Places to visit
Hyderabad
Welcome to Hyderabad, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and rapidly evolving technology industry. This city, also referred to as Cyberabad, blends traditions and innovations, offering its residents and visitors a unique and captivating experience.
You are about to enter a world where ancient traditions coexist with modern life. Every corner, every alley, every sound and scent here is steeped in history and culture, noticeably different from what you have seen before.
Hyderabad is also a city of technology, earning its nickname Cyberabad thanks to its contributions to India's IT sector. It hosts the offices of many global tech giants, startups, and research centers, making it one of the country's most important tech hubs.
But it's not just history and technology that make Hyderabad special. This city is also known for its hospitality and cuisine. Here you can savor local gastronomic delights, which are a unique blend of flavors, tastes, and traditions of South India.
In Hyderabad, there is something for everyone. Discover this city full of contrasts, and it will forever remain in your heart.
The Charminar is one of the most recognized and important landmarks in the city of Hyderabad, India. It was built in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, supposedly to commemorate the end of a deadly plague in the city. The name Charminar comes from two Urdu words, Chār and Minar, which translate to "four towers" in English.
The Charminar is a grand architectural monument with four minarets or towers, each standing about 56 meters high. Each of these minarets is intricately decorated and has a double balcony. A unique feature of the structure is the square shape it forms at the base. The entire structure is made of granite, limestone, mortar and pulverised marble, which gives it a distinct aesthetic appeal.
The monument is situated in the heart of Hyderabad's bustling old city. It is surrounded by bustling markets, including the famous Laad Bazaar, known for its jewelry, particularly exquisite bangles studded with precious stones.
The Charminar is also a place of worship. There is a mosque located on the western side of the open roof, which is still in use today. The eastern section of the roof serves as a viewing platform from which one can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city.
In essence, the Charminar is not just an architectural marvel, but also a symbol of Hyderabad's historical and cultural significance. Its grandeur and aura draw both locals and tourists, making it a must-visit attraction in the city.
The Mecca Masjid, also known as Makkah Masjid, is one of the oldest and largest mosques in India, located in Hyderabad, near the historic landmarks of Charminar and Chowmahalla Palace.
The construction of the mosque began in 1614 during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah, the sixth Sultan of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, and was completed in 1694 by Aurangzeb, the Mughal Emperor. It's called "Mecca Masjid" because the bricks used in the construction of the central arch of the mosque were made from soil brought from Mecca, the holiest site of Islam.
The mosque is a magnificent example of Islamic architecture, combining elements of both Persian and Indian styles. It's noted for its grandeur and intricate design details. The mosque can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers at a time, which makes it one of the largest in India.
The main hall of the mosque is 75 feet high, 220 feet wide and 180 feet long, big enough to accommodate thousands of worshippers during prayer. The mosque also houses the tombs of the Asaf Jahi rulers in a marble courtyard.
The Mecca Masjid is not just a place of worship, but also a historical monument that has stood the test of time. It attracts visitors from all around the world who are interested in the history, architecture, and culture of Hyderabad.
Chowmahalla Palace is a historic site in Hyderabad, India, known for its unique style and elegance. The palace was the official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad while they ruled their state. The name "Chowmahalla" is derived from Dakhini Urdu words, and it means "Four Palaces".
The construction of the palace was initiated in the late 18th century and was completed in the late 19th century. The construction was commissioned by Nizam Salabat Jung but was completed under the reign of Afzal ad-Dawlah, Asaf Jah V, the fifth Nizam of Hyderabad.
The Chowmahalla Palace complex comprises four palaces in Mughal and European styles, hence the name. The four palaces are Afzal Mahal, Mahtab Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal and Aftab Mahal. The complex also includes fountains, gardens, and numerous unique elements such as the Khilwat Clock, which has been running for around 250 years.
One of the most impressive parts of the palace is Khilwat Mubarak, the grand Durbar Hall. Here, the Nizams held their durbar and other religious and symbolic ceremonies. The grand pillared Durbar Hall has a pure marble platform on which the Takht-e-Nishan or the royal seat was laid. Today, this grand hall is a sight to behold with its chandeliers, arches, and pure marble dais.
