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The old city of Nizam, Hyderabad has its fair share of marvels to offer to tourists and travellers. This city is the perfect blend of busy crowds, old traditions and cultures, amazing food and spectacular sights. Undoubtedly, these are the reasons why Hyderabad is often known as the New York of India. This city is the perfect example of how modern day living and culture go hand in hand with age-old traditions and lifestyle. If you are wondering about the places to visit in Hyderabad, it has more to offer to you than just The Charminar or Hyderabadi Biriyani. On one end it boasts of Hi-tech city and Cyberabad, testimony to the IT revolution of India and everything modern while on the other end, you have centuries old Islamic architecture, (some of the most impressive that India showcases), watching over the city. This makes for a curious amalgamation that should not be missed in your Hyderabad sightseeing.
Everyone knows about the top historical places in Hyderabad that includes The Golconda Fort, Ramoji Film City or The Charminar, and the list goes on with places that are bustling with tourists all around the year. However, this article shares an overview of the lesser known and offbeat places to explore in Hyderabad that can give you a feeling of peace and contentment.
The Golconda Fort passed through three centuries of dynasties before falling in the hands of the Qutb Shahis in the 16th century who established it as their citadel atop a 120-m –high granite hill surrounded by massive ramparts and ringed by fortifications which are 11km in the perimeter. The Qutb Shahis moved to Hyderabad in 1591 but the fort remained in use as their citadel till 1687 when it was claimed by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
From the summit, you can watch the beauty of the dusty foothills and look out over the horizon into the city in the distance.
You should allow yourself at least a couple of hours to explore the fort. Guides are available who charge around 6000 INR per 90 minutes. Small booklets that cost 20 INR are also available.
How to reach: Golconda is about 10 km from Charminar so an Uber or Ola cab rides are a convenient way to get there from the city.
Visitors’ hours: 9 AM to 5.30 PM
English language sound and light show at 6.30 PM (Nov-Feb), 7 PM (Mar-Oct)
Entry fees – Indian 20 INR, Foreigner – 200 INR, Light & Sound show – 140 INR
One of the major attractions in Hyderabad, Charminar or literally the four towers is the monument defines the city. That was the idea too when it was built in 1591 by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah as the beacon in the city after the end of an epidemic caused by the shortage of water in Golconda. Charminar was built as a mosque and the 56m –the high structure has four arches with four minarets atop each which gives it its name. Today the Charminar stands in the middle of Hyderabad’s main bazaar where traffic and crowds keep moving around the structure making it a very busy place. Nevertheless, there is no denying its charm and while you’re there don’t forget to check out the best of Hyderabadi street food near the Charminar. Also, check out Lad Bazaar, Hyderabad’s famous market for bangles right next to the Charminar.
One of the world’s largest mosques where 10,000 men can pray at a time, the Mecca Masjid is also one of the oldest buildings of Hyderabad. The mosque was built in 1617 by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the city’s founder. The masjid gets its name from the rocks that were transported from Mecca in Saudi Arabia to build it. Keep in mind that women are not allowed into the main prayer hall and some women will not be allowed into the premises if they are deemed to be dressed inappropriately.
Adjacent to the courtyard of the mosque are the tombs of many of the Hyderabad Nizams.
Sightseeing in Hyderabad will be incomplete without visiting this place. The Qutb Shahi Tombs are a combination of 23 mosques, 40 mausoleums, a hammam and several pavilions dating from the times of the Qutb Shahi dynasty which are currently being renovated as part of a renovation plan by the Indian government. Seven of the eight Qutb Shahi rulers have their final resting places here under beautiful domed granite roofs.
One of the finest tombs here is that of Mohammed Qutb Quli Shah, the founder of Hyderabad. There are other tombs here as well belonging to courtesans, physicians and nobility. Helpful information about the place can be gathered at an exhibition near the entrance. The tombs are near Golconda fort and best accessed by Autorickshaws or Ola/Uber cabs.
Entry fees: Indian 15 INR. Foreigner 100 INR
Camera or smartphone 50 INR
Video – 100 INR
Visiting Hours : 9.30am -5pm Sat-Thu
The twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad have had this necklace adorning them since 1562. The necklace called Hussain Sagar Lake, one of the largest manmade lakes in India, is one of the best places to visit places to visit in Hyderabad for couples and even with family. Sit on the shore line of the lake, savour delicacies from the food court on its periphery or enjoy a boat ride in the lake. The charm of the lake is highlighted by the Buddha statue that sits in the middle of the lake. This is one of the most accessible and relaxing places to visit in Hyderabad.
