Hyderabad
Hyderabad is the capital of southern India’s Telangana state. A major center for the technology industry, it’s home to many upscale restaurants and shops. Its historic sites include Golconda Fort, a former diamond-trading center that was once the Qutb Shahi dynastic capital. The Charminar, a 16th-century mosque whose 4 arches support towering minarets, is an old city landmark near the long-standing Laad Bazaar. It is a major technology industry centre with many upscale restaurants and shops. Golconda Fort, a former diamond trading centre that was once the Qutb Shahi dynastic capital, is one of its historic sites. The Charminar, an old city landmark near the long-standing Laad Bazaar, is a 16th-century mosque with four arches supporting towering minarets. There are numerous tourist attractions in Hyderabad for everyone to enjoy, from families to young groups of friends, children to senior citizens. This is a city that should be visited at least once in a lifetime. In fact, it is impossible for anyone to experience all of the city’s diverse charms in a short period of time. Hyderabad, located on the banks of the Musi River, was founded in 1591 CE by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shahies. The city is known for its distinct culture, which can be traced back to the Asaf Jahi rulers, who were avid patrons of literature, art, architecture, culture, jewellery collections, and delectable cuisine. The city that greets you as you exit the Hyderabad airport is a sprawling metropolis of shopping malls, flyovers, and office buildings with glass facades. Hyderabad exemplifies an intriguing synthesis of the traditional and the modern, the past and the present. So, don’t feel betrayed by these inventions, which are synonymous with modernity, because the Old City, which exists alongside the metropolis Hyderabad, has an entirely unique charm of its own.
Hyderabad is divided into two parts: the Old City, which was founded by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah on the southern bank of the Musi River, and the New City, which includes the urbanised area on the northern bank.
Hyderabad, the Nizams’ city, has a lot more interesting options for visitors. Entertainment parks such as Jalavihar, Mount Opera Theme Park, and Snow World, India’s first snow-themed park, are ideal for a fun-filled day.
There are also places for nature lovers to relax in the midst of refreshing nature. Some examples include Lumbini Park, NTR Gardens, and Tank Bund. KBR National Park, located in the heart of the city, is another must-see attraction in Hyderabad.
Visit HiTec City to get a taste of modern Hyderabad. Runway 9, India’s largest go-karting circuit, is another place to visit if you’re looking for some excitement. Visit popular religious sites such as Sanghi Temple and Chilkur Balaji Temple for a few spiritual moments. Chilkur Balaji temple is also known as ‘Visa Balaji temple’ and is frequently seen as an alternative to Tirumala temple. Both temples are relatively close to the city.
How to reach Hyderabad
BY AIR
Nearest airport is the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad.
BY TRAIN
Hyderabad, as the headquarters of the South Central Railway, is well connected to all major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru, Kochi, and Kolkata. Nampally and Kachiguda have railway stations. Trains departing from these two stations can also be boarded at Secunderabad.
BY ROAD
Regular services of state highways and privately owned buses are available from the city bus stand. The highway system connects major cities and states. You can also hire rented cars or taxis to take you to your desired location.
Best Places to Visit in Hyderabad and Other Tourist Attractions
The Old City is a confusing maze of alleyways that radiate out from the Charminar. The majority of the historical sites are located in the old city. Here is a list of the most popular tourist attractions in Hyderabad that you should not miss:
- Charminar
- Golconda Fort
- Ramoji Film City
- Jala Vihar
- Birla Planetarium
- Salar Jung Museum
- Tank Bund
- Snow World
- Laad Bazaar
- Durgam Cheruvu
- Shilparamam
- Necklace Road
- Mount Opera
- Taramati Baradari
- Maula Ali Dargah
- Birla Mandir
- Chilkur Balaji Temple
- Sanghi Temple
- Mecca Masjid
- Paigah Tombs
- Qutub Shahi Tombs
- Hussain Sagar Lake
- Gandipet Lake
- Chowmahalla Palace
- Taj Falaknuma Palace
- Purani Haveli
- KBR National Park
- Nehru Zoo Park
- Lumbini Park
- Botanical Gardens
- NTR Gardens
1. Charminar Hyderabad
Hyderabad, the capital city of Telangana, is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a mesmerising contrast of age-old traditions and culture on one end and modern facilities and amenities of a metropolitan city on the other. Hyderabad is a city with a plethora of tourist attractions. Hyderabad’s well-known Charminar is located in the Old City. This square-shaped structure with a height of 56 metres and a width of 30 metres was built in 1591. Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah erected it in memory of his wife Bhagmati. Charminar, also known as the “Arc de Triomphe of the East,” is adorned with four towers in each corner. The minarets on each side are 48.7 m tall and have four storeys. On the top floor of Chaminar, there is also a small mosque. People continue to visit the 45 prayer spaces, especially on Fridays. Evening lighting is quite glamorous and makes for an interesting site to visit.
