Hyderabad Diaries: When In Hyderabad, Do What the Hyderabadis Do

The magnificent city of Hyderabad, home to edificial wonders like Charminar and Salar Jung Museum, is the pride of the Deccan. The city displays a mix of old world charm and modernity that reflects the rich past and tradition of the city. Whether it’s the cities architecture that is a reminder of a Turkish/Persian heritage or the food or its blended culture of Telugu-Islamic traditions, the city of Nizams will leave you impressed. The vibe of Hyderabad is unique, vibrant, and worth experiencing. So, just in case you are visiting this ‘urban agglomeration’ for business or leisure anytime soon, you need to venture out in a true ‘Hyderabadi” way.

Visit the Charminar Bazaar

Everyone knows about the iconic Charminar, a historical charm set in the old city. But it’s the hustle and bustle around this monumental edifice which is the real attraction. Located right across Charminar, the area is no doubt crowded. However, if you really want to capture the pulse of the city a visit to the Charminar bazaar also known as “laad bazaar “cannot miss your itinerary. Flocked with shops on both sides of the road selling the famous Hyderabadi bangles, pearls, kundan and polki assemblages, the destination is a haven for shopaholics.

Besides presenting a quick opportunity for bargain shopping, the street food at Charminar will take you on a gastronomical delight. The culinary tradition of Hyderabad can be traced back to the days of the Nizams and is reflective even today. The famous Irani chai with Osmania biscuit or delicious dosai with chutneys offered by the street vendors at the market will totally pamper you.

Take a Walk around Hussain Sagar Lake

Evening walk around the Hussain Sagar Lake is a yet another attraction any ‘Hyderabadi’ would vouch for. Spread across the area of 5.7 kilometers, the Hussain Sagar Lake was built by Ibrahim Quali Qutub in 1563. Right in the middle of the lake there is a large monolithic statue of Buddha and visitor can reach the place via a 15 minute ferry ride. This tourist and local attraction is close to commercial and business hotels and is surrounded by several budget hotels in the city of Hyderabad offered by OYO. So, if you are visiting Hyderabad on a business trip and staying at an OYO room around Himayat Nagar or the adjoining area, stepping out for a walk around the lake is a good idea. OYO, India’s largest branded network of hotels, offers affordable and standardized rooms to its guests. Make your trip pleasurable by opting for OYO in the city of Hyderabad.

Try out Haleem at Pista House

If you are visiting Hyderabad during the holy month of Ramadan, you definitely cannot miss the Haleem at the Pista House. One of the most popular and old food joint of the city, the Pista House sells the best Haleem which is supplied to several restaurants across the country. Rich in texture and superior in taste, Haleem is the favourite iftaar food for the Hyderabadis. Besides Haleem, the restaurant also serves lip smacking biryani, kebabs, and mutton dishes. So, if you are in Hyderabad, you cannot probably leave the city without savouring a meal at Pista House.

Eat Breakfast at a Tiffin Center

Tiffin center are nothing but breakfast places that serve the most authentic, tasty and pocket friendly meals. Most local ‘Hyderabadis’ flock these tiffin centers spread across the city to have hot dosaa, idlis, Mysore bondas, vadas etc. for breakfast. So, if you are residing at any of the budget friendly hotels in Hyderabad and want a quick bite, head to a tiffin center within the vicinity.

Explore Shilparamam and nearby Durgam Cheruvu, Car Museum etc. Do try Bisibelebath at Malgudi Restaurant near Panjagutta.

Go to the Ramoji Film city

A popular tourism and recreational center is also the largest integrated film city in the world. Spread across a mammoth area of 2000 acres of land, Ramoji Film city is a weekend destination for ‘Hyderabadis’. The facility houses an adventure park, Bird Park and hosts live shows depicting the local and state culture. Those new to Hyderabad must go to Ramoji Film City. I had visited there 10 years ago- check some of my Ramoji film city videos in this post.

Within the last couple of decades, Hyderabad has transformed into a major technological and IT hub. The city is home to offices of notable companies like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook. This has led to professionals and business owners from across India and the world to pour into the city. Thanks to this trend, there is an emergence of business hotels and budget friendly hotels to accommodate businesses travelers and tourists operating on varying budgets. 

If you're looking for a luxury stay close to Hyderabad airport, try Novotel Hyderabad Airport. Read detailed review here. 

If you have more time, you can visit Bidar in Karnataka or trek the Anatagiri hills