|
In the 1980s, during
excavations for a geological fault in the Tirumala hills, geologists
found this rare geological formation of the rock arch which has two
dissimilar sets of rocks with a connecting thin link. The assessed
geological age of the rock arch is 2.5 billion years. Formation of the
arch is attributed to intensified weathering and erosion of stream
action that has withstood the torque of nature.[
The best time to visit the
arch is between 6.00 AM and 8.00 AM, fog permitting. There is a well
maintained garden in front of the arch should visitors wish to rest or
wait until fog clears. Sunset is also a good time to visit, as the Arch
looks even more striking and mystifying in the light of the setting sun.
Seen in the light of a full moon the Arch is said to be “ethereally
beautiful.”
How to
reach
The location of the Arch is well connected by road, rail and air routes.
The nearest railhead to Tirumala hills is Tirupati. From Tirupati
railway station the approach to the Tirumal temple is only by road, a
distance of 19 km (11.8 mi). The nearest airport is located at
Tirupati Airport, (IATA:
TIR, ICAO: VOTP) also known as
Renigunta Airport, is
located at Renigunta in Chittoor district. The airport is 14 km from Tirupati city.
The approach road from the temple is wide and is an avenue of trees.
Private vehicles are allowed to the location. A 20-minute walk from the
Varahaswamy Temple in Tirumala would be a pleasant experience.
|
