Hyderabad travel guide
Hyderabad Tourism | Hyderabad Guide
You're Going to Love Hyderabad
Big, sprawling Hyderabad is full of life; you can enjoy the bustle of a traditional market, head over to one of the city's many video gaming centers or an amusement park, and then finish off your day at a sleek fine dining restaurant.
Hyderabad serves as the capital city for the province of Telangana in Southern India. It's a center for India's burgeoning technology industry (earning it the nickname "Cyberabad"), and that's brought a cosmopolitan scene of dining, shopping, and entertainment options to the city. Hyderabad sees thousands of business travelers on a daily basis, but the high-tech giants like Microsoft India exist alongside a 400-year-old city center with a rich history and culture.
Hyderabad and Secunderabad were once twin cities, located at opposite sides of Hussain Sagar Lake. Today, the two have merged into one giant municipal area that blossoms out around the lake. From the office towers to the Old City and its many historical monuments, Hyderabad is waiting for you to discover its many charms.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hyderabad
1. Impressive Architecture
Hyderabad is part of India's Islamic heritage, and the spectacular Charminar mosque, with its four towers, is one of the city's iconic structures. You can check out Chowmahalla Palace, where royalty once greeted visitors, and Golconda Fort, once the capital of a medieval kingdom, among many other historical attractions.
2. Delicious Dining
North and South Indian cuisine merge in Hyderabad's dining scene, with many options from street food to elegant fine dining rooms and hipster hangouts. You'll also find many Turkish and Arabic influences, with Western and other international options catering to the city's many business travelers.
3. Fabulous Shopping
From centuries-old traditional bazaars to ultra-modern shopping malls and boutiques, Hyderabad has everything you could wish for when it comes to shopping. In particular, it is a center for the jewelry trade, from fashion pieces to precious metals and genuine pearls - Hyderabad was once called the "City of Pearls."
4. Exciting Water and Amusement Parks
The citizens of Hyderabad love their water and amusement parks, and you can enjoy no less than a dozen of them in the city. Ramoji Film City (where films are actually shot) alone covers over 2,500 acres with a combination of natural features like lakes and gardens with movie sets depicting a London street, royal castle, and much more.
5. Enjoy Nature Parks
Despite the city's huge size and population of just under 8 million people, you can easily escape the hustle and bustle in one of Hyderabad's many beautiful parks. Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park is the largest, a huge green oasis perfect for walking or jogging.
What to do in Hyderabad
1. Charminar: Landmark of the Hyderabad City
Established in 1591 A.D. by the quatub Shah back in the historical age, Charminar is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hyderabad. Feast your eyes on Hyderabad's global icon that is strategically located in the midst of two other popular structures in India. Wander through the famous Laad Bazaar to the west and the granite ornamented Makkah Masjid to the southwest. Don't miss out on a sense-awakening tour of the historic structure that is basically composed of eponymous towers supported by four grand pillars.
2. Golkonda Fort: Capital of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty
Spread across a total area of 11 km, the Golkonda Fort complex is home to ancient rulers and hub of some of the world's most famous and precious gems, e.g., Kohi-i-Noor. Take a calm and peaceful walk on the streets as they lead you to the interior of the Golconda fort, where you will explore the most amazing and artistic architecture that the city has to offer. As the fort overlooks the city, have a glimpse of the city's breath-taking skyline as the cool breeze makes your view even more delightful. The skillfully carved stonework that is encompassed by beautiful gardens is sure to make your visit worth your while.
3. Qutb Shahi Tombs: A Blend of Rest and Royalty
The 7 Qutb Shahi Tombs are famous for their peace and serenity. Relax in the comfort of this historical landmark where "the Qutb Shahi Emperors rest". Walk through each tomb and discover the spectacular sarcophagus that lies at the center of every single one of them. Gaze at the rare blue and green tiles that laminate the domes which come alive especially during the sunset or sunrise. As you walk through the tombs, experience a royal reception complete with furnished carpets, chandeliers and silver poles with velvet canopies.
