Places to Visit in Hyderabad

Certainly one of the best places to visit in Hyderabad with family, Ramoji Film City makes its way to every traveller’s list because of its magical theme around cinema, which is the most common love of every Indian. Ramoji Film city is said to be one of the haunted destinations in India. The only one of its kind in India, this holiday destination offers something special to everyone and is one of the best places to visit in Hyderabad.

The world’s largest integrated film city, spread across 2,000acres ensures that every visitor makes most from the day spent here. Features include well-defined categories of entertainment suited for different ages from Eureka, the performance arena modelled on the lines of royal forts hosting live shows, to getting a tour of a typical film studio, multi-cuisine restaurants, shopping venues, kids’ park, and even a bird park.visiting the film city is one of the best things to do in Hyderabad. This destination can be enjoyed over a one day trip or one could stay back at this holiday destination. 

Location:  Anaspur Village, Hayathnagar Mandal,, Hyderabad, Telangana, 501512

Timings: 9am – 5:30pm

Entry fee:

INR 800 per person for general guided tour for adults without food
INR 700 per child for general guided tour for children (3-12 years) without food
INR 1,799 per person for Ramoji Star Experience for adults with food
INR 1,499 per child for Ramoji Star Experience for children (3-12 years) with food

Photography: Allowed

A medieval fort now overlooking the city, Golconda is one of the historical places to visit in Hyderabad. Originally built in mud on a 400ft hill, the fort ruins of today have seen the reign of several dynasties. Situated 11km away from the bustling urbanism of Hyderabad, it derives its name from a Telugu word meaning Shepherd’s Hill. Reminiscence of a well-planned Golconda city within the fortress limits is evident even now.

The remains of multiple fortification layers, armories, magazines, mosques, granaries, reservoirs, audience chambers and royal dwellings complement the striking appearance of the fort.

Famous for its acoustics, a unique signalling device that was incorporated in its construction, the structure is known for its palaces, ingenious water supply system and the famous Fateh Rahben, one of the cannons used in the last siege of Golconda by Aurangzeb. The Sound & Light show brings alive the grandeur of one of India’s famous forts.

Location: Khair Complex, Ibrahim Bagh, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008

Timings: 9am – 5:30pm

Entry fee:

INR 5 per person for Indians
INR 100 per person for foreign nationals
INR 130 per person for Light & Sound Show

Photography: Allowed, INR 25 per camera for videography.

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The epic signature of the city, Char Minar makes for a wonderful sight. Located in the heart of Hyderabad’s old city, surrounded by Mecca Masjid, built using bricks from Mecca and Laad Bazaar - a boisterous shopping street, this landmark is laced in history.

Built in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, it was constructed to commemorate the founding of Hyderabad and also to ward of a deadly epidemic that was rampant then in the Golconda region. Graced by 4 minarets soaring almost 50ft in height, it has a mosque and 45 prayer spaces is amongst the famous places in Hyderabad.

Location: Charminar Rd, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002

Timings: 9am – 5:30pm

Entry fee: INR 5 per person for Indians, INR 100 per person for foreign nationals

Photography: Allowed

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One of the largest man-made lakes in India, Hussain Sagar Lake has been adorning the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad since 1562. A tourist destination that cannot be missed as places to visit in Hyderabad with family, the lake is best to spend time around dusk with pleasant air filling the surroundings.

Adding to its charm is the monolithic statue of the Buddha installed in the heart of the lake. Several facilities around the lake periphery such as boating and water sports, and the neighbourhood Lumbini Park, an amusement park are add-on attractions.

Location: Tank Bund Rd, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500004

Timings: 1pm – 9pm, all days of the week

Entry fee: INR 10 (boating)

Photography: Allowed

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Located on the south end of Hussain Sagar Lake, the Birla Mandir is an enchanting modern temple built atop the Kala Pahad, the twin hillock of the Naubat Pahad. With mixed architectural styles from Odhisha and South Indian, the place of worship is embellished with exotic epic scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata that are finely sculpted in marble. The inner shrine of the temple has an 11ft tall replica of Tirupati Venkateswara.

Revel in several marble carvings depicting Indian mythology in the adjoining 'Mukha Mandapam'. The temple also houses consorts of Venkateswara, Padmavati and Andal as well as has a separate shrine dedicated to Buddha.

