Things to Do in Hyderabad
Visit Golconda Fort, Witness the Qutb Shahi Tombs, Stroll around the Charminar, Visit Moula Ali Dargah, Have fun at Ramoji Film City, Shop Around Laad Bazaar, Jungle Safari at Nehru Zoological Park, Do Go Karting in Runway 9 and many more.
There are endless activities to do in Hyderabad, encapsulating something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a relaxing vacation, on a quest to indulge in the grandiosity of the culture, a religious vocation to the renowned temples here, or just a family or friends outing, Hyderabad will serve you just right.
With an array of activities, you can also participate in go-karting, Bungee Trampoline, rock climbing, trekking, paragliding, bouldering, white water rafting, and many others, that will definitely make your heart thump louder as the rush surges through your veins. Not to worry, you can also enjoy sitting by the tranquil lakes once you get weary of the adventure the place offers.
Here are the best things to do in Hyderabad:
1. Visit Golconda Fort
The 'Shepherd's Hill' or the Golconda Fort is one of the must-visit landmarks of the city. Situated in the western part of the city, this glorious fortress is not just an important tourist spot, but also an architectural marvel of the past!
Built on a granite hill during the reign of the mighty Kaktiya dynasty, it has witnessed the rise and fall of several other dynasties that ruled over the region at different points of history. Measuring around 400ft, it now attracts a large number of travellers, history buffs, archaeological enthusiasts and others alike. A visit to this historic monument will surely take you back to the era when it served as a strong line of defence for the kings and emperors.
Along with these, its detailed and exuberant architecture that showcases the brilliance of the past is truly a sight to behold! A visit to Golconda Fort will surely serve your purpose of getting acquainted with Hyderabad’s glorious past!
Must Read: Places to visit in Hyderabad.
2. Witness the Qutb Shahi Tombs in Ibrahim Bagh
On your next Hyderabad tour, do not forget to visit the stunning Qutb Shahi Toms in the Ibrahim Bagh! Located within a close proximity to the Golconda Fort, these are the tombs to commemorate the seven Qutub Shahi rulers who ruled over this region.
Standing on a square platform, all the cenotaphs were built according to Persian, Pasthun and Hindu architecture and were intricately decorated with stunning chandeliers, covered with smooth velvets with silver poles as the support. Some of these tombs had golden spires that made them distinguishable among the others; tombs with such spires marked the burial ground of the Sultans.
Though after the end of the Qutub dynasty, these cenotaphs were ignored, their beauty and elegance were once again restored during the reign of Sir Salar Jung III. Since then, these historical sites has been grabbing the eyeballs of the tourists and a visit to them is considered as one of the must Hyderabad things to do.
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3. Feel the Royalty in Chowmahalla Palace
Forts and palaces have always been a mark of the reputation and fame of the kings and emperors! The Chowmahalla Palace that was once the official residence of the Nizams is once such palace that explains the influence and architectural taste of the Hyderabadi rulers.
For several decades, this meticulously designed palace hosted grand celebrations, witnessed several historic occurring and made a prominent mark of the royalty of the Nizams. Built over more than 40 acres, the detailed architecture, elegantly crafted interiors and the layout of Chowmahalla Palace is believed to be inspired from Tehran's Shah Iran Palace.
Divided into northern and southern courtyards, it also has several gardens and intricately designed fountains that defines the opulence and royalty of the then rulers.
4. Stroll Around the Charminar
Two things, without which Hyderabad won’t be Hyderabad: dum biryani and the Charminar! Known globally as the most important landmark of the city, a visit to this historical monument is indeed among the must to have experiences in Hyderabad!
Built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shai in the year 1591AD, this stunning minaret stand on the banks of the Musi River and once marked the centre of the city. Surrounded by the Laad Bazaar and the Makkah Masjid, this architectural marvel is built in Indo-Islamic style and has four different gateways. All the four minarets of the structure has domes that are decorated with several intriguing designs and artefacts.
During your Hyderabad tour, take a stroll around this stunning structure, witness how life thrives around it. Go shopping, sample some of the delicious Hyderabadi dishes and add an extra flavour to your trip!
5. Revisit the British Essence around Koti Residency
Call this mansion as the Koti or British Hyderabad Residency; you will always find the charms of a bygone era around this opulent mansion. Built during 1798-1805 by James Kirkpatrick, one of the British residents in Hyderabad, it served as his private mansion back then.
Standing as testimony to the golden era of the city of Nizams, the architecture of the British Residency is believed to be inspired from the White House, U.S. In the past, it served as the embassy of the East India Company and was later converted as Osmania University College for Women.
High and elegant, British Residency now stands as one of the protected monument in Hyderabad, and a visit to this opulent mansion is a must!
6. Visit Moula Ali Dargah
Located on a hilltop, Moula Ali Dargah in the Moula Ali suburb of Hyderabad was originally built in the memory of Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad. A place of high religious importance, it was originally built as a masjid and said to have the handprints of Ali.
