Prati Balaji Mandir (Pune) – Your Spiritual Mini?Tirupati

Follow us Now on Telegram ! Get daily 10 - 12 Interesting Updates. Join our Telegram Channel  https://t.me/OhWomen

Download Telegram App before Joining the Channel

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