Top Things to Do in Hyderabad

Hyderabad is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in India. Steeped in history and teeming with intriguing landmarks, Hyderabad’s rich heritage makes it an appealing port of call for lovers of history, art, shopping, architecture and gastronomy.

The old city catapults visitors back in time while the newer urban zone is a hotspot for technological evolution and development. A melting pot of cultures that blends tradition with innovation, Hyderabad offers something for everyone. From cultural experiences to family-friendly breaks, this guide outlines the best attractions in Hyderabad for every traveller.

A whistle-stop tour of Hyderabad city attractions will take you from museums, decadent palaces and ancient monuments to bustling bazaars and beautiful ornamental gardens. If you’re planning a trip, here’s the ultimate list of Hyderabad attractions. 

Hyderabad is a city, which oozes history from every orifice. One of the most interesting cities in the world, this is a location that invites every visitor to travel back in time and explore its roots.

A melange of Islamic and Hindu cultures with Turkish, Arabic and Mughlai influences, it’s no surprise that a historical tour of Hyderabad offers a diverse range of sights and experiences. For those keen to discover the history of Hyderabad, these incredible attractions are a must for your itinerary:

The Charminar is the city’s most high-profile and prominent landmark. A 16th-century mosque built by Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the striking structure represents the establishment of the city and the end of years of suffering caused by water shortages in Golconda.

An imposing building, which is named after its distinctive four minarets, the Charminar stands over 55 metres tall. It has four columns and four arches. It dominates the skyline and nestles seamlessly within the city’s thriving bazaars.

Visitors can enjoy spectacular city views from the 1st floor. The second floor is not open to the public. For an impressive after-dark light show, make your way to the Charminar between 7pm and 9pm. 

Widely regarded as the most impressive attraction in Hyderabad India, Golconda Fort as we know it dates back to the 1500s. Originally constructed hundreds of years earlier, the fort became the focal point of the new city of Hyderabad’s defences in the 16th century.

Before it was turned into the sprawling, robust fortification on view today, it was known as a trading centre for diamonds. Highlights within the attraction include the old palace buildings, the Darbar Hall, the Taramati Mosque and the Hindu Jagadamba Mahakali Temple.

For breathtaking, panoramic views, head to the four-tier Darbar Hall. Golconda Fort is around 10 km from the Charminar. You can catch a bus or hire a taxi to visit. 

The Qutb Shahi Tombs, which are known for their magnificent domes, are part of a sprawling archaeological park, which is undergoing renovation through the Aga Khan Development Project. The park boasts a clutch of wonders, including forty mausoleums and more than 20 mosques.

There are also glorious manicured gardens, a hammam and a series of decorative pavilions to explore. Perhaps the most spectacular tomb is that of the founder of the city, Mohammed Quli, which towers over the city at a height of more than 40 metres.

The site is now a World Heritage Site and there’s a fantastic exhibition, which explains the development project and highlights the key attractions to visit. The tombs are located just a couple of kilometres from Golconda Fort and can be accessed via taxi or rickshaw.

Cultural experiences are abundant in Hyderabad. Our pick of the best attractions in Hyderabad for those eager to immerse themselves in the city’s culture include:

Ramoji Film City is affectionately known as the ‘Home of Tollywood.’ A major tourist attraction for Indian travellers as well as overseas film buffs, this is a must for anyone who loves movies or has an interest in cinema.

There’s a range of tours of this vast, enigmatic park available, including guided studio tours, Film City at night experiences, star experiences and day trips with park tickets included.

Visitors can enjoy fun-filled rides and amusements as well as interactive film sets and studio tours. There’s also a fair, food halls and over 1,000 acres of gardens to explore. 

The Salar Jung Museum is one of the largest in India. It is famed for its scintillating collection of antiques and treasures from the past. The exhibits here showcase the rich and vibrant history of India and the diverse interests and influences of its people.

Open from 10am to 5pm, visitors can enjoy a dazzling array of exhibits and collections ranging from native flora and fauna and dolls to artistic masterpieces, ancient manuscripts, wood carvings, ceramics and toy soldiers. This is a top Hyderabad attraction for the whole family. 

Hyderabad is best known for its captivating history and architecture but it’s also an incredibly aesthetically pleasing city with acres of pristine parks and ornate gardens. For those keen to embrace its many natural wonders, the best outdoor Hyderabad tourist attractions include:

The Hussain Sagar Lake is a heart-shaped lake, which segments the city, dividing Hyderabad from neighbouring Secunderabad. A historic landmark, the lake also boasts breathtaking beauty. Highlights include picturesque views from the banks, boat rides and the renowned Buddha statue, which stands almost 60 feet tall. The lake lies in the centre of the city and is easily accessible by car, taxi or public transport. 

Lumbini Park lies adjacent to Sagar Lake. An oasis of calm and serenity within the city, this is an idyllic spot to hire a boat, take a stroll or enjoy a bike ride. There are guided walking tours available as well as night tours, which offer amazing views of twinkling city lights as well as a laser show. There are also food stalls to keep hunger at bay. 

Covering around 50 acres, the NTR Gardens are one of the major attractions in Hyderabad. Known for its beauty, NTR Gardens also offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. Highlights include landscaped gardens, a toy train, gift shops, eateries, children’s play areas and a series of themed gardens and parks. 

Hyderabad is an awesome destination for shoppers and those keen to discover hidden gems, snap up bargains and stock up on souvenirs. Famed for its busy bazaars and markets dotted around meandering streets, there’s no shortage of treasures on offer. Key locations include:

Centrally located close to the Charminar, Laad Bazaar is the place to be if you’re looking for authentic bazaar shopping experiences and products such as jewellery, fabrics and clothing. This bazaar is most famous for its decorative, affordable bangles. It’s a bustling spot with a lively, buzzing atmosphere. 

A modern market just a hop, skip and a jump from Laad Bazaar, Shahran Market is a busy commercial shopping hub, which offers a vast array of stalls and stores. Here, you can buy everything from clothes and accessories to fabrics, textiles and cosmetics. 

If you’re organising a trip to Hyderabad, it’s wise to consider the weather conditions. The best time for sightseeing is the peak season, which runs from October to March.

The heat and humidity are intense during the summer months between July and September and it’s also monsoon season, which means frequent, torrential downpours.

The next thing to think about is where to go and how to get around. You can walk to many of the main attractions but it’s also beneficial to explore public transport, including local buses, and to make use of taxis and rickshaws.

The main Hyderabad attractions include the Charminar, Salar Jung Museum, Hussain Sagar Lake, Golconda Fort and Ramoji Film City.

To make the most of your break, stay close to the best attractions when you book your hotel in Hyderabad.