The sanctity that exists here and its healing properties has made it an important pilgrimage among the devotees. This pious site can be reached by traversing an array of steps that lead to the main campus. In addition, the rugged and undulated terrains to the hilltop makes it for an amazing experience! Though visitors are allowed inside only during the three days of 'Urs' festival during the holy month of 'Muharram', you can still climb to the dargah and witness its grandeurs.
On your Hyderabad tour, make it to this astounding hilltop, and enjoy the panoramic views from the hilltop; it is also one of the ideal spot that offers amazing views of almost the entire city.
7. Visit the Paigah Tombs
The royal city of Hyderabad is jotted with several historical monuments and marvellous architectures. The Paigah Tombs; also konwn as the 'Maqbara Shams al-Umara', is among the must visit masterpiece of the past! Located in the vicinity of Pisal Banda, it is a testimony of the brilliant craftsmanship of the bygone era and is intricately adorned with mosaic works and marble stones.
Built by the Paigah Family, its architecture and layout is a combination of Mughal and Moorish style. Adorned in stucco style, its shape and pattern are yet another remarkable aspects; the geometrical pattern used in its construction is unique and cannot be commonly found anywhere in the world!
The final abode of several Paigah members, these remarkable tombs depict some of the glorious tales of the past. Their structure and architecture is truly an inspiration for the present day world; a visit to these tombs is indeed one of the most delightful things to do in Hyderabad.
8. Spend an Fun-filled Day in Ramoji Film City
A perfect destination to visit; may it be with family or friends, Ramoji Film City is an entire day entertainment for the tourists to Hyderabad. Any kind of activity from enjoying the spellbinding view at this wonderful film city to engaging yourself in an adventure activity, it is all just a step away at Ramoji Film City.
The film city not just has a record-setting film studio but also is famous for both natural and artificial attractions. With an inbuilt film studio, amusement park and hotel, a visit to this stunning destination is one of the best things to do in Hyderabad.
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9. Shop Around Laad Bazaar
To fulfil your shopping spree, Hyderabad has number of places in store for you! The most popular among them is the Laad bazaar which is best known for bangles. Close to the Charminar and Chowmahalla Palace, this place is also called the ‘Choodi Bazaar’ as the entire market place is known for selling bangles.
Operating since the times of Nizams and Qtub Shahi’s, this bustling market is known for the authentic bangles and other traditional jewellery. A hub for wedding shopping, silver, precious stones and pearls, are sold in this market along with the many other items and jewels.
Laad Bazaar is of huge attraction to people who love shopping and is one of the major looks outs among the other shopping outlets in Hyderabad.
10. Feel the Peace and Tranquillity beside Hussain Sagar Lake
If you are looking for a quiet and calm evening in Hyderabad, you must visit the Hussain Sagar Lake! Built by Hazrat Hussain Shah Wali in the year 1562, it was once the primary water source to the city and now serves as an important tourist destination as well as a major sailing destination in the country.
Located within the diameter of several other landmarks of the city, this artificial lake receives its supply from the Musa River. Enjoying the beauty of this lake and its magnificent view is something that should not be missed by any tourist of Hyderabad.
Within the lake, there stands a 32ft high state of Gautam Buddha that enhances the charm and appeal of the lake. Visit this lake in the evening, spend some of the pleasant moments along with clicking some of the most amazing pictures during your Hyderabad tour.
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Necklace Road of Hyderabad is one of the most prominent tourist spots for spending some relaxed moments. The structure of this Necklace Road, more or less resembles the one found along the shores of Mumbai – Queen’s Necklace of Mumbai. Admeasuring around 3 kilometers, Necklace Road acts as a connecting link between three significant parks of Hyderabad – The Lumbini Park, NTR Gardens, and the Sanjeevaiah Park.
So, basically, you can see it stretching between the NTR Gardens and Lumbini Park in Hyderabad; and later extending to the Sanjeevaiah Park of Secunderabad. From Sanjeevaiah Park, it further passes through the Tank Bund Road, which also connects with the NTR Gardens. This is how the 3 km long road acquires its shape of a necklace. This famous tourist road in Hyderabad is bejeweled with a plethora of recreational activities. Besides, it has got a good number of restaurants and eateries to satiate your stomach cravings. Your children will love the different flavored ice-creams, and other quick bites available at the various stalls lining up the entire stretch of the Necklace Road.
The lush green stretch marks the tranquil beauty of this road. Go for an evening walk here, and you will see a massive crowd with their kids and families. Out of all the exciting things to do here, boating at the adjacent lake is one of the greatest pleasures of visiting Necklace Road. It is good to enjoy boating in the evening to witness the light transformations at the Lighted Buddha Statue. Also, there’s a famous amusement cum water park here where you can spend some quality time with your family, kids, and relatives.
