Temples in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, one of the oldest cities in India, has always been a fascinating place to be at. From its beautiful monuments that are as old as 400 years, to its thriving culture, the City of Pearls has always been on top of the travel list for many. Unparalleled nature reserves, alluring mosques and famous temples in Hyderabad make it one of the most interesting cities in India. Situated on the banks of Musi river, the city nourishes a charming union of the traditional and modern… It is amazing to see how the alleyways of the old city are juxtaposed with the cosmopolitan new city. While Hyderabad has been ruled by Nizams for a long period of time, there are few amazingly beautiful temples that one must visit when in the city.

1. Sri Gnana Saraswati Temple

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, also known as the goddess of knowledge. Notably, it is one of the oldest Saraswati temples in India. Located on the banks of Godavari river, pilgrims throng the temple especially during the festival of Vasant Panchami. Akshar Abhyasam, a ritual that initiates the formal introduction of the child to the world of education, is performed here.

2. Jagannath Temple

Situated on Banjara Hills, Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. One of the top temples in Hyderabad, this shrine has received a lot of fame because of its exact resemblance to the main temple in Puri. Built by the Oria community in 2009, this temple is spread across an area of 3000 square yards. Notably, it was built using 600 kg of sandstone that was brought from Orissa.

3. Birla Mandir

Built in the 19th century by Swami Ranganathananda of Ramkrishna Mission, Birla Mandir is one of the most famous temples in Hyderabad. Situated on a hillock called Naubath Pahad, the 200-ft-high temple was built using 2000 tons of white marble. Interestingly, the temple does not include any traditional bells and promotes meditation.

4. Venkateswara Swami Temple

Also known as Chilkur Balaji, this is one of the most famous temples near Hyderabad. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, this temple is popular amongst those who wish to travel abroad. Pilgrims come here to offer 108 pradakshinas. Interestingly, the temple does not accept any donations.

5. Karmanghat Hanuman Temple

Built in the 11th century by the Kakatiya monarchs, Karmanghat Hanuman Temple is one of the oldest temples around Hyderabad. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple was built when a Kakatiya ruler was sleeping at this site and heard the chanting for Lord Rama and found an idol of Lord Hanuman.

6. Ashtalakshmi temple

Dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, Ashtalakshmi Temple is one of the famous temples in Hyderabad. The beautiful temple was built by Kanchi Kama Kotipeetam and includes eight sub-shrines dedicated to various forms of the goddess, all under one roof. And, this makes the temple as one of the rarest temples in India. The temple can be best visited during night, when it is illuminated and this makes for an incredible sight.

7. Lord Shiva Linga

Also known as Keesargutta, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Named after Lord Hanuman who is also known as Kesari, this temple is surrounded by monkeys. It is said that Lord Hanuman prayed here while searching for Goddess Sita. The lingam in the temple is known as Ramalingeswaram as it is the one installed by Lord Rama himself. This is one of the most famous temples in Hyderabad and is a must visit.

8. Sanghi Temple

Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, this temple was built in 1991 on the top of a hill called Parmanand Giri. The temple’s architecture is inspired by that of the times of Chola dynasty. The idol here is the exact replica of the one in Tirumala and attracts visitors from across the globe.

9. ISKCON Temple

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, this temple was built by ISKCON and was inaugurated by Swami Prabhupada. It was built with the aim to bring people together and spread peace by the way of cultural and spiritual awakening. Also, classes on Upanishads, Bhagwad Gita, Sanskrit and Bhagwatam are conducted here. ISKCON Hyderabad also contributes to the society through its free food distribution programme.

10. Peddamma Temple

Said to be at least 150 years old, Peddamma Temple is dedicated to The Supreme Mother. The Hindu temple is known for its architecture and many pilgrims come to the shrine from across the country and abroad.

11. Chennakesava Swamy Temple

One of the oldest and famous temples in Hyderabad, Chennakesava Temple is built on the hillock of Keshavagiri. Said to be 600 years old and built during the Vijayanagara dynasty, the temple has a 28 pillared mandapa. Also, it takes about 200 steps to reach the temple.

The temples in Hyderabad are not just visited to seek blessings from the god, but also they feature fascinating architecture. Also, plan a visit to Hyderabad temples to be delighted and charmed by the stories attached to them.

FAQs

1. Which are the most famous temples in Hyderabad?

Jagannath Temple, Birla Temple and Lord Shiva Linga are one of the oldest and famous temples in Hyderabad.

2. Is there any particular dress code to enter the temples?

While some temples do allow only those wearing traditional clothes, most of them just expect visitors to be dressed modestly.

3. Which temples are known highly for their architecture?

When it comes to architectural superiority, one must visit Sanghi Temple or Sri Ramachandra Swamy Temple.

4. Are guided tour packages available for Hyderabad temples?

Yes, many reputable travel websites offer guided tour packages for Hyderabad temples.

Temples in Hyderabad | tourist places in hyderabad