2. Golconda Fort Hyderabad
The architectural marvel Golconda Fort is only 11 kilometres from the city and is well connected to the rest of the city. This fort, built by the Qutub Shahi Kings, has an impressive structure with eight gates and 87 bastions. Its magnificent structure has majestic walls ranging in height from 15 to 18 feet and a parameter of nearly 11 kilometres. This fort captivates visitors with its acoustics system, water supply system, ‘Rahban’ cannon, and Ramdas’ prison, which has a Hindu deity carved into it, in addition to its brilliant architecture. The light and sound show in English, Hindi, and Telugu, with narration by Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, is a must-see when visiting the Fort. Please keep in mind that camera tripods are not permitted inside.
3. Ramoji Film City
Ramoji Film City has been enticing visitors from all over the country since 1991. It is one of the world’s largest film studios, with the capacity to house nearly 50 film units at any given time. It is also in the Guinness Book of World Records. It is located about 30 kilometres from Hyderabad and spreads over 2500 acres. Its brilliant architecture and excellent technical facilities make it suitable for all aspects of film production, from pre-production to post-production. Its various sets, such as London Street, the Hollywood sign, Japanese gardens, and so on; landscapes; vintage buses; and many other features, such as Filmi Duniya, Action, Interactive Entertainment, and so on, make a visit to Ramoji memorable.
4. Jala Vihar
Jalavihar family entertainment park is conveniently located on the Necklace Road. It has a fantastic range of water activities that are suitable for both children and adults. River ride, Tilt bucket, Mushroom Umbrella, Family slide, Mini aqua trailers, Float slide, Pendulum, and other attractions are available.Not only can families enjoy water rides, but they can also enjoy games such as Mini train, Super-Jet, Battery bikes, Mini coarsely, Battery cars, Mini rainbow wheel, Air hockey, Water shooter, Basketball, Bungy Trampoline, and others. The party zone here is ideal for all types of family gatherings. There is also an amphitheatre and the Aesthetic Vedhika.
5. Birla Planetarium
The dome-shaped Birla Planetarium, which was inaugurated by the late Sri N.T. Rama Rao in 198, is located in the heart of the city, at Naubat Pahad. Planetarium, which was developed with technical assistance from Japan, has four sections, each of which offers a unique opportunity to explore the unknown. The planetarium’s four sections are the interactive science centre, Window on Science, Archaeology Center, and the Nirmala Birla Art Gallery and Dinosaurium. One of its most appealing features is the sky show, which is held every day. Another popular feature is the ‘Window on Science’ section. Except for the last Thursday of each month, it is open every day.
6. Salar Jung Museum
Salar Jung Museum is located on the banks of the Musi River. It is considered to be one of the world’s largest one-man collections, with 43000 art objects, 9000 manuscripts, and 47000 printed books. This museum has 38 galleries, with 20 on the first floor and the remaining 18 on the second. It first opened to the public in 1951, and it was relocated to its current location in 1968. The museums’ artefacts are mostly collected by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan (Salar Jung III) and Nawab Turab Ali Khan (Salar Jung I), as well as a few of his descendants.
7. Tank Bund
Tank Bund, which connects Hyderabad and Secunderabad, is a popular city hangout. It dams the Hussain Sagar Lake, promising visitors a breathtaking view of the lake and its monolith of Bhudda in the centre. This area contains 33 bronze statues of various popular figures from the state, including Sri Krishna Devaraya, Nannaya, Tikkana, Erra Pragada, and many more. The Secretariat buildings, the NTR memorial, Lumbini Park, and the Hyderabad Boat Club are to the south, while the Sanjeeviah Park, Hazrat Saidani Ma Saheba tomb, and the Secunderabad Sailing Club are to the north. Its prime location only adds to its allure.
