Even though Hyderabad is often thought of as one of India’s most technologically advanced cities, and is known for its forward thinking, eco-friendly urban initiatives, it is also overflowing with significant historical sites and amazing temples. So, for travellers with an interest in architecture or spiritual matters, it should be definitely be on the itinerary. What’s more, there are many hotels in Hyderabad India that make for a lovely stay.
Birla Mandir
Of all the sacred places in the city, the Hindu temple Birla Mandir is arguably the most renowned. Completed in 1976, it took ten years and two thousand tonnes of white marble to complete. Dravidian, Utkala and Rajasthani architectural influences combine in the various rooms and features, the most striking features being a 13-metre tall flagstaff, made of brass, and a 3.4-metre high sculpture of Lord Venkateswara, made of granite. Birla Mandir was constructed by the Birla Foundation, a Hindi organisation responsible for constructing several other temples in India. You’ll find it perched on top of the Kala Pahad, a stunning hillock, which has a nearby twin by the name of Naubat Pahad. Opening hours are 7am to midday and 3pm to 9pm every day of the week.
Hanuman Temple, Karmanghat
For a contrast, take a visit to this temple. While Birla Mandir is one of Hyderabad’s newer additions, the Hanuman Temple at Karmanghat is one of the city’s oldest temples. It was built around 1143 AD, when the Kakatiya Dynasty wielded power over the region, and is devoted to Lord Hanuman, whose spiritual presence is believed to be exceptionally powerful. In fact, thousands of devotees visit the temple every day to experience it, and the name of the area – ‘Karmaghat’ – translates as ‘Make your heart strong’. Opening hours are 6am to midday and 4pm to 8pm every day, except for Tuesday and Saturday, when they extend to 5:30am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm.
Sanghi Temple
For one of the most beautiful views in the Hyderabad area, head to Sanghi Temple. Located about 35 kilometres out of the city, it requires at least a few hours to visit, but it’s absolutely worth it. Its special location atop Paramanand Giri hill offers panoramas of the surrounding region and sunsets are particularly spectacular. The building itself is heavily influenced by South Indian architecture and pretty much every important Hindu god is represented. Opening hours are 8am to 1pm and 4pm to 8pm every day.
Peddamma Temple
The best time to visit Peddamma Temple is during June or July, when the colourful Bonalu Festival is in swing. For two months, Hyderabad and its twin city Secunderabad become devoted to worshipping the Hindu goddess Mahakali and Peddamma Temple is the centre of much of the action. Expect music, flowers, bucket loads of incense and delicious feasts. That said, Peddamma is interesting to visit at any time of year – there’s a constant stream of devotees visiting to make offerings to the ‘Supreme Mother’ to whom the temple is dedicated. Located in Hyderabad’s Jubilee Hills, Peddamma is open between 6am and 1pm and 3pm and 8pm daily.
Shyam Temple
Another temple that really comes to life during special occasions is Shyam. On the 11th and 12th days of every ‘bright month’ of the Hindu calendar, thousands of devotees come to pay respects to Lord Shyam, also known as Barbarika and considered to be a reincarnation of Lord Krishna in Kalyuga. The temple stays open all night long with devotional singing sessions. You’ll find Shyam at 3-4-1079 Kachiguda, just opposite the police station.