Situated at a distance of 40 Kms from the city centre, Mount Opera theme park happens to be one of the most favorite places for kids and teenagers in Hyderabad. The park is situated on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada highway close to Ramoji Film City. The park is spread over an area of 55 acres and it has been one of the most premium offering to the visitors in Hyderabad.
The water and amusement park is located at the top of a hill and it offers amazing rides and slides to the visitors to get spoiled starting from the Jumping Frogs to Thrillarium and from Ferris Wheel to Columbus. The park has facilities for rain dance and boating tours. If you do not like outdoor activities, you can relish on the wide range of indoor activities like Billiards, Carrom, Tennis, Chess, etc.
The water sports complex has an open area theatre that can hold as much as 1500 individuals at a single time. The theatre is mainly used for organising children programs and skits. The park has got enough accommodation facilities as well for tourists wishing to spend a night in this amazing fun filled place. Apart from just staying in this atmosphere, tourists can also use Sauna Massage Centres and Bodyline Gymnasium. The Mount Opera water park has some of the best in-house food joints inside the park to serve you amazing and mouth watering delicacies.
The Osman Sagar lake is located on the outskirts of the town of Hyderabad. Osman Sagar, being a famous tourist destination, is gaining immense popularity as a humble abode for locals as well as tourists. Locally, the lake is more popular by the name of Gandipet. The lake is spread across an area of 46 square km and has been a popular abode for tourists since a long time. The artificial lake is a sight of scenic beauty, where a number of locals and tourists arrive to be enchanted by the sheer abundance of natural allure.
You will find a number of snack vendors doing business, selling hot snacks and tea around the lake. The lake is surrounded by parks and lawns, which are maintained with grandeur, to match the natural beauty of the lake. Consequently, this location has become a hot spot for picnics and fun activities among the people visiting this lake.
When visiting the Osman Lake, also remember to check out the Sagar Mahal, which is a popular summer retreat and commonly chosen by visitors for residence. Osman Sagar. You will also find a number of low cost cottages lined along the lake, which serve as resting ground for the travellers.
There are a number of facilities available at the site for the comfort of the guests. You will find enough options to purchase food, bathroom, facilities, and accommodation, if you wish to stay for a longer duration. The Osman lake is a wonderful sight for nature lovers and adventure lovers.
With more than 400 temples globally and 140 temples in India, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON is one of the largest and popular religious organizations in the world. The organization has its reach in almost every continent on Earth. ISKCON is known for its spirituality, mindfulness and marvelous religious structures.
Among its many temples in India, one can find a beautiful ISKCON Temple in the city of Hyderabad. Located in the central region of Nampally, the main deity of the ISKCON temple is Lord Krishna alongside idols of Sri Radha-Mohana, Sri Jagannatha Baladeva-Subhadra, and Sri Gauri-Nitai.
The temple is a marvel with modern architecture and lush green gardens around it. The temple also houses many water-fountains that make the temple more magnificent and enigmatic. One will always hear the hymn of “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” in various corners of the temple.
The temple authorities organize devotional and religious lectures in the halls of the temple and teach the preaching of Lord Krishna. Alongside the lectures, the authorities organize Pujas daily with some special programs on Sunday to attract more and more devotees to the temple.
ISKCON temple is the epicenter of cultural and spiritual well-being and various social activities for the local people residing in the temple. The authorities sent the residents of the temples to various corporate centers and institutes to teach various spiritualization techniques. The aim of the people of ISKCON is to raise the importance of spiritualization in oneself and learn the true value of life.
Mecca Masjid, which is located on the south of the Musi River, is one of the largest and oldest mosques in India. It is one of the heritage sites, located in the old city, very near to Charminar, an iconic symbol of Hyderabad city. A preferred destination of Lakhs of Muslim pilgrims, the mosque was commissioned in 1614.
Legend states that Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah invited devout religious leaders for the foundation ceremony of the Mecca Masjid with a caveat that he alone, who never missed his prayers, will be eligible to lay the foundation stone. As no one showed up, Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah himself laid the foundation of Mecca Masjid. It is said that the emperor never missed his midnight prayer from his 12th year onwards.
The construction got temporarily abandoned after the death of the emperor Quli Qutub Shah.The massive construction continued under the rule of Abdullah Shah and Tani Shah till 1687. Aurangazeb, who conquered the Golconda kingdom in 1694, completed the construction of the Mecca Masjid.The monument is a visual treat to the novice and an architect student to appreciate and admire the pagodas, marble mausoleums, water bodies, vast arches, and black benches.
The Mosque contains an enormous prayer hall and graves of most Asaf Jahi rulers.Visitors passing through the gateway leading to the entrance of the court come across a huge pond, a cascading water fountain, and 2 black stone benches. Locals have an interesting story to narrate about the magic effect of these benches. They state that whosoever sits on these benches will return one day to sit at the same spot again.
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Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park, which is also known as the Chiran Palace or Chiran Fort, is a vast spread of lush gardens with rich flora and fauna. It is located in the heart of Hyderabad city, Jubilee Hills.