Chowmahalla Palace is now a museum that gives a glimpse into the lives of the Nizams. It showcases a unique collection of manuscripts, artifacts, and other items that belonged to the Nizams.
Visiting Chowmahalla Palace offers a chance to step back in time and experience the opulence of the Nizams' era. The palace, with its architectural grandeur and historical significance, is a popular tourist spot and a must-visit when in Hyderabad.
The Paigah Tombs, also known as Maqhbara Shums Ul Umra, are a set of magnificent tombs located in Hyderabad, India, representing some of the finest examples of architectural brilliance and intricate craftsmanship. They were built by the noble Paigah family, who were fierce loyalists and close aides to the Nizams, the royal rulers of Hyderabad.
The tombs date back to the late 18th century and are the final resting place of various members of the Paigah family, including the founder, Abdul Fateh Khan Tegh Jung, and his descendants. The complex is spread over a 30-40 acre area and includes more than 30 tombs of Paigah nobles.
The most striking feature of the Paigah Tombs is the exquisite stucco work, which shows a significant influence of Mughal, Persian, Deccani, and Rajasthani style of architecture. The tombs are adorned with beautiful geometric patterns and stunning motifs of flowers and vines, made out of lime and mortar.
One of the most distinctive aspects of these tombs is the intricate jali work (lattice designs) on marble, which is rarely found in the architecture of that period. The carvings and the mosaic tiles used to decorate the tombs showcase the craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.
Despite their historical and architectural significance, the Paigah Tombs remained relatively unknown for a long time and were only rediscovered and renovated in the early 21st century. Today, they serve as an important heritage site and a testament to Hyderabad's rich past.
Visiting the Paigah Tombs offers a unique opportunity to witness a blend of various architectural styles and to delve into the fascinating history of the Paigah family and their contributions to Hyderabad's history.
Asman Garh Palace is a striking historical structure located in Hyderabad, India. It was built in 1885 by Sir Asman Jah, a nobleman from the Paigah family and a Prime Minister of the Hyderabad State during the reign of the Nizams. The name "Asman Garh" means "Sky-high Fort" in Urdu.
The palace was designed personally by Sir Asman Jah himself, inspired by the Gothic and European styles of architecture. The structure is built on a hillock, which gives it a panoramic view of the surroundings, including the city of Hyderabad. The palace is known for its granite masonry with imposing turrets and arched windows, which reflect the architectural preferences of the period.
Originally, Sir Asman Jah used the palace as a summer resort and a place for leisure activities. He believed that the palace, being situated at a height, would be beneficial for health due to the cool and refreshing breeze.
In later years, the palace was converted into a school, known as St. Joseph's Public School. More recently, it has been transformed into a museum, known as the Birla Science Museum. The museum hosts a collection of scientific exhibits and also includes a planetarium.
Despite these changes in its function over the years, the Asman Garh Palace has managed to retain its historical charm and architectural grandeur. It stands as a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of Hyderabad and offers visitors a glimpse into the city's past.
The Salar Jung Museum is one of the most prominent museums in India, located on the southern bank of the Musi River in the city of Hyderabad. It is known for its vast and diverse collection of art, which makes it one of the largest one-man collections of artifacts in the world.
The museum was established in 1951 and is named after Nawab Mir Yusuf Ali Khan, also known as Salar Jung III, who served as the Prime Minister of the Nizam, the ruler of the Hyderabad State. Salar Jung III was an avid art collector, and the museum's collection largely represents his lifetime efforts of collecting rare and unique art from various parts of the world.
The Salar Jung Museum boasts a collection of around one million artifacts and artworks that span over several centuries. The items in the collection originate from different regions of the world, including India, Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and the Far East. The diverse collection includes paintings, sculptures, textiles, manuscripts, ceramics, metallic artifacts, carpets, clocks, and furniture.
One of the most famous pieces in the museum is the "Veiled Rebecca," a stunning marble statue created by the Italian sculptor Giovanni Maria Benzoni. Another notable item is a set of ivory chairs gifted by Louis XVI of France to Tipu Sultan of Mysore.
The museum is spread over two floors and is divided into several galleries, each dedicated to a certain type of artifact or a specific period in history. It also includes a library with a collection of around 8,000 manuscripts and 60,000 printed books.
