Tirupati to Kanipakam Distance: Complete Travel Guide

Imagine starting your day with a spiritual darshan at Tirupati’s world-famous Sri Venkateswara Temple, and then heading on a short but beautiful journey to Kanipakam, home of the miraculous Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple. Many pilgrims plan both darshans together because the distance is not too far and the roads are smooth. This guide will give you everything you need to know about the Tirupati to Kanipakam distance, travel routes, best time to visit, and some tips for a comfortable journey.

Tirupati to Kanipakam Distance Overview

The distance between Tirupati and Kanipakam is around 70 to 75 km, depending on which route you take. The travel time is usually 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Since the journey is not too long, most people plan a one-day trip — visiting Tirupati Balaji in the morning and Kanipakam Vinayaka Temple by afternoon.

Here are the different ways you can travel:

1. By Road

• Distance: About 72 km
  
• Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
  
• This is the most common way people travel. The roads are good, and along the way, you’ll see fields, small towns, and villages.
  
• If you have your own car or bike, you can drive directly. Otherwise, you can book a cab.
  
• It’s also the most flexible option since you can stop anywhere for food or rest.

2. By Train

• There is no direct train from Tirupati to Kanipakam.
  
• The closest railway station to Kanipakam is Chittoor Railway Station, which is about 12 km away from the temple.
  
• You can take a train from Tirupati to Chittoor, and then hire a cab, taxi, or even an auto to reach Kanipakam.
  
• This option is useful if you are comfortable with trains, but it involves an extra step (train + road).

3. By Bus

• APSRTC (Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) runs regular buses from Tirupati to Chittoor.
  
• From Chittoor, you can easily find local buses, share autos, or taxis that go to Kanipakam.
  
• This is the cheapest travel option.
  
• However, it may take a little longer compared to a direct cab since you need to switch transport at Chittoor.

4. By Cab/Taxi

• This is the most comfortable and direct option.
  
• You can book a cab from Tirupati, and it will take you straight to Kanipakam without any changes.
  
• Travel time is about 1.5 hours.
  
• This option is especially good if you are traveling with family, elderly people, or kids, since it avoids the hassle of changing buses or trains.
  
• Though slightly more expensive than buses, it saves time and gives a smoother experience.

Different Travel Routes from Tirupati to Kanipakam

There are mainly two popular routes you can take:

1. Tirupati → Chandragiri → Puthalapattu → Kanipakam (Approx. 72 km)
   
   • Smooth highways, less traffic.
     
   • It takes around 1.5 hours.
     
2. Tirupati → Chittoor → Kanipakam (Approx. 75 km)
   
   • Slightly longer but a busy route.
     
   • Good if you plan to stop in Chittoor for food or shopping.

Best Time to Travel from Tirupati to Kanipakam

• Early Morning (6 AM – 8 AM): Peaceful drive, less traffic, and you can attend morning puja.
  
• Best Season: October to March (pleasant weather).
  
• Avoid peak summer afternoons (April–June) as it can get quite hot.

Places to Visit on the Way from Tirupati to Kanipakam

The journey from Tirupati to Kanipakam is not very long, but if you plan it well, you can explore some interesting spots along the way. These small stops make the trip more memorable:

1. Chandragiri Fort

• Located about 15 km from Tirupati, this fort was built by the Vijayanagara kings in the 11th century.
  
• The fort is known for its stone walls, palace ruins, and rich history.
  
• From the top, you can get a beautiful view of the surrounding hills and greenery.
  
• History lovers and photographers will enjoy this stop.

2. Sri Padmavathi Temple, Tiruchanur

• Just 5 km from Tirupati, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara.
  
• It is believed that visiting Padmavathi Amma first makes your Tirupati darshan more complete.
  
• Since it’s very close to Tirupati, many pilgrims visit this temple before starting their trip to Kanipakam.

3. Chittoor City

• Chittoor is about 60 km from Tirupati and lies on the route to Kanipakam.
  
• It is a good place to stop for food, snacks, and shopping.
  
• You can try local Andhra meals at traditional restaurants or buy regional sweets and snacks.
  
• If you are interested in local markets, Chittoor offers a glimpse of daily Andhra lifestyle.

4. Kanipakam Temple Tank (Pushkarini)

• Right next to the Varasiddhi Vinayaka Temple in Kanipakam is a sacred temple tank.
  
• Pilgrims believe that taking a dip here before entering the temple helps wash away sins and prepares you for darshan.
  
• The tank has a calm, spiritual atmosphere and is a must-see when you reach Kanipakam.
  

So, if you have some extra time, don’t just rush from Tirupati to Kanipakam—make these small stops and enjoy both spiritual blessings and cultural experiences along the way.

