The capital of Telangana, The Pearl City- Hyderabad– stands tall and proud with its unparalleled flow of history and heritage along with modernity. Ranging from the famous Hyderabadi biriyani and mouth-watering Haleem to the mesmerizing historical monuments and museums, Hyderabad has everything that will make you stay a little longer than you had planned. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your friends or family, here are five places to visit in this amazing metropolitan city.
Charminar
Situated in the heart of the Old City of Hyderabad, this historical landmark was built in the 16th century by Sultan Muhammed Quli Qutb Shah to honor his wife Bhagmati. Some sources state that the monument is where Qutb Shah prayed for the plague to end.
The name ‘Charminar’ literally translates to ‘four minarets’. The architecture during the era of Qutb Shah popularly features domes and minarets. In the streets leading up to the monument and on all four sides of it, one can find a large shopping market. Popularly known as ‘chudi bazaar’, this bright kaleidoscope of a market has everything from bangles, jhumkas (earrings), pearls, clothing, and food. One ‘must have’ when visiting the Charminar is the Shahdood malai (mulberry and cream) at ‘Milan juice corner’.
Being located in the most historical region of the city, the Charminar also helps one direct themselves to other important landmarks such as the Mecca Masjid, Nizamia Hospital, Golconda Fort, and the Salar Jung Museum.
Salar Jung Museum
Every sculpture, painting, robe, table, or even a chess piece has a story of its own during the era of the Nizams. Head on to the Salar Jung Museum to fascinate yourself with such stories from history. If you are intent on admiring details then one would need an entire day inside the museum but be assured that it won’t be boring at all. Known as one of the largest museums in the world, it houses a large collection of sculptures, paintings, carvings, textiles, manuscripts, ceramics, metallic artifacts, carpets, and clocks, from Japan, China, Burma, India, Persia, Egypt, and Europe.
Qutb Shahi Tombs
An attraction that some might miss is the Qutb Shahi Tombs. Located in the Old City are a host of single and double storied tombs and mosques built during the Qutb Shahi dynasty. There are a total of seven tombs built in a quadrangular structure upon elevated plinths, adorned with beautiful domes and minarets. Inside these structures lie the burial crypts of the Qutb Shahis. The architecture displays a mixture of Indian and Persian influences. The garden surrounding the tombs is a place of tranquillity. Due to the close proximity, visitors have a view of the Golconda Fort from the second story of some of the tombs.
Shilparamam
In an effort to preserve and promote handicrafts and the culture associated with them, Shilparamam is an arts and crafts village established by the State Government. This distinctive attraction is located in the midst of the technological hub of Hyderabad. The place transports you to a world of heritage, tradition, and culture. The rural museum and the rock museum inside Shilparamam are hard to miss. From ornaments, and handmade bags to intricate woodcrafts and unique block printed sarees and other clothing from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, Shilparamam has a must-visit night bazaar that will hold tourists in awe.
Hussain Sagar Lake
Named after Hussain Shah Wali, this large artificial lake that lies on the tributary of the great Musi river links the old city with the new. Right in the middle of the lake is a huge statue of Gautama Buddha. The light show at this statue is a sight worth watching. There are several boat rides available that take you on a trip around the rock on which the elegant statue stands. The Lumbini Park bordering the lake is a quiet little place to spend the evening eating chaat, popcorn, and watching sunsets.
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