Leopard spotted near Tirumala pilgrimage route, causes devotee concern

A leopard was spotted in proximity to the Alipiri footpath, one of the main trekking routes used by devotees ascending to the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh. The sighting triggered concern among pilgrims using the popular 11-kilometre walking trail, which draws thousands of visitors daily.

The incident has prompted heightened vigilance in the region, with authorities working to ensure the safety of temple visitors. Officials from the forest department have been deployed to conduct patrols along the footpath and monitor wildlife movement in the area.

The Tirumala temple, situated atop a forested hill range in the Eastern Ghats, lies within a region inhabited by leopards and other wildlife. Periodic animal sightings are not uncommon, though direct encounters with pilgrims remain rare. Authorities have advised trekkers to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines while using the footpath.

Temple officials have reiterated their commitment to maintaining safe passage for devotees while respecting the natural habitat of wildlife in the region. The forest department continues to monitor the situation and has urged visitors to remain alert and report any unusual animal activity to nearby authorities.