Complete Travel & Darshan Guide to Sri Venkateswara Temple, Alwal

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Location Overview

  • Place: Alwal, Secunderabad, Telangana
  • Access: Located near Alwal Rythu Bazar and Hakimpet Air Force Station, the temple is tucked away in a narrow lane off the highway.
  • Historical Note: Built by Chandulal Bahadur, Prime Minister of Hyderabad during Nawab Sikandar Jah’s reign (early 19th century).

Main Deity

  • Presiding Deity: Sri Venkateswara Swamy (Balaji), a form of Lord Vishnu
  • The idol was originally carried by a saint named Vishnu Balaji on his pilgrimage from Tirumala to Kashi. He meditated under a tamarind tree in Alwal, where the deity was later installed.

Subshrines & Associated Deities

  • Padmavathi Ammavaru: Consort of Lord Venkateswara
  • Garuda Alwar: Facing the main sanctum
  • Hanuman Shrine: Often present in Venkateswara temples, though specific details for Alwal are limited

Temple Highlights

  • Historical Significance: One of the oldest temples in Secunderabad, with royal patronage and land grants totaling 4,800 acres from Chandulal Bahadur
  • Kalyana Mandapam: An old marriage hall built 200 meters away, now in need of restoration
  • Cultural Legacy: The temple was meant to serve devotees who couldn’t afford a pilgrimage to Tirumala
  • Future Plans: Proposals include building a mirror house (Addala Mandapam) and upgrading facilities for devotees

History & Architecture

  • Founded by: Chandulal Bahadur, Prime Minister of Hyderabad (1833–1844), under Nawab Sikandar Jah’s reign
  • Origin Legend: A saint named Vishnu Balaji, returning from Tirumala to Kashi, meditated under a tamarind tree in Alwal with an idol of Lord Venkateswara. Inspired by a divine dream, Chandulal built the temple so devotees unable to visit Tirumala could fulfill their vows locally
  • Land Grants: Chandulal donated 4,800 acres for temple maintenance
  • Architecture: Traditional South Indian style with a modest gopuram; original flooring has vanished over time. The temple once had four choultries and a Kalyana Mandapam 200 meters away, now in disrepair

Rituals & Festivals

  • Daily Pujas: Include Suprabhata Seva, Archana, and Harathi
  • Festivals Celebrated:
    • Brahmotsavam: Annual grand celebration with processions and cultural programs
    • Vaikunta Ekadasi: Special darshan through the Uttara Dwaram
    • Kalyanotsavam: Symbolic celestial wedding of the deity
    • Hanuman Jayanthi and Navaratri also observed with devotion

Temple Hours

  • Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Note: Timings may vary slightly on festival days or special occasions.

Getting Here

  • Location: Alwal, Secunderabad, Telangana
  • Landmarks: Near Alwal Rythu Bazar and Hakimpet Air Force Station
  • Transport Options:
    • By Bus: TSRTC buses from Secunderabad and Jubilee Bus Station
    • By Train: Nearest station – Alwal Railway Station
    • By Auto/Taxi: Easily accessible via local autos or cabs

Tips

  • Dress Modestly: Traditional attire is appreciated
  • Visit Early: Morning hours offer peaceful darshan
  • Photography: May be restricted inside sanctum
  • Prasadam & Offerings: Available at counters near the entrance
  • Combine Visit: You can also explore nearby temples like the Hanuman temple and Sai Baba temple in Alwal

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