Hyderabad

From eTripTips Wiki

For other places with the same name, see Hyderabad (disambiguation).

Hyderabad [1] is the capital of Andhra Pradesh in Southern India, located on the banks of the Musi River and the Deccan Plateau. Hyderabad and Secunderabad are "twin cities" near Hussain Sagar Lake (also known as Tank Bund in local parlance) but both cities have grown so much that now they have become one big city. The city and district of Hyderabad are coterminus. Hyderabad district is entirely contained within the Rangareddi district of Andhra Pradesh. Many of the suburbs of the city are actually in Rangareddi.

A city rich with history and tradition, Hyderabad now competes with Bangalore for the crown of India's IT capital — Microsoft and Oracle have their India headquarters here.

Contents 1 Understand 1.1 History 1.2 Orientation 1.3 Culture and attitudes 1.4 Climate 2 Talk 3 Get in 3.1 By plane 3.2 By train 3.3 By car 3.4 By bus 4 Get around 4.1 By bus 4.2 By autorickshaw 4.3 By taxi 4.4 By train 4.5 By car 4.6 On foot 5 See 5.1 Historical 5.2 Museums 5.3 Performing Arts 5.4 Art Galleries 5.5 Mosques 5.6 Temples 5.7 Lakes 5.8 Parks 5.9 IT Corridor Attractions 6 Do 6.1 Fun & Frolic 6.2 Cinemas 6.3 Golf Courses 6.4 Tennis Courts 7 Learn 7.1 Institutions 8 Work 9 Buy 9.1 Handicrafts 9.2 Bazaars 9.3 Malls 10 Eat 10.1 Budget 10.2 Mid-range 10.3 Splurge 10.4 Local cuisine 10.5 North Indian 10.6 Dhaba 10.7 Marwadi 10.8 Vegetarian 10.9 Udupi(Vegetarian) 10.10 Andhra Meal 10.11 Chinese 10.12 International Cuisine 10.13 Fast Food 11 Drink 11.1 Alcohol 11.1.1 Pubs 11.1.2 Lounge Bar 11.1.3 Bars 11.2 Cafes 11.3 Soft Drinks 12 Sleep 12.1 Hostels 12.2 Budget 12.3 Mid-range 12.4 Splurge 13 Contact 13.1 Post Office 13.2 Landlines 13.3 Mobile Phones 13.4 Internet 14 Stay safe 14.1 Emergency Numbers 15 Cope 15.1 Money Changers 15.2 Radio Stations 15.3 Newspapers 15.4 Groceries 15.5 Hospitals 15.6 Super-Specialty 15.7 Government Hospitals 15.8 Blood Banks 15.9 Pharmacy/Chemist 15.10 Books 15.11 Movie Rentals 16 Get out

[edit] Understand

If you are traveling to Hyderabad on business — as is increasingly the case now — it is easy to miss the 400-year-old Hyderabad. The city that immediately hits the eye is a sprawling metropolis of shopping malls and office buildings with glass facades. The whole of the city seems to be under construction or renovation and the roads are jammed because flyovers are being constructed.

The "old city" that was once the seat of the Nizam, the ruler of the largest and the most opulent "princely state", and the twin city of Secunderabad where the British maintained a cantonment to keep the army within striking distance of the Nizam can be seen only if you take the time out to see them.

Hyderabad's many epithets include the City of Pearls, the City of Nawabs, the Biryani City and, because of its high-tech draw, Cyberabad.

[edit] History

Hyderabad's history dates back to 1463, when Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk established the fortress of Golconda around 8 km to the west of the present day old city. He had quelled rebellion in the Telangana region and had was appointed the subedar, or administrator of the region as a result. By 1518, he had become independent from the Bahmani sultan and declared himself the Sultan, under the name of Quli Qutb Shah and established the Qutb Shahi dynasty. In 1589, Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, a grandson of Quli Qutb Shah, took the decision to move his capital from the Golconda fort to the present day location of Hyderabad to alleviate water shortages at the old location. In 1591, he ordered the construction of the Charminar, reportedly in gratitude to Allah for cutting short a plague epidemic before it could do too much damage.