Visiting hours: 1 pm – 9 pm, all days of the week
Entry fee: INR 10 (boating)
Photography: Allowed
Ramoji Film City – A visit to the Hollywood might be on the cards for you but till that time you can visit the world’s largest integrated film city spread over 2000 acres. Indians love their cinema and anybody who loves cinema definitely comes here to see the magic that goes into making cinema. Apart from getting the tour of a film studio there are categories of entertainment defined for different ages, Kids Park, multi-cuisine restaurants and even a bird park. You can plan a complete day trip with family here or even stay back for a few days at this magical destination. This is certainly one of the best places to visit for sightseeing in Hyderabad.
Visiting Hours: 9 AM – 5.30 PM
Timings: 9am – 5:30pm
Entry fee: Fees ranges between 1050 INR to 2349 INR depending on the package you choose. There are different tours to take while you visit Ramoji Film City such as the Ramoji day tour, Ramoji star experience, winter fest day tour, winter fest premium experience and winter fest noon fiesta.
Photography: Allowed
One of the three national museums of India, Salar Jung museum houses the treasures accumulated by Mir Yousuf Ali Kahn (Salar Jung III). The Salar Jung Museum is a treasure trove for any art lover and contains sculptures, paintings, carvings, artefacts and more from across the world. A sculpture of note here is the Veiled Rebecca by 19th-century Italian sculptor Benzoni.
Visiting hours: Saturday to Thursday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Entry fees: Indian 50 INR, Foreigner 500 INR
Camera: 50 INR
As the name suggests, Chowmahalla Palace was a palace of the Nizams of Hyderabad and is characterised by its opulence. Stately buildings and eye-catching garden courtyards. The most arresting out of all the places here is the Khilwat Mubarak, a magnificent hall where the Nizams held ceremonies under 19 gigantic chandeliers of Belgian crystal. The place quarters are strewn with priceless historical exhibits ranging from arts and crafts, personal possessions such as hand-written Qurans, royal wedding outfits and old photographs. Do not forget to check out the collection of vintage cars and carriages of the different Nizams including such beauties as a 1911 yellow Rolls Royce and 1937 Buick convertible.
This place is considered one of the most underrated places in Hyderabad, but once you visit it, you would love to go there again. This is supposedly the only car museum in the entire world which houses quirky handmade cars for presentation. Various models and forms of vintage cars are presented to the visitors. You can visit alone or with your family to teach them about the various types of cars and have an enjoyable day out with kids too.
How to reach: It is near the Zoo Park and Chowmahalla Palace, so getting a local vehicle is the easiest.
Timings: 9.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. (All days open)
Entry Fee: Rs.50 per Adult
Foreigner: Rs.200
Camera – Rs. 50
The Paigahs are said to be descendants of the second Caliph of Islam and were staunch loyalists of the Nizam household and served as generals and states people under the Nizams. 4km in the southeast from Charminar lies the Paigah Tombs. 27 carved marble tombs are found in a small compound. The tombs are made of marble and lime stucco. If you’re at the Charminar you could do well to give this place a quick visit.
The most modern building in this list of places to visit in Hyderabad, Birla Mandir is a temple made out of marble in 1976 and is situated on Kalapahad (black mountain), one of two rocky hills that overlooks the Hussain Sagar lake. It is popular among Hindu tourists and has a very calm atmosphere. Scenes from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana are engraved on the marble and the inner sanctum here has a replica statue of the Tirupati Venkateswara.
Visiting Hours: 7am-noon & 2-9pm
Entry fee: NA
Photography: Not Allowed
The Birla Science Museum is one of the best scientific institutions across the world and is one of the busiest places on your itinerary of Hyderabad visiting places. Irrespective of whether you are a fan of science or not, the Museum is a great place to explore the science that surrounds us in the world. One of the biggest crowd-pullers here is the participatory science museum with archaeology and fine art sections.
Dinosarium, a natural art gallery and a breath-taking art gallery with murals, traditional artefacts from all the Indian states are much loved by visitors.
Visiting hours: 10.30 AM -8.00 PM, all days of the week
Entry Fee:
INR 50 for Museum
INR 50 for Planetarium
Photography: Allowed
The Nehru Zoological Park has couple of firsts to its name. It has India’s first butterfly park and this is also the first park where jungle safari was started. The 50-yr-old park has over 380 acres of land that is a mix of home for animals and birds, research facilities and ecological programmes.
There is a lot here for visitors to entertain themselves for a day. Facilities such as toy train, bicycles for hire and boating are available so that there is an environment for a complete family outing.
A park with live sized models of dinosaurs is a big draw for children and makes it one of the best places to see in Hyderabad.
The Nehru Zoological Park is home to nearly 1500 specimens of birds, animals and reptiles and also encourages the public to adopt wild animals.