Location: south end of Hussain Sagar Lake, Naubat Pahad, Hyderabad

Timings: 7am – 12pm, 2pm – 9pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Not Allowed

Located on the Necklace Road, the Jaliyah Waterpark is the largest water park and amusement park in central Hyderabad. One of the biggest recreation spots in the whole city, the park also has a pendulum, float slides and tilt buckets, among other rides. It is also equipped with dry rides, thereby catering to all kinds of visitors.

Perfect for a day out with friends and family, the park also has locker systems to keep your valuables in, along with several cafes and restaurants to indulge in delicious food after a day full of enjoyment.

Entry fee: INR 400 (3 Feet or Above), INR 300 (Below 3 Feet)

Timings: Daily 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Location:  22/9, Necklace Road, Hussain Sagar, Hyderabad

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One of the many historically important tourist places in Hyderabad is the Chowmahalla Palace. It used to be the former official residence of the Hyderabadi Nizams and is a major monument that gives us a glimpse of the architectural taste of the rulers.

Stretched across 40 acres, the palace has a very minutely detailed architecture, elegant yet rich interiors as well as the grandeur of royalty. Moreover, the palace is said to have been inspired by Tehran’s Shah Iran Palace. The opulent fountains and beautiful gardens also add to the grandeur of the Chowmahalla Palace.

Entry fee: INR 50 (Indians), INR 200 (Foreigners), INR 10 (Children)

Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Closed on Fridays and National Holidays)

Location: Khilwat, 20-4-236, Motigalli, Hyderabad.

Photography: Allowed, but you have to pay an amount for taking pictures.

Located in the heart of the City of Pearls, Lumbini Park is a modern style urban park which is one of the most visited tourist places in Hyderabad. People come here to unwind after a day full of activities. The park also boasts of spectacular light and sound shows, which is one of the major attractions for people. The park is dedicated to Lord Buddha and has been named after his birthplace in Lumbini of Nepal.

There is a huge Buddha statue near the park on Hussain Sagar Lake. Visitors can take a boat to reach the statue from the park itself. Lumbini Park is one of the most beautiful parks in Hyderabad and has many cascading waterfalls adding to its beauty.

Entry fee: INR 20 (Adults), INR 10 (Children)

Timings: Daily 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Location: Opposite Secretariat New Gate, Khairatabad, Hyderabad.

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One of the historical places to visit in Hyderabad is the set of absolutely beautiful Qutub Shahi Tombs ensconced against the lovely backdrop of the picturesque Ibrahim Bagh. These represent the final resting ground of rulers of the founding dynasty of Hyderabad.

The most authentic and majestic display of Persian, Hindu, and Pathan architectural designs dedicated to the seven kings who ruled Golconda for nearly 170years, the rulers themselves built these tombs. Take a Cultural Walk through Hyderabad to witness more such amazing architectures here in this beautiful city. 

Location: Ibrahim Bagh, Qutub Shahi Tombs, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008

Timings: 9:30am – 6:30pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Allowed, INR 20 per camera

Located on the Naubat Pahad in Hyderabad, the B.M. Birla Science Museum was established in 1990 and is amongst the most popular museums in the country. Each one of the many sections of the museum has amazing exhibits dedicated to different fields such as Archaeology, Interactive Science, Antarctica Diorama and many more.

A must-visit place for science buffs, the museum has stunning facilities which display the effects of science and its developments. Moreover, the museum is also one of the best-rated science institutions in the whole world. 

Entry fee: INR 100

Timings: Daily 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Location: Hill Fort Rd, Hyderabad

Photography: Not allowed

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A 50yr old zoo extending over 380acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is a wonderful blend of ecological programmes, animal habitats, research facilities, and other such attractions. Being a well-equipped zoo, visitors can comfortably spend an entire day here enjoying several facilities such as toy train, kids park, hired bicycle rides, boating, walks around large aquariums with fresh water and marine aqua life on display.

It has India’s first butterfly park and jungle safari. Jurassic Park with live sized models of the extinct species is a major draw for children and makes it one of the best places to see in Hyderabad. Boasting of nearly 1,500 specimens of birds, animals, and reptiles the Nehru Zoological Park also encourages adoption of wild animals by the public.

Location: NH 44, Bahadurpura, Hyderabad, Telangana 500064

Timings:

April – June: 8am – 5:30pm,
July – March: 8:30am – 5pm
Closed every Monday

Entry fee: You can check out the official website for the same

Photography: Allowed

Located in the prime venue of old Hyderabad city, the Salar Jung Museum has illustrious neighbours like the Charminar, Mecca Masjid and State Central Library and you can see all of them in a small walk tour. One of the must see places to visit in Hyderabad with family, this is among India’s premier museums with 38 galleries spread over three buildings.

Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, who also lent his name to the museum, acquired a rich repository of artistic achievements of diverse European, Asian and Far Eastern countries of the world; a major chunk of the collection is on display. Check out artifacts mirroring the human evolution from 2nd century BC to early 20th century AD.

Location:  Salar Jung Rd, near Minar Function Hall, Darulshifa, Hyderabad

Timings: 10am – 5pm & Closed on every Friday and all public holidays

Entry fee:

INR 10 for general public
INR 150 for foreign citizens
Students with identity cards are given 50% concession.
Defence personnel in uniform, organized Kisan parties and children below 12 years are also given 50% concession.
Children's Week' (14th-20th November) school children up to 12 years of age accompanied by teachers are allowed free of charge.
'Museum Week' (8th-14th January) public is given concession in the entrance ticket.

Photography: INR 20 for still and mobile photography

An indoor wonder world of snow and chill, Snow World is among the must experience places to visit in Hyderabad with family. With one of the largest snow areas spread over 17,000sft, the engaging place is built with state-of-the-art technology producing snow as close to the real one as possible.

With temperature freezing up to -5degree Celsius, the created ambience has a thrilling environment with polar bears, penguins, alpine trees, and snow all the way. A complete arena with kids snow play area, snow slide, snow merry-go-round, sculptures, snow basketball, snow mountain, volley ball, dancing, and an ice hotel make Snow World a family destination.

Location: Survey No. 54, Lower Tank Bund Rd, Hyderabad, Telangana 500080

Timings:

All days of the week

11am – 12noon (1st Session)
12:30pm - 1:30pm (2nd Session)
2pm – 3pm (3rd Session)
3:30pm – 4:30pm (4th Session)
5pm – 6pm (5th Session)
6:30pm – 7:30pm (6th Session)
8pm – 9pm (7th Session)

Entry fee:

INR 450 per person adult
INR 250 per person child
INR 300 per person college student (above 10th class)
INR 250 per person school student (up to 10th class)

Photography: Only cameras allowed

Located on the banks of the famous Hussain Sagar Lake, the NTR Gardens is one of the most beautiful Tourist Places in Hyderabad. Built as a memorial to the late N.T. Rama Rao, the garden is set in an area spreading across 36 acres. Visitors can also relax in the Japanese Garden or the Machan Tree.

To take a tour of the entire garden, tourists can also enjoy a ride on the garden’s monorail, while soaking in on the beauty of the huge collection of exotic flora. This is a place where one can not only relax and rejuvenate, but also revive their body, mind and soul.

Entry fee: INR 20 (Adults), INR 10 (Children)

Timings: Monday to Saturday: 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Sundays/Holidays: 12:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Location: NTR Marg, Central Secretariat, Khairatabad, Hussain Sagar Lake, Hyderabad

One of the temples to visit in Hyderabad is the Shri Jagannath Temple, a modern day temple built by the local Oriya community over here. This replica of the original in Puri draws devotees with its sanctum sanctorum housing statues of Lord Jagannath, and his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.

The spectacular temple is well constructed with an attractive Shikhara measuring 70ft in height. A true representation of the original, the construction in red sand stone is a visual marvel and is known for its annual Ratha Yatra.

Location: Plot No- 1269, Road No 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500034

Timings: 6am – 11am, 5pm – pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Not allowed, both inside and outside

Listed among heritage monuments in Hyderabad, Mecca Masjid or Makka Masjid as referred by locals holds a distinct position of not just being the oldest mosques in the city but is also one of India’s biggest. This 400year old monument was constructed using the soil from Mecca. Hence the name.

Adding more to the erstwhile era around the Charminar and old Hyderabad city, the mosque’s imposing structure and splendid architecture are visible in its three-arched façade carved from single granite, minarets, and balconies. It is one of the most famous Hyderabad Tourist Places.

Location: Charminar Rd, Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002 

Timings: 4am – 9:30pm

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Allowed

The Chilkur Balaji Temple is one of the most religiously important places to visit in Hyderabad. Located right next to the Osman Sagar Lake, this 500-year old temple is also known as the Visa Balaji Temple. The name follows a popular belief which states that a visit to this temple can give you a visa clearance. The temple is brilliantly structured with lush green plants and trees surrounding it.

