Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanams (TTD), located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, is not only a major pilgrimage center but also the richest temple in the world. a manifestation of Vishnu, whose divine presence is said to have manifested here to alleviate humanity from the challenges and tribulations of Kali Yuga.
The wealth of TTD is staggering, with its financial reserves and assets making it a subject of awe and fascination.As of the fiscal year 2023-24, TTD’s cash reserves have soared to Rs 18,817 crore, a testament to the temple’s immense popularity and the devotion of its followers. The temple trust has been consistently increasing its fixed deposits, earning high revenue annually. In the fiscal year 2023-24 alone, TTD made record fixed deposits amounting to Rs 1,161 crore. This financial prudence has resulted in TTD’s cumulative fixed deposits standing at a whopping Rs 13,287.62 crore.
The temple’s gold reserves are equally impressive. In the same fiscal year, TTD received a staggering 1,031 kilograms of gold offerings, valued at approximately Rs 773 crore. These offerings come from the millions of devotees who visit the temple each year, some donating small amounts, while others give generously. With the latest contributions, the temple’s cumulative gold reserves have swelled to 11,329.67 kilograms. This gold is not just kept idle; it is deposited in banks under various schemes, ensuring that the temple’s wealth is not only preserved but also grows over time.

The financial figures of TTD are a reflection of the unceasing flow of offerings from devotees into the sacred ‘hundi’ or donation pot. On average, the temple receives Rs 1,600 crore in cash donations every year. After meeting all expenditures, the surplus amounts are invested in scheduled banks, which as of March 31, 2024, include fixed deposits of Rs 12,126.54 crore and trust funds amounting to Rs 4,670.84 crore. The total investments, including fixed deposits and donations received to various trusts, have reached Rs 18,817.13 crore.
TTD’s financial management is transparent and adheres to strict guidelines. Quotations are invited from scheduled banks with the highest credit ratings for gold deposits, and banks facing prompt corrective action by the RBI are not considered. This ensures that the temple’s assets are secure and yield the best possible returns.
The temple’s riches are not just in monetary terms. The spiritual wealth it offers to millions of devotees is immeasurable. People from all walks of life come to Tirupati to seek blessings, and the temple’s administration ensures that the experience is as enriching and smooth as possible. The temple’s wealth is used not only for the maintenance and development of the temple and its activities but also for various social welfare programs that benefit the community at large.
Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanams stands as a unique institution that blends spiritual fervor with financial acumen. Its vast reserves of gold and cash are a proof of the enduring faith of its devotees and the temple’s commitment to preserving and growing its assets responsibly. As the world’s richest temple, TTD is a shining example of how faith and finance can coexist harmoniously, creating a legacy that will last for generations to come.