Visiting hours:
April – June: 8AM -5:30PM
July –March: 8.30 AM – 5 PM
Timings:
April – June: 8am – 5:30pm,
July – March: 8:30am – 5pm
Closed every Monday
Entry fee: 20 INR per Adult
15 INR per Child (below 12 yrs)
Still Camera Charges:
20 INR for Amateur Still Camera
500 INR for Professional Still Camera
Photography: Allowed
If you feel like doing nothing after one of those days where you feel that you have taken in a lot of Hyderabad, head to the NTR Gardens, the newest among the attractions on this list. NTR Gardens is a commemorative garden in the memory of the Late NT Rama Rao, Telegu movie superstar and a political stalwart. You can spend a quiet day here amid the lush greenery.
Entry Fee: INR 15 per adult
INR 10 per child
INR 30 per camera
INR 65 per video camera
Fondly known as the Visa Balaji Temple by the local people, Chilkoor Balaji Temple is an ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Balaji. Situated in the village of Chilkur, it is a small picturesque place in Hyderabad, located on the banks of the Osman River. It is rumoured that if you wish to go overseas and you want your visa to get processed, this temple has special powers to fulfil your wishes and this is the story behind the local name of the temple. It is one of the fewest temples in India without a donation box or hundi.
How to reach: You can book a cab directly from the airport to the temple. You can also take a TSRTC bus from Mehdipatnam bus junction. This route has a good frequency of buses and is directly routed.
Timings: 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. (All days open)
Entry Fee: Free
The biggest Baobab tree in India, locally called as the Hatiyan ka Jhad, is a 430-year-old Baobab tree, which means ‘elephant sized tree’. It has a hollow trunk and has a girth of 25 metres. There is a famous legend related to this tree which tells the tale of 40 thieves that hid inside this tree to hide from the royal family. Following the origin of this tree, there are two stories, the first one states that it was a gift to Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah by the Arab traders. The second story suggests that it was brought and planted by wandering nomads when they visited Golconda.
How to reach: It is located on the premises of Naya Qila, which is just two kilometres away from Golconda Forts. You can get a cab to this place or avail a local taxi.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (All days open)
Entry Fee: Rs.5 per Indian Citizen, Rs.100 per Foreign Tourist
Another architectural marvel of Hyderabad is the Taj Falaknuma Palace, constructed by the Paigah Family in late 1800s. It is a stunning piece of architecture with Italian marble and stained-glass windows, and the palace spreads over a sprawling 1,011,500 square feet. It is now owned by the Taj Group and the luxury hotel is now accessible for the guests and visitors. Spacious and beautifully furnished rooms along with modern facilities promise you a memorable stay here. The grounds are well-manicured and lush green.
How to reach: The palace is located 5 kilometres away from the Charminar. You can easily avail a taxi or board a local tempo/auto to reach it.
Timings: As per tour timings.
Entry Fee: Tour Option 1 is priced at Rs.3, 100 per adult and Rs.2480 per child and Tour Option 2 is priced at Rs.2000 per adult and Rs.1600 per child. Please note that these prices might be subject to change.
This temple is also known as the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple and is dedicated to Lord Narasimha. It is situated 62 kilometres away from Hyderabad. It is counted as one of the top places near Hyderabad for tourists and history enthusiasts. The temple is lofty and intricately carved with various mythological and religious figurines and the combination of colours used is also magnificent.
How to reach: The nearest railway station is Raigiri. You can take an autorickshaw from the station.
Timings: 4.30 a.m. to 9.30 p.m. (All days)
Entry Fee: Free
The Botanical Gardens feature more than 600 different species of plants. The garden boasts of dense flora with some smartly designed spaces for walking and jogging. Along with its huge flora variety, it also draws many birds and insects that further enhances the true charm of this garden. The bamboo area is the major appeal of the garden.
How to reach: You can take a bus via Gachibowli Miyapur highway which is near Madhapur.
Timings: 5.30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (All days open)
Entry Fee: Rs.25 per Adult
Once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is now declared as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place boasts of ancient temple ruins and a rocky terrain made of granite boulders that look straight out of an adventure book! It is a prime destination for rock climbers and archaeologists. You will also come across proper roads, water tanks, a public square, community kitchen, elephant stables and monasteries, which show how advanced the ancient infrastructure was. Apart from quite a few Hindu temples, Hampi is home to some Jain temples as well as a Muslim mosque. A medley of Indian and Islamic styles of architecture is apparent here. You should check out the Hampi Bazaar as well. The Daroji Bear Sanctuary is very close to Hampi. It is situated 377 kilometres away from Hyderabad.
