Places to Visit near Moinabad

Chilkur Balaji Temple

The Chilkur Balaji temple, on the banks of Osman Sagar, is one of the best-known temples around Hyderabad. It is often called the 'Visa Balaji' temple, because many devotees come to pray before a visa interview and return to complete 108 circumambulations once their wish is fulfilled.

The temple is known for not accepting money offerings and having no special paid darshan. Weekends and festival days are very crowded, so a weekday morning visit is calmest. Several Moinabad farmhouses are only a few kilometres away.

Osman Sagar (Gandipet) and Himayat Sagar

Osman Sagar, which most people call Gandipet, and Himayat Sagar are the twin reservoirs built on the Musi and its tributary the Esi in the early twentieth century to protect Hyderabad from floods and supply drinking water. Both lie between the city and Moinabad.

There is a park and viewpoint at Gandipet, and the roads around both lakes make a pleasant short drive in the evening light. Swimming in the reservoirs is not allowed.

Mrugavani National Park, Chilkur

Mrugavani National Park near Chilkur is a small protected forest with spotted deer, sambar and many bird species. It is run by the Telangana Forest Department and makes a good short outing with children. Check the forest department's current visiting hours and safari timings before you go.

Further afield: Chevella and the Vikarabad hills

Past Moinabad the Chevella road continues west towards Vikarabad and the Ananthagiri hills, a forested area popular for monsoon drives and short treks. It is a longer trip — better as a separate day than an add-on to a farmhouse stay.

Planning it around your stay

• check Most farmhouse check-ins are in the early afternoon, which leaves the morning free for the temple or Gandipet on the way in.
• check Check-out is usually late morning, so a visit on the way back works well too.
• check Contact us to find out which sights are closest to your farmhouse — distances vary across the villages of Moinabad.