Staying & Fooding Options on the Way from Tirupati to Kanipakam

Since the distance between Tirupati and Kanipakam is only around 70–75 km, many travelers prefer to do the trip in a single day and return back. But if you are coming from far away, traveling with family, or want a relaxed trip, you’ll find plenty of stay and food options on the way.

🏨 Staying Options

In Tirupati (Starting Point)

• Tirupati has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget lodges to luxury hotels.
  
• Budget Hotels/Lodges: Simple rooms near the bus stand and railway station.
  
• Mid-Range Hotels: Hotels near Alipiri and Tirumala Road with AC rooms and dining facilities.
  
• Luxury Hotels: 3-star and 4-star hotels like Fortune Select Grand Ridge and Marasa Sarovar Premiere with modern comforts.
  
• Best choice if you want to stay overnight before starting your journey to Kanipakam.

On the Way (Highway Stays)

• On the Tirupati–Chittoor highway (NH71), you’ll find a few highway motels and lodges.
  
• These are mostly simple accommodations, useful if you want a quick overnight stop.

In Chittoor City

• Chittoor is about 12 km before Kanipakam and has several decent hotels.
  
• Budget Lodges: Good for pilgrims and backpackers.
  
• Mid-Range Hotels: AC rooms, dining facilities, and easy access to local markets.
  
• Staying in Chittoor is convenient if you also plan to explore the city.

In Kanipakam (Destination Point)

• Kanipakam has temple guest houses, dharmashalas, and small lodges for pilgrims.
  
• The rooms are basic but clean, ideal for a short stay.
  
• Some private lodges also provide budget-friendly rooms close to the temple.

🍴 Fooding Options

In Tirupati

• Tirupati is known for its South Indian meals, tiffins, and sweets.
  
• Popular foods: Idli, dosa, vada, pongal, tamarind rice, and laddu.
  
• You’ll find restaurants ranging from street food stalls to family dining and fine dining.

On the Tirupati–Chittoor Highway

• Several highway dhabas and restaurants are available.
  
• They serve mostly South Indian vegetarian meals, rice varieties, and tiffins.
  
• A few restaurants also serve North Indian food and snacks.

In Chittoor

• Chittoor city has many options for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food.
  
• Andhra-style meals with spicy curries, biryani, and tiffins are very popular.
  
• Sweet lovers can try local Andhra sweets like Bandar laddu and kajjikayalu.

In Kanipakam

• Being a temple town, most eateries near the temple are vegetarian.
  
• Small hotels serve simple thali meals, idli, dosa, and other tiffins.
  
• Pilgrims who prefer sattvic food can eat at temple-run canteens and prasadam counters.
  

Travel Tip: If you are traveling with family, it’s best to have your meals in Tirupati or Chittoor, since both places offer better restaurants and more variety than Kanipakam.

Fuel Stations on the Way from Tirupati to Kanipakam

When you’re driving from Tirupati to Kanipakam, you don’t need to worry much about fuel because the route is well-connected and has plenty of petrol pumps and fuel stations along the way. The distance is only around 70–75 km, so even if your vehicle is half-filled, it’s usually enough for a round trip. Still, it’s always a good idea to know where you can stop.

In Tirupati City

• Before starting your journey, you’ll find several IOCL (Indian Oil), HPCL (Hindustan Petroleum), and BPCL (Bharat Petroleum) pumps across Tirupati.
  
• It’s better to fuel up here itself, since the stations are big, reliable, and usually have air filling and basic facilities.

On the Tirupati–Chittoor Highway

• The NH71 highway that connects Tirupati and Chittoor has multiple fuel stations at regular intervals.
  
• Most of these are IOCL, HPCL, BPCL, and Reliance petrol pumps.
  
• You’ll also find small local fuel stations in villages, but it’s best to stick to major branded pumps for quality fuel.

Near Chittoor City

• Chittoor is a big city on the route and has plenty of 24×7 petrol bunks.
  
• If you are running low on fuel, this is the best place to refill before heading towards Kanipakam, which is just 12 km away.

Near Kanipakam Temple

• Since Kanipakam is a small pilgrimage town, there are only a few small petrol stations near the temple area.
  
• It’s always safer to top up fuel either at Tirupati or Chittoor instead of depending on Kanipakam pumps.

Tirupati to Kanipakam Travel Tips

• Carry water bottles and light snacks; roadside options are limited.
  
• Book darshan tickets for Kanipakam Temple in advance during festival times.
  
• If traveling with elders, prefer cab/taxi for comfort.
  
• Try to start early in the morning from Tirupati so you can return by evening without rushing.

Also Read: Ringas to Khatu Shyam Distance – Complete Travel Guide (2025)

Conclusion

The journey from Tirupati to Kanipakam is not just about covering kilometers—it’s about experiencing spirituality at two sacred temples in Andhra Pradesh. Whether you take the road, bus, or cab, the trip is short, comfortable, and rewarding. With a little planning, you can enjoy darshan at both temples in a single day.

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