Country: | India |
Known Names: | |
Language: | Telugu, Urdu, English |
Population: | 11,069,000 (2024) |
Religion: | Hinduism |
Area Code: | 040 |
Currency: | Indian Rupee (INR) |
Time Zone: | India Standard Time - UTC/GMT +5:30 hours |
Visa: | |
Consulate: |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.