About Hyderabad
Hyderabad entices tourists with its rich history, architectural marvels, and vibrant culture. The old city of Hyderabad still has the remains of the days gone by, to help you explore its glorious past. The bustling markets or ‘bazaars’ will take you on a shopping spree and the spicy aromas of the local restaurants' Biryani will make you salivate. The newer parts of the city, on the other hand, are thriving business hubs. Hyderabad promises a captivating journey that bridges the gap between history and modernity, from discovering historic sites to indulging in delectable cuisine.
Places to visit in Hyderabad
Here is a list of the top five places that you cannot miss while visiting Hyderabad:
- Golconda Fort: The walled castle and ruined city known as Golconda is located on the western fringes of Hyderabad, Telangana, India. Pratāparudra, the ruler of Kakatiya, initially constructed the fort in the eleventh century using mud walls. Golconda prospered as a hub for the trade of huge diamonds, known as Golconda Diamonds, due to the close proximity of diamond mines. At the moment, Golconda Fort is in ruins and is abandoned. With its expansive views and regal ruins, this magnificent fort offers travellers a trip through time as each stone tells a story of bygone ages.
- Qutub Shahi Tombs: The Qutub Shahi Tombs are situated near Ibrahim Bagh (garden precinct), near the well-known Golconda Fort. It has various tombs and mosques constructed by the numerous Qutub Shahi dynasty kings. Admire the magnificent blend of Indian and Persian architectural elements. These regal tombs welcome guests and serve as a reminder of the dynasty's cultural legacy.
- Charminar: The Charminar is a historical landmark in the centre of Hyderabad's old city. It is surrounded by the Mecca Masjid, constructed using Mecca bricks, and Laad Bazaar, a bustling shopping district. It was built in 1591, by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, as a memorial and as a preventative measure against a deadly epidemic that was widespread in the Golconda region at the time. It is graced with four minarets that reach almost 50 feet in height.
- Birla Mandir: The Birla Mandir, a beautiful contemporary temple constructed atop the Kala Pahad, the twin hillock of the Naubat Pahad, is situated on the southern end of Hussain Sagar Lake. The place of worship is embellished with scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata that are finely sculpted in marble. There is an 11-foot-tall replica of Tirupati Venkateswara in the temple's inner shrine. Visitors come here to view the several marble carvings in the nearby ‘Mukha Mandapam’ that depict Indian mythology.
- Hussain Sagar Lake: Hussain Sagar Lake, one of India's most prominent artificial lakes, is a famous tourist spot in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The monolithic Buddha statue placed in the middle of the lake adds to its beauty. Additional attractions include the neighbourhood Lumbini Park, an amusement park, and a number of facilities on the lake's outskirts, including boating and water sports.
Hyderabad Airport
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (IATA code: HYD) is the only international airport serving the city of Hyderabad. The official address of this airport is Shamshabad, Telangana - 500409, and it is about 30 km from the main city. You can take a bus and taxi to travel to and from the airport.