experience.
How to Book TTD Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 Tickets Online – Step-by-Step Guide
Booking TTD Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 darshan tickets is done only through the official TTD website. Due to the huge demand during Vaikunta Ekadasi, tickets are released in phases, and advance preparation is very important to secure a slot.
Follow the steps below to book your Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan smoothly.
Step 1: Visit the Official TTD Website
Go to the official Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams portal(https://ttdevasthanams.ap.gov.in/home/dashboard) and log in using your registered mobile number or email ID.
Step 2: Log in to Your TTD Account
If you are a new user, complete the registration process in advance. Existing users should ensure their profile details are correct before ticket release.
Step 3: Select Vaikunta Ekadasi Darshan Dates
Once tickets are released, choose Vaikunta Ekadasi or Vaikunta Dwara Darshan dates from the available calendar slots.
Step 4: Enter Devotee Details
Fill in devotee details exactly as per valid government-issued ID proof such as Aadhaar. Any mismatch can lead to rejection at the entry point.
Step 5: Complete Online Payment
Proceed to payment using net banking, UPI, or debit/credit cards as supported by TTD.
Step 6: Download Darshan Confirmation
After successful payment, download and save the darshan confirmation receipt. Carry a digital or printed copy on the day of darshan.
Important Note
Only the devotee whose name appears on the ticket is allowed for darshan. ID verification is strictly enforced at all entry points during Vaikunta Ekadasi.
Free Sarva Darshan and SSD Tokens During Vaikunta Ekadasi
Devotees who wish to have free Sarva Darshan during Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala can obtain SSD tokens issued by TTD.
- SSD tokens are issued a few days before Vaikunta Ekadasi
- Tokens are available at designated counters in Tirupati
- Issued strictly on a first-come, first-served basis
- Tokens usually get exhausted very quickly due to heavy demand
Devotees opting for free darshan should be mentally prepared for long waiting hours and extended queue movement, especially on Vaikunta Ekadasi day and weekends.
Despite the wait, Sarva Darshan offers a deeply spiritual experience for devotees who wish to seek the blessings of Lord Venkateswara without paid entry.
Important Rituals and Sacred Events During Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala
Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala is celebrated with continuous rituals, Vedic chants, and sacred ceremonies that fill the temple with divine energy. From early morning prayers to grand processions, each ritual holds deep spiritual meaning and draws lakhs of devotees every year.
Some of the most important rituals observed during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival period include:
Suprabhatam
This is the early morning ritual performed to awaken Lord Venkateswara. It marks the beginning of the day’s worship and sets a peaceful spiritual tone for devotees attending early darshan.
Thomala Seva and Archana
These are traditional offerings and special prayers performed inside the temple. During Vaikunta Ekadasi, these sevas are considered highly auspicious and are attended with great devotion.
Swarna Ratham Procession
One of the most awaited events is the Golden Chariot (Swarna Ratham) procession, where Sri Malayappa Swamy is taken around the temple premises along with Sri Devi and Bhu Devi. Thousands of devotees gather to witness this divine procession.
Chakra Snanam
Performed on Vaikunta Dwadasi at Swami Pushkarini, Chakra Snanam marks the ceremonial conclusion of Vaikunta Ekadasi celebrations. This sacred ritual holds great spiritual importance and is attended by large numbers of devotees.
These rituals continue over several days, making the entire Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan period one of the most spiritually powerful times to visit Tirumala.
Dress Code and Entry Rules for Vaikunta Ekadasi Darshan
To maintain the sanctity of the temple during Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) strictly follows traditional dress and entry guidelines.
- Men are advised to wear dhoti with upper cloth or kurta-pyjama
- Women should wear saree, salwar kameez, or other modest Indian attire
- Traditional dressing is mandatory for all darshan categories
Electronic items such as mobile phones, cameras, smart watches, and gadgets are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. Devotees must deposit these items at designated counters before entering.
All devotees are required to carry original government-issued ID proof along with their darshan ticket, as identity verification is strictly enforced at all entry points during Vaikunta Ekadasi.
Following these rules helps ensure a smooth, disciplined, and spiritually fulfilling darshan experience at Tirumala.
Accommodation Tips for Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026
Finding accommodation during Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 at Tirumala can be challenging due to extremely high demand. TTD cottages and guest houses usually get fully booked weeks in advance, especially for Vaikunta Ekadasi and the following darshan days.