4. Mecca Masjid: Epitome of Greatness
This 400-year-old historic structure is the ultimate epitome of magnificence. This massive hall can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Savor the tranquil ambiance around the water fountain. Make your way to the solemn graves of ancient rulers at the first courtyard from the entrance. Afterward, unwind on the black benches beside the pond and gaze upon the setting sun. The Chowmahalla Palace and Charminar are also attractions worth visiting.
5. Chowmahalla Palace: A Walk Back through the Ages
Chowmahalla Palace is a captivating and spectacular work of art. The tastefully decorated features distinguish it as the former residence of the ruling family. Walk through the European-Styled Aftab Mahal and admire the rooms displaying past riches and relics. The captivating landscape makes a beautiful backdrop for a photo shoot after which you can unwind among the pond, trees and plants.
1. Charminar: Landmark of the Hyderabad City
Established in 1591 A.D. by the quatub Shah back in the historical age, Charminar is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hyderabad. Feast your eyes on Hyderabad's global icon that is strategically located in the midst of two other popular structures in India. Wander through the famous Laad Bazaar to the west and the granite ornamented Makkah Masjid to the southwest. Don't miss out on a sense-awakening tour of the historic structure that is basically composed of eponymous towers supported by four grand pillars.
2. Golkonda Fort: Capital of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty
Spread across a total area of 11 km, the Golkonda Fort complex is home to ancient rulers and hub of some of the world's most famous and precious gems, e.g., Kohi-i-Noor. Take a calm and peaceful walk on the streets as they lead you to the interior of the Golconda fort, where you will explore the most amazing and artistic architecture that the city has to offer. As the fort overlooks the city, have a glimpse of the city's breath-taking skyline as the cool breeze makes your view even more delightful. The skillfully carved stonework that is encompassed by beautiful gardens is sure to make your visit worth your while.
3. Qutb Shahi Tombs: A Blend of Rest and Royalty
The 7 Qutb Shahi Tombs are famous for their peace and serenity. Relax in the comfort of this historical landmark where "the Qutb Shahi Emperors rest". Walk through each tomb and discover the spectacular sarcophagus that lies at the center of every single one of them. Gaze at the rare blue and green tiles that laminate the domes which come alive especially during the sunset or sunrise. As you walk through the tombs, experience a royal reception complete with furnished carpets, chandeliers and silver poles with velvet canopies.
4. Mecca Masjid: Epitome of Greatness
This 400-year-old historic structure is the ultimate epitome of magnificence. This massive hall can accommodate up to 10,000 people. Savor the tranquil ambiance around the water fountain. Make your way to the solemn graves of ancient rulers at the first courtyard from the entrance. Afterward, unwind on the black benches beside the pond and gaze upon the setting sun. The Chowmahalla Palace and Charminar are also attractions worth visiting.
5. Chowmahalla Palace: A Walk Back through the Ages
Chowmahalla Palace is a captivating and spectacular work of art. The tastefully decorated features distinguish it as the former residence of the ruling family. Walk through the European-Styled Aftab Mahal and admire the rooms displaying past riches and relics. The captivating landscape makes a beautiful backdrop for a photo shoot after which you can unwind among the pond, trees and plants.
1. Charminar: Landmark of the Hyderabad City
Established in 1591 A.D. by the quatub Shah back in the historical age, Charminar is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hyderabad. Feast your eyes on Hyderabad's global icon that is strategically located in the midst of two other popular structures in India. Wander through the famous Laad Bazaar to the west and the granite ornamented Makkah Masjid to the southwest. Don't miss out on a sense-awakening tour of the historic structure that is basically composed of eponymous towers supported by four grand pillars.
2. Golkonda Fort: Capital of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty
Spread across a total area of 11 km, the Golkonda Fort complex is home to ancient rulers and hub of some of the world's most famous and precious gems, e.g., Kohi-i-Noor. Take a calm and peaceful walk on the streets as they lead you to the interior of the Golconda fort, where you will explore the most amazing and artistic architecture that the city has to offer. As the fort overlooks the city, have a glimpse of the city's breath-taking skyline as the cool breeze makes your view even more delightful. The skillfully carved stonework that is encompassed by beautiful gardens is sure to make your visit worth your while.