Named after former Andhra Pradesh chief minister and one of the most popular leaders of the state, Kasu Brahmananda, this park holds the promise of a rejuvenated nature amid thick concrete jungles and chaotic traffic of the city life.
It is situated on 390 acres of land. In 1967, the entire Chiran Palace complex was handed over to Prince Mukarram on his coronation by his father Prince Azam Jah. The fort complex was declared a national park by the then Andhra Pradesh government in 1998.
Vast swathe of open greenery, picturesque natural beauty, refreshing environment and well maintained surroundings are some of the reasons for which you must take a tour to Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park during your visit to Hyderabad. This is a perfect place to relax and have a chilled out time with your loved ones.
The park houses hundreds of varied species of trees, birds, insects and animals. The park, originally the property of the Nizams of Hyderabad, is now maintained by the forest department of the state. The palace was built in 1960 by the royals for their personal accommodation purpose.
However, the entry gate to Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park is different to the Chiran Palace entrance. The park, a symbol of the culture and heritage of the Nizams of southern India, draws thousands of tourists round the year.
Lumbini Park is a small park in Hyderabad city near Hussain Nagar. It is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The park had been developed for entertainment and relaxation in 1994.
The maintenance and preservation of the park is under the Buddha Purnima project of the Urban Development Authority of Hyderabad. The main reason for naming the park as Lumbini, the birth place of Lord Buddha.
Toddlers, kids and young people visit the park almost every day to enjoy the amusement rides. The garden inside the park is stunning with different varieties of plants and the rock decorations.
The key attraction inside the park is a majestic clock at the entry gate. The musical fountain show is fabulous to watch as the waters dance with the rhythmic beats of the music. A 3D laser show occurs in the evening where you can witness the city being created with the vibrant display of lights.
The park offers a perfect refreshment from the humdrum of city life. The location is convenient for the locals and the visitors, being present right at the center of the city of Hyderabad.
The picturesque landscape of the park along with its several options for entertainment serves a perfect choice for a weekend getaway. People of all ages are bound to enjoy inside the park.
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Located in the centre of Hyderabad, Indira Park is situated near Lower Tank Bund Road near the famous Hussain Sagar Lake. Spread over an expanse of 76 acres, the park has been named after former Prime Minister of the country, Mrs. Indira Gandhi. Amongst the oldest parks in Hyderabad, Indira Park is also one of the most popular tourist spots in the city, frequented by children, adults as well as the elderly on a regular basis.
Even though it is located in the middle of the city, it is still quite idyllic and tranquil, where you can spend some time amidst lush green nature in solidarity, away from the chaos of the bustling city.
The park also has computerised musical fountains, along with a rock garden and a nursery, where you can buy exotic plants for yourself. One of the most unique facts about Indira Park is its construction. The park has been constructed in a way such that its design does not disturb the natural elements already present here.
At Indira Park, you can find a lot of great fruit trees and other flora. Some of these are date palm trees, mango trees, blackberry and sandalwood trees as well as kevda plantations. The exteriors of the park are further designed in the Hindu-Islamic styles of architecture, making the overall look of Indira Park even more grand and magnificent.
Waterparks offer ageless, timeless, unadulterated fun and Escape Waterpark is the perfect place to experience all of this when you are in Hyderabad. Escape Water Park, in Hyderabad, can be found the state of Telangana, near Fort Grand in Shamshabad.
It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy quality time with your family.
It is even a great place to plan an excursion with your friends if you are short on time and want to do something exciting and memorable within the city limits.
Equipped with a number of rides and games, it attracts visitors from all over the city, and even visitors to Hyderabad find it alluring.
This water park is the first of its kind in Hyderabad which is home to such a huge variety of activities and super fun rides like the wave pool, signature water rides, float rides, rain dance floors and artificial waterfalls.
Another great feature about the park is the rides like Board Slide, where all the family members can have fun together. The kids’ play pool is an exclusive area that is safe and well-equipped to keep the children occupied in a suitable environment.
Supervision and safety measures are always in place for the children’s area. There are lifeguards and park officials in all the gaming and pool sections to help you navigate the park and assist you in case of emergencies.
The large wave pool replicates the waves of the ocean and creates the simulation of being on a beach. In between your stint at the various rides in the waterpark, you can also recharge in the food court that can be found on the premises and enjoy a delicious range of food and beverages.
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With its scenic beauty, endless green grounds, and a beautiful view of Hussain Sagar Lake, the Sanjeevaiah Park resides in the heart of Hyderabad. This place was named after the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Damodaram Sanjivayya. In 2010, Sanjeevaiah Park was awarded as the Best Open Landscape Award during Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage award presentations.
In addition to numerous leafy neighbourhoods, Sanjeevaiah Park is yet another green place of the city.
