What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of Hyderabad?
If it is just IT or information technology, then this post is for you. Coz Hyderabad is a lot more than just IT. With tons of culture, history and parks surrounding it, this place is an amazing tourist destination. Not just sight seeing, Hyderabad is a paradise for the foodies as well – what with the famed Hyderabadi biryani and salan. To explore Hyderabad, 2-3 days is not enough and you will soon see why as I run you through some quick highlights of the city for the tourists.
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Golconda Fort
Have been there numerous times but each time, I discover something fascinating and new. It would advisable to engage a guide here, as there are plenty of hidden treasures that you need to spot within the fort.
The Fort has an amazing history. This place is known for its acoustic splendors – there is a point at the entrance from where the sound of a hand clap can be heard almost a kilometre away at the highest point of the fort. This used to be a warning system during the glory days and is still, demonstrated by the guides. Within the fort, one can visit the various structures – from the Queen’s pavilion to the Darbar hall. The Taramati pavilion, where the famous dancer used to perform, is visible from the top of the fort. There is a light and sound show that is available at the fort in the evenings. This is definitely recommended, as it helps re-live the glory days of the Fort.
There are some underground tunnels, one of which is closed but is said to lead right up to the Charminar. This one is currently blocked but it is said that it is quite high, enough for a horseman to ride through it.
Another interesting titbit about the fort is that this used to be home to the famed Kohinoor and Hope diamonds. Enroute to the Fort, you can visit the Qutub Shahi Tombs and the Taramati Baradari. This entire expedition will require one complete day as the Fort itself is around 12 km from the main city.
Though this is not an official website, you can get the details on the timings and entry fees here.
Chowmahalla Palace
Not known to many, but this is the palace where the guests were entertained by the Nizams. The Chowmahalla Palace is a walkable distance from the Charminar, close to the Laad Bazaar. Converted into a museum, you can walk through and experience the grandeur of the various balls rooms – all restored with their chandeliers and furniture. The décor is quite opulent and well maintained. The place hosts a collection of artifacts, crockery, weapons and more.
Don’t miss the musical Grandfather’s clock on display. Very intricately designed, this showcases a complete durbar scene. Every second the fan bearers move the fan. Every minute the Nizam/ King moves his head sideways, Every 15 minutes the curtain behind on the balcony depicted rises and comes down and in addition to the lovely piano tune, the hammer man sounds a gong every hour.
The highlight of the place is the display of the Vintage cars – from a Harley to Rolls Royce, you can see them all.
Here it the official website for this palace. Do check on timings before heading there.
Purani Haveli
The Purani Haveli is the Nizam’s museum where his personal belongings have been kept on display. The spotlight here is on the Walk-In Wardrobe, which is two-wings long. It is said that the Nizam never repeated his clothes and would give them away after wearing them once. Some of his clothes, jewelry and accessories are on display.
Attached to the wardrobe, is a hand-operated elevator.Though the collection is beautiful, the display is not very impressive with its poor organization and low lights. However, the sheer history would make you want to visit it at least once.
Salarjung Museum
One of the largest museums in India, this place is a treasure trove of antiques, some of which date back to 1st Century. The Museum is a home to the collections of Salarjung III, who belonged the Nawab family that served the Nizams as prime minister. The Nawab was a connoisseur of art and décor and many rare treasures, not just from India but from Europe find a place in this collection. There is a famed musical clock that is kept in a courtyard for public viewing. A crowd gathers around various “O” clocks to view the same. This is quite similar to the one I mentioned earlier at the Chowmahalla Palace. However, I personally, found the other one (Chowmahalla Palace) much more interesting.
Besides the clock, look out for the Veiled Rebecca statue as well. (see the picture above)
For timings and any other information, follow this link to the official website of the museum.
Ramoji Film City
Located on the outskirts of Hyderabad city, this is a leisure theme destination, which has something for everyone. Widely used as movie locations, the park offers themed gardens, shows, amusement rides and more. The themed gardens are quite unique and well maintained – a definite place to click memories and preserve them for life.
Bus rides to this place can be arranged by various tours and travels in the city. Reserve a complete day for the same or choose to stay back in one of their hotels for the night to make the most of this place. Here is the official website that allows you some online booking as well.
Besides the highlights that I have mentioned in this blog, one can also, visit the beautiful zoo, the Snow city, Birla Temple and Planetarium, Charminar and more. And don’t forget to sample the amazing Hyderabadi biryani – Paradise Biryani being a suggested location.
Travel Tips for Hyderabad:
- Carry a lot of sunscreen and use the same all along. Hyderabad tends to be hot throughout the year, though November – February is quite bearable.