Visiting the Salar Jung Museum provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of different civilizations and time periods, all under one roof. It is a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts visiting Hyderabad.
The Birla Science Museum, located in Hyderabad, India, is a popular destination for science enthusiasts of all ages. It is part of the Birla Planetarium and Science & Technological Museum, which was inaugurated in 1985. The institution is the result of the Birla Educational Trust's efforts to promote science education and awareness.
The museum is divided into several sections, each dedicated to a specific scientific discipline or theme. These sections include a Dinosaurium, a gallery dedicated to Nobel laureates, and sections on science in India and the universe at large. The museum showcases a wide range of exhibits on subjects like physics, biology, chemistry, electronics, robotics, and much more. These exhibits are designed to be interactive, engaging, and educational, making complex scientific concepts accessible and understandable.
The Dinosaurium, one of the highlights of the museum, displays a 160-million-year-old mounted Kotasaurus yamanpalliensis, a dinosaur found in India. The exhibit gives visitors a chance to understand these prehistoric creatures and their lives better.
The Nobel Gallery showcases replicas of the original Nobel Medals in the fields of Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Peace, Literature, and the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel. It also provides information about the laureates, their life, and their significant contributions.
The museum also houses a Planetarium, which offers daily sky shows in multiple languages. The shows cover a wide array of topics, including the solar system, eclipses, the cosmos, and other celestial phenomena.
The Spanish Mosque, also known as Masjid Iqbal Ud Daula or Aiwan-E-Begumpet, is a unique and historic mosque located in Begumpet, Hyderabad, India. It stands out due to its distinct architectural style, which is unlike most other mosques in the country.
The mosque was built in 1906 by Nawab Sir Iqbal Ud Daula, who was the son-in-law of the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad. The architecture of the mosque reflects Moorish style, which is common in Spain and North Africa, and it is this unique architecture that gives the mosque its name.
One of the most striking features of the Spanish Mosque is its spires instead of the typical domes seen in most mosques. This feature gives it a resemblance to the churches and cathedrals seen in Spain. It also has ornamental arches, exquisite stucco decoration, and a beautiful courtyard. The mosque can accommodate about 3000 worshippers at a time.
The mosque was initially private property of the Paigah family, but later it was opened to the public. It was declared a heritage site by the Heritage Conservation Committee of the Hyderabad Urban Development Authority.
Bella Vista is a regal palace once used by the Nizam during the time Hyderabad State was in existence. Situated in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, this Indo-European architecture stands proudly within a lush 10-acre campus. The building was named Bella Vista, translating to "beautiful sight", by its French architect due to its overlooking view of the Hussain Sagar lake. It is nestled in the Saifabad suburb and takes its architectural inspiration from Henley-on-Thames in England.
Constructed in 1905 by Muslehuddin Mohammed, who held the title Hakim-ud-Dowla and served as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Hyderabad, the palace was his dwelling until 1914 when he succumbed to plague at age 57. Following his death in 1916, his family decided to sell the palace. The last Nizam purchased the palace, including the furniture, for Rs 60,000 in 1917.
The eldest son of the Seventh Nizam-Mir Osman Ali Khan, who was the heir apparent to the Hyderabad throne - Prince of Berar, Azam Jah, resided in this palace with his wife, Princess Durru Shehvar.
Prominent figures like Muhammad Ali Jinnah have been known to visit the palace. Currently, it is home to the Administrative Staff College of India.
The Qutb Shahi Tombs are a collection of grand mausoleums located in Hyderabad, India, dedicated to the rulers of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, who ruled the region in the 16th and 17th centuries. These tombs are a significant part of the historical and architectural heritage of Hyderabad.
The tomb complex is located near the Golconda Fort, another important historical site. It houses the tombs and mosques built by the Qutb Shahi rulers. Seven of the eight Qutb Shahi rulers were buried here, along with other members of the royal family and some important officials of the kingdom.
The architecture of the Qutb Shahi Tombs is a mix of Persian, Pashtun, and Hindu styles, reflecting the diverse cultural influences of the period. The tombs are built from grey granite and are characterized by their distinctive domes - some pointed, some bulbous - and the arches, which are a significant feature of Islamic architecture.
