The word HYDERABAD, often brings to me the images of Charminar,
Hyderabadi Biryani, royal Nizams, their beautiful wives and the labyrinthine
lanes. Hyderabad is the fifth largest metropolis and is the state capital of
Andhra Pradesh. The city is endowed with a mix and match of ancient culture
and 21st century modernity. The city is about 400 years old and with time it
is strengthening itself as a major tourist destination. The Pearls of this
city are famous worldwide.
Many multinationals and software firms have their offices in Hyderabad. It
is also regarded as a gateway of southern India.
Attractions
Charminar
- The world fame monument, Charminar was built by Mohammed Qutub Shah, the
sultan of Golconda in 1591. This great piece of architecture is square
shaped with four minarets. One can find a blend of Hindu and Muslim
architecture here as the upper floor of Charminar owns a mosque and the
bottom a temple. The structure is embellished with stucco decoration typical
of the Qutub Shahi style.
Golconda Fort - The fort of Golconda is regarded as
the best forts in India. Built by the Kakatiya kings in the 13th century,
the fort has a massive structure. The walls of the fort are 15 to 18 ft
high. The entire structure is made of granite. The architecture of the fort
is no less than magical and has an amazing acoustic system. The fort gives
an outstanding touch during sunrise and sunset.
Salarjung Museum - Located on the banks of the
river Musi, the Salarjung Museum of Hyderabad houses a great collection of
antiques that of belonging to the Nawab era. The museum has a total of 250
rooms and requires quality time from an individual to see it. The Musical
Clock is a must see of the museum. Apart from these there are several other
astounding sculptures that are put on display at Salarjung Museum at
Hyderabad.
Hussain Sagar Lake - Built as a water reservoir by
Hazrat Husain Shah Wali in 1562, this lake is synonymous with beauty. The
lake connects the cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The statue of Lord
Buddha with a height of 18 metre and weight of 350 ton is a major attraction
here. Activities like boat rides and musical fountain in the Lumbini Park
located within the lake area can be relished. The lake is also used for
immersing Ganesha idols at the times of Ganesha Chaturthi.
Parks
Lumbini - The Lumbini Park is situated on the banks
of the river Hussain Sagar. The park offers great views of the lake at the
time of sunset. A musical fountain show is also organised in Lumbini.
Nehru Zoological Park - Nehru Zoological park is one
of the biggest zoos in Asia with over 250 species. 2450 animals and birds
are kept in natural environment.
Temples & Mosques
Birla Mandir - Dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, the
Birla Mandir stands on the hilltop of Kalapahad and is completely carved out
of white marble.
Mecca Masjid - Built by Sultan Mohammed Qutub Shah,
this masjid is located to the south- west of Charminar.It has a rectangular
hall and a high roof supported by 15 arches.
Jama
Masjid - This is the oldest mosque in Hyderabad. It was built by
Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah in the year 1597.
Shopping
Hyderabad is certainly a city for all the discerning shoppers. Lac bangles,
banjara mirrors, ikat and kalamkari fabric, leather puppets, perfumes and
pearls are the main shopping delights of Hyderabad. The major shopping areas
include :
- Begum Bazaar
- Laad Bazaar
- Sultan Bazaar
- Osmanganj
- Mozaam Jahi Market
- Mahatma Gandhi Road
- Market Street
- Monda Market
- General Bazaar
Reach Hyderabad
The city of Hyderabad is well connected to other major cities of India by
air, rail and road.
By Air: The city of Hyderabad is well linked with
all the major cities of India. Hyderabad has two airports, the Rajiv Gandhi
Terminal is the International airport whereas N.T.Rama Rao Terminal is the
domestic airport of the city.
By Rail : The twin cities of Hyderabad and
Secunderabad are well connected to various parts of India by the three major
railway stations:Secunderabad, Hyderabad and Kachiguda.
By Road : Hyderabad is well linked with other cities
of the state with a network of highways. The Andhra Pradesh State Road
Transport Corporation also operates several bus services.