Spread over 92 acres, this place can be found along the banks of Hussain Sagar Lake. This place is a haven for nature lovers, with a staggering range of flora and fauna spread over the whole park. The park consists of an herbal park, rose park, a butterfly park, and much more. If you are lucky enough, then you might also spot some migratory birds. Also, the park has the second tallest Indian flag.
Currently, Sanjeevaiah park is managed by the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority. Their initiative led to the installation of solar lighting in the park. Also, usage and littering of plastic were banned. The park has been an engaging spot for visitors and locals to participate in the necessary social awareness programs.
Apart from its beauty and green environment, Sanjeevaiah park has developed as an attractive tourist spot. Here’s a rundown of the details and things you should know before visiting this place!
A delight for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is one of the most prominent getaway settings in the city of Hyderabad. This historic park was constructed in the year 1975 as a tribute to a great saint and reviewer of the Jain religion, Saint Mahavir.
The beautiful park is spread across an astounding 15 kms and carried a wide spread of exotic fauna and alluring flora species. The park is well maintained and is developed perfectly for a peaceful tour.
This is depicted in the parks facilities that include various canteen, washroom, viewing tower facilities. The park authorities also provided travellers with a tour of the entire park in a safari ride. The ride is filled with loads of fun and excitement, very much enjoyed with families including kids.
Additionally, one of the most common activities that visitors enjoy here is bird watching. Yes, the places is encapsulated with a number of exotic birds, some common, some migrating from various other regions.
From endangered animals like the Black Buck Deer to leafy neem trees spread across in acres, the park has some much to explore and can easily be an excuse for a fascinating weekend getaway trip. The drive to the forest is also soothing and follows beautiful landscapes.
Restaurants and cafes also reside in the vicinity of the park. In short, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is spot on for an exciting getaway site for all.
For tourists visiting Secunderabad or Hyderabad, Shamirpet Lake is one of the most popular places in the twin-city. Located amid Secunderabad and Hyderabad, this lake was built during the reign of Nizam. This artificial lake is around 24 km north from Secunderabad and around 34 km from Hyderabad..
Shamirpet Lake is very popular among tourists who wish to go out for one-day picnics or family get-togethers. The popularity of this lake has been because of the various services that are available near the lake. There are enough options for food and stay near the lake like Aalankrita Resort, Leonia Resorts and a few restaurants..
Shamirpet Lake has been a famous place for shooting of many Telugu Films. The lake is surrounded by a road on one side and is open from the other side offering a fantastic view of the surrounding areas. One can witness many birds over the lake as this lake is very popular for bird watching. Birds like hornbill, pelicans, etc. the lake is home to many migratory as well as local birds. Jawahar Deer Park is located near the lake which is operated by the Government of Telangana.
Tourists often visit both the places as they can some fantastic birds near the lake and some animals like deer in the park. There is Police protection around the lake as the lake has witnessed a few drowning in the past. Alongside the police, one can also see the various warning and sign boards around the lake.
Located in the city’s western part, Golconda Fort is one of the most famous attractions in Hyderabad. Built at an approximate distance of around 9 kilometers from the popular Hussain Sagar Lake, this fortress is a beautifully preserved monument of the country.
Constructed in the sixteenth century, the fort is known to have sheltered the majestic Kohinoor diamond at some time in the past. It is believed that if one claps his hands at the fort’s bottom part, its echoes can be felt even at the top of the structure.
The classic architecture, the rich history, and the potential mysteries of the fortress adds to the charm of the monument and invite a huge number of tourists from across the globe.The breathtaking glamour of Golconda Fort can impress anyone within no time. The sturdy body of the structure coupled with the highly advanced architectural style can leave any visitor awestruck and spellbound.
Tourists visiting the fort can also catch a glimpse of the jaw-dropping sunset view from the topmost part of this fortress. Visitors can also capture the unparalleled grandeur of the fort in photographs and carry them home as beautiful souvenirs to remember their visit to the monument.
Another highlight of Golconda Fort is the amazing sound and light show held here. Presented beautifully in front of the audience in three different languages, this show is sure to provide you a truly unforgettable and magical experience.
Durgam Cheruvu Lake situated 15 km off Hyderabad, also called the Secret Lake as it is hidden between Madhapur and Jubilee Hills. It is a 63-acre retreat or oasis surrounded by granite from all sides and hidden by rock formations.
The lake dates back to millions of years ago and is Hyderabad’s most picturesque spot, away from the noise, crowd, and concrete jungle of the city.
The lake used to provide drinking water to the Golconda Fort inhabitants during the regime of Qutub Shahi Dynasty.
The expansive lush green landscape boasts of stunning boating spots and activities like trekking and camping with your family and friends. You will find numerous boating options at Durgam Cheruvu including mechanized boats, pedal boats, and water scooters.
The lake lets you unwind and spend some quality time in the lap of nature beside a serene water body. Durgam Cheruvu also features a floating fountain and artificial waterfall, thus attracting visitors from the city and other parts of the country.
