About Chilkur Balaji Temple
Sri Chilkur Balaji Temple, lovingly called
“Visa Balaji”, is one of the oldest temples around Hyderabad.
It is situated in the peaceful village of Chilkur on the outskirts of the city,
close to the scenic Osman Sagar (Gandipet) Lake. The presiding deity is
Lord Venkateswara along with Sridevi and Bhoodevi.
The temple is famous across India because many devotees believe that praying here
helps them get visas for studies, jobs and travel abroad. Over the years it has
become a must-visit spiritual spot for Hyderabadis before their visa interviews.
History & Legend
Chilkur Balaji Temple is believed to be several centuries old, with its origin
traced back to the time of the ministers Akkanna and Madanna in
the Golconda kingdom
According to a popular legend, a devotee of Lord Venkateswara could not travel to
Tirupati due to illness. The Lord appeared in his dream and asked him to search
for an idol in the forests near Chilkur. When the devotee found the idol under a
small mound and installed it, the place gradually developed into the present-day
temple
Why It Is Called “Visa Balaji”
From the late 20th century, students and working professionals began visiting
Chilkur Balaji to pray for overseas opportunities. Many returned with approved
visas and shared their experiences, and slowly the temple became famous as
Visa Balaji Temple.
Devotees usually perform 11 pradakshinas (circumambulations)
around the sanctum while placing their wish before the Lord. Once their wish is
fulfilled, they come back and complete 108 pradakshinas as a
thanksgiving offering.
Unique Features of Chilkur Balaji Temple
- No hundi, no donations: The temple does not keep any hundi
(donation box) and does not directly accept money from devotees. The focus is
kept on pure devotion rather than monetary offerings. - No VIP line: There is no special queue for VIPs. Everyone,
from common devotees to leaders, waits in the same line, highlighting equality
in front of the deity. - Out of government control: The temple management successfully
fought to stay autonomous and is not under the state endowments department. - Support for handloom & eco-friendly rules: On certain days
devotees are encouraged to wear handloom clothes and plastic is discouraged in
the temple area, promoting traditional weavers and environmental awareness.
Temple Timings
Temple timings may vary slightly on festival days, but generally Chilkur Balaji
Temple is open roughly from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM with a short break
in the afternoon.
Tip: Weekends and special occasions can be very crowded, so visiting
early in the morning or on weekdays usually gives a more peaceful darshan.
For exact current timings, it is best to check locally or through the temple’s
official sources before planning your visit.
How to Reach Chilkur Balaji Temple
Chilkur is around 25–30 km from the main parts of Hyderabad,
depending on where you start. The temple is close to Gandipet / Osman Sagar road
in Ranga Reddy district.
- By car / cab: The most convenient option. From Mehdipatnam
or Gachibowli, follow the road towards Gandipet and then towards Chilkur village. - By bus: TSRTC buses operate from different parts of the city
towards Chilkur / Himayat Sagar / Moinabad side. Check local bus numbers and
timings before starting. - Nearest airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport,
Shamshabad – about 25–30 km away.
Visitor Tips
- Be prepared to walk if you plan to complete 11 or 108 pradakshinas.
- Carry water, especially in summer, as it can get hot during the day.
- Respect the dress code and avoid plastic items inside the temple premises.
- Photography may be restricted in certain areas around the sanctum; follow
the instructions of temple staff.