8. Snow World
Snow World is a must-see attraction in Hyderabad because it is the first snow-themed park in India. It was built by Ocean Park Multi Tech Limited (OPML) and covers an impressive 17,000 square feet. This theme park is easily accessible and is located on Lower Tank Bund Road. Aside from playing in the mineral-water snow, you can also participate in sports such as ice skating, ice boarding, snow slides with bumping cars, and toboggan rides. One of the most popular areas is the Cryo Zone. It depicts a natural landscape with igloos, polar bears, penguins, and alpine trees.
9. Laad Bazaar
Laad Bazaar, one of Hyderabad’s oldest and most popular shopping districts, is located next to Charminar. This market is said to have been just as lively during the Qutub Shahis and Nizams’ reigns. The “Laad Bazaar” derives its name from the word “Laad,” which means lacquer in Hindi. This market boasts an incomparable variety of bangles, with Lacquer as a key material. Everything is available here, from traditional wares to clothing to zarri and embroidery works to pearls and semi-precious jewellery.
10. Durgam Cheruvu
Durgam Cheruvu is not far from the Hi Tech city. It is also known as Secret Lake because it is hidden between various granite rocks. Madhapur Lake and other names have been given to it. The lake is surrounded by rocks that are approximately 2500 million years old and cover an area of 63 acres. The lake’s water is also said to have been used as drinking water in Golconda Fort. At the lake, there are facilities for a variety of activities such as pedal boating, camping, and trekking. By the lake, there is also a cafeteria.
11. Shilparamam
Shilparamam, a craft village, is a popular tourist destination in Hyderabad. It is a popular shopping destination that spans 50 acres and features artisans from all over India showcasing their best products. Handmade artefacts, handwoven clothing, and traditional jewellery frequently entice visitors. It has many interesting sections, including a Crafts Museum, a Cultural Museum, an Art Gallery & Library, a Multi-purpose Auditorium, Workshops, and Research & Design Centers. And the best part is that you won’t have to go exploring on an empty stomach. There are numerous food stalls offering tantalising snacks.
12. Necklace Road
The Necklace Road in Hyderabad is 3 kilometres long and resembles a necklace. It is said to be inspired by Mumbai’s Queen’s Necklace and serves as a link between the three major parts. This road connects NTR Gardens, Lumbini Park, and Sanjeevaiah Park, running from NTR Gardens and Lumbini Parks to Sanjeevaiah Park and forming a necklace shape in the process. It is close to Hussain Sagar Lake, which offers a variety of recreational opportunities. One of the most popular activities, along with the lighting show at the Buddha statue, is boating. The eat street here is a popular hangout spot with a wide variety of food stalls.
13. Mount Opera
Mount Opera Theme Park, one of Hyderabad’s most popular entertainment parks, is located on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada National Highway, 4 kilometres from Ramoji Film City. The State Government Tourism Department has designated this park, which is located on a hilltop, as a special tourism unit. It provides exciting options for both children and adults, including both water rides and dry rides. Aside from recreational options such as boating, Rain dance, boating, and family pools, there is also a discotheque here, making even your nights lively.
14. Taramati Baradari
Taramati Baradari, located on the Gandipet Road just outside the Golconda Fort, is another popular historic building in Hyderabad. It used to be the venue for legendary artist Taramathi’s performances, consisting of a music hall with 12 entrances that served as an auditorium. Taramati and Premamati were said to be the most popular dancers and courtesans of the 7th Sultan of Golconda, Abdullah Qutub Shah. It is located on top of a hill and has amazing acoustics. It is now a cultural complex that hosts a variety of cultural programmes such as classical dance and singing performances. Telanga Tourism Corporation now manages it.
15. Botanical Gardens
The Forest Department created the Botanical Gardens in Madhapur, near the Hi-tech City. It has a total land area of 120 acres. It began with only 5 sectors and has since expanded to 19 Vanams or sectors. The Botanical Garden has a diverse flora collection, including ornamental plants, bamboos, palm trees, fruit and timber trees, medicinal plants, and aquatic plants. The Bamboo Sector and the Palm Sector are two of the most visually appealing areas of the garden. This location is appealing due to the presence of beautiful flowers and rare plants.