How to reach: The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction railway station, situated 13 kilometres away. The nearest bus station is Hospet town bus station. It is recommended to hire a cab or book a cab to reach this as it offers beautiful views along the way.
Timings: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Entry Fee: Rs. 10
Situated 90 kilometres away from the city of Hyderabad, this dense forest is the birthplace of the river Musi. Ananthagiri Hills has a temple known as the Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple and a picturesque lake known as the Nagasamudram Lake. It hosts caves that were the earliest human habitats in South India. If you wish to enjoy the scenic views here, plan your trip during February, March or October to December.
How to reach: Ananthagiri Hills are easily reachable by road, as they are located nearly 90 kilometres away from Hyderabad.
Timings: N/A
Entry Fee: Free
Counted as one of the prime places near Hyderabad, situated 100 kilometres away from it, this fort needs you to be energetic enough to climb the five hundred step staircase. It was built by the Kakatiyas over 800 years ago and is perched on a hilltop. This 12th-century masterpiece was built to celebrate the glorious Kakatiyan reign during their golden era. The surroundings of the Medak Fort become gorgeously green during the monsoon.
How to reach: You can hire a cab from Hyderabad for a journey of one and a half hours.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Entry Fee: Free
Jalavihar, situated on the Necklace Road Hyderabad, is a popular amusement park. It is very near to the IMAX multiplex and Sanjeevaiah Park which is also situated on the Necklace Road. Jalvihar is a family entertainment park having various rides for both adults and children.
There are a wide range of water games as well as dry rides for both adults and kids. Games such as family slide, Mini aqua trailers, Tilt bucket, Mushroom Umbrella, Float slide and Pendulum are just a few of them to name and will keep you entertained as well as provide fun throughout the day at Jalavihar.
Spend your time at the wave pool for relaxing and unwinding. Dance at the Rain Dance to the tune of chartbuster songs, while water is sprayed on you from all the sides simulating rain drops, enjoy with your kids and other family members & friends. There are many rides specially designed for kids.
Apart from water slides, Jalavihar has a variety of dry rides to offer. You will have to pay extra fee for each of the dry rides in case you want to enjoy some of them. It’s worth the money. Mini Coarsely, Mini train, Super-Jet, Battery cars, Mini rainbow wheel, Mini joker, Battery bikes, Air hockey, Water shooter, Basketball, Bungee Trampoline are some more exciting games/ride to enjoy and have fun. Park has trained safeguards for safety. There are video games for those video games enthusiasts as well.
For lunch and light snacks food courts serve various delicacies. Jalavihar also offers the facility of Party Zone, perfect for hosting all kinds of function, from family gathering to birthday parties & corporate parties. There is an amphitheatre with open lawn which has the capacity to accommodate almost 2000 people while the Aesthetic Vedhika can accommodate close to 300 people.
Located right in the middle of the city, it is easily accessible by autos and buses. It is a perfect weekend choice for not just families but also for group of friends. Visitors not only enjoy the games and rides here at Jalvihar but can also relax at the famous Hussain Sagar Lake or marvel at the captivating sunset by the lake side. Jalavihar timings are also quite convenient. The entry fee is quite affordable for everyone. Hence, without worrying about exceeding the budget you can plan your day for fun and entertaining outing at the water park.
Lumbini Park Hyderabad was developed by the Hyderabad Urban Development Authority in the year of 1994. A perfect place for relaxation and amusement, Lumbini Park has been named after the birthplace of Siddhartha who later came to be known as Lord Buddha. The park is part of the Buddha Purnima project of Hyderabad Urban Development Authority. This park was renamed as the T. Anjaiah Lumbini Park in the year of 2006. However, it is still popularly known as Lumbini Park.
Situated quite close to the famous standing statue of Lord Buddha and Hussain Sagar Lake, the largest artificial lake of Asia, the Lumbini Park is worth visiting. It is quite popular among kids as there are fun rides here. It is more like a mini entertainment park situated right in the middle of the city, next to a beautiful lake.
One of the main attractions of the Lumbini Park is the giant clock at the entrance of the park which has been designed using various kinds of colorful flowering plants. Along with seasonal flowering plants, wide variety of cacti and rocks, the park also has many means to keep kids entertained. The Musical fountain and water cascades are iconic attractions. The sight of the water screen, made by water shooting up the sky, where the history of Hyderabad is projected, is something not many of us have seen before. It is an experience in itself. The best part of laser show is that it used 3D technology. You will witness a city created in 3D right at a park.
Musical fountain and the laser show at the Lumbini Park is something which you cannot afford to miss. The timing of the musical fountain is from 6.30 P.M. and 8 P.M. As for the Lumbini park laser show timings, it is screened twice, at 7.15 pm and again at 8.30 pm.
