City Information
400 year young Indian city, Hyderabad in every respect is rich and glorious. Adorned by many sobriquets, the largest city of the state is known more for its scrumptious Hyderabadi Biryani, Lavish Pearls, Jewellery and colourful bangles. The heritage of Hyderabad includes a multitude of mosques, temples, churches and bazaars in the city. A tour to the city of Nizams includes a walk towards the sacred Char Minar, Mecca Masjid, Falaknuma Palace, Golconda Fort and Tollywood’s heaven Ramoji Film City. At present, the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad are one of the fastest growing cities and together form the sixth largest metropolis in India. Frequented by thousands of visitors, this capital city enthralls everyone with its charm, traditions and splendour.
Major Tourist Locations
Char Minar
The symbol of Hyderabad, Char Minar is one of the most recognizable structures of India. Built in 1591, it is actually a mosque on a square edifice with four ornate minarets built in Arabian style. On the top of the minarets (49 m), one can explore the panoramic views of the city. Towards the north east of this mosque lies Laad Bazaar, famous for Fabrics, Perfumes, Bangles and Jewels.
Mecca Masjid
Adjacent to Char Minar, is the Mecca Masjid, one of the largest and revered mosques in India. Built in 1614, Mecca Masjid contains the bricks and soil brought from Mecca, the holiest site of Islam and used it in the central arch of mosque. Made of granite, the mosque accommodates 10,000 worshippers at a time.
Falaknuma Palace
The former residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad, Falaknuma Palace offers the sneak-peak into the gaudy royalty, splendour and opulence of the city. Spread over a wide expanse of 32 acres, the palace is now converted into a heritage hotel managed by Taj Group.
Golkonda
The ruined fortress city of Golkonda is the capital of ancient Kakatiya Kingdom. The fort in Golkonda in the city is located on a hill about 400 feet above the surrounding plains. The magical acoustic feature of fort main gates generates hand clap sound, which can be heared at the top of citadel.
Best time to visit - October to March
How to reach there
By Air - Newly constructed Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is sleek and well organized offering the best aviation facilities in India. Direct international flights are available from Hyderabad.
By Train - With three major railway stations serving the twin city - Hyderabad and Secunderabad, Kachiguda and Begumpet, Indian Railway connects the city of nizams with all major cities of India.
By Road - Hyderabad is linked to major Metros by highways including Bengaluru, Mumbai and Chennai.
Excursions
Ramoji
Film City Ramoji Film City is the world's largest integrated film production complex, located just 16 miles away from Hyderabad, earning the city name called Tollywood. Spread over 2,000 acres, the site is a popular tourism and recreation centre, containing both natural and artificial attractions including an amusement park.
Tirupati
The abode of Lord Venkateswara, Tirupati is one of the most sacred pilgrim destinations in India. One of the richest pilgrimage cities in India, Tirupati draws millions of devotees from the world over. The shrine is also famous for Hair Tonsuring, a prime ritual involving devout offering their hair to lord.
Puttaparthy
Puttaparthy’s main attraction is Prasanthi Nilayam Ashram, the residence of notable spiritual teacher Sathya Sai Baba.
Vishakhapatnam
Known locally as Vizag, Vishakhapatnam is famous for its unspoilt sandy beaches, apart from being a port city. The city is also a preserver of Buddhism in Andhra Pradesh by featuring Amaravathi and Nagarjuna.
Warangal
Famous for its grand palatial settings, Warangal is home to several attractions like Warangal Fort, Bhadra Kali temple, Thousand Pillar temple, Sri Veeranarayana temple, Jain temple, Pakhal Lake, etc.
Vijaywada
The city of victory, Vijaywada is the business capital of Andhra Pradesh offering numerous sightseeing options including Kanak Durga temple, Buddhist relics at Amaravati and Chandavaaram.
Nearest Cities
Warangal (152 km), Vijaywada (267 km), Nellore (459 km), Vishakhapatnam (627 km), Puttaparthy (366 km), Tirupati (571 km)
Where to Stay