Hyderabad City Guide

General Information / Guide

Hyderabad, or the Pearl City, is the state capital of Telangana in southern India. Secunderabad, its twin city, is nearby. They have been absorbed into Greater Hyderabad via urbanization. With the India headquarters of Microsoft and Google, this thriving Deccan Plateau metropolis competes with Bangalore and Chennai as the country's IT hub. Six administrative zones, each with a distinct personality, make up Hyderabad. The Charminar is one of the ancient landmarks in the Old City, which is south of the Musi River. The Golconda Fort of the Kakatiya dynasty, as well as the founding of the Qutb Shahi dynasty and the Nizam reign, are all remnants of the city's illustrious past. Hyderabad joined India in 1948, and in 2014 it was designated as Telangana's capital.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Abha experiences a Tropical Climate, with an average temperature of around 22-26 °C. November to February are ideal for traveling to Hyderabad, as the temperatures are 15 °C at the lowest, with the highest of 29°C with generally mild weather and lots of sunshine. Meanwhile, from March to June, temperatures can rise to a high of 45°C, with hot and dry weather and occasional thunderstorms. 

How to Get There

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, located around 22 km from the city center, is accessible via direct and connecting flights from various locations. To reach the city center, travelers can opt for taxis, which are available 24/7, or airport buses, The Pushpak Airport Liner, which is available from 00.35-23.35, and go to numerous designated spots in the city.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Hyderabad has a unique blend of culinary experiences, with Mughlai and South Indian flavors. The most famous dishes include the Hyderabadi biryani, known for its distinct aroma and garnished with pudina, fried onion, and boiled eggs, served with dahi-ki-chutney and mirchi-ka-salan. Other culinary delights in the city include Double Ka Meetha, a dessert made from bread, milk, and dry fruits, Falooda, Gosht (made from goat meat), Hyderabadi Haleem (available during Ramadan), Irani chai, Kachchi gosht ki biriyani, Khubani ka meetha, Mirchi ka salan, and Osmania biscuits. 
For budget dining, explore local establishments in the older areas, while Mid-range options include places like Paradise Food Court. Bakeries, cafes, and fast-food chains are also great, with options like Deli 9, Pulla Reddy Sweets, Nimrah Cafe & Bakery, Vellanki Foods, and PriyaFoods. However, quality and variety may vary, so choose your dining establishments wisely, and remember that Hyderabad's cuisine combines rich flavors from different culinary traditions. 

Important Places / Places to Visit

• Salar Jung Museum: Located on the southern bank of the Musi River, it houses rare collections of paintings, textiles, manuscripts, and ceramics, with historical significance tied to the Salar Jung family's rule over Hyderabad.
• Golconda Fort: Situated 11 km west of Hyderabad, this historical fort was constructed in the 1600s and is known for its historical treasures and mention in a Russian ballad.
• Nehru Zoological Garden: Established in 1959, it features over 100 rare species of birds, reptiles, and animals, including Indian Rhinos, Bengal Tigers, and a dino park.
• Charminar: An iconic architectural masterpiece with a thriving jewelry market in its vicinity, though its exact purpose of construction is shrouded in myth.
• Jagannath Temple: Located in Banjara Hills, this replica of the original temple in Puri serves as a spiritual tribute to the Oriya community in Hyderabad.
• Ramoji Film City: The world's largest film studio complex, known for hosting numerous film shoots and featuring an amusement park.
• Hussain Sagar: A lake constructed in 1526, surrounded by exotic surroundings, ideal for a tranquil evening with loved ones.
• Mecca Masjid: One of the city's oldest and most sacred mosques, known for a belief that those who sit on its benches will return soon.
• Lumbini Park: An urban park maintained by the Buddha Purnima Project Authority, offering scenic beauty in the heart of Hyderabad.
• Falaknuma Palace: Once the private property of the Nizam's royal family, known for its lavish reception room, library, and a blend of Italian and Tudor architectural styles.
• Chowmahalla Palace: The residence of the last Nizam, featuring the Durbar Hall and a display of royal weapons, cutlery, furniture, and automobiles, located near the Charminar.

