Birla Mandir Hyderabad is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, also known as Lord Balaji or Lord Tirupati. The temple is located on a hilltop called Naubath Pahad, which offers a splendid view of the city and the Hussain Sagar Lake. The temple is built with white marble and showcases a blend of different styles of architecture. If you are looking for a serene and spiritual place to visit in Hyderabad, Birla Mandir is a perfect choice. Visit during Hyderabad Local Sightseeing by cab. Here are some details you need to know before visiting the temple:
Location of Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir Hyderabad is situated on Hill Fort Road, near Lakdi-ka-pul and Assembly metro stations. The temple is about 9 km from Hussain Sagar Lake and 11 km from Nampally railway station. The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, which is about 22 km away.
Timing/Entry Fees Birla Mandir
The temple is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM every day, except on Fridays. The entry to the temple is free of cost. However, you have to pay a nominal fee of Rs. 25 for a still camera and Rs. 130 for a video camera if you want to capture the beauty of the temple.
How to Reach Birla Mandir
There are various modes of transport available to reach Birla Mandir Hyderabad from different parts of the city. You can take a bus, an auto-rickshaw, a taxi, or a metro to reach the temple. Some of the bus numbers that go to Birla Mandir are 5K, 5S, 5, 80A, and 251M. You can also take a metro to Lakdi-ka-pul or Assembly stations and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the temple.
Alternatively, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car or a bike to reach the temple. There is enough parking space available near the temple entrance.
Things to Do in Birla Mandir
There are many things to do and see at Birla Mandir Hyderabad. You can admire the architecture of the temple, which reflects the influences of Dravidian, Rajasthani, and Utkala styles. You can also see the carvings and paintings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology on the walls and ceilings of the temple.
The main attraction of the temple is the idol of Lord Venkateshwara, which is about 11 feet tall and made of granite stone. The idol is adorned with a carved lotus canopy above it. You can also visit the shrines of other deities such as Padmavati, Andal, Shiva, Shakti, Ganesh, Hanuman, Brahma, Saraswati, and Lakshmi inside the temple complex.
You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the lake from the top of the hill. You can also watch the light and sound show at the temple in the evening, which narrates the history and culture of Hyderabad through colorful lights and music.
Must See near Birla Mandir
Some of the must-see attractions near Birla Mandir Hyderabad are:
- The Hussain Sagar Lake, which is a large artificial lake that connects Hyderabad and Secunderabad. You can enjoy boating, water sports, or visit the Buddha statue in the middle of the lake.
- The NTR Gardens, which is a public park that has various attractions such as a Japanese garden, a toy train, a water fountain, and a memorial of N.T. Rama Rao.
- The Lumbini Park, which is another public park that has a musical fountain, laser show, boating facilities, and a floral clock.
- The B.M. Birla Science Museum, which is an educational and recreational center that has exhibits on science, technology, archaeology, art, and astronomy.
Significance of Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir Hyderabad is a significant religious and cultural site in Hyderabad. It was built by Birla Foundation in 1976 and inaugurated by Swami Ranganathananda of Ramakrishna Mission. The temple is open to all people irrespective of their caste or creed.
The temple is also a symbol of peace and harmony as it has a Buddha temple inside its premises along with Hindu temples. The Buddha temple has paintings depicting his life and teachings.
The temple is also known for its association with the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond, which was once part of the Qutb Shahi treasury and was later taken by the Mughals and the British. The temple has a replica of the diamond on display.
FAQ’s
How much time does it take to visit Birla Mandir Hyderabad?
It takes about 1 to 2 hours to visit Birla Mandir Hyderabad, depending on your interest and pace. You can also spend more time if you want to watch the light and sound show or visit the nearby attractions.
Is there any guide service available at Birla Mandir Hyderabad?
Yes, there are guides available at the temple entrance who charge Rs. 300 to Rs. 500 for a guided tour of the temple. You can also use audio guides, which are available in English, Hindi, Telugu, and Urdu languages for Rs. 60 per person.
Is there any food or water facility available at Birla Mandir Hyderabad?
Yes, there are food stalls and water coolers available at the temple premises. You can also find restaurants and cafes near the temple entrance.
Is there any dress code or restriction at Birla Mandir Hyderabad?
No, there is no dress code or restriction at Birla Mandir Hyderabad. However, it is advisable to wear modest and comfortable clothes and shoes as you have to walk a lot and climb stairs. You should also carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Is photography allowed at Birla Mandir Hyderabad?
Yes, photography is allowed at Birla Mandir Hyderabad. However, you have to pay an extra fee of Rs. 25 for a still camera and Rs. 130 for a video camera.
Conclusion
Birla Mandir Hyderabad is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who loves spirituality, architecture, and nature. It is a place where you can feel the divine presence of Lord Venkateshwara and other deities and experience the peace and harmony of different faiths. It is also a place where you can enjoy the beauty and charm of Hyderabad and its surroundings. Birla Mandir Hyderabad is a place that will fill you with joy and gratitude.