The tourists frequent Durgam Cheruvu Lake for activities such as fishing, which is uncommon in the city of Hyderabad.
You will also find a rock garden and Amphitheater that attracts visitors from all over the city. The lake is also a popular filming location in Hyderabad because of its splendid surroundings and scenic beauty.
You will find a refreshment center and cafeteria situated here, where you can eat and hang out with your family and friends after taking a tour of the lake.
Built between 1857 and 1869 in Hyderabad, the Chowmahalla Palace is almost 200 years old and was once the official seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty. Now, it is one of the major tourist destinations in Hyderabad, and is known for its magnificent architecture and awe-inspiring beauty. For history and art lovers, the palace is an unmissable destination, what with its historical significance and rich heritage.
The name of the palace literally means “Four Palaces”. Chow means four and Mahalat is the plural of Mahalel, which means palaces in Urdu. The magnificent palace acted as the official residence of many Nizams of Hyderabad during the time they ruled the city, and people often say that it resembles the Shah Palace in Tehran, in Iran.
The palace grounds are massive, and it has two huge courtyards with a magnificent dining hall which is known as Khilawat. The palace is still registered as the property of Barkat Ali Khan Mukarram Jah, who is considered as the heir of Nizams. Chowmahalla Palace was decorated with the Asia Pacific Merit award in 2010 by UNESCO.
One of the most impressive things about the palace is its imposing architecture. The façade is made of an intricate network of beautiful domes, large windows, dramatic arches and delicately carved out designs. The grounds of the palace feature lush green gardens, marvelous fountains, and numerous smaller palaces. There is a Clock Tower, Roshan Bangla, and Council Hall here.
The palace features some of the most renowned buildings in Hyderabad. The royal seat was laid in Khilwat Mubarak and this is where the court proceedings of the Nizam took place. The administrative wing, also known as Bara Imam offers some of the most impressive views of the palace gardens.
The architecture of the palace takes heavily after Persian, Rajasthani, Indo-Saracenic, and European styles. All four palaces within the complex - Aftab Mahal, Afzal Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal and Mahtab Mahal are worth checking out.
The palace construction started in 1750, under the orders of Salabat Jung, and the whole complex was finished during the reign of Afzal ad Dawlah, Asaf Jah V, who was the fifth Nizam of Hyderabad and ensured the construction completed in 1969.
After its construction was finished, the palace became the main residence of the Nawabs of Hyderabad. They started holding royal court at the palace soon, and the center for all major tournaments and activities related to the Nizam rule. Festivals and ceremonies were held in the Chowmahalla palace on a regular basis, and the Nizam hosted several welcome parties here for his esteemed guests.
The palace was also used as a stopover for Grand Khilafat, and would often be used as a guesthouse by other royal family members. It is said that the architecture, design, and layout of the palace is heavily influenced by Juveria Khan Rahimullah.
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Ocean Park is located near the famous Gandipet Lake in Hyderabad. The whole complex of the park is divided into two halves - one half is dedicated to the water activities and the other half is dedicated to an amusement park. You will fall in love with the wide range of activities inside both water and amusement park.
The park not only offers some of the state of the art facilities but it also offers few exhilarating water features that comply with the international standards. Park is known all over India to present some of the unique fun-filled experiences to adults and children as well. Adults can try adventure sports like jet skiing and scuba diving where as children can spend playful time in the water slides and pools.
The park not only offers amusement options to the visitors, but it also offers amazing accommodation facilities to the visitors who long to spend some time in this fun filled environment. You can choose to stay in the deluxe suites and soak in all the fun of this amazing place.
The Ocean Park offers amazing packages at the time of booking entry into the park. You can choose the packages that best suits you. Most of the rides and activities are included in the entry ticket for the park and there are still some of the rides for which you need to pay extra.
You don’t need to worry about the safety of your loved ones inside the park. All the necessary safety precautions have been taken while curating the park for visitors and most importantly this park is built as per international standards. of engineering and safety. Visit this premier water park in the course of your Hyderabad tour.
The artificial lake was built in 1562 by Hazrat Hussain Shah Wali, as a token of gratitude for the then emperor of Andhra Pradesh. The attraction also features a 3 kilometer long dam, known as the Tank Bund, built across the lake. The Tank Bund is one of the most popular waterside promenades in Telangana. Named after its maker, Hussain Sagar is the biggest artificial lake in all of Asia
Hussain Sagar was declared as the Heart of the World, by UNWTO in September 2012, for its shape. Mr. Taleb Rifai, Secretary General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation inaugurated the logo for the “Heart of the World” for Hussain Sagar Lake, in the year 2013, in Madrid.
According to the United Nations, Hussain Sagar is the most 'wonderful’ Heart Shaped lake in the world. It is in fact the largest heart shaped landmark among the 78 heart shaped lakes and 9 similar shaped islands that have been marked elsewhere over the globe.
