If you’re ready for a break from the traffic and crowds of exciting Hyderabad, take a bus out to this ancient temple in the village of Chilkur, west of the city. Chilkur Balaji Temple is surrounded by trees and borders the peaceful lake Osman Sagar. The temple and its village offer a meditative place to rest and enjoy the natural environment of southern India. Built more than 500 years ago, the temple is one of the oldest religious sites in the Andhra Pradesh region.
Vendors sell goods such as homemade food and small pieces of jewellery at the entrance. Haggle for a bargain or continue through the crowds to the haven of the inner sanctum. The temple is quietest in the mornings.
The entrance is decorated with bright shades of pink, yellow and blue. Once you’ve slipped off your shoes you can go inside. Stop to look around and appreciate the simple but beautiful interior.
Chilkur Balaji Temple was built 500 years ago to honour Lord Balaji. The inner sanctum houses a shrine to the deity, who is said to help in times of misfortune. Watch as devotees of the temple perform a ritual where they walk in a circle 11 times and make a prayer. If their wish is granted they must circle the inner sanctum 108 times.
The temple also houses shrines to the god of visas. See business professionals and families who come to ask for blessings to go abroad. Chilkur Balaji doesn’t accept offerings, unlike many temples in India.
Explore the pretty town of Chilkur. Buy jewellery and leather accessories from shops around the village. Find a viewing spot along the banks of Osman Sagar and watch the sun go down over the water.Chilkur and the Chilkur Balaji Temple lie 25 kilometres (15 miles) west of Hyderabad. Come by bus from the centre of the city. While here visit the picturesque Mrugavani National Park, northeast of the village.
The temple is open every day. It’s free to enter.