What to Do

Hyderabad appeals to a wide range of interests, from cultural exploration to adventure and natural appreciation. You can visit the Sudha Car Museum, which features K. Sudhakar's handcrafted automobiles, cycles, minibikes, buses, and cars. Snow World, India's first theme park, features snow play, indoor racing, and a horror theme park. If you want to unwind, go to the tranquil "Secret Lake" in Durgam Cheruvu, which is located between Jubilee Hills and Madhapur. Himayat Sagar, around 20 kilometers from the city, is ideal for a picnic.
Nature lovers can explore the ancient Deccan plateau's rock formations and panoramas by joining rock walks organized by the Society to Save Rocks. Shamirpet Lake, located 24 kilometers from Hyderabad, is ideal for birdwatching. Explore Chowmahalla Palace, which houses antiques, furniture, chandeliers, and treasures from the Nizam era. Visit Surendrapuri, 60 kilometers from Hyderabad, to see Hindu mythology-inspired displays and reproductions of important Indian temples. 

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Hyderabad's nightlife is diverse and lively, offering something for everyone. You can enjoy upscale bars like The Moonshine Project in Banjara Hills for live music and craft cocktails. If you prefer a traditional British pub experience, head to 10 Downing Street in Gachibowli, known for its dark lighting, wooden decor, and bustling dance floor on weekends.
For a rooftop experience with panoramic city views and special beers, check out Playboy Beer Garden in Jubilee Hills. Kismet, located at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, offers an opulent nightclub experience with music from around the world. Couples looking for a romantic night out can visit Above The Moon, a rooftop club in Gachibowli with stunning city views. 

Shopping / What to Buy

Hyderabad, formerly known as Baghnagar, has a vibrant cultural heritage and a multicultural population, making it a captivating destination for tourists. A few noteworthy things to purchase in Hyderabad are the famous Hyderabadi Biryani, Golconda Paintings that depict the city's history and culture, exquisite pearls discovered in nearby villages, distinctive Hyderabadi Haleem, traditional Attar (Perfume) with sandalwood oil base, premium Bidriware known for its intricate designs, colorful Hyderabadi Bangles from the historic Laad Bazaar, tangy Gongura Pickle, Pochampally Sarees (Ikat These things serve as excellent mementos of the city's past. 

Festivals/ Events

January: Makar Sankranti
February- March: Holi
March: Ugadi
July: Bonalu
August: Raksha Bandhan
August - September: Ganesha Chaturthi Festival
October- November: Diwali or Festival of Lights
October: Dussehra or Vijayadashami
 

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

1 January: New year
14 January: Makar Sankranti
26 January: Republic Day
18 February: Maha Shivratri
7 March: Holi
22 March: Ugadi
30 March: Ram Navami
5 April: Babu Jagjivan Ram Jayanti
7 April: Good Friday
14 April: Dr. Ambedkar Jayanti/Tamil New Year
29 June: Bakri Eid
13 July: Bonalu
15 August: Independence Day
7 September: Janmashtami
19 September: Ganesh Chaturthi
28 September: Eid-E-Milad
2 October: Gandhi Jayanti
14 October: First Day of Bathukamma
22 October: Maha Ashtami
24 October: Vijaya Dashami
12 November: Deepavali
27 November: Guru Nanak’s Birthday/Karthika Purnima
25 December: Christmas
26 December: Boxing Day Holiday
Eid Al-Fitr
Eid Al-Adha
Muharram

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Before visiting, learn about the general customs and culture of Hyderabad and be respectful.
While visiting sacred places act accordingly and dress appropriately. 
People who speak the Hyderabadi dialect sound differently, be respectful as they take great pride in their dialect.
In touristic bazaars and markets, bargain and keep your belongings nearby. 
Learn a few basic Telugu phrases.
Be prepared for hot and humid weather, especially during the summer months, and carry a bottle of water with you at all times.

Transportation

In Hyderabad, the most commonly used transportation methods are taxis, public buses, metro, and cars to get around the city. State company TSRTC operates many routes to different parts of the city and the fares are reasonable. Taxis and cars are also common, but note that traffic can cause delays, and while taking taxis choose the metered ones. Lastly, you can take autorickshaws but do not forget to negotiate fares beforehand.