This was the sixth straight year I travelled to Tirupathi
and second time from Bangalore. My first four travels were from Chennai where I
did my engineering. During that time, I used to travel as I wish. Board a local
bus, try for a 50 rs ticket in Tirupathi bus stand. If not, go for a dharma
darshan. I was lucky enough to return the same evening all the time!!
When I got a job and moved to Bangalore, I thought I can try
for a package tour. Luckly I traveled through Greenline travels and the
experience was great!! So I decided to take the same route this time as well. I
went to the Greenline office in Jai Bharathi Nagar (Near Banaswadi, Mukunda
Theatre) and got the ticket for a Friday night (Total charge 1100). I was asked
to be at Indra Nagar petrol buck at 10 pm. Bus arrived half an hour late and I settled
in bus after ticket checking. Every passenger was provided with a half liter
water bottle and a good day biscuit small. Each one of us were provided with a small
blanket as well (I was surprised as this was not provided last time).
Bus reached Tirupathi around 3 in the morning and we were
directly taken to an accommodation owned by Greenline travels. We were given 15
mins time to refresh and get ready. Rooms were provided. Once done, breakfast
was served. Taste and quantity was good. No complaints.
Then we were asked to board the Devasthanam bus (compact and
good to take the bends in the hill way). No separate charge and this is
included in the package. Reached Thirumala around 5 in the morning, kept our mobile
in a shop (This will be our expense). We waited for the people who went for
tonture (This is again our expense. Actually it has to be free but those guys
will charge you 50).
Finally we were taken to the 300 rs queue (This amount will
be given by the guide as this is part of package). It took close to 5 hrs and
we came out at 1pm, then got the laddus (for extra laddus you can give the
money to the guide. You can collect when you come out).
Then downhill journey followed by lunch. Then set off to Bangalore
and drop points as you wish on the way. No much tiredness except the waiting
time in queue for Dharshan. The experience was good and I would recommend it
for everyone who plans for a Tirupathi tour, especially if it is a family trip.
Even the non AC bus was very good for a travel, with push back and it was a
brand new one.
Verdict: Value for Money
No comments:
Post a Comment