Our country is truly an incredible nation, with great history, heritage, cultural diversity and secular integration. People all over are briskly embracing technology, but deep inside, they are still rooted to their faith in the supreme or god. Indians, of all age groups embark on a path of spiritual journey in the name of God and faith. One such temple which is renowned all over is the Chilkur Balaji Temple.

Chilkur Balaji Temple, popularly known as "Visa Balaji Temple'', is an ancient Hindu temple of Lord Balaji located on the shores of Osman Sagar (Gandipet) lake in Hyderabad. It is one of the oldest temples in Hyderabad which was built during the time of Madanna and Akkanna, the uncles of Bhakta Ramadas. The deity of this shrine is also fondly referred to as VISA God. This name comes as a surprise for many but there are many who come to this temple with a belief that Chilkur Balaji is very powerful in helping people secure foreign VISAs.

The temple is known among the ardent devotees for is spiritual energy. The belief here is that if a you make a wish after 11 pradakshanas or circumambulations, then that wish comes true. And once the wish comes true, you will have to come back to perform 108 pradakshanas around the entire temple.

The architecture of the temple reflects the style, that was widely used to build temples centuries ago. The temple has received a lot of patronage over the year as the presiding deity Lord Balaji is revered highly by Hindus all over the world. People from all sects visit this temple in hope of getting their wishes fulfilled.
Another notable aspect of this temple is that it is one of the very few temples in the country, which does not accept any monetary donations in the Hundi. The management believes that the only fee the lord asks the devotees is to make pradakshanas around the temple. It is indeed a matter of pride that the state of Telangana is home to such rich heritage where beliefs and faiths in god are passed on from one generation to the other, accompanied by immense faith, reverence and devotion.

How to Reach

Chilkur Balaji temple, located approximately 25 km from Hyderabad is well accessible through road via Mehdipatnam.

Where to stay

Haritha Hotel, Chilkur Balaji operated by Telangana Tourism offers quality accommodation.