- Keep aside a complete day each for the Golconda fort and Ramoji film city
- Local transport by way of autos and taxis are easily available in Hyderabad for all attractions mentioned. They are quite reasonable and one can make use of them for internal travel.
- Check up on all timings for the attractions to plan your visit better. Most of them are shut on one particular day of the week.
- There are some lovely stonework jewelry and bangles that are worth taking back as gifts. You can find them at the Laad bazaar for sure. Remember to bargain well.
good one
Thank you Suresh. Do keep reading and sharing my posts.
Cheers
Lovely post. And the photographs are so lively. Great. Keep it up, I may turn up as a regular visitor.
Thank you Aditya. Please do check out my other posts.
Cheers
Both Golconda Fort and Ramoji city are haunted, do you know that?
I wasn't aware at the time of my visit. Great pics.
Thanks Indrani. Indeed there are rumored sightings in both these places but that does add to the thrill of the place, right?
Cheers
Another great face of Hyderabad
Thank you Yogi.
Nice post. Beautiful pics..:)
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What an informative post.. loved reading it..
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Nice List. Nice weekend spots for the Hyderabadi's. We could not go to Purani haveli.
Not been to Hyderabad yet but yes I am a great fan of Hyderabadi Biryani.
Thanks for giving a peep into yet another vibrant city that has lots to do.
nice post
Very nice post on a historic city with so much culture! I have lived in Hyderabad for 6 years and think its one of the best cities in India. 🙂 Am sharing this post.
The Advaitist
Loved your tips!
wow! The photographs are amazing and so is India..there's so much to explore and cherish.
I look forward to visiting the places myself someday. Till then, keep taking us to the tours virtually 🙂
Thanks . Will check it out.
Thanks a ton. Keep checking out my other posts as well.
Thanks Arun. Try heading there the next time.
Your welcome. Hope you manage to head to some of these on your next visit.
Thanks Harshita
Thanks a ton Subhodeep. 🙂
Thanks Mridula.
Thanks Hargun. Stay with me and I promise to keep you traveling virtually.:-)
Nice photos and beautiful blog…..
Thank you
Wow, yeah, I’d say it’s a lot more than just tech, but that’s totally what I think of when I hear the name. The palace sounds and looks really cool!
Thanks Rob. It sure is a lovely heritage city. That palace was so amazing. Was happy to visit it.
The light and sound show sounds cool!
Thanks. A great way to learn the history of the place.
Hyderabad always holds for me an aura of intrigue and history. My favourite has always been the Salar Jung Museum. As a kid, I remember being fascinated by the antique clock where whenever the clock stuck the 1/2 hour a dwarf emerges to ring the bell!
You should then, check out the clock at Chowmahalla palace…video included here. It is mind blowing and better than the Salar Jung one.
Thanks for such great helpful information.
Thank you
Glad that this isn’t just any other Hyderabadi Biryani post. Nice to see Chowmahalla in this list. There are a few other places which aren’t mainstream but definitely worth a visit. Next time let me know when you are here, would love to take you around.
I will take you up on that offer for sure Atul. Thanks for stopping by
very nice place to visit for tourist
I agree!
What an interesting read! Your photos and experience in Hyderabad looks amazing! I’m also from India but have never had the chance to explore Hyderabad. Your travel tips for Hyderabad is wonderful so I’ll definitely have to put it on my list for the next time I visit. If for nothing else, then to try Hyderabad Biryani… 🙂
Thank you. These places are quite lovely and I do hope you explore them
Hyderabad looks to be interesting and a good place to visit. It’s really lovely to know that the Golconda Fort well preserved so, that the future generations are able to witness this historical fort.
It sure is an amazing place to visit. And Golconda is always interesting, despite so many visits.
Travelled to several contries and all continents, but culture, warmth and food nothing can be compared with Hyderabad, it is the real city of Gold
Am sure it is, there is indeed so much of warmth here.
It’s true Hyderabad had more to offer than just IT industry. I have been to Hyderabad once and enjoyed my visit over there. You have shared quite interesting pics. I haven’t been to Saral Jung Museum, how was your experience in there?
Have always loved Salar Jung. But the Chowmahalla beats it in my opinion
Thanks for the suggestion, I visit Chowmahalla too.
Have fun!
This is such a vital resorce of essential information. It is both tantalizing and scintillating and should be considered one of the best guides for anyone planning a trip to Hyderabad. Keep p the good work!!
Thanks Nisha. That does make me feel good.
Lovely post with lively photos. Please keep it up!
Thank you