From the park, one can also enjoy boating at the Hussain Sagar Lake and see the Buddha Statue in the middle of the lake. For boating there are two choices available for the visitors. If interested, you can hire a speed boat at Lumbini park and enjoy an exciting ride in the lake. You will be offered life-jackets, so that safety is not compromised with. The other option is the ferry ride, which takes tourists to the massive statue of Lord Buddha in the middle of the Hussain Sagar Lake.
Lumbini park also enjoys a good location as it is surrounded by the state Secretariat, the Hussain Sagar Lake and the famous Birla Mandir. Lumbini park timings are from 9.00 A.M. to 9.00 P.M on all weekdays except Mondays.
For an enjoyable evening this is one of the best places in the city. A refreshing break from the almost regular visits to malls and movie halls, Lumbini Park offers a setting where you can laze around; a perfect place to spend some quality time with your loved ones.
Purani Haveli in Hyderabad is located at the South East of Afzal Gunj Bridge near Dewan Devdi. It is a U shaped complex with a single storied central building designed in European style. It was originally established as the residential quarters of Mir Momen, the Peshwa of Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah around the 16th century.
Purani Haveli, one of the popular tourist spots in Hyderabad, was later acquired by Asaf Jah II, the second Nizam of Hyderabad in the 18th century. He renovated the palace and designated the same to his son Sikandar Jah, the third Nizam of Hyderabad. Later Shikandar Jah moved to the Khilaurat complex. From then on, the place has been popularly known as Purani Haveli, which literally means ‘Old Palace’. In 19th century, the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad, Nawab Mir Mahboob Ali Khan Siddiqi again converted this place as his official residence. It was then that the glory and grandeur of the yesteryears was returned to Purani Haveli.
Purani Haveli is known for its captivating combination of 18th century European facades and traditional Indian courtyards. It depicts a picture of how the city of Hyderabad was in 18th century.
The main building of Purani Haveli showcases 18th century European architecture which can be seen in its antique furniture and intricate interior decorations. As you take a tour of the entire haveli, you can see vast courtyards surrounded with rooms and deep verandas which have semicircular European arches. It is a U shaped complex. In its centre, there is a single storied building which is the main royal palace. The courtyard showcases an Indian style. Both the architectural style seems to complement each other. Although with time, the structure is losing its original grandness, few of the rooms in the haveli still boasts of colorful tiled walls and mosaic flooring which are almost intact.
There are beautiful courtyards in both the wings with rooms around them. Some of the rooms still have the mosaic flooring and tiled walls with their colors still looking afresh.
The western wing houses the wardrobe that is said to be longest in the world, which has been made in two levels along with a wooden elevator. It is said that it has the capacity to hang about 730 pairs of royal attires.
Currently, the haveli houses the Nizam’s Museum displaying various artifacts of the last Nizam of Hyderabad. Some of these are souvenirs and mementos given by the different dignitaries of the world to the last Nizam along with a 1930 Rolls-Royce, a Packard, and a Jaguar Mark V. There is also a library and Mukarram Jah Technical Institute inside the complex.
You can visit the haveli throughout the week except on Fridays. The visit timings are from 10:30 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee for Purani haveli is Rs. 80 per person for adults and Rs. 15 per person for children. Fee for camera may vary from Rs.150 to Rs. 500.
Snow World has been Developed and conceptualized by Ocean Park Multi Tech Limited (OPML) and recognized as the first snow-themed park of the country. Spread across an area of 17,000 square feet, Snow World is the biggest snow themed park in the world. It is situated at the Lower Tank Bund Road, behind the Indira Park; Snow World is also one of the interesting tourist spots of Hyderabad and is quite close to Hussain Sagar Lake as well.
It is a perfect spot to beat the scorching summer heat. Snow World offers entertainment for each and everyone. You can experience playing with snow and hurling snow at each other without having to travel to any hill station. All this is possible at the Snow World.
The temperature inside varies from 0 to 5 degree Celsius. You can experience the view of a snow clad hill station with snow falling from above and amazing landscapes. Adventurous sports like trekking up the slope makes your visit all the more exciting. The other activities that one can engage in Snow World are ice skating, ice boarding, snow slides with bumping-car, toboggan rides, etc.
Games like Snow volley Ball, Snow Merry-Go-Round, snow basket ball, Snow Dancing are quite popular here. You will also find Snow sculptures and Snow Mountain. There is also a Cryo Zone which showcases a natural snowscape consisted of igloos, alpine trees along with simulated polar bears and penguins. In the cryo zone, there is a special snow play area for children. There are many interesting rides for kids to enjoy.
