Akasa Ganga Tirumala
Akasa Ganga is a popular water falls which lies at the bottom of the holy Tirumala Hills. Whoever visits Tirumala for having the darshan of Lord Venkateshwara, must have to necessarily visit this waterfall which provides water for the Lord’s holy bath. This sacred water falls was mentioned even in the Vedas, and it is believed that the waterfalls were formed from the holy lotus feet of Lord Venkateshwara. Ancient priests of the Venkateswaratemple used to carry water from the Akasa Ganga to the temple in the early morninghours. This custom is still practiced but only during important festivals. At present water lines were created into the temple, in order to carry water from the Akasa Ganga.
Devotees used to visit the holy Akasa Ganga with the belief that their sins would be washed away whenever they take bath in this holy water. Devotees are advised to visit this water falls during winter season, since heavy water flow would be there during that time in the Akasa Ganga.
This water falls is situated just a few kilometres far away from the Holy Tirumala Temple, and this place is considered to be one of the popular places to visit.
Childless couples are advised to take bath in this water falls, in order to give birth to good children.
Cab facility is available to this place from the Tirumala temple, and by using the facility, we could reach Akash Ganga within 10 minutes.
Pilgrims are allowed to visit this water falls from 9 AM to 6 PM.
Ancient Alvar Saints are believed to have visited this place, and they have also sung about the significance of Akasa Ganga along with other devotional songs on Lord Venkateswara. The great Madhwa Saint Sri Vyasaraja while serving as a priest in Tirumala, used to frequently visit this water falls, in order to take a holy tip.
Akasa Ganga as the name implies, is considered similar to the holy Ganges, and hence those who take bath in Akasa Ganga would attain good prospects in their life, and all of their diseases would be cured.
“OM SRI VENKATESWARAYA NAMAHA”
WRITTEN BY
R.HARISHANKAR