The Chilkur Balaji Temple is the only temple in the whole country which does not accept any money from the devotees. In addition to having thousands of visitors per week, the temple is also famous for providing inner relief and peace.

Entry fee: No entry fee

Timings: Daily 5:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Location: Chanda Nagar Village, Hyderabad

Photography: Not Allowed inside Temple 

A true treasure tucked away from the hustle of Hyderabad city is this 800yr old Sri Rama Chandra Swamy Temple in Ammapali Village. Loaded with rich history, the place of worship constructed in the 13th century has a deity, which was installed over 1,000yrs ago.

A monument older than the Golconda Fort, the Rama Temple is a temple to visit in Hyderabad. An unlikely Rajasthani styled architecture, a step well in front of the main temple, a seven-layered gopuram all make this unique. But perhaps the absence of Lord Rama’s most faithful bhakt Hanuman from the main sanctum stands out the most. The idols of Rama, Lakshman, and Sita are carved from a single stone. Head to the Parijat Tree here to tie a bundle of wish in a red cloth.  

Location: Nagarguda - Shamshabad Rd, Near Rajeev Gandhi International Airport, Telangana 501218

Entry fee: Free

Photography: Allowed

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Not too far from the Golconda Fort is Hyderabad’s biggest possible tree of Baobab. The centuries old Hatiyaan tree stands right opposite the Mulla Khiyali Mosque in the less frequented vicinity of Naya Quila.

Belonging to the African Baobab family, the tree gets its name from its enormous girth and also the branches that look like elephant trunks. The hollow of this mesmerizing tree can easily accommodate over 20 people. An interesting venue to listen to several legends from locals, Haatiyon ka jhad as it’s popularly known is believed to have been the hideout for Ali Baba’s 40 thieves.

Location: Naya Qila, Golconda Fort, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008

Timings: 9am – 5pm, every day

Entry fee: NA

Photography: Allowed

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A name that is synonymous with biryani in Hyderabad, Paradise is a legendary restaurant with almost 15 branches serving some of the best biryanis in the whole country. Paradise was founded in 1953 as a small café.

Known for its Mirchi Salan, Mutton Biryani, Chicken Dum Biryani and Chicken Hara Bhara Kebab, amongst other things, it attracts you with the rich flavours. Catering to the tastes of both locals as well as tourists, Paradise serves both traditional Hyderabadi as well as other cuisines. It is a must-visit place if you are in the city.

Location: Paradise Circle, Hyderabad

Timings: Daily 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Fee: INR 800 (approx.) for two people.

One of the most iconic sweet shops in Hyderabad, Almond House should definitely be on your list of places to eat. Sweets and snacks, such as Samosa, Kaju Barfi, Almond Cookies, Malai Puri, Chocolate Cake, Ice – Cream, and Kaju Katli are quite popular amongst the visitors.

The place is also known for its warm ambiance and professional and helpful staff. The food is prepared using fresh ingredients and high-quality control is practiced so that your food is always safe and hygienic. As soon as you enter the shop, the sugary whiff of sweets will make your day in every sense of the word and you won’t be able to resist having a bite.

Location: 8-2-348-3, Road 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Timings: 9 AM - 10 PM

Fee: Rs. 300 for 2 people (approx.)

Boasting of over 20 different types of kebabs like Garlic Kebab, Malai Kebab, Mutton Burra Kebab and many more, Hotel Shadab is known all over Hyderabad for its dum-cooked Mutton Biryani. With the many aromas delicious enough to entice your taste buds, a visit to this place will surely make your trip to Hyderabad more memorable.

Nicknamed as “Foodie’s Paradise,” Hotel Shadab has successfully preserved the famed prestige of Hyderabadi Biryani.  The iconic restaurant is located in the Old City and is also famous for its Irani Chai, which is also the first item it started serving when it opened its doors in 1953.

Location: 21-1-140-144, Near High Court, High Court Rd, Madina Circle, Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad

Timings: Daily 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Fee: INR 700 (approx.) for two people.

This grand grill restaurant is one of the favourite places to visit in Hyderabad. With numerous awards and accolades to its name, AB’s Barbecue is one place that will always make your taste buds happy. Due to its overwhelming popularity, the restaurant has numerous outlets across the whole of India.

In fact, even in Hyderabad itself, there are 5 locations where you can get the lip-smacking dishes off the menu of Absolute Barbecue. Do head out here to get a load of their sumptuous food.