While enjoying at the Snow World Hyderabad, it is advisable to keep some safety measure in mind. For instance, as some of the snow covered area inside might be slippery, it is better to walk slowly. Before choosing your rides know about them completely and also consider your health before taking the rides. One snow session at Snow World lasts for one hour. You are required to arrive at the venue half an hour before the session starts.
Snow World remains open throughout the week from 11 am to 9 pm. Ticket price is INR 450 for adults and INR 250 for Children. For college students above 10th class it is INR 300 while for school students of 10th class and below, the entry fee Snow World, Hyderabad is INR 250. There are many packages offered, such as Snow World Blue Package and Snow World Double Offer Packages which also include entry to both Snow World and Ocean Park Hyderabad.
Visitors are not allowed to take camera or mobiles inside. Warm clothes, gloves and other necessary gears to keep you warm are provided at the venue itself. All the snow produced at the Snow World is made up of mineral water. The snow is created using state-of-the-art technology which has been supplied by Woomera Snow Guns Ltd.
Laad Bazaar;is located quite close to the Charminar one of the most popular tourist spots of Hyderabad. The Laad Bazaar is adjacent to the Charminar and is spread on the four roads starting from Charminar. The Bazaar covers an area of one kilometer.
Charminar has been known for bangles and various other traditional items since the eras of the Nizams and the Laad Bazaar here still presents a glimpse of the bygone eras. It is said that the market has been in existence here since the Qutub Shahis and the Nizams era and thus represents the living heritage of the city.
The name “Laad Bazaar” has its origin from the word “laad” meaning lacquer. Lacquer is one of the important materials used to make bangles; these vibrant color, sparkling ‘lac’ bangles are very popular among visitors to this place.
Out of the many legends associated with this historical market, one legend says that the origin of Laad Bazaar dates back to Ladli Begum, the wife of the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Mehboob Ali Khan. There is another story which traces its origin to Abdur Razzaq Laary, Golconda Army General, and ‘Laary Bazaar’ was named after him, which later became Laad bazaar. The other legend attributes the name to Lord Rippon for whom the name ‘Lord Bazaar’ was coined, which eventually was corrupted to be colloquially pronounced as ‘Laad Bazaar’. For whatever reason the place derives its name, the charm of Laad bazaar is incomprehensible for anyone who has not been here.
Besides a wide range of colorful bangles, the market has to offer to customer sarees with zari embroidery works, other traditional clothing and semi-precious stones to buy and take back home. Pearls sold at Laad bazaar are equally famous as well under the name of Hyderabad Pearls. The Laad Bazaar allows bargaining for each and every item of your liking. It gives you a different feeling of accomplishment to buy the items at your bargained price. It is not only the bangles that most people visit this place for; this age old market is like a never ending fair. From mouth-watering variety of eatables to jeweler shops; shops for bridal wear to sequined skirts and bags; ‘Hyderabadi Pearls’ to junk jewellery; this place offers almost everything.
The shops here at Laad Bazaar open only after mid-morning. It is when you find shopkeepers opening and arranging the items in and around their shop. Although the Laad Bazaar, Hyderabad timings are from 11 in morning till 10.30 in night, the best time to go is by evening. You can visit Charminar and enjoy the view from its top and then begin your shopping at the glittering Chudi (Bangle) bazaar here.
Laad Bazaar is located between Charminar and Chowmahalla Palace. The bazaar witnesses an approximate foot fall of 500-600 foreign tourists every day. It is a popular tourist spot among both national and international tourists. Once at the bazaar, you are supposed to walk on foot as vehicles are not permitted inside the bazaar, owing to the crowd.
Situated quite close to the Hi-tech City, Durgam Cheruvu is one of the popular sightseeing places of Hyderabad. The lake is also known as the ‘Secret Lake’ may be because of the fact that it is hidden by the surrounding granite rocks. The rock formations surrounding the lake are spread across an area of 63 acres and are said to be approximately 2500 million years old.
Currently it has been developed into a hangout place where people come and spend some time in a relaxed environment by the side of a calm water body. Durgam Cheruvu has an artificial waterfall and floating fountain as attractions for most visitors. The place provides a different level of calmness in the form of lake and rocks, as compared to the concrete buildings of offices and a shopping mall.
It is said that the lake was used as the source of drinking water for the Golconda Fort. Also called by the name of ‘Madhapur Lake’, Durgam Cheruvu promises some refreshing moments to each and everyone visiting this place.
Owing to its scenic beauty and unique location, it is a common venue for film shootings. Durgam Cheruvu Lake is surrounded by granite rocks, which is said to be a rare not just in India but all over Asia as well. Once at the lake, you can try out engaging in various kinds of interesting activities. The place has the facilities available for boating, camping as well as trekking. There are varied kinds of boating choices at Durgam cheruvu, ranging from Pedal Boat, Mechanized Boat to Water Scooter. The ticket price for boating varies with the kind you choose.