The name "Hyderabad" reportedly had its origins in an affair between Mohammad Quli Qutb Shah and a local Telugu courtesan named Bhagmati. He named the city Bhagyanagar after her, and after she converted to Islam and took on the name of "Hyder Mahal", he named the city Hyderabad to keep pace. Hyderabad was built on a grid plan with help from Iranian architects. French traveller Jean-Baptiste Tavernier favorably compared Hyderabad to Orleans.

The Qutb Shahi dynasty lasted till 1687, when the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb defeated the sultanate and took over Hyderabad. He appointed his governor over the region and granted him the title of Nizam-ul-Mulk. Mughal rule was shortlived, however, as in 1724, the Nizam Asaf Jah I gained independence from a declining Mughal empire. Legend has it that while on a hunting expedition, he met a holy man who offered him some kulchas and asked him to eat as much as he could. Asaf Jah ate only seven, and the holy man prophesied that his dynasty would last for seven generations. Sure enough, the seventh ruler in the dynasty was the last. In honour of the legend, the flag of the Nizams featured a kulcha.

Around 1763 Asif Jah II, defeated by the Marathas and threatened by Tipu Sultan of Mysore, entered into a subsidiary alliance with a British. Hyderabad ended up as the capital of the largest princely state in British India, the Hyderabad state. This state was the richest in the country and in the 1930s Time magazine rated the Nizam the richest man in the world. In 1947, with India's independence, the seventh Nizam was reluctant to cede his prinicipality to the newly independent India, prefering Pakistan instead. India sent in its troops and the 200 year old prophesy was fulfilled. Hyderabad became the capital of the newly formed state of Andhra Pradesh in 1956 and steadily grew in size.

The next major events in Hyderabad's history took place when Chandrababu Naidu became the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh in 1995. Among his key policies was a major initiative to turn the city into an IT hub. He cleaned up the streets, laid out IT parks and did much to attract technology companies into the city. A major achievement for him was when Microsoft chose Hyderabad as its India headquarters over rival Bangalore. Today, as Bangalore chokes over its infrastructure, Hyderabad's well-laid out streets are proving to be a major attraction for software and IT-enabled companies. Hyderabad takes its brand as an IT destination very seriously. Cyberabad is not just a nickname. The technology enclave of Madhapur has actually been officially named Hi tec city, and Cyberabad too is commonly used in official documents.

[edit] Orientation

The old city of Hyderabad lies on the south bank of the Musi river, which roughly flows from the West to East. Most of the historical attractions, including, the Charminar, considered the centre of old Hyderabad, lie on this bank. Secunderabad, which was once a separate city, lies some distance to the north of the old city. Between Secunderabad and the old city lies the new city of Hyderabad, the administrative capital of Andhra Pradesh, which was built on the north bank of the Musi river after independence. The dividing line between the two cities is the Sardar Patel road which also goes East-West. The most prominent landmark here is the Hussain Sagar lake and most administrative offices are located around it.

The newly developed "Hi-tec city" is 9 km to the west of the new city, in a place called Madhapur. This is where most technology and business process outsourcing (BPO) firms have their campuses.

[edit] Culture and attitudes

In many senses, Hyderabad is the meeting ground between North and South India. The city has a culture of its own, distinct from the rest of Andhra Pradesh, showing Islamic influences and also the courtly influence of being the capital of the Nizamate. This, however, is more true for the old city. The new city is, and looks like, just another provincial capital of a state of India. Secundarabad is more cosmopolitan, as the Contoment area is located in this part of the city.

In recent years, due to the influx of young men and women from various parts of the country, Hyderabad's culture and attitudes have taken a turn towards "modernity", but keep in mind that this is still a deeply conservative place. Actions that would not raise an eyebrow in the west, such as a man and woman kissing, will invite stares from everyone in the vicinity.

