Tirumala Trek: Youth Dies of Heart Attack on Way to Temple
A young man suffered a fatal heart attack while trekking the Tirumala footpath. Emergency response followed. Family urges health checks for pilgrims. Tirumala Youth Dies of Heart Attack
Tirumala Health Incident, Youth Heart Attack Trek, Tirumala Safety Alert, TTD Emergency Response, Tirupati Footpath Incident
Tirumala Youth Dies of Heart Attack While Trekking Up Hill
A young man tragically lost his life to a sudden heart attack while trekking the mettu (footpath) route to Tirumala temple. The incident has raised concerns around pilgrim health and emergency readiness.
What Happened?
- The youth reportedly collapsed due to a heart attack on Saturday, along the Tirumala footpath (mettu margam) on his way to Sri Venkateswara Swamy Darshan
- Despite immediate medical aid, he could not be revived and passed away before reaching hospital.
Emergency Response
- TTD vigilance and security staff responded quickly and rushed him to Ashwini Hospital in Tirumala.
- The condition was critical upon arrival and unfortunately, he succumbed before further care could be provided.
Incident Context
- Similar cases have occurred in the past. A 53-year-old Telangana devotee also suffered a cardiac arrest while climbing the Srivari Mettu route; he collapsed near the 200th step and later died in a nearby hospital
- These incidents highlight the physical demands of the hike and the need for health preparedness, especially for older pilgrims or those with existing health issues.
Advisory for Devotees & Pilgrims
TTD suggests the following precautions for everyone planning to trek the footpath:
- Consult a doctor before the trek if you have heart or respiratory conditions
- Avoid rushing, take breaks at intervals
- Stay hydrated with water and light fluids
- Make use of first-aid stations and medical teams positioned along the route
- Inform accompanying family members about any discomfort or symptoms
FAQs – Pilgrim Health & Trek Safety
Q: Is trekking the mettu route safe?
A: The route is safe for healthy individuals, but those with health issues should proceed with caution and medical clearance.
Q: Are medical facilities available along the footpath?
A: Yes. TTD has strategically placed medical camps, ambulances, and first-aid teams along the route.
Q: Who should avoid the trek?
A: Elderly individuals, pregnant women, or those with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions should consider alternate routes like the ropeway or Governor’s Entry.
Editor’s Note — Tirumala Update, April 2026
As of April 2026, Tirumala continues to be among the world’s busiest pilgrimage destinations, with daily pilgrim footfall typically ranging between 60,000 and 90,000 on ordinary weekdays and climbing well past 1 lakh on weekends, school holidays, and festival periods. Sarva Darshan (free) queue wait times have generally hovered between 8 and 24 hours depending on the day, while Special Entry Darshan (SED) slots continue to move considerably faster. The TTD Board, under the Government of Andhra Pradesh, continues to review operational policies, tender processes, and temple administration matters periodically.
- For latest official announcements and press releases, refer to news.tirumala.org.
- For booking and pilgrim services, always verify on tirumala.org before travel.
Pilgrims are advised to plan extra buffer time during peak seasons.
Last reviewed: April 22, 2026
Sir I am great follower of Lord Govinda,
Sri Venkatramana Govinda Govindaaaa….
Sri Venkatramana Govinda Govindaaaa….
RIP