Where to Eat in Hyderabad
For upscale Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish rooftop lounge, look to SO. The Sky Kitchen, with main dishes that start at ₹375. When you visit the Charminar, you can stop at Nimrah, a classic Indian cafe where you can sample tasty baked goods that start at ₹3. For classic biryani and local cuisine, head to Paradise in Secunderabad, where you can choose from five dining rooms and mains that start at ₹200.
When to visit Hyderabad
The most popular time for tourist visits is from November to February, when the city's tropical climate takes a somewhat milder turn. Average temperatures range between about 60 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The period between March to about June sees temperatures rise to more than 110 degrees Fahrenheit, and monsoon season extends from July to October, when heavy rains are common.
How to Get to Hyderabad
Plane
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) lies about 14 miles from the city. The airport is relatively new and you can expect modern facilities and amenities. Air-conditioned buses make the airport run to various designated spots in the city, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹250. Official taxi service at the airport is offered by Skycabs and Meru only, with metered service that starts at ₹21 for every 0.62 miles or so.
Train
The city's main railway station is known as Nampally station, located in the Nampally district. It is a major hub for Indian Railways, with connections to urban centers throughout the country.
Car
The city connects to other major centers via a recently upgraded highway system. Highway NH7 connects the city to Bangalore, and highways NH9 and NH5 will get you to Chennai. You can also make the drive to and from Mumbai via NH9.
Bus
A number of private and state bus companies make intercity trips, including Dhanunjaya Bus, Veeru Travels, NTA Express, and the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC). Many intercity routes operate through the Jubilee Bus Station in Secunderabad. There are connections to Chennai, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
Airports near Hyderabad
Airlines serving Hyderabad
Where to stay in Hyderabad
Central Zone - this is an upscale part of the city, and where you'll find many options when it comes to dining and night life. Many of the city's high-end shopping centers are located here, including Hyderabad Central and the ultramodern Inorbit Mall.
Popular Neighborhoods in Hyderabad
South Zone - located along the south bank of the Musi River, this is where you'll find the majority of the city's wonderful historic attractions. It's also called the Old City, and it's home to Hyderabad's fantastic traditional markets like the Laad Bazaar, famous for bangles, semi-precious gemstones, and pearl jewelry; the Moazzam Jahi Market with its fresh fruit and gorgeous flowers; and the Sultan Bazaar (also called Sultan Bazar), great for fashion bargains.
North Zone - this area incorporates Secunderabad, a sister city that has been swallowed up by the growing metropolis. Developed directly under British rule until 1948, it has its own sophisticated restaurant and entertainment scene to check out.
Where to stay in popular areas of Hyderabad
Most booked hotels in Hyderabad
How to Get Around Hyderabad
Public Transportation
TSRTC, a state company, provides efficient local bus service that covers most of the sprawling city. Fares run by zone, starting at ₹35. For longer stays, a monthly pass costs ₹2,100 and offers unlimited travel throughout the city.
Taxi
Taxis are plentiful in Hyderabad, but you will want to make sure you choose a metered taxi. Fares start at ₹6 per 0.62 miles. Auto rickshaws are an alternative to taxi travel within the city, and you'll find many of them around major hotels and in the financial district. Rares start at ₹20 for about the first mile, with an additional ₹11 for each 0.62 mile after that.
Car
There is no expressway system or route in Hyderabad, which means the city is often plagued by traffic congestion. Parking spaces are also at a premium, and often unavailable in many sections of town. Local companies include Carzonrent and Hyderabad Car Rentals. Car rental starts at about ₹6,800 but you will have to reserve well in advance as the supply is somewhat limited.
The Cost of Living in Hyderabad
Shopping Streets
Punjagutta and Ameerpet, in the western areas of the city, have developed into shopping meccas, home to enormous shopping malls. This is also a good place to look for bargains on jewelry, with several of the city's best shops located in this area. The so-called "golden mile" for shopping in Hyderabad extends from the Begumpet Flyover area to Banjara Hills, and includes a string of shopping malls, designer boutiques, and many, many jewelry stores.
Groceries and Other
Vijetha Supermarket has several locations in the city, along with Ratnadeep Super Market. There are also several online grocery options like Grocerkart. A quart of milk costs about ₹52 and a dozen eggs about ₹60.