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Overview & Significance
Name & Location: Known as Prati Balaji Mandir or Mini Balaji Mandir, it's situated in Ketkawale (Narayanpur), about 45?km from Pune.
Deity: Lord Venkateshwara (Balaji), avatar of Vishnu, believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes—bringing spiritual solace closer to Pune.
History & Construction
Built 1996–2003: Funded by VH Group under Venkateshwara Charitable Trust at a cost of ?27?crore.
TTD Guidance: Temple was built with support from the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, closely replicating Tirupati’s architecture.
Architecture & Layout
Dravidian Style Replica: Impressive gopurams, stone-carved entrance, detailed pillars, and wooden interiors. Common materials (black stone, timber) sourced from Kanchipuram.
Spacious Grounds: Set against verdant Sahyadri hills, spread over 10 acres, with serene walkways and lush surroundings.
Timings & Ritual Schedule
Open Daily: 5:00?AM – 8:00?PM
Daily Rituals:
Suprabhatam: 5:00–5:30 AM
Morning Pooja: 6:30–8:15 AM
Afternoon Pooja: 10:00–11:15 AM
Evening Pooja: 6:00–7:15 PM
Shuddhi & Ekantseva: ~8:00 PM onwards
Special Friday Sevas:
Abhishekam: 7:30–8:00 AM
Unjal Seva: 5:00–5:45 PM (poolangi & netradarshan also on Thursdays/Fridays)
Festivals & Offerings
Celebrated Festivals: Rama Navami, Vijayadashami, Deepavali, Vaikunta Ekadashi, Pongal, Tamil New Year, Gudi Padwa, among others.
Prasadam & Meals: Laddoos like Tirupati, Annadanam, Pongal, and unlimited maha-prasadam; coupons available (?9?AM–3?PM).
How to Reach & Nearby
By Road: Reachable via Pune–Satara highway, past Katraj Tunnel. First bus/cab from Pune (45?km), then local transport.
Transport Tip: Cab or private vehicle preferred for flexibility and ease.
Nearby Attractions:
Baneshwar Temple (Nasrapur)
Narayanpur Datta Mandir
Purandar Fort, Panshet Dam—great options for a temple + nature day trip.
Best Visiting Time & Tips
Ideal Season: October–February or during monsoon (lush scenery)
Best Time of Day: Early morning (peaceful, green surroundings) or evening aarti.
Avoid Summer Midday: Hot weather may make visit uncomfortable.
Practical Tips
Entry: Free, but you can donate in Hundi (for temple upkeep).
Dress & Conduct: Modest/traditional attire preferred; barefoot on premises; photography/video not allowed inside.
Why Visit Prati Balaji?
Authentic Tirupati feel – rituals, architecture, prasadam parallel the original.
Scenic drive – lush route with streams and waterfalls.
Peaceful vibes – set in greenery amid hills; ideal for meditation.
Festive atmosphere – vibrant celebrations during major Hindu festivals.
“On a regular weekend the visit inside the temple should not take more than half an hour … reserve at least 5?6?hrs … far away from Tirupati.”
Source : Oh Women