Location: No. 8 –2 –618/10-11, 2nd Floor, Krishna Amethyst, Road No.1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

Timings: 12 noon -4.30 PM, 6.30 PM – 11.30 PM

Fee: Rs. 1500 for two people (approx.)

Known as one of the best water parks in the city, Ocean Park is a place you should definitely visit when you are in the city. A one-stop destination for fun and frolic, Ocean Park is the best place to spend your day while creating memories. The park also caters to all age groups. 

Spread in 20 acres of land, the park has many types of water sports in addition to water slides, swimming pools for different ages, wave pools as well as bumping cars, toy train and video games. The single loop roller-coaster is also one of the park’s major attractions.

Entry fee: INR 400 (Adults), INR 300 (Children)

Timings: Daily 11:00 am – 7:30 pm

Location: #168 & 169, Near CBIT College, Shankarpally Road, Gandipet Lake, Hyderabad

Serving as the main reservoir of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, Osman Sagar, also known as Gandipet Lake, is spread across an area of 46 kilometres. It has got its name from the Hyderabadi Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, who built the reservoir in 1920. Known for offering some of the most beautiful views of the sky in addition to the breath-taking sunsets, Osman Sagar is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Hyderabad.

A popular tourist destination in the Nizami city, people come here to enjoy the solitude while enjoying the cool breeze. The area around Osman Sagar is also home to two parks, wherein people can sit and relax or spend quality time with loved ones. 

Entry fee: No entry fee

Timings: Daily 09:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Location: ?Ranga Reddy district, Hyderabad

Wonder La Hyderabad is a park that offers unlimited food, fun and entertainment. One of the most popular Hyderabad tourist places, this place has something for everyone. From thrilling water rides to a luxurious stay, this enthralling adventure spot is the perfect place to unwind as well as have fun with your family. It offers more than 40 dry and water rides.

Facilities, such as ATM, lockers, parking space, lost-and-found corner, changing rooms, etc are provided within the park’s premises.

Location: ORR Exit No. 13, Survey No.274, Kongara Khurd A Village, Ravirala Post, Maheshwaram Mandal, Hyderabad, Telangana, 501510.

Timings: 11 AM to 7 PM (Everyday)

Entry Fee: 
Weekdays: INR 815 for Adults / INR 635 for Children
Weekends/Holidays : INR 1,015 for Adults. / INR 790 for Children

Photography: Allowed.

One of the top sightseeing places in Hyderabad, Nizam’s museum is the pride of Purani Haveli, and speaks of the rich culture of Nizams of 19th-20th century. The Museum showcases a great range of rare souvenirs and distinct mementoes.

Some of the main attractions of this museum are the golden throne, a 150-year old manually-operated lift, a 176-feet long old wardrobe, vintage cars, such as Rolls Royce and Jaguar Mark V, Diamond-studded gold tiffin box, paintings and photographs of some royals, golden pavilion, etc.

Location: Purani Haveli Palace, Old City, Purani Haveli, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500002.

Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM (Everyday)

Entry Fee:
INR 100 for Adult / INR 15 for Child

Photography: Allowed but a fee of INR 150 is charged

As old as the Palaeolithic Age, this ancient city is one of the places to visit in Hyderabad within one day because of its historic existence through the early period of human existence.

Attractions:

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, a famous dam in South India with 26 gates and a hydroelectric plant. The place also hosts waterfalls called Ethipothala, a 70ft high river cascade created by a combination of three streams and Gowthama Buddha Museum.

Bhuvanangiri Fort, built on an isolated rock by Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya VI, it is known for its citadel on the top of the hill as it gives a bird's eye view of the neighbouring area.

Other attractions include the over 2,000 years old Jain Shrine at Kolanupaka village dedicated to the 21 theerthankaras and Yadagiri Gutta, the most devotional place in Nalgonda.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance from Hyderabad: 100 km

Best time to visit: February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage, trekking.

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An ancient city with traces in the Old and New Stone Ages, Mahabubnagar is a place for any history lover. Also known as Palamooru and the land of the Chola Dynasty, this is one of the best places to visit near Hyderabad within 100 km.

Attractions:

Popular for its innumerable diamond mines, which is believed to be the source of the famous Kohinoor diamond, Mahabubnagar has pre-historic sites co-existing alongside as well. This place also has a host of historical attractions such as Jama Masjid, Medina Masjid, Mecca Masjid and Umamaheshwaram. A 700yr old Pillalamarri great Banyan Tree adds to its attraction.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance from Hyderabad: 134km

Best time to visit: February and December

Type of destination: Family and kid-friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage.

