Over 5 Million Devotees Utilize TTD Luggage Deposit Service in Recent Months
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams reported that over 5.13 million pilgrims utilized their free luggage deposit service during April and May 2026. The administration uses advanced QR and facial recognition technology across 65 counters to ensure secure and efficient management of devotee belongings.
Highlights
- •Over 5.13 million pilgrims utilized TTD's free luggage storage during April and May 2026.
- •The service operates via 65 counters managed by 345 staff members across three shifts.
- •Advanced QR-code and facial recognition technology ensures luggage is retrieved within one minute.
- •Dedicated facilities are available for senior citizens and pilgrims with disabilities at multiple locations.
The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has witnessed a significant surge in the utilization of its luggage deposit service, reflecting the massive influx of pilgrims visiting the holy site. During the months of April and May 2026, over 5.13 million devotees successfully deposited and subsequently retrieved their belongings through these dedicated facilities, underscoring the vital role these services play in managing pilgrim logistics.
According to official data released by the TTD, the total number of individuals who availed themselves of this amenity reached 5,138,976. Breaking down the figures, April 2026 saw 2,315,279 users, which is a notable increase from the 2,075,481 recorded in April 2025. This upward trajectory continued into May 2026, which recorded 2,823,697 deposits compared to 2,382,622 in the same month of the previous year. These statistics demonstrate a robust growth in demand for safe storage solutions as more devotees undertake their spiritual journey.
Infrastructure and Operational Efficiency
To cater to the high volume of visitors, the TTD has established an extensive network of luggage deposit service counters strategically located across Tirumala and along the popular pedestrian pathways. Currently, the administration operates 65 distinct counters, managed by a workforce of 345 staff members organized into three shifts to ensure 24/7 service availability. The efficiency of these operations is highlighted by the fact that over 341,742 devotees successfully utilized these free facilities within the last three days alone.
The infrastructure is specifically designed to support pilgrims arriving via the Alipiri and Srivari Mettu pathways. The Alipiri center features five counters with a massive capacity for 10,194 deposits, while the Srivari Mettu location offers two counters capable of handling 3,025 deposits. Furthermore, the TTD has integrated advanced technology into the process. Each item deposited is tracked using a QR-code-based system, supplemented by facial recognition to ensure security and swift retrieval. Once a receipt is issued, pilgrims can typically retrieve their belongings in less than a minute.
Comprehensive Deposit Facilities
Beyond the primary entry points, comprehensive storage options have been implemented in key areas throughout the hill shrine. This includes the Vaikuntam Queue Complex, the Narayanagiri Shed, and the DD Hall, among others. Special arrangements remain in place to assist senior citizens and persons with disabilities, ensuring that the pilgrimage experience is inclusive and accessible to all. The administration continues to urge all visitors to use only the authorized deposit centers for their bags and mobile devices to maintain order and security throughout their visit to Tirumala.
