Hyderabad travel guide

Things to do in Hyderabad

1. Charminar & Laad Bazaar

   2 h · ₹25 entry

   Built in 1591, this iconic four-story monument features grand arches and ornate minarets with a mosque on its top floor. It is surrounded by busy local markets, including the famous Laad Bazaar, making it a vibrant cultural center.

   Tip: Check out the traditional glass and lac bangles sold in the lane west of the monument.

2. Golconda Fort

   3 h · ₹25 entry

   Golconda Fort is a massive fortified citadel and ruined city on the western outskirts of Hyderabad. Built originally in the 11th century by the Kakatiya rulers, it later served as the capital of the Sultanate of Golconda and a major trade centre for famous diamonds. Today, visitors can explore its historic walls and structures.

   Tip: Hire a local guide near the entrance to learn about the acoustic engineering and history of the fort.

3. Chowmahalla Palace

   2 h · ₹80 entry

   Chowmahalla Palace is the grand historical residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad, who ruled the Asaf Jahi dynasty. Located close to the Charminar, the palace complex features four distinct traditional palaces and has now been converted into a museum preserving the royal heritage.

   Tip: Note that the palace remains closed on Fridays so plan your visit accordingly

4. Qutb Shahi Tombs

   1 h · ₹20 entry

   Qutb Shahi Tombs are restored domed tombs and mosques built by the kings of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. Located near Golconda Fort in Hyderabad, the complex features a striking mix of Indo-Islamic architecture with single and two-storied galleries. Sarcophagi in the centre of each tomb lie above actual burial vaults in crypts.

   Tip: Look closely at the remaining pieces of blue and green tiles on the domes

5. Salar Jung Museum

   2 h · ₹50 entry

   Salar Jung Museum is a notable national museum situated on the southern bank of the Musi River. It houses a vast private art collection of the Salar Jung family featuring sculptures, paintings, textiles, and carpets from across the world.

   Tip: Keep in mind that the museum remains closed on Fridays

6. Hussain Sagar & Buddha Statue

   1 h · Free

   Hussain Sagar is a lake featuring the world's tallest monolithic Buddha statue, erected on Gibraltar Rock in the middle of the water. Visitors can view the impressive statue located right in the heart of Hyderabad, Telangana, India.

   Tip: Take a boat ride from the shore to get a closer look at the statue situated in the middle of the lake.

7. Ramoji Film City

   8 h · ₹1,500 entry

   Ramoji Film City is a huge integrated film studio and thematic holiday destination spread over 2000 acres. It features a mix of natural landscapes, artificial film sets, and an amusement park with shows and rides.

   Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes since the studio complex is massive.

8. Birla Mandir

   45 min · Free

   Birla Mandir is a Hindu temple built on a hillock by the Birla Foundation, constructed using white marble and overlooking a lake. The shrine opened in 1976 and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara.

   Tip: Remove footwear before entering the temple premises

Where to stay in Hyderabad

• Banjara & Jubilee Hills

  ₹5,000–15,000

  Upscale hotels and restaurants.

• Abids & Nampally

  ₹1,000–2,500

  Budget hotels near the old city.

• Hitec City

  ₹3,000–7,000

  Business hotels.

What to eat

• Shah Ghouse

  restaurant

  Biryani and haleem near Charminar.

• Nimrah Cafe

  cafe · veg

  Irani chai and Osmania biscuits under Charminar.

• Paradise

  restaurant

  Secunderabad’s famous biryani.

• Haleem

  local dish

  Slow-cooked wheat-and-meat stew, in Ramzan.