[edit] Climate

Hyderabad experiences extremes of hot and cold and is mostly dry. Temperatures in Hyderabad range from 15.2°C to 39.2°C (89°F to 102.5°F).

• Summer March - June, Temperatures hit 40°C (104°F). Sunstroke is common. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen.
• Monsoon July- September. Usually it doesn't rain much, but occasionally you get thunderstorms.
• Winter October - February, Average 8°C (46°F). Sometimes bitingly cold, but mostly pleasant.

The best time to visit Hyderabad is from September to February, during the winter.

[edit] Talk

English is widely spoken in this city especially with the younger crowds and the officials. Hyderabad is one of the places where Urdu developed, and the dialect of Urdu spoken here, primarily by the large Muslim population, is called Deccani Urdu of Dakhani Urdu (Urdu of the Deccan.) Because of the influence of Urdu, Hindi is widely spoken here. It will be in a dialect that will sound strange to a native Hindi speaker - but your Hindi phrasebook will still be useful. Telugu, the language of Andhra Pradesh, is widely spoken.

[edit] Get in

Hyderabad is well connected to all parts of the country by air, rail and road.

[edit] By plane

The airport [2] is located at Begumpet. The airport is called Hyderabad Airport, with two terminals. The international terminal is named after Rajiv Gandhi and the domestic terminal is named after N T Rama Rao. The airport is small compared to the current traffic it handles and it will prove inadequate to handle the increase in load in the near future. A new international airport is being constructed in the suburb of Shamshabad, scheduled to be operational by April 1, 2008. It will replace the old airport.

Direct international connectivity to the airport is available from nearby countries, from the Middle-east and from Southeast Asia . Flights connect places like Frankfurt, London ( Birtish Airways by 2008), Amsterdam, New York etc in Europe and America.Domestic connectivity is excellent with the network spanning almost all the important cities and towns on the Indian map. Hyderabad is slated to be a domestic hub from the time when the new airport would become operational.

The airport is at the heart of the city. Once you arrive, the best option is to take a prepaid taxi to your destination. There is one run by the traffic police, where you can buy the prepaid coupon for the city's standard taxis or autorickshaws. This is the cheapest and is adequate. There are others close by which offer better cars.

Sufficient parking is available at the airport, but the charges are high - Rs. 60 for four hours. Avoid the parking area that is closer to the airport - they are "premium" and they cost 120 rupees.

[edit] By train

Indian Railways [3] runs its service to Hyderabad from all over India.

There are three major railway stations serving the twin cities: Secunderabad, Nampally (Hyderabad Deccan), and Kacheguda. Another station is planned to open soon at Begumpet.

[edit] By car

If you don't mind a long drive, Hyderabad is at a drivable distance from Bangalore (via NH7 - 552 km). It is 752 km from Chennai (NH9 and NH5) and 753 km from Mumbai (NH9 till Pune and the expressway to Mumbai.) The Bangalore Hyderabad section is part of the North South corridor which is being updated, and is a four-lane divided highway.

[edit] By bus

Hyderabad is well-connected to all parts of the Andhra Pradesh and some parts of South India. CBS / Imliban is the biggest station run by APSRTC (state-run) situated in Hyderabad and JBS / Jubilee Bus station is in Secunderabad. [4]. Imliban is said to be the largest bus station in the world. APSRTC is in the guiness book of world records for having the highest number of buses in a particular state in the world.

[edit] Get around

There are many ways to get around in Hyderabad. It has good bus service, passable autorickshaw and taxi service and a grossly inadequate local train service.

[edit] By bus

Hyderabad has very good local bus connectivity and is run by APSRTC, a state-government owned corporation. Most buses start and terminate in Secunderabad Railway station, Nampally Railway station, Kothi, and Charminar.

