If witnessing Lord Venkateswara adorned with fragrant floral garlands in the predawn silence of Tirumala is on your spiritual bucket list, Thomala Seva is the experience you must not miss. But with limited tickets, an early 3:30 AM timing, and a monthly lucky dip system, getting a Thomala Seva ticket requires planning, patience, and the right information.
What Is Thomala Seva?
The word “Thomala” literally means a garland of flowers. Thomala Seva is one of the most sacred Arjitha Sevas (paid devotional services) performed at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala, managed by the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
This seva is conducted after the Suprabhatam Seva — the morning wake-up ritual for Lord Venkateswara. Once the Lord is ceremonially awakened from His divine slumber, the Thomala Seva begins: the Pradhana Archaka (chief priest) adorns the Mula Virat (main deity) and other sacred idols inside the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) with exquisitely prepared garlands of fresh flowers and Tulasi leaves.
Known as “Thodutha Malai” in Tamil, the flower garlands are brought from Yamunathurai by the Periya Jiyar — the chief pontiff of Tirumala temple — in a traditional procession to the rhythmic beat of Jeganta (handy bells), with a lighted torch. The garlands are fashioned into several pieces, each sized to adorn a specific part of the Lord’s divine form, enhancing His beauty in a spectacular manner.
The seva lasts approximately 30 minutes and offers devotees a rare, up-close darshan of the beautifully decorated deity in the most peaceful hours of the morning.
Why Is Thomala Seva So Special?
Thomala Seva is not just a ritual — it is a deeply personal spiritual experience. Here’s why thousands of devotees from across India and the world apply every month:
- Exclusive Access: Only a limited number of devotees (80–100 per day) are permitted inside the sanctum during this seva, making it an incredibly intimate experience.
- Rare Predawn Darshan: Taking place at 3:30 AM, this is among the earliest and most serene rituals of the day — far removed from the crowds of regular darshan hours.
- Divine Flower Decoration: Witnessing the Lord adorned in fresh, aromatic garlands is considered a spiritually transformative experience by devotees.
- Prasadam Blessing: Participants receive two small laddus as prasadam after the seva.
Thomala Seva Timings
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Seva Timing | 3:30 AM – 4:00 AM |
| Days Available | Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday only |
| Reporting Time | By 2:30 AM at VQC-I (one hour before seva) |
| Reporting Location | Vaikuntham Queue Complex I (VQC-I) |
| Duration | Approximately 30 minutes |
Important: Tickets for Thomala Seva are not available on Mondays for the months of May, June, and July.
Thomala Seva Ticket Price
The ticket price for Thomala Seva is ₹220 per person. Only one person per ticket is allowed inside.
This nominal charge covers your participation in the seva and includes two small laddus as prasadam. There are no additional or hidden charges.
Thomala Seva Ticket Availability: How It Works
Thomala Seva tickets are not freely available — they are distributed through a monthly Electronic Lucky Dip (ELD) system. Here’s how the quota system works:
- Total 80 to 100 participants are allowed per day for the morning Arjitha Seva. Tickets are issued 10 in online booking and 10 at current booking at TTD service centers.
- Remaining tickets are transferred to random allotment at the TTD CRO office counter.
- Online registrations open at 11:00 AM IST on the first Friday of every month. The selected list is released on the second Tuesday at 12:00 PM following the first Friday.
- Registered devotees receive an SMS alert on their mobile number if they are selected.
This lottery-based system ensures fair distribution among the large number of applicants. Due to extremely high demand, many devotees may need to apply multiple months before getting selected.
How to Book Thomala Seva Online: Step-by-Step Guide
Booking Thomala Seva online is done through the official TTD booking portal. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Visit the Official TTD Portal
Go to the official TTD booking website: https://ttdevasthanams.ap.gov.in
⚠️ Warning: Avoid third-party booking websites. Only use the official TTD portal to avoid fraud and overcharging.
Step 2: Register or Log In
- If you are a new user, register using your Indian mobile number and OTP verification.
- Existing users can directly log in with their credentials.
Step 3: Navigate to Seva Electronic Dip
- Once logged in, go to “Pilgrim Services” from the main menu.
- Select “Seva Electronic Dip” (this is the lucky dip registration for Arjitha Sevas including Thomala).
Step 4: Read and Accept Instructions
- A set of instructions will appear on the screen.
- Tick the checkbox to agree to the terms and conditions, then click “Continue”.
Step 5: Fill in Devotee Details
Enter the following required information:
- Pilgrim’s full name (as per Aadhaar card)
- Aadhaar number
- Registered mobile number
- Pilgrimage/visit details
Note: Only one pilgrim per registration is allowed for Thomala Seva.
Step 6: Select Seva and Preferred Dates
- Choose Thomala Seva from the list of available sevas.
- Select your preferred dates (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday only).
- You can select multiple available dates to increase your chances in the lucky dip.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
- Review all details carefully.
- Click “Apply” to submit your lucky dip registration.
Step 8: Wait for Lucky Dip Results
- Results are announced on the second Tuesday at 12:00 PM after the first Friday of each month.
- If selected, you will receive an SMS notification on your registered mobile number with booking confirmation details.
- Proceed to pay ₹220 per ticket once confirmed.