Once the capital city of the Kakatiya Dynasty, Warangal has earned the credit of being one of the best places to visit near Hyderabad within 100kms because of its beautiful lakes, heritage sites, rich flora and fauna. Known as Oruguallu due to the huge boulder hillock in the region, it offers one too many attractions for tourists.

Attractions:

Some of the major attractions include the Thousand Pillars Temple and the Ramappa Temple dating to the 12th Century, Warangal Fort – one of the architectural wonders of the bygone era, Ghanpur group of temples – a set of 22 temples that are an architectural museum even to this day.

The several surrounding lakes such as Ramappa Lake, Pakhal Lake, and Lakhnavaram Lake make Warangal a soothing destination just outside of Hyderabad for a day’s outing. With growing popularity as a tourist destination, some recent attractions include Musical Garden, Rock Garden, Regional Science Centre, Van Vigyan Kendra, and Etunagaram Wild Life Sanctuary.

Activities: Sightseeing and boating

Distance from Hyderabad: 145km

Best time to visit: October – March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking and historic.

A city located in the neighbouring state of Karnataka, Bidar is easily accessible from Hyderabad while planning a day’s trip. With rich shades in history, art and culture, Bidar has seen many a great dynasties rule over this Deccan region.

Attractions:

Bidar is famous for its historical monuments and sites belonging to different periods of history. With an inter-mix of Hindu, Turkish and Persian artisanship, tourist attractions here have some unique design and decorative patterns in India.

Places to visit include the distinctly well-planned Bidar Fort, one of the most formidable forts in India built on the brink of the Deccan plateau under watchful supervision of engineers using architecture of various countries. You can visit Papnas Temple, an ancient Shiva Temple popular for its natural spring and a small tank dating back to probably the Ramayana era. Other attractions include Basavankalyan, Diwan-I-Am, Gumbaz Darwaza andBaridi Tombs.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance from Hyderabad: 143km

Best time to visit: October – March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic and pilgrimage.

Set up centuries ago, Karimnagar was once the strong foothold of the Kakatiyas and later dominated by the Nizams, which explains the distinct impressions on the culture and food habits of locals even today.

Attractions:

Some of the popular monuments in Karimnagar include Tower Circle and the Kaman Circles. Elgandal Fort built on the banks of Manair River, surrounded by palm groves is historically rich because it was ruled by 5 important Deccan dynasties through its lifetime. 

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance from Hyderabad: 164km

Best time to visit: November – February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking and historic.

A prominent Buddhist spot in Andhra Pradesh, Nagarjunasagar is also the birthplace of one of the earliest river valley civilizations. Enthused by the peaceful environs of this place, Buddhists made this land a great hub of learning, setting up one of the four major Viharas here.

Attractions:

Nagarujnasagar is most known for being the site for one of India’s earliest hydro-electric projects – the Nagarjunasagar Dam. Surrounding the dam is the world’s third largest man-made lakes, Nagarjunasagar. However most popular in this region are the excavations of Buddhist civilization, monasteries, and Anupu – a Buddhist site.

The lagoon formed by the Ethipotala river cascade completes the tourist endeavour as one of the places to visit in Hyderabad within one day.

Activities: Sight-seeing

Distance from Hyderabad: 154 km

Best time to visit: October – March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage.

One of the holiest of Shiva shrines in the world, the kshetram (temple) is located atop a flat hill by name Srisailam. Situated in the dense forests of Nallamalla ranges in Kurnool, the temple makes an appearance even in Sage Vyasa’s quotes in the puranas.

The River Krishna flows to the right of the temple, which is also one of twelve Jyothirlingas in India. Engulfed in several mythological stories, the archanas and abhishekams of this shrine receive the highest revered status among Hindus.

Attractions:

Besides the main sanctum, Srisailam has several places of interests in its vicinity adding to its attraction as places to near Hyderabad in two days. Vrudhamallikarjuna Swamy Temple has a lingam said to be older than the present Mallikarjuna Swamy Lingam. There is no Nandi in front of it.

Lingas incarnated by Pandavas are interpreted as five temples are situated besides Arthanaareseswara temple. Tri fruit tree or Triphala Uruksham a sacred wish-fulfilling tree also rests around the temple’s premises.

