Complete Travel & Darshan Guide to Sri Venkateswara Temple, Alwal

 

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