Tirupati Airport

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Tirupati Airport (TIR). We recommend checking the accuracy of the data on the official airport website before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official page on the Airports Authority of India (AAI) portal: www.aai.aero/en/airports/tirupati
• Helpline Number: For general queries and flight information, you can call: +91-877-2275354.
• Airport Address: Tirupati Airport, Renigunta, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh - 517520, India.
• Email: For official enquiries, you can use the Airport Director's office email: apd_tirupati@aai.aero.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on social networks such as X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.
• Lost and Found: If your luggage was lost during the flight, please contact your airline's representative first. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, contact the airport administration via the general helpline.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance within the airport, please approach the information desks or use the general helpline number.

There are several ways to get to Tirupati Airport (TIR), which serves the holy city of Tirumala in India. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The airport is located in Renigunta, approximately 40 km from the Tirumala temple complex and 15 km from the city of Tirupati at the foothills.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly way is to use the APSRTC state transport corporation buses. Special buses, both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned, run between the airport and the central bus station in Tirupati city. If you are in Tirumala, you will first need to take a bus down to Tirupati and then transfer to a bus to the airport. This is a reliable but not the fastest option.

Taxi and Transfers. The most convenient and fastest method is to book a taxi or a private transfer. This allows you to travel directly from your hotel in Tirumala to the airport terminal without transfers. The journey from the temple town of Tirumala to the airport usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Prepaid taxi counters operate at the airport and in the city, helping to avoid overcharging. Popular ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber are also available.

Car Rental. If you plan to explore the region more freely, you can rent a car, typically with a driver. This option provides maximum flexibility but is the most expensive. Several local and national companies offer their services, which are best booked in advance, especially during the peak pilgrimage season.

Airport Parking. For those arriving in their own or rented vehicles, parking is provided at Tirupati Airport. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking at reasonable rates.

If you cannot find convenient flights to Tirupati, you may consider alternative air hubs. The nearest major hub is Chennai Airport (MAA), located approximately 98 km away. Other options in neighbouring cities include airports in Kadapa (CDP) at a distance of about 128 km and Pondicherry Airport (PNY). For a wider choice of international destinations, many travellers use Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) in Bengaluru, although it is located at a significantly greater distance.

Tirupati Airport (TIR) is a modern and compact aviation hub with a structure that is simple and intuitive for travellers. All passenger activity is concentrated in one integrated terminal, which was opened in 2015. It handles both domestic and international flights, replacing the old terminal which is now used for other purposes.

The airport layout is logical and will not cause difficulties. The terminal is a single spacious building. The ground level houses the departure and arrival zones. Upon entry, you find yourself in a general hall with several check-in counters. After obtaining a boarding pass, passengers proceed to the security screening area and then to the secure departure zone. The departure hall is equipped with aerobridges and exits to apron buses. The arrival zone is located in the same part of the building and includes baggage claim belts and customs control for international flights.

Since all operations are carried out under one roof, transfers between terminals are not required. This makes the airport particularly convenient for passengers with short connections or for first-time travellers. All navigation takes place within a single building, and signs in English and Hindi will help you find your way. In the secure departure zone, there are several shops, a small food court, and seating areas.

Check-in and screening procedures at Tirupati Airport are usually quite fast due to its small size. For domestic flights, you should allocate approximately 45-60 minutes for all formalities, although the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. For the few international flights, it is better to arrive 2.5-3 hours in advance. For quick navigation, follow the signs: "Departures" will lead you to the check-in counters, and "Arrivals" to the exit and taxi stands.

Tirupati Airport, located in the state of Andhra Pradesh in India, has a rich history closely linked to its status as the gateway to one of the most visited holy places in the world. The airport was established in 1976 and initially was a small airfield, serving mainly pilgrims heading to the sacred city of Tirumala.

A significant stage in the airport's development began in 1999, when the then Prime Minister of India laid the foundation stone for a new terminal building, runway, and apron. This marked the starting point for extensive modernisation. In subsequent years, the infrastructure continued to improve: in 2010, the runway was extended, allowing larger aircraft to be accommodated.

A key moment in the airport's history was 2012, when it was granted international status. This event significantly increased its prestige and opened new opportunities for attracting pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. The culmination of the modernisation was the opening in October 2015 of the new integrated terminal, known as "Garuda". This modern complex, capable of handling up to 700 passengers per hour, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.

