Vakulamatha Temple, Perur (Peruru): Cab from Tirupati

Who is Vakula Devi

Vakulamatha, or Vakula Devi, is regarded in tradition as the foster mother of Lord Venkateswara. The story goes back to the Dvapara Yuga, when Yashoda, the foster mother of Krishna, longed to witness his wedding. Krishna promised her that she would see it in the Kali Yuga. In that age Vishnu appears as Venkateswara and Yashoda is born again as Vakula Devi, who helps arrange the marriage of the Lord with Goddess Padmavathi, daughter of King Akasa Raja. In this way her wish is fulfilled.

For this reason, the Vakulamatha temple at Perur (also written Peruru) is dear to devotees who regard her as a motherly presence. People who plan to visit the Venkateswara temple at Tirumala often come here first to pay their respects, and some devotees believe that she is remembered first when offerings are made. This is a matter of devotional tradition.

The temple and its history

The temple stands in the village of Perur on a small hillock known as Peruru Banda, a short distance from Tirupati town. It is said to be around 300 years old, though accounts differ and the exact founding date is debated. Sources describe the temple as having fallen into decline after raids in the 18th century, including those linked to Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, and some visitors report that the original idol is no longer present.

Restoration work began in 2011 and continued over a decade, after which the shrine was reopened and today draws steady numbers of pilgrims. The temple is traditionally described as facing the seven hills of Tirumala, which adds to its meaning for devotees. The building is modest in scale compared with the major Tirupati temples, but the setting is peaceful and the newly renovated structure is clean and neat.

What to expect on a visit

Expect a short, quiet visit. Devotees offer prayers at the sanctum, walk around the shrine and enjoy the view across the plains towards the hills. Early morning is the calmest period; Fridays and festival days are busier. Because daily seva times vary, ask at the temple on arrival about the programme.

A trip to the Vakulamatha temple at Perur from Tirupati can be tied together with Sreenivasa Mangapuram, Chandragiri, Padmavathi temple at Tiruchanur and Govindarajaswami temple in Tirupati town. Together they make a relaxed local-temples morning that avoids the long ghat road. See our related pages to build the plan.

How the trip works with a cab from Tirupati

Perur is about 8 km from Tirupati by road according to the district portal, though some sites say 5 km depending on where you start. A cab from Tirupati to Vakulamatha takes roughly 20 to 25 minutes. The road is a regular paved route, so any vehicle can manage it. Our drivers can wait while you complete your visit and then continue to your next stop.

We are a taxi and tour-vehicle service only. We do not arrange temple entry, tickets or queue access. Anything inside the temple, including seva participation, is handled by you directly with the temple and TTD. Please check current rules before you go.

Practical tips

Because this is a smaller temple, facilities such as parking and drinking water are basic compared with the large Tirupati temples. Arrive with what you need, and tell your driver beforehand if a family member has difficulty climbing steps, so that the vehicle can be positioned as close as the access road allows.

Wear traditional or modest clothes, remove footwear before entering, and keep phones on silent. Carry water, particularly in summer, as the hillock has little shade. If you are travelling with elderly relatives, ask the driver to stop close to the entrance to reduce walking.

A sedan is enough for most families; choose an SUV or tempo traveller for groups of five or more. Timings differ between sources, so confirm locally on the day.

Taxi cost by vehicle

Frequently asked questions

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