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Located around 45 km from Pune, Prati Balaji Mandir is a replica of the renowned Tirupati Balaji Temple situated in Andhra Pradesh. Also known as Mini Balaji Mandir, this temple is a beautiful getaway for devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Venkateswara. Nestled amidst verdant hills and valleys, a visit to Prati Balaji Pune allows you to connect spiritually and admire breathtaking views.
History and Significance
Prati Balaji Mandir has been constructed under the guidance of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam Trust. It took around 7 years from 1996 to 2003 to fully build this temple. All the materials like black stone, wood, and other commodities were brought from Kanchipuram to give an authentic look. The main idol of Lord Balaji has been carved out of high-quality wood and painted with a coat of gray oil paint.
The temple premises and interior walls depict beautiful carvings that resemble the Tirupati Venkateshwara Temple. From the entrance gate built with stone to the wooden interiors, intricate designs and patterns ornament most structures. The peaceful surroundings and pollution-free environment further elevate the spiritual ambiance of the temple.
Temple Timings, Rituals and Festivals
Prati Balaji Temple remains open from 5 AM to 8 PM every day of the week. The rituals and routines performed here are similar to the Tirupati Temple.
Some of the significant rituals include:
Suprabhatam: Performed at 5 AM in the morning every day
Morning Pooja: 6:30 AM
Afternoon Pooja: 10 AM
Evening Pooja: 6 PM
Shuddhi and Ekant Seva: 8 PM onwards
Special Abhishekam takes place from 7:30 AM to 8 AM every Friday. Unjal Seva is also performed from 5 PM to 5:45 PM on Fridays.
Many Indian festivals like Vijaya Dashami, Deepavali, Tamil New Year, etc. are celebrated with great fervor at Prati Balaji Pune. The temple is adorned with attractive decorations on such occasions.
Also read - Prati Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Shirgaon Pune
Sevas and Facilities
Prati Balaji Temple provides opportunities for devotees to offer different Sevas. Some popular Sevas include:
Annadanam (donating food)
Offering sweets and Pongal
Participating in the free Maha Prasadam meals
Devotees can also buy Maha Prasadam coupons priced affordably between 9 AM to 3 PM. There are no entry fees to visit the temple or attend the arti rituals.
How to Reach
Prati Balaji Mandir is easily accessible from Pune via buses, trains, cabs or personal vehicles.
Here are the directions:
By Bus: Frequent bus services from Pune Swargate Bus stop will take you directly to Prati Balaji Temple.
By Cab: Hiring a cab for a full-day Pune darshan is a convenient option to include the temple visit. It hardly takes an hour to reach by road.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pune Junction located around 45 km away. You can hire a taxi or board a bus to the temple.
By Flight: Pune Airport is 55 km away. Taxis and cabs are easily available for onward journeys.
The best time to visit is early mornings during monsoons when the lush greenery soothes the eyes and soul. With fewer crowds, you can also have a quicker darshan and return by afternoon.
Places to Visit Nearby
While visiting Prati Balaji Pune, you can also explore famous tourist attractions in the vicinity:
Panshet Dam: An ideal picnic and adventure spot offering thrilling watersports
Pawna Lake: Scenic artificial lake where you can camp and trek
Lavasa: India's first planned hill city constructed beautifully styled as an Italian town
Tamhini Ghat: Site for trekking and sightseeing known for breathtaking mountain views
Mulshi Dam: Surrounded by the Sahyadri hills, this earth dam has gorgeous vistas
Make the most of your spiritual journey by admiring these natural sites near the Prati Balaji Temple.
So take the opportunity to receive Lord Venkateshwara's blessings at this spectacular temple in Pune for a soul-stirring experience. Plan your visit today!