Flanked by landscaped parks on three sides, namely the Lumbini Park, Indira Park and Sanjeevaiah Park, the Lake provides a unique tourist attraction. Hussain Sagar is also a very popular go to spot for water sport activities in Telangana, offering boating, yachting, and sailing opportunities.
Alluring visitors for its untouched beauty and uncluttered serenity, NTR Gardens happens to be one of the major and famous attractions in Hyderabad. Spread across a huge area of around 55 acres, this garden is home to the beautiful memorial of Andhra Pradesh’s former Chief Minister, Late NT Rama Rao.
This stunning garden was developed by the state government with a huge capital of around 40 crores, for honoring the commendable and legendary leader. At present, this garden is considered as an appealing entertainment and leisure destination of Hyderabad.
Situated close to the very popular Hussain Sagar Lake, NTR Gardens is an easy escape from the tiresome activities of daily life. The green trees and shrubs and the colorful flora add to the charm of the garden, which is enough to leave visitors awestruck. In addition to the serene and tranquilizing atmosphere, the garden even offers umpteen varieties of amazing recreational activities for the entertainment of the visitors.
Some of the major attractions of NTR Gardens include Japanese Garden, Desert Garden, and Roaring Cascade. The garden also has amazing in-house souvenir shops as well as multiple food joints. One of the very interesting food outlets is the Car Café, which is a mobile café and can accommodate six people at a single time.
The offerings of NTR Gardens are not limited to this. The garden also has a toy train facility that can take visitors on a short ride across the entire garden. Furthermore, visitors can also experience boating during which they can get a chance to access the nearby Hussain Sagar Lake.
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What are the best places to visit in Hyderabad?
1. Golconda Fort - Famous for its acoustics and a unique signaling device that was incorporated in its construction
2. Char Minar - Known as the famous building in India
3. Shri Jagannath Temple - A true representation of the construction in red sandstone
4. Ramoji Film City - Largest integrated film city and has been certified by the Guinness World Records as the largest studio complex in the world
5. Birla Science Museum - Comprises of planetarium, museum, science center, art gallery as well as a dinosaurian
What are the best resorts and outing places near Hyderabad?
1. Papyrus Port Resort - Starting from INR 3102
2. Golconda Resort & Spa - Starting from INR 9525
3. Honey Berg Resort - Starting from INR 2379
4. Pragati Green Meadows and Resort - Starting from INR 3463
5. Lahari Resort - Starting from INR 20693
What are the best hill stations to visit near Hyderabad?
1. Chikmagalur - 679 km from Hyderabad
2. Horsley Hills - 528 km from Hyderabad
3. Lonavala - 623 km from Hyderabad
4. Yercaud - 797 km from Hyderabad
5. Coorg - 835 km from Hyderabad
What should I not miss in Hyderabad?
2. If you are a nature lover, stroll along the expansive Hussain Sagar Lake and go for boating in the lake.
3. Apart from the places, you must not miss trying the Hyderabadi biryani, which is famous across the country.
4. Visit the Golconda Fort to witness the unmissable light and laser show here
What can we do in Hyderabad this weekend?
2. Live music: One of the best things to do here on the weekend is to enjoy live music played by international DJs at Hard Rock Café.
3. Light & Sound show: Narrated in the voice of Amitabh Bachchan, this hour-long dazzling show is performed with the legendary Golconda Fort in the backdrop. The show takes one through the rich cultural heritage of Hyderabad and this iconic fort.
4. Enjoy thrilling rides: Enjoy the weekend as you indulge in adventurous rides at Wonderla Amusement Park. Choose between land, water, and high-thrill rides. Don’t miss the rain dance and wave pool while here.
What are the best things to do in Hyderabad?
The city of forts and rich heritage bustling with the electric energy of the modern crowd could hardly rule out any fun things to do. The Nizams have had the greatest influence on this city making it one of the grand centres in India back in its heyday. Not just with the cultural heritage, but Hyderabad is sure to woo with its artistic and scholarly mecca. With more and more people congesting in this city, the modern livelihood of people has received a boost instigating numerous fun things to engage in:
1. Climb to the top of the Golconda Fort2. Buy bidriware by Charminar in Hyderabad
3. Visit Makkah Masjid
4. Take a 30-minute boat journey to the statue of Hussain Sagar
5. Tour the Salar Jung Museum
6. Picnic at Himayat Sagar
7. Appreciate the artisanship of the objects in the Chowmahalla Palace
8. Play laser tag at LaserMaxx
What are the best adventure activities to do in Hyderabad?
Although Hyderabad does not come with the classic mountain or water sports, yet the amusement parks here take care of the adventure activities. It is hard to get bored around this city, as you are always met with something fun at every corner. Check out the adventure activities Hyderabad is famous for:
1. Snow basketball and snow volleyball
2. Water zorbing
3. Bungee jumping (Water Park)
4. Vertical fall
5. Camping
6. Trekking
Where can I do rappelling in Hyderabad? Is it safe to do?
