Hyderabad is famously known as the City of the “Nizam”. It is renowned for its etiquette, Hyderabadi Biryani, Karachi Biscuits and of course the world-famous Hyderabadi pearls. For most of its historic existence, Hyderabad has been ruled by the Qutab dynasty who came from Persia and by the Nizams who came from Turkey.
When travelling to Hyderabad, visit it’s iconic places; learn about the history (which is super fascinating) ; buy pearls and eat yummy Hyderabad food.
During my trip I visited the Golconda fort, the Shahi Tombs and enjoyed biryani and Irani tea at Paradise restaurant. I was also brave enough to visit Charminar, Old Hyderabad and the Nizam’s Palaces on Eid.
Read further to know more about where to visit and what you can see in Hyderabad.
Golkonda Fort
Hyderabad Golkonda Fort
The Qutub’s are commonly referred to as the Golkonda Kings. Most of the History of Golkonda Fort and the Shahi Tombs are related to them. As you enter the Golkonda Fort you arrive at the Bala Hisar Gate. It is believed that if you stand at the gate clap the sound will travel up to the council room of the Fort. The counsel of the Golkonda Fort is at 450 Feet from the ground and almost 400 steps each way. Your guide will warn you of the long and steep walk up the fort to see the council, but it is completely worth the effort. The view from the top is stunning.
There is also a temple enroute- Jagadayam Temple, which is believed to be centuries old. It is not very grand in its appearance but has deep-rooted religious and mythological connections. There is a festival each year in July and August at the temple and devotees come from all over during that time to worship at the temple. Golkonda Fort is also home to a 14 feet long rifle of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.
It was built in the 13th century and has been home to many dynasties. Golconda was renowned for the Golconda Diamonds which were commonly traded there. The Koh-I-Noor Diamond, which is the world’s largest cut diamond, is said to have been found in a mine nearby. The fort, which is now a ruin overlooks the city of Hyderabad
Ramoji Film Studio
We finally drove towards Ramoji Film Studio, where I was staying for the night. Ramoji Film studio is a state of art film studio just outside Hyderabad city. It is here where the blockbuster hit movie Bahubali was shot. You can visit the studio and the sets of Bahubali movie. The Film Studio tour will also take you around some of the other famous sets and into their amusement park which is very popular with children.
I visited Hyderabad in December 2017. The weather was perfect throughout the day, not very hot or humid. Just right for sightseeing. I visited Hyderabad on Eid, which I then thought would be a lovely experience but I know now that it is definitely not a good day for sightseeing or shopping in Hyderabad especially in old Hyderabad as the shops are closed and streets are crowded with procession and celebrations.
Charminar
Hyderabad Charminar
We later continued to visit the Charminar, Old Hyderabad and the Nizam’s Palaces. We drove past Jubilee Hills where all the famous movies stars of Hyderabad stay.
As we drove towards Old Hyderabad, I witnessed many celebrating Eid n the roads. You can feel you are in a different place. We parked our car in the parking of the Nizam’s Place and walked towards Charminar.
Charminar, which literally translates to Four Minarets, is an iconic monument of Hyderabad and often the face of Hyderabad in magazines and movies. It stands tall and erected in the middle of the busy old city street. It was built when the emperor moved his capital from Golkonda to Hyderabad. There is a mosque within Charminar which is home to several festivities of the city. You can climb up the Minar for a perfect view of the city. As I visited on Eid, the streets were overcrowded with processions and young boys on their bikes and jeeps. The Charminar was completely inaccessible, so I did not visit the monument, but I got a real feel of the place.
The markets around Charminar are lined with wholesale pearl vendors and glass bangle shops. It is highly recommended for a true shopping experience.
The Chowmahalla Palace which translates in English as 4 places are located at a walkable distance from the Charminar in Old Hyderabad. Be ready to be awestruck by the exquisite collection of the palace. The chandeliers will make you green-eyed with envy. The Palace building is surrounded by beautiful gardens and gives you a good insight into the royal lives of the Nizams.
While the construction of the palace began in 1750, it was completed by1869.