[edit] By autorickshaw

Autorickshaws or an Auto in Hyderabad should be metered, though it can be difficult for non-locals to find an autorickshaw driver who agrees to a metered fare from the airport. But you should insist on metering a trip. Autos can carry a maximum of 3 passengers excluding the driver, but it is common to find them being overloaded to carry up to six passengers. . The minimum fare (flagfall) is Rs 10.00. There are also shared 8 seater Maxi Vans available in selected areas. Fares are mostly 2 rupees more than bus fares, but are far more comfortable and fast.

[edit] By taxi

Metered taxis are also available, but they cannot be hailed off the street. One needs to call their centralised despatch centre and book the service. Service is very good. It is next to impossible to be able to get a cab without prior booking since demand far outstrips the supply. Minimum is Rs. 80 valid for the first two kilometres and subsequently it is Rs. 10 per kilometre. All cabs have digital meters that show the distance and fare. Outsiders arriving at Hyderabad Begumnpet Airport can book in advance and inform their flight details so that the Cab Company will send the taxi to pick one up on arrival. Do fine tune the modalities like exact pick up point, driver's mobile number, etc. while booking. Companies offering metered taxis include

• C *Cabs, +91 0 93473 93474
• Cel Cabs, +91 40 2324 2526

• City Cab, +91 40 2776 0000 / +91 40 6631 6000 / +91 40 6631 6001,
• FAST TRACK - Call Cab, +91 40 2888 9999

• Orange Cab, +91 40 6631 5555
• Metro Cab, +91 40 6610 0676 / +91 40 6610 0677
• Green Cab, +91 40 6664 4444
• Call Taxi, +91 40 2790 1111 / +91 40 2790 1122,
• Call Cab, +91 40 6625 1313 / +91 40 6625 1414,

You can hire cars from Hertz [5], Orix [6], Hussain Travels [7], MM Travels [8], Travels and Rentals [9], etc.

[edit] By train

Local trains are also available, albeit for a few places in Hyderabad, called MMTS [10].

[edit] By car

Hyderabad lacks an expressway system, leading to traffic jams during rush hours. However, an 160km Ring Road Expressway [11] is currently under construction, with an expected first phase completion in early 2008.

Driving discipline in Hyderabad is, if it can be possible, worse than in the rest of India. The drivers and the roads of Hyderabad are made for each other. There are long stretches of roads passing through thickly populated areas that have no median breaks, so vehicles, including motorbikes and cars, simply drive on the wrong side of the road. The accepted way to take a right turn is to go to the left edge of the road and turn right, in the face of multiple lanes of cars attempting to go straight. Red lights are broken in broad daylight.

[edit] On foot

Hyderabad, especially Old City, is good for walking. Going around Chudi Bazaar(Lad Bazaar) near Charminar is an experience, a visit to the famed Chowmahalla palace and Mecca Masjid is a good option. Places like Necklace Road, Sultan Bazar(Koti) and Abids are worth travelling on foot. But please note that walking can be hazardous. It is common for roads to not have pavements at all, and bikes will go to right up to the edge of the road and climb any barrier to gain an advantage over others on the road. Crossing roads is also very dangerous, always use the foot over bridge. Though there are zebra crossings in the city, drivers have little driving sense.

[edit] See

[edit] Historical

As may be expected, most of the historical attractions are situated in the old city.

• Charminar, Website: http://www.aptourism.in/hplaces.html. Literally "Four minarets", this structure was built at the very spot at which Quli Qutb Shah prayed for the end to the plague epidemic. The Charminar has long been the icon of Hyderabad. The towers rise to a height of 48.7 m above the ground. There is a mosque with 45 prayer spaces located inside in the upper storeys. The structure actually stands in the middle of a busy road, but a pedestrianization project is under way. Atop the minarets, you get a panoramic view of Hyderabad city.

• Golconda Fort. In the 16th century, Golconda was the capital of the Qutb Shahi kingdom. The city was the center of a flourishing diamond trade. Magnificent diamonds were taken from the mines in the hills surrounding Golconda, including '''Darya-e Nur''' (meaning "sea of light"), at 185 carats, the largest and finest diamond of the crown jewels of Iran. By the 1880s, "Golconda" was being used generically by English speakers to refer to any particularly rich mine, and later to any source of great wealth.

