An extremely spiritual destination in Hyderabad, Birla Mandir Temple is also one of the most architecturally fascinating. The temple was constructed using nearly 2,000 tonnes of pure white marble. It contains shrines dedicated to both Hindu and Buddhist gods. At night the historic attraction embraces the city’s modern flair and is illuminated by stunning light displays. Immediately next door you’ll find the Birla Science Museum and the Birla Planetarium.
Built by the Birla industrial group in 1976, the temple is a place for prayer and reflection. Enter through the Rajagopuram entrance tower to admire its iconic southern Indian décor. From within the shrine you can look up at the main tower to see the Orissan architecture of east India. All the marble used in the construction was sourced from Rajasthan in the country’s northwest.
Visit the dedicated shrines of Lord Shia and Ganesha, two of the many deities with idols at the temple. Get up close to the 3.3-metre (11-foot) black granite statue of Lord Venkateswara and examine the intricate paintings that adorn the shrine to Buddha.
Peer over the edge of the temple for sweeping views of the lake Hussain Sagar. At sunset the view of the lake is accompanied by a soundtrack of birdcalls and evening prayer. Unlike many temples in India, there are no bells at Birla Mandir Temple so the experience is altogether soothing. Snap a photograph of the spectacular sunset as a keepsake. Later, take a walk around the idyllic, heart-shaped Hassain Sagar, located to the north of the museum.
Venture next door to discover archaeological displays and star-scape presentations at the Birla Science Museum and Planetarium. See fossils from 160 million years ago.
The Birla Mandir Temple is open daily and admission is free. Catch the bus or train to find yourself just a short walk from the temple.