Offline Booking: CRO Counter Option
If online booking doesn’t work out, you can try the offline route at the Central Reservation Office (CRO) in Tirumala:
Pilgrims have to go to the CRO office in Tirumala, situated opposite the Tirumala Bus Station. At the CRO office, next to the Vijaya Bank counter, pilgrims can sign up for the lucky draw from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. A random number is chosen at 6:00 PM to announce the lucky dip results, and the registered mobile number will be notified by SMS if selected.
Additionally, leftover advance booking tickets are made available at the Arjitham Counter at the CRO office on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays on a first-come, first-served basis.
Eligibility & Rules for Thomala Seva
Before you apply or attend, make sure you are aware of the following important rules:
Dress Code (Strictly Enforced)
- Men: Must wear a traditional dhoti (wrapped around the waist) and an uttariya (cloth draped over the shoulder). Western clothing such as trousers, shirts, or shorts is not permitted.
- Women: Must wear a saree or salwar kameez (traditional Indian attire). Western dress is not allowed.
Other Important Rules
- Only one person per ticket — couples cannot enter on a single ticket.
- Electronic devices including mobile phones and cameras are strictly prohibited inside the sanctum.
- Devotees must report at VQC-I by 2:30 AM — late arrivals may forfeit their slot.
- Bring a printout or digital copy of your booking confirmation.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.
- The Aadhaar card used during registration must be carried for verification.
Thomala Seva vs Other Arjitha Sevas: Quick Comparison
| Seva | Timing | Days Available | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thomala Seva | 3:30 AM – 4:00 AM | Tue, Wed, Thu | ₹220 |
| Suprabhatam Seva | 3:00 AM – 3:30 AM | Daily | ₹500 |
| Archana Seva | 4:15 AM – 5:00 AM | Daily | ₹120 |
| Thomala Seva (Evening) | Varies | Daily | ₹220 |
| Kalyanam (Celestial Wedding) | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Daily | Varies |
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Thomala Seva Tickets
Getting a Thomala Seva ticket through the lucky dip is competitive. Here are some proven tips to maximise your chances:
1. Apply Every Month Without Fail The lucky dip opens on the first Friday of every month. Set a reminder and log in at exactly 11:00 AM IST — slots fill up extremely fast.
2. Select Multiple Dates When registering, choose as many available Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday dates as possible to increase your chances of being selected in the lucky dip.
3. Follow TTD on Social Media Quota release dates and special announcements are often shared on TTD’s official Facebook and other social media handles before being updated on the website.
4. Try the CRO Counter If you are already at Tirumala, visit the CRO office for any leftover tickets that become available at the counter on a daily basis.
5. Check for Cancellations Sometimes confirmed bookings are cancelled. Regularly check the official TTD portal for any newly available slots.
What to Expect on the Day of Thomala Seva
Here’s a brief walkthrough of what your Thomala Seva morning will look like:
- By 2:30 AM: Report at Vaikuntham Queue Complex I (VQC-I) with your booking confirmation and Aadhaar card.
- ~3:00 AM: TTD staff will verify your ticket and identity documents. Deposit all electronic devices at the designated counter.
- ~3:10 AM: Enter the queue and proceed toward the temple under the guidance of temple staff.
- 3:30 AM: Thomala Seva begins. The Pradhana Archaka performs the flower decoration of the Mula Virat with garlands. Devotees have a close, unobstructed view inside the Garbhagriha.
- ~4:00 AM: Seva concludes. Devotees receive two small laddus as prasadam and are guided out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Thomala Seva? A: Thomala Seva is a sacred floral offering ritual at Tirumala’s Sri Venkateswara Temple where Lord Venkateswara is adorned with fresh flower garlands after the morning Suprabhatam Seva.
Q: How can I book Thomala Seva online? A: Visit the official TTD portal at https://ttdevasthanams.ap.gov.in, log in, go to Pilgrim Services → Seva Electronic Dip, and register for the monthly lucky dip.
Q: What is the ticket price for Thomala Seva? A: The ticket price is ₹220 per person.
Q: On which days is Thomala Seva performed? A: Thomala Seva is performed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays only.
Q: What time does Thomala Seva start? A: Thomala Seva begins at 3:30 AM. Devotees must report by 2:30 AM at VQC-I.
Q: Is Thomala Seva booking available offline? A: Yes, limited tickets are available at the CRO counter in Tirumala, but online booking via the TTD portal is the primary and most recommended method.
Q: Can a couple book tickets together for Thomala Seva? A: No. Only one person per ticket is permitted. Each individual must have a separate ticket.
Q: How many tickets are available each day for Thomala Seva? A: Between 80–100 participants are allowed per morning session. Of these, 10 tickets are allocated online, 10 at service counters, and the rest through lucky dip allotment at the CRO.
Q: What prasadam is given after Thomala Seva? A: Participants receive two small laddus as blessed prasadam.
Q: Are mobile phones allowed during Thomala Seva? A: No. All electronic devices including mobile phones and cameras are strictly prohibited inside the sanctum.
Final Thoughts
Thomala Seva is among the most spiritually profound experiences Tirumala has to offer. The rare combination of an early morning predawn atmosphere, the fragrance of fresh flowers, and an intimate darshan of Lord Venkateswara at His most beautiful makes it an unforgettable moment for any devotee.
While the monthly lucky dip system requires patience, the reward is immeasurable. Apply every month through the official TTD portal, follow the dress code and reporting rules diligently, and your turn will come.
May Lord Venkateswara’s blessings guide your journey to Tirumala.
Govinda! Govinda! Govinda! 🙏