16. Birla Mandir
The beautiful Birla Mandir, located atop a 280-foot-high hillock of Kalapahad, takes its name from the industrialist Birlas, who have built Birla temples throughout the country. This stunning temple, which was brought from Rajasthan, was built in 1976 and is said to have taken close to 2000 tonnes of white marbles. Its architecture is a synthesis of three well-known architectural styles: South Indian architecture, Utkal temple architecture, and Rajasthani architecture. The temple features an 11-foot-tall statue of Lord Lakshminarayana surrounded by a magnificent lotus. It also has shrines dedicated to deities such as Venkateswara, ‘Padmavati,’ and ‘Andal.’ The complex also includes a separate temple dedicated to Lord Bhudda.
17. Chilkur Balaji Temple
This temple is about 30 kilometres from Hyderabad and is located in a small village called Chilkur. Chilkur Balaji Temple, located on the banks of the beautiful Osman Sagar Lake, is also known as the Visa Balaji Temple. This temple is nearly 500 years old and dedicated to Lord Balaji Venkateswara, who is accompanied by Sridevi and Bhoodevi. This temple is the subject of numerous legends. It is visited by hundreds of devotees every day because it is believed that devotees’ prayers are frequently answered here. Devotees, in turn, come to thank God by offering the temple’s 108 pradakshinas.
18. Sanghi Temple
Sanghi Temple is located on the hillock Paramanand Giri, about 25 kilometres from Hyderabad. The architecture of this temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, is based on the Chola-Chalukya architectural style. The Lord Venkateshwara idol is said to be a replica of the Tirumala statue. The temple complex also includes temples dedicated to other Hindu deities, including Lord Ganesha, Lord Rama, Lord Karthikeya, Lord Shiva, Goddess Kamalambika, and Goddess Durga. There is also a garden called Pavitra Vanam that provides flowers for worship.
19. Mecca Masjid
Mecca Masjid, located just 100 metres from the historic Charminar, is one of the world’s largest mosques. It took nearly 8000 masons to complete its construction, which took nearly 80 years. Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah began construction in 1617, but the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb finished it in 1694. It can easily accommodate 10,000 devotees despite its height of nearly 75 feet and dimensions of 220 feet by 180 feet. The interiors of the mosque are equally stunning, with Belgian crystal chandeliers, beautifully designed five arches on each side, and Quranic verses on the arches and doors.
20. Paigah Tombs
Paigah Tombs, a compelling blend of Asaf Jah and Rajputani style architecture, are located just 10 kilometres from Charminar in the Old City. They are a stunning example of Indo Saracenic architecture. It is made of marble and has captivating interiors as well as an impressive jaali work. These eye-catching tombs are the resting places of prominent Paigah family members such as Shams-ul-Umra, Viqar-ul-Umara, Asman Jah, and many others. Apart from the Nizams, the Paigahs were the only noble family permitted to have their own army. They had married Nizams’ daughters.
21. Qutub Shahi Tombs
These are one of Hyderabad’s oldest heritage sites, consisting of the tombs of seven Qutub Shahi rulers. The Qutub Shahi Tombs are only 850 metres from the Banjara Darwaza of Golconda Fort. The Qutub Shahis built these tombs, which feature a mix of Persian and Indian architecture. Salar Jung III, Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, renovated them later in the nineteenth century.
These quadrangular structures with dome-shaped roofs are made of grey granite and are ornamented with beautiful designs. The ‘Ibrahim Bagh’ garden that surrounds the tombs is popular for picnics. The state government now uses these tombs as a venue for the Deccan festival.
22. Hussain Sagar Lake
Hussain Sagar Lake, which connects the twin cities, is Asia’s largest artificial lake. It was excavated in 1562 AD on a tributary of the Musi River during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah. It was named after Hussain Shah Wali. The main attraction is a 350-tonne white granite statue of Lord Bhudda that stands 16 metres tall in the middle of the lake. The lighting show here is well worth seeing. Visitors can take a ferry ride to the statue, which departs and returns at regular intervals. Boating with the option of speed boats or motor boats, water-skiing, parasailing, and cruising are among the recreational activities available here. The 48-seater launch, which serves dinner to its guests, is ideal for private parties.
23. Gandipet Lake
Gandipet Lake, which stretches for 46 kilometres, serves as the twin cities’ main reservoir. It was built by Hyderabad Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan to protect the city from flooding. It was built in 1920 and is still standing today. One of the most enthralling aspects is the breathtaking view it provides. People frequently come here to take in the natural beauty. Seeing sunsets and sunrises from here is an unforgettable experience. Sagar Mahal, a guest house run by Andhra Pradesh Tourism, is also nearby.
