The area around Tirupati has several worthwhile sites that pilgrims often visit before or after Tirumala.
Sri Kalahasti, 36 km east, is one of the five major Shaivite Pancha Bhuta Sthala temples — representing the element of air. The temple is set in a dramatic gorge, the icon is naturally ventilated by a hollow in the rock, and it is also one of the most important Rahu-Ketu sthalams in India.
Chandragiri, 15 km west of Tirupati, was the last capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. The Raja Mahal palace inside the fort houses a small archaeology museum; the views over the surrounding hills are excellent.
Sri Venkateswara National Park covers the forested hills around Tirumala. Talakona waterfall, the tallest in Andhra Pradesh at 270 feet, is the most-visited part. Trekking permits are required from the forest department.
Tiruchanur, 5 km south of Tirupati, has the Padmavati Temple — dedicated to Venkateswara's consort. Most pilgrims visit before going up to Tirumala, as local tradition holds that worship at Tirumala is incomplete without honouring the goddess at Tiruchanur first.