Interesting fact: the name of the new terminal, "Garuda", refers to the mythical bird from Hinduism which is the vahana (mount) of Lord Vishnu, the presiding deity of the temple in Tirumala. This symbolic gesture highlights the airport's primary purpose—to serve as a convenient and modern transport hub for millions of devotees undertaking the pilgrimage annually.

Passengers waiting for their flight at Tirupati Airport can avail themselves of all necessary services for a comfortable journey. The terminal building houses cafes and small eateries where you can order local and international dishes, as well as refreshing drinks. Additionally, there are several shops selling souvenirs, newspapers, and travel essentials.

For those who value extra comfort, the airport provides a VIP Lounge with a quieter atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. Special counters and power outlets are equipped in the waiting halls for charging gadgets.

For financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange counters are installed at the airport. Travellers need not worry about their health: there is a medical centre in the terminal where first aid will be provided if necessary.

The airport takes care of passengers with special needs. Baby care rooms are equipped for families with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance in moving around the terminal, including wheelchairs. The building is fully equipped with ramps and special restrooms for easy access.

There are no hotels directly within the airport; however, a wide selection of hotels to suit any taste and budget can be found in the nearby city of Tirumala, which is the main destination for many travellers arriving in this region of India. There are no specialised business centres or conference halls in the terminal; for business events, it is recommended to use the infrastructure of city hotels.

Tirupati Airport (TIR), serving one of the world's most important pilgrimage centres, offers passengers dining options that deeply reflect local culinary and religious traditions. Although the choice here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, you will easily find a place to have a snack or a full meal, especially if you appreciate authentic South Indian cuisine.

The majority of catering establishments are concentrated in the public area before security control (landside). Here, a small food court and several cafes are located, accessible to both passengers and visitors seeing them off. This is the best place for a leisurely and filling lunch. After passing security (airside), in the departure zone, the choice is more limited and is represented mainly by small kiosks and snack bars where you can quickly have coffee, tea, or buy packaged snacks before boarding.

The main feature of the menu at Tirupati Airport is the almost complete dominance of strictly vegetarian dishes. This is due to the city's status as a holy place. Be sure to try the regional classics: crispy dosas (rice flour crepes), soft idlis (steamed cakes), savoury vadas (fried lentil doughnuts), and various types of rice. Many of these dishes are naturally vegan and gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for passengers with dietary restrictions.

It is important to note a few points regarding dietary preferences and restrictions. Due to the religious significance of Tirupati, there are no bars selling alcoholic beverages at the airport. Regarding Halal food: although there are no establishments with an official "Halal" certification here, the vast majority of dishes are vegetarian, making them suitable for Muslim travellers. Prices at the airport, especially in the public zone, are quite reasonable compared to other airports in India, allowing for a full meal at a moderate cost.

If you have time, it is best to eat at one of the restaurants in the public zone. For a quick bite before the flight, sandwiches, pastries, and packaged snacks from the cafes in the secure zone are suitable. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

Travelling through Tirupati Airport can be comfortable and simple if you prepare in advance. To ensure your experience is as positive as possible, use these useful tips, especially if you are flying to this region for the first time.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Tirupati Airport serves many pilgrims, so it can be crowded during peak seasons. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before a domestic flight and 3-4 hours before an international one. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your mobile device.

Security Checks. Be prepared for standard screening procedures. All electronics (laptops, tablets) must be placed in a separate tray from your hand luggage. Liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Due to Tirupati's special status as a pilgrimage centre, specific rules regarding the carriage of religious items may apply—please verify these with your airline.

Seat Selection. If you want to enjoy views of the Eastern Ghats foothills during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. For greater convenience and freedom of movement around the cabin, an aisle seat is better suited. Emergency exit seats offer more legroom but are usually available for an additional fee and are not accessible to all categories of passengers.

Connecting Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, check at the time of registration whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage at Tirupati Airport. Since there is only one terminal here, the transfer process is significantly simplified—you will not have to walk or transfer between different buildings. Simply follow the "Transfers" or "Connecting Flights" signs in the transit area to get to the required boarding gate.

Customs Control. For international flights, have your passport, visa, and completed immigration card ready. Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your trip and the duration of your stay in India. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, fill out the customs declaration in advance.

Saving Time and Money. To avoid inflated prices, bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security. It is better to book transfers from the airport in advance through official services or apps—this is often cheaper than hailing a taxi on the spot. Light hand luggage will help avoid excess baggage fees and save time waiting for it upon arrival.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately for information on further actions. Know your rights: depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with food, drinks, or even hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance will help compensate for unforeseen expenses.