24. Chowmahalla Palace
Chowmahalla Palace, which translates to “four palaces” in Urdu, was built in the 18th century. The palace was completed between 1857 and 1869, during the reign of the fifth Nizam, Afzar-ud-Daulah, Asaf Jav V. The palace was originally spread across 45 acres of land, but it is now only 12 acres in size. The palace has two courtyards: the northern and southern courtyards. Afzal Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal, Mahtab Mahal, and Aftab Mahal are the four palaces in the southern courtyard. Aftab Mahal is the largest of these, with two storeys. Khilwat Mubarak, the palace’s heart, as well as the Clock Tower, Council Hall, and Roshan Bungalow, are all worth seeing. It has been open to the public since 2005.
25. Taj Falaknuma Palace
Falaknuma Palace is located on a 2000-foot-high hill, just 5 kilometres from the historic monument Charminar. It took nearly 9 years to complete and was built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra. However, it was later purchased by Nizam VI in 1897 to serve as a royal guest house. The palace, which is spread across 32 acres, was built with marble and is known as the “mirror of the sky.” The palace has nearly 22 halls and 220 rooms, as well as an impressive library, captivating chandeliers, a marble staircase, and many other appealing features that make it an architectural marvel.
It has a diverse collection that includes a Jade collection, rare paintings, manuscripts, books, and furniture, as well as statues. It was taken over by Taj Group in 2000 and converted into a five-star luxury hotel, though the essence has been carefully preserved.
26. Purani Haveli
Purani Haveli, built in the European style, is located near Dewandevdi, south-east of Afzal Gunj Bridge. It was used as the residential quarter of Mir Momen, the Peshwa of Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah, in the 16th century. However, it was later acquired and renovated by Nizam III in the 18th century. It was then passed down to his son, Sikandar Jah, who moved it to the Khilaurat complex, giving it the name Purani Haveli. The Haveli is a stunning blend of traditional Indian courtyards and 18th century European facades. It features exquisitely designed interiors, antique furniture, expansive courtyards, and rooms with colourful tiled walls and mosaic floors. Inside the U-shaped complex where the haveli is located, there is also a Nizam’s museum with an extensive collection, a library, and the Mukarram Jah Technical Institute.
27. KBR National Park
KBR National Park is one of Hyderabad’s most popular and largest parks. With a diverse flora and fauna, it provides a lush green setting and a refreshing environment for visitors to unwind. This national park is home to over 100 bird species, 20 reptile species, and 15 butterfly species. A walk in the park will allow you to appreciate its natural beauty. People also come to sit among the lush flora.
28. Nehru Zoo Park
Nehru Zoological Park, which opened to the public in 1963, is also located near Hyderabad’s Mir Alam Tank. This largest zoo in India is run by the Forest Department of the Government of Andhra Pradesh and houses approximately 1,500 species of birds, animals, and reptiles. It is a popular picnic spot with a large area of about 380 acres. The history museum here is also popular with visitors. When you visit, you can choose from a number of safaris and treat yourself to a few thrilling experiences. Visitors can enjoy Bear Safari, Tiger Safari, Lion Safari, and Butterfly Safari.
29. Lumbini Park
Lumbini Park, created by the Hyderabad Urban Development Authority in 1994, is named after Lord Buddha’s birthplace. It is one of Hyderabad’s most popular tourist attractions, located close to Hussain Sagar Lake.
One of the park’s main attractions is the giant clock, which is designed with various types of captivating flowering plants and can be found near the entrance. The musical fountain and laser show here are must-sees. Lumbini Park is also notable for its diverse flora. Except on Mondays, it is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day of the week.
30. Maula Ali Dargah
Maula Ali Dargah, located on a hilltop 10 kilometres from Secunderabad, is one of 11 heritage sites designated by HUDA (Heritage Conservation Committee).
Asif Jahis built it in memory of Hazrat Ali, Prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law, and it draws pilgrims from all over the world. Despite the fact that one must climb nearly 400 stairs to get here, the effort is well worth it. Aside from the religious significance, the view of the city from here is breathtaking.
31. NTR Gardens
The captivating NTR Gardens, which spans 36 acres, was created in memory of late Shri N T Rama Rao. Not only does this park have a lush green landscape, but it also has a variety of recreational options for visitors, such as boating, machan tree, and so on.
There is plenty of space, particularly for children. You’ll also have plenty of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and take-out joints. The mini train, which provides a short ride through the park, is one of the park’s main attractions.