Some visitors can also be seen trying out their luck with fishing, an activity which is very rare in the city. Amid the hectic schedule of the city lives and work pressure, Durgam Cheruvu presents a refreshing opportunity with soothing surroundings and rare sports like fishing to unwind.
There are cafeteria, refreshment centre, an amphitheatre at the rock garden, and a restaurant located at the lake side. The Inorbit Mall is just at a stone throw distance from this place, making it easier for visitors to access other facilities, if needed. One can spend a quiet evening here at the lake, watching the breathtaking sunset and can end their day at Inorbit Mall which houses many popular restaurants and a multiplex as well.
The view of the nearby places and the Hi-Tech city from here at Durgam Cheruvu is worth watching. This place is ideal for a relaxed yet fun-filled hang out of the city. Although not as popular at the Hussain Sagar lake, it is often considered at a popular party zone, a reason why, especially more youngsters flock to the location. It is also an ideal place for nature lovers; who can spend time amid the beautiful creations of nature right in the city. It is open on all days, from Monday to Sunday. Timings for Durgam Cheruvu are from 10 am to 6.30 pm.
Shilparamam Hyderabad is located at a distance of 14 km from the heart of Hyderabad city, Shilparamam is a craft village show-casing various traditional arts and crafts by artisans from all over the country. A perfect place for art lovers, Shilparamam is one of the popular tourist spots in Hyderabad.
Spread across an area of 50 acres, Shilparamam not only showcases various artifacts and traditionally made handicrafts but is also home for various performing artists. In its complete form, the complex of Shilparamam is supposed to have Crafts Museum, Cultural Museum, Art Gallery & Library, Multi-purpose Auditorium, Common Facility Workshops and Research & Design Centre along with accommodation facilities for artists and visitors.
This is an ideal place for long walks too; its natural greenery dotted with carefully laid out sculptures and intricately designed buildings provide solace to the visitors here. There is also the facility of battery operated car which takes you for an enchanting tour of Shilparamam against a minimal charge.
Shopping at Shilparamam is common not just with residents of Hyderabad but also among tourists. Craftsmen from all over India, display their works here, starting from traditional jewellery, hand-woven saris, shawls, dresses, bed sheets, etc; and hand-crafted wooden and metal wares. If you are looking for some street shopping here, you have an option for that as well. There are many shops selling clothing of every kind at cheaper rates. All you require is some flair for bargaining.
However, along with shopping in Shilparamam, visitors can also relish some spicy chaats and mouth watering snacks. For art lovers, there are always dance performances and activities conducted on the open theatre with ample seating facility which you can see free of cost. There is also the facility for boating. Ticket price for boating is INR 30 per person.
The place has an educational centre which conducts various kinds of workshops, training camps and short term training classes. An annual festival of arts and crafts is conducted here during the first two weeks of March. This was started in the year 1995 and since then artists from all over the country participate in this festival.
During Sankranti Sandadi, festival of harvest in the month of January and ten days of Dussehra in the month of October, various cultural activities are organized. Along with these, Kite Festival, Navarathri, South India Festival, Ugadi, Annual Crafts Festival are also celebrated in traditional ways at Shilparamam. One can visit Shilparamam at any time of the year, but visiting during festivals will definitely add different attractions to your visit.
Although open throughout the week, Shilparamam timings are from 10.30 am to 8.30 pm so plan your visit accordingly. Entry fee for shilparamam Hyderabad is also minimal. It is INR 40 per person for adults and INR 20 per child.
Hyderabad is not just famous for forts and palaces as sightseeing places, but Gardens, waterfalls and lakes such as Gandipet Lake, with a beautiful touch of nature around the city of Hyderabad, is equally famous as a sightseeing destination. Also known as Osman Sagar, Gandipet Lake is spread across an area of 46 Km.
Osman Sagar Lake has been named after the late seventh Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Khan who, in 1920 built a Dam over the lake to protect the city from flooding. The Dam is the main reservoir for the twin cities – Hyderabad and Secunderabad and now one of the main sources of drinking water for both the cities.
The lake has amazing scenic surroundings. The sunset and sunrise at the lake are simply mesmerizing. Osman Sagar, Gandipet, is often visited by families and those who are looking for spending some peaceful moment, away from busy city life. It is one of the popular places to visit in Hyderabad for one day. Visitors to the lake can cary their own food, however there is also a cafeteria here which serves food.
The lake has boating facility among beautiful surroundings. The best time to visit the lake is during months of October to March, when the climate is much cooler.