Each tomb is built on a raised platform and surrounded by landscaped gardens, known as "Baghs" in the local language. The tombs vary in size, but all have a similar structure, featuring a large dome mounted on a cubical base. The larger tombs are surrounded by intricately carved stonework and are accompanied by a mosque.
Besides their architectural beauty, the tombs are also known for their symbolic design elements. The inscriptions in Persian and Naskh scripts, the intricate stucco work, and the tile work all add to the historical and cultural significance of these tombs.
The Golconda Fort is a monumental fortress located in Hyderabad, India. This historic structure dates back to the 16th century and is one of the region's most impressive examples of military architecture. It was the capital of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty (1518–1687) and is closely associated with the rich history of the Deccan region.
The name "Golconda" comes from the Telugu words "Golla Konda," meaning "Shepherd's Hill." Legend has it that a shepherd boy came across an idol on the hill, which led to the construction of a mud fort by the then Kakatiya dynasty ruler. The fort was expanded into a massive granite fortress by the Qutb Shahi kings, who ruled the region in the 16th and 17th centuries.
The fort complex is known for its robust and intricate defensive system, which includes three lines of formidable fortification walls, 87 semicircular bastions, eight gateways, and four drawbridges. The complex also includes royal palaces, mosques, granaries, and various other public and private structures, all of which demonstrate remarkable engineering and architectural skills of the period.
One of the most notable features of Golconda Fort is its acoustic design. A hand clap at a certain point below the entrance dome can be heard clearly at the 'Bala Hisar' pavilion, the highest point almost a kilometer away, serving as a warning note to the royals in case of an attack.
The fort is also associated with the mining and trade of diamonds. The area around Golconda was once renowned as a major diamond trading center, and it is believed that the famous Koh-i-Noor and Hope diamonds were excavated from the mines located close to the fort.
Taramati Baradari is a historical monument located in Hyderabad, India. It's known for its rich history, unique architecture, and cultural significance. This monument was constructed on the banks of the Musi river during the reign of the Seventh Sultan of Golconda, Abdullah Qutb Shah, as part of Ibrahim Bagh, a Persian style garden.
The name "Baradari" translates to "the building with 12 doors" and is used to describe a structure with open pavilions. The structure was designed in a way that allows cross ventilation and is cool even during the hot summer months. It's said to have been named after Taramati, a courtesan who, according to legend, was a favorite of the Sultan.
One of the unique aspects of Taramati Baradari is its acoustic design. It's said that the Sultan could hear Taramati singing from a mile away at the Golconda Fort. This was possible due to the strategically placed windows and doors which allowed sound waves to travel.
Today, Taramati Baradari is a popular cultural and convention center, hosting music performances, cultural events, and social functions. It also houses an open-air theater with a seating capacity of 1600 people. The complex includes a restaurant, and an exclusive bar offering a panoramic view of the city.
The Taramati Baradari monument, with its lush gardens and serene ambiance, is an excellent place for those seeking a combination of historical exploration and cultural entertainment. It symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of the region and stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Qutb Shahi dynasty.
The Nehru Zoological Park, also known as Zoo Park, is a popular destination in Hyderabad. It is located near the Mir Alam Tank in Bahadurpura, Telangana. The park's construction began on October 26, 1959, and it was opened to the public on October 6, 1963. It is run by the forest department of the Government of Telangana and named after India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru
The zoo spans 380 acres and is adjacent to the 600-acre Mir Alam Tank. It houses nearly 100 species of birds, animals, and reptiles, including indigenous animals like the Indian rhino, Asiatic lion, Bengal tiger, panther, gaur, Indian elephant, slender loris, python, deer, antelopes, and birds. The Mir Alam Tank, with its unique multiple arched bund (embankment), attracts hundreds of migratory birds, providing another point of interest for zoo visitors
The zoo also features a nocturnal house, which artificially reverses day and night so that nocturnal animals are active during visitor hours. This exhibit includes creatures such as fruit bats, slender loris, slow loris, civets, leopard cats, hedgehogs, barn owls, mottled wood owls, fishing owls, and great horned owls. Additional attractions include an aquarium, dino park, butterfly park, and tortoise house. The zoo also runs an adoption program, where individuals and corporations can adopt an animal or an entire enclosure, contributing to their upkeep
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