Most people can easily compile a list of the best places to visit in Hyderabad. It is after all, one of the most beautiful and historical metropolises of the country. However, what if you wanted some night-time delights, exploring some of the city’s best landmarks in their lit-up glory?
Here’s tuning into the best things to do in Hyderabad at night.
The Golkonda Fort is one of those landmarks ubiquitous to Hyderabad, built in the 1600s by the Qutb Shahi rulers. The nightly light and sound show is a must-try, more so when you hear that the narration has been done by none other than Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan. Music lovers will appreciate the scintillating backgrounds to the show that has been composed by ghazal legend Jagjit Singh himself, creating an ambience that will leave you spell-bound. The twinkling lights and surreal settings will certainly bowl you over instantly!
Location: Makki Darwaza Road, Khair Complex
Entry Charges: Rs. 15 per head (Indian visitors), Rs. 130 per head (light and sound show)
Timings: 6.30 PM (first show) and 7.45 PM (second show)
One of Hyderabad’s most exclusive heritage spots, Moula Ali Hill is nestled at approximately 2,014 feet. The Moula Ali Dargah above the hill has an aura surrounding it with locals believing that it is the imprint of Prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law. Take all the 484 steps up to the hillock for panoramic and sweeping views of the city decked up in a mélange of lights. Truly a magical experience!
Location: Moula Ali
Entry Charges: Free
Timings: 5.30 AM-10 PM
When you’re done booking hotels in Hyderabad near the Hussain Sagar Lake, take time out for an evening trip to this landmark. Built all the way back in 1562 by Hazrat Hussain Shah Wali, the lake is Asia’s biggest artificial lake, spanning a whopping 5.7 square kilometres over a Musi River tributary. The huge Gautam Buddha Statue rests on a massive rock in the middle of the lake, making for a picturesque sight at night.
Location: Close to Hyderabad Centre
Timings: 8 AM-10.30 PM
Hyderabad’s own version of Marine Drive, this stretch covers 3 kilometers across some of the most beautiful parts of the city including Lumbini Park, NTR Gardens, Sanjeevaiah Park and of course, the Hussain Sagar Lake. You’ll find several roadside tea, coffee and ice cream joints lining the picturesque road at night with the brilliant lighting creating an enchanting ambience all around.
Location: Raj Nagar, Khairatabad
Experience Hyderabadi hustle up close at the Begum Bazaar, one of the city’s most popular markets selling everything from kitchenware and cosmetics to clothing, perfumes, accessories and more! Strike great bargains and enjoy the vibrant ambience of the market in all its glory.
Location: Close to Nava Pal Bridge, Old City
Timings: 10 AM-11 PM (closed on Sundays)
Hyderabad is home to the Mecca of live music in the party circuit, the globally acclaimed Hard Rock Café. From signature cocktails to amazing entertainment, this is where your evenings will come alive in a charming cacophony of music, food, people and warmth.
Location: GVK One, Road Number 1, Banjara Hills
Timings: 12 PM-11.30 PM (Sunday to Thursday)/ 12 PM-12.30 AM (Friday & Saturday)
Meal for Two: Rs. 2,000 (approximately)
A British pub in Hyderabad sounds like an oriental fantasy all right! Only this time, it’s come true at 10 Downing Street, the charming theme pub with wooden floors, wall panels, vintage chandeliers and black and white images dotting the interiors. Shepherd’s pies are hugely in demand and so are steaks along with the usual range of cocktails and brew. If you’ve been meaning to exercise your vocal cords on stage, check out karaoke nights post 8 PM on Thursdays.
Location: Begumpet
Timings: 12 PM-12 AM
Meal for Two: Rs. 1,800 (approximately)
The Charminar defines the city’s skyline as its most famous landmark and remnant of history, being enlisted as an architectural wonder by the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India). The four northern arches are known as Char Kaman with the central fountain named Gulzar Houz. Crafted from limestone, marble and granite, the structure looks ethereal when lit up at night. Of course, once you’re done taking in its sheer grandeur, you can feast on Hyderabadi Biryani and other local delights at the stalls surrounding the landmark!
Location: Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar
Entry Charges: Rs. 5 (Indians) and Rs. 100 (Foreigners)
Timings: 9.39 AM-5.30 PM
In the mood for some late night ice-cream? Give wings to your indulgence at Cream Stone, one of the most popular parlors in the city. From fruit-flavored varieties to sundaes, ice-cream cake and milkshakes, this joint is total bliss for dessert lovers.
Location: GVK One Mall, Banjara Hills
Timings: 11 AM-2 AM
Meal for Two: Rs. 350 (approximately)
Channelize your inner Johnny Depp (Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean remember?) as you hit the Pirate Brew, a uniquely themed restaurant that resembles a pirate ship. Dip into Italian, North Indian and Chinese dishes while enjoying the charming rooftop and outdoor seating zones for their gorgeous views of the city. Closet singer alert! Karaoke nights are held every Wednesday.
Location: Empire Square Building, Jubilee Hills
Timings: 12.30 PM-12.30 AM
Meal for Two: Rs. 1,600 (approximately)
These are certainly the 10 best places/things to experience in the magical city of Hyderabad at night. Now that you’re in the loop, here’s to ticking them off your bucket list soon!
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