As the capital of Telangana, Hyderabad is a hub for all things touristy. The city itself is a mix of both old and new, making Hyderabad an ideal combination of traditional Indian living and fast-paced business enterprises. Known as the Pearl City of India, Hyderabad was once the go-to diamond and pearl trading region and its mines have produced some of the most famous diamonds in the world, including the Nassak Diamond, Koh-i-Noor and the Hope Diamond. Today, the city is more focused on its technology and is home to Cyderabad; Hyderabad’s centre of modernity, with towering malls, delicious restaurants, buzzing clubs and more.
If you’re visiting Hyderabad for its business centre, make sure to carve out some time around your busy schedule to see the sites. There’s plenty of things to do in Hyderabad, so before you finish up your business trip, have a thorough wander around. Here are a few of our favourite tourist hotspots in the city.
Visit Golconda Fort
Also known as ‘Shepherd’s Hill’, the Golconda Fort is a must-see landmark for anyone visiting Hyderabad. Located in the western part of the city, Golconda Fort is a larger than life fortress, built on a granite hill during the reign of the Kaktiya dynasty in 1143. Its high stone walls attract history buffs and archaeological enthusiasts alike, as well as those just visiting the city on business. The fortress measures around 400ft and served as a first line of defense for the kings and emperors of that time. Golconda Fort has seen numerous dynasties rise and fall and has lived through them all, so it’s truly a sight to behold.
Walk through the Chowmahalla Palace
Inspired by Tehran’s Shah Iran Palace, the Chowmahalla Palace exudes radiance and opulence. This palace was once the official residence of the Nizams and for decades, hosted grand celebrations for the royalty that lived there. Built over 40 acres, this grand palace is divided into northern and southern courtyards and also boasts several gardens and intricately designed fountains that you can wander around. The palace was built over 200 years ago and is renowned for its unique style and elegance. Today you can walk through the grounds or even book it to host private corporate dinners and receptions.
Be transported back in time at the Charminar
One of the key monuments in India, the Charminar means ‘Four Towers’in Urdu, but it’s so much more than that. These towering pillars were built in the year 1591 AD and stand on the banks of the Musi River, once marking the centre of the city. Built in the Indo-Islamic style, the structure’s four peaks are all domed and decorated with several interesting designs, while the second floor of the monument is home to the oldest mosque in the city. On your visit, why not stroll around the structure, or through it and take in the hustle and bustle of everyday Hyderabad life? Go shopping near the towers and try some delicious Hyderabadi street dishes on your visit.
Explore History, architecture in Hyderabad
Go wild at the Nehru Zoological Park
Spread over 380 acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is definitely one of a kind, with open enclosures and exotic wildlife species on display, including Indian rhinos, Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, panthers, Indian elephants and more. The Nehru Zoological Park opened in 1959 and strives to create a welcoming environment for the animals, with no railings and just an open moat between them and you. With over 1000 animals, this zoo is so large that you’ll have trouble seeing it all in one day, but you can hop on a train or rent a bike to get around more quickly. If you’re an animal lover, India has numerous zoos all around the country, including Mumbai’s famous Jijamata Udyan, which was built in 1861 and is today, one of the oldest zoos in India.
Hyderabad sightseeing!
After checking out these Hyderabad sightseeing hotspots you can finish up your business trip knowing you’ve made the most of your free time in the city.
Happy Travelling!
This was very interesting and encouraging to read.keep it up
i never been to hyderabad however i heard a lot about the royalty of this place…will visit here at the month of december…
ALso visit Sudha’s car museum, very close to Nehru Zoological park