Many devotees prefer staying in Tirupati and traveling to Tirumala according to their darshan reporting time. Staying close to reporting centers or queue complexes helps reduce stress caused by traffic restrictions, vehicle bans, and heavy crowd movement during the festival period.
Devotees are advised to finalize accommodation early and keep buffer time in their travel plans to avoid last-minute difficulties.
Crowd Expectations and Queue Management During Vaikunta Ekadasi
Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala witnesses one of the largest pilgrim gatherings of the year. Devotees should be prepared for long waiting hours, extended walking queues, and strict crowd control measures.
During this period, TTD implements multi-level queue systems, barricaded pathways, and holding halls to regulate the heavy rush. Vehicle entry into Tirumala is often restricted, and movement is closely monitored by police and temple authorities.
To ensure safety and smooth darshan, additional temple staff, volunteers, and security personnel are deployed across Tirumala throughout the Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan period.
Helpful Tips for a Peaceful Vaikunta Ekadasi Darshan
Proper planning can make a huge difference during Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan at Tirumala. Following these simple tips can help devotees have a smoother and more peaceful experience.
- Book darshan tickets immediately after they are released
- Reach Tirupati or Tirumala at least one day in advance
- Carry only essential items to avoid delays at security checks
- Choose early morning darshan slots when available
- Follow queue instructions and temple guidelines patiently
- Stay calm and prepared for long waiting hours
With the right preparation, patience, and devotion, Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 at Tirumala can become a deeply spiritual and memorable experience despite the heavy crowds.
Why Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala Is Truly Special
Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan at Tirumala is much more than a temple visit. It is a rare spiritual moment where faith, devotion, and divine energy come together. The once-a-year opening of the Vaikunta Dwaram, the continuous Vedic chants echoing through the Tirumala hills, and the shared devotion of lakhs of pilgrims create an atmosphere that touches the heart and soul.
For many devotees, walking through the Vaikunta Dwara and having darshan of Lord Venkateswara during this sacred period is a deeply emotional and life-changing experience. The discipline, patience, and collective faith seen during Vaikunta Ekadasi make Tirumala feel truly divine.
With proper planning, early ticket booking, and awareness of TTD guidelines, Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 at Tirumala can become a peaceful and spiritually uplifting journey. It offers devotees a rare chance to seek divine grace, inner peace, and blessings at one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations in the world.
For anyone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience, Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan at Tirumala stands as a moment that stays in the heart long after the darshan is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions on TTD Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026
Q1. When is Vaikunta Ekadasi in Tirumala in 2026
Vaikunta Ekadasi will be observed on January 1, 2026 at Tirumala.
Q2. How many days is Vaikunta Dwara Darshan available in 2026
TTD is expected to allow Vaikunta Dwara Darshan for 10 days, from January 1 to January 10, 2026.
Q3. How can I book TTD Vaikunta Ekadasi 2026 tickets
Tickets can be booked online only through the official TTD website once they are released.
Q4. Are Rs 300 darshan tickets available for Vaikunta Ekadasi
Yes, Rs 300 Special Entry Darshan tickets are usually released, but they sell out very fast.
Q5. Is free darshan available during Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala
Yes, Sarva Darshan (free darshan) is available through SSD tokens issued in Tirupati.
Q6. What is Vaikunta Dwaram in Tirumala
Vaikunta Dwaram is a special entrance to the sanctum that opens only during Vaikunta Ekadasi and Dwadasi.
Q7. Is VIP darshan allowed on Vaikunta Ekadasi
VIP Break Darshan is very limited and allowed only under approved TTD categories.
Q8. What is the dress code for Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan
Devotees must wear traditional Indian attire as per TTD dress code rules.
Q9. Can devotees stay in Tirupati during Vaikunta Ekadasi
Yes, many devotees stay in Tirupati due to limited accommodation availability in Tirumala.
Q10. Is ID proof mandatory for Vaikunta Ekadasi darshan
Yes, original photo ID proof is compulsory for all darshan types.
Q11. What time does darshan usually start on Vaikunta Ekadasi
Darshan generally starts early morning, and timings depend on the ticket slot issued by TTD.
Q12. Why is Vaikunta Ekadasi at Tirumala considered special
Because devotees get the rare opportunity to pass through Vaikunta Dwaram, which is believed to bring divine blessings.