Rappelling is the quickest and the easiest method to have an experience similar to mountaineering. You are harnessed carefully to allow you to make a descent from a vertical face that could either be a natural or artificial rock formation. Khajaguda in Hyderabad has a camp that specialises in this activity, which has professional instructors to guide you all the way through.
Rappelling is safe enough to do only when an instructor at the scene is supporting you. It is an extremely dangerous activity that requires another person to ensure your harnesses are intact.
Which are the best places to visit for some spiritual experience in Hyderabad?
The zesty city life of Hyderabad is skilfully converted to a wholesome spiritual experience at several destinations in the city. It might not be the generic chant of a religion uttered in unison at most of the places that bring the spirituality here, but it is the ethereal construction of some of the buildings, forts and mosques. Book a day solely with a holistic experience, as the city might surprise you in ways you thought was not possible.
1. Ayyappa Swamy Devasthanam, Uppal
2. The Church of South India, Hyderabad
3. Sri Ramakrishna Math, Himayat Nagar
4. Birla Mandir near Hussain Sagar Lake
5. Avatar Meher Baba
What are the things to do at Ramoji film city? What is its timing?
Ramoji Film City is the major attraction of Hyderabad, which is located almost 28 kilometres away from the city. The tour here would consume your entire day since the area engulfs a staggering 2,000 acres and it is a real challenge to view all of it in a day. Groups of family and friends alike come here all year round as the destination proposes lucrative packages for the visitors. The entry time is from 9 am to 2 pm and it closes at sharp 5:30 pm. These are the most fun things people engage in:
1. Studio tour
2. Enjoy the Kids’ Park
3. Watch live shows
4. Try the adventure sports
5. Browse and try the amazing food options
6. Shop at Meena Bazaar, Movie Magic Memorabilia, and Wild West Souvenirs
7. Get lazy in the Eco Zone
Which are the best destinations for wildlife safari in Hyderabad?
1. Nehru Zoological Park, Kishan Bagh
2. Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Vanasthalipuram
Which are some famous markets to shop in Hyderabad?
Hyderabad is one of those places that highlight the essence of street shopping. If you are eager to look for the local and indigenous stuff, then the older part of the city might intrigue you more. With all the sophistication and modernity Hyderabad’s metropolitan city brings the markets located here balance the modernity with the authenticity of Indian goods. Also, these markets are excellent places to test your bargaining skills and what is cheap could be bought at a cheaper price.
1. Mozzamjahi Market
2. Secunderabad General Bazaar
3. Sunday Book Bazaar
4. Churi Bazaar
5. Jummerat Bazaar
6. Antique Market
7. Pot Market
8. Gudimalkapur Flower Market
9. Nayapul
Where can I enjoy go karting in Hyderabad? What are its charges?
Hyderabad’s Go-karting tracks are sure to give an entire family or friends’ group the experience of a lifetime as the centres not only come with the karting tracks but also are equipped with food and drink stalls. Being the only place in India offering the Go-karting experience, the centres ensure to give you plenty of other fun things to do as well. The prices depend on the cart or the package you choose. While the baby cart comes at INR 335, the full day packages might range up to INR 1,00,000. The following places come with Go-Karting tracks:
1. Shamshabad Go Kart Track
2. Runway 9, Kompally
3. Hasten Go Karting, Gurram Guda
4. Chicane Circuit, Ranga Reddy District
What are the things to do at the Hyderabad Adventure Club? What are its charges?
The Great Hyderabad Adventure Club is the most prominent adventure club in the city that caters to loads of outdoor adventures people normally engage with while travelling. The staffs here are well trained to educate you on the basics of the adventure activities so that you could have a safe yet fun experience. While there is no entry fee, yet the prices would range between INR 1000 and 4000 per person. These are the things to do at this adventure club:
1. Trekking2. Rock climbing
3. Bouldering
4. Mountaineering
5. Hiking
6. Camping
7. Bird watching
8. Archery
What is the best time to visit snow world in Hyderabad? What are its charges?
Snow World is not affected by the outside climate as the park generates a staggeringly low temperature of its own (0 to 5 degree Celsius). Therefore, the possible best time to visit it would be in the summer as it offers a nice little escape from the cruel heat of April and May. Snow volleyball, snow basketball, ice skating and boarding are some of the many fun activities enjoyed here.
While the entry fee is INR 500, there are packages you can buy which shall cost you INR 600 but lesser for school students.
What are the charges for a helicopter joyride in Hyderabad? Where can I find it in Hyderabad?
The helicopter joyride of Hyderabad is yet another escape from the daily mundanity that this city is guilty of. You get to have a bird’s eye view of this rich heritage of Nizam at a price of INR 15,000 per couple.
The historical and industrial landmarks of the city are quite excellently showcased by the joyride, as you and your partner try to overcome the fear of heights. There is nothing to worry about the safety, as trained professionals back the entire experience. Begumpet is the starting point, which then proceeds to cover the major landmarks of the city.
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