Activities: Religious visits

Distance from Hyderabad: 213km

Best time to visit: October - February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, pilgrimage.

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A laid-back town with many ancient monuments, temples, and palaces,Kurnool is a hidden gem. Striking a chord with lovers of history, the place can be enjoyed exploring the ancient architecture and historical monuments. Ruins of a mediaeval fort constructed during the reign of Vijayanagar Empire, the Arabic and Persian inscriptions on them, and access to several tourist locations in the neighbouring areas makes it an ideal vacation spot.

Attractions:

Belum Caves, running a length of 3,229m are naturally formed due to constant flow of underground water. The second longest caves in India, these are popular for their stalactite and stalagmite formations, long passages, fresh water galleries, siphons and spacious chambers.

Mantralayam, a town popular for the Samadhi of Saint Raghavendra Teertha bears religious sentiments for Hindus. Located on the banks of River Tungabhadra River, it is a destination for devotees of Lord Vishnu.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance from Hyderabad: 219km

Best time to visit: October - February

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic and pilgrimage.

Gulburga, the fourth biggest city in Karnataka was once a part of Hyderabad during the rule of the Nizams. Situated entirely on the Deccan Plateau, this city has undoubtedly witnessed the formation of Hyderabad. With a rich and glorious historic past dating back to the 6th century, it was also the capital of the Bahmani kingdom.

The River Krishna and River Bhima that flow through the city creating a unique feel, which further enhances Gulbarga’s charm as a major tourist attraction.

Attractions:

Bahmani Fort rebuilt by Allah-ud-din Bahmani of the ruling dynasty is has 15 majestic towers, a huge mosque built in 1367 and covers 38,000sft area. Khwaja Bande Nawaz Dargah tomb of the sacred Sufi saint Khwaja Syed Mohammad Gesu Daraz, is constructed in the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.

The influence of Bahmani, Turkish, and Iranian architecture is evident in its domes, arches and walls. The dargah’s library has a collection of around 10,000 books in different languages including Persian, Urdu and Arabic.

Activities: Sightseeing

Distance from Hyderabad: 231km

Best time to visit: October - March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking and historic.

A silent district in Andhra Pradesh, Guntur is perhaps the most under-rated places to visit near Hyderabad in two days. On a quick weekend getaway to Guntur tourists can experience elements of nature such as the sea, waterfalls, and caves, alongside experiencing a slice of history through ruins, and museums.

Attractions:

Suryalanka Beach (50km) overlooking the crystal blue waters of the Bay of Bengal is known for its natural beauty with a wide and spacious stretch of sand. Guthikonda Caves (38km) set amidst thick forest are magnificent natural beauties believed to be homes of prehistoric humans. The charm of these ancient caves also lies in the fact that maharishis and saints meditated in the caves.

Uppalapadu Bird Sanctuary (5km) is home to around 40 species of migratory birds like the Siberian pelicans and white ibis, Australian painted storks, spotted pelicans and other birds.

Kondaveedu Fort (25km) spread across 30 hillocks, built by prominent rulers of the Reddy Dynasty was considered as impregnable with 24 bastions. The fort offers around 21 stupas, many temples, residential structures, pillared halls, and a beautiful entrance gateway. The hilltop offers mind-blowing panoramic views and is ideal for trekking.

Activities: Visit to the beach, trekking, bird-watching and sightseeing.

Distance from Hyderabad: 271km

Best time to visit: October - March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, historic, beach and trekking.

Popular among the local communities who are worshippers of the holy Saint Raghavendra Swami, Mantralayam holds a special position among Hindus because of Vrindavana. Easily accessible by road and train, the sacred town resides on the banks of River Tungabhadra and is also referred to as Manchale.

Attractions:

Besides several temples and shrines surrounding Mantralayam, some popular attractions include Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy Temple (23km) is located atop rocky terrain. The deity, Lord Hanuman having five heads is believed to be self- created and was worshipped by Sri Raghavendra Swami himself. Navabrindavan (175km) is an island in between two branches of River Tungabhadra, between the districts of Koppal and Bellary.

A popular destination for the ardent followers and disciples of Sri Raghavendra Swami, the location is known for the tombs of the nine prominent Madhawa saints or ‘Jeeva Brindavanas’.

Activities: Religious sightseeing, temple visits

Distance from Hyderabad: 275km

Best time to visit: October - March

Type of destination: Family and kid friendly, backpacking, pilgrimage.