Overnight stay can be planned in the guest house named Sagar Mahal by Andhra Pradesh Tourism, which offers decent stay by the side of serene lake. This guest house, Sagar Mahal, in Gandipet was once the summer resort of Nizams. Some portion of this mahal has been now open to public; there are about 10 double rooms for accommodation. It offers its guests a royal ambience and breathtaking view of the lake as well as sumptuous delicacies.
The place has various entertainment parks nearby and offer excitement and thrill for both children and adults. Theme Parks like Ocean Park Hyderabad and Treasure Island are located quite close to the Gandipet lake Hyderabad. The Shirdi Sai Baba temple is located at the Northern end of the resort and attracts hordes of religious tourists every year. It is quite near to the famous Chilkur Balaji Temple as well.
Gandipet Lake ‘Osman Sagar’ is located at about 20 km from Secunderabad. Visitors can either take bus or even go in their own vehicles.
Mount Opera Theme Park Hyderabad is located at a distance of approximately 38 km from the main city and is one of the popular tourist destinations of Hyderabad, offering many entertainment and facilities for fun to everyone visiting the place. Situated on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada National Highway, the Mount Opera theme park is just 4 km from the popular Ramoji Film City.
The Mount Opera is one of the special tourism units chosen by the Andhra Pradesh Department of Tourism. It is spread across an area of 55 acres and thus the quality of services and facilities offered at this multi theme park or resort is ensured.
Ride Charges at Mount Opera are as follows: Go-karting (INR 90/-), Bumper Cars (INR 30/-), Thrillarium (INR 45/-), Boating (INR 40/- for 2 seater), Bungee Jumping (INR 30/-). Seasonal Packages like School Picnic and College Picnic (including food & rides) are also available on request for minimum of 50 people. Weekend Packages with day outing is also available with Non-vegetarian and Vegetarian food.
Situated on the hill top, Mount Opera Hyderabad presents its visitors with various water sports as well as dry rides. Some of the dry rides here are Skating Rink, Toy Train, Merry-Go-Round, Merry Cups, Slam Bob, Columbus, Sliding Ring, Skating Rink, Striking Cars, Tele-Combat, Ferris wheel, Go-Karting, etc. The Oasis Zone water world offers a range of water games and slides. There are many adult slides, wave pool along with a separate kids and family pool, which makes the experience all the more exciting. There are also boating facilities and rain dance. Some of the choices of Indoor games here at Mount Opera are Billiards, Table Tennis, Carrom, Cards Room, Chess, etc.
Mount Opera has a discotheque. In the Mount Opera complex there is an open theatre as well, which offers a 1500 seating capacity. Many performances including programs for children and dramas are often organized here.
Mount Opera Hyderabad offers a range of accommodation facilities, ranging from suites to cottages and each one of them is well-furnished, with all the modern amenities. There is bodyline Gymnasium with facilities of Sauna, Massages along with guidance from the experts.
Mount Opera also presents a wide array of culinary choices. Restaurants Mount View, offers authentic Indian cuisine, while Omar Khayyam is a multi cuisine restaurant and Dolphin is a family restaurant. coffee is served at Lotus Coffee Shop. You can also choose from various Mount Opera packages – Weekend packages and seasonal packages and travel at your pace without any worry.
The entry fee for Mount Opera amusement park is INR 150 per person for senior citizens, while INR 435 per person for adults and INR 330 per person for children. There are separate charges for some of the rides as well. Entry timing at the Mount Opera amusement park are from are 11 am – 6 pm or 10 am to 7 pm.
The Hyderabad city was once ruled by the Nizams and Mughals, and the towering architectural marvels bear testimony to a long-lost era. The ever growing and glowing city of history and art has a fair share of beautiful markets and old restaurants to offer as well. The ever-helpful local people also make it one of the most visited places in India. As the capital of the newest state in India which is Telangana, Hyderabad has some really good food that you must try out. While this strictly does not fall under sightseeing, exploring Hyderabad would be incomplete without understanding its relationship with food. Very few places in the world can claim their fame for one particular food item. Hyderabad is one of those few places and is synonymous with Biryani – a mix of rice and meat cooked with spices. As you also learn that a Hyderabadi will debate about two things other than Biryani – A cup of Irani chai and Haleem. Sightseeing is one aspect of Hyderabad but your tour to Hyderabad is not complete without tasting the best of Biryani, Haleem and Irani chai. Food is part of the cultural ethos of Hyderabad and there is more to food here than simply satisfying the pangs of hunger.
This city has a history that is over 400-years old and it takes pride in delivering you an impressive medley of sights, sounds, colours and flavours. Make sure to plan in advance and book from a wide array of hotels, to suit your taste and budget.
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April 15, 2024 