Chowmahalla Palace

• Falaknuma Palace. Built by Nawab Viqar al-Umra', a beautiful and stunning piece of architecture. The most opulent of the Nizams' many palaces, Falaknuma was built in 1872. A huge amount of money was lavished on the interior, which is particularly impressive and features the works of Florentine sculptors. And has a 100-seater Dining Table. The palace is currently being renovated, and the [http://www.tajhotels.com/ Taj Group] is converting it into a luxury hotel.

• Chowmahalla Palace, Website: http://www.chowmahalla.com. Once the centre of Hyderabad , Situated near Charminar. It was the seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty where the Nizam entertained his official guests and royal visitors.

• Qutb Shahi Tombs

• Paigah Tombs, : Santoshnagar(Pisal Banda). These tombs belong to the 'Paigah' nobles (tied by blood and marriage to the Nizams) and are about 200 years old. These unique lime and mortar tombs are beautifully carved and have marble inlay work on them.

• Public Gardens. It was known as the Bagh-e-aam (Garden for the commeners), it has well laid out gardens, and also houses the imposing State Legislative Assembly building, the Jubilee Hall, the Jawahar Bal Bhavan, the Health Museum and the State Archaeological Museum.

• Numaish. An exhibition that runs in the months of January & February every year. It showcases various items made across India.

• AP State Museum. Displays a stunning array of artifacts dating back to the 1st century to the 20th Century. Ranging from the Lotus Medallion of the 1st century to the Amazing Kalankari work that adorned the bed-spreads of the Nizams to a period room that displays the typical living room of the Nizam time to the Jain sculptures and Statues - this place has it all.

• The High Court of Andhra Pradesh, : Nayapul

• Osmania Arts College. Built during the period of the last Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan. The imposing facade of the building is a great sight.

• Purani Haveli

• The Kothi Residency (Womens College, Kothi)

• The Hyderabad Public School, : Begumpet. Formerly a Nizam's palace and the Jagirdar's College. This Institution was founded in 1923 and is currently one of the oldest and largest public schools in the country. The campus is also an internationally recognised heritage site.

• Raymond Tomb. Michel Raymond, a French mercenary, was a military commander in the service of the second Nizam and also his close friend. His tomb is located at Saroornagar, and is made of black granite.

• Bhoingir. It is 20 Kms from city of Hyderabad on the outskirts moving towords Uppal and you see a big rock on top of which a old monument can be seen. Near by you will find a temple also.

[edit] Museums

• Salar Jung Museum, : Naya Pul, Afzalgunj (Turn left once you reach the south bank of Musi using the Nayapul), : +91 40 2452 3211. 10:00 AM - 5 PM Sa-Th. (Ticketing closes at 4:15 PM). This collection belonged to the Salar Jungs, Prime Minsters of Hyderabad, but has been augmented since. The museum's collection of Nizam jewellery is displayed only on special occasions. The collection includes articles mostly from medieval and modern times, with a concentration of articles from the Islamic era. The more interesting objects are located in the Western wing on the second floor, which contains paintings, furniture and other objects that the Salar Jung got from the West. Skip anything labeled "Children's section"; they are boring, even for children. Free guided tours lasting two hours each are available at scheduled times, four times a day. Inquire at the entrance. The security is strict and intrusive. Cameras, bags and liquids are not allowed, but mobile cameras are winked at. Deposit your contraband at the free lockers available near the ticketing area.

Rs. 10 for Indians, Rs. 150 for foreigners

• Archival Museum (A.P. State Archives and Research Institute), : Tarnaka, Hyderabad-7, : +91-40-27018371
• B.M. Birla Palnetarium and Science & Technological Museum, : Adarshnagar, Hyderabad -63 (Very close to Birla Temple, Naubat Pahad), : +91 40 2324 1067. Museum: 10:30 AM- 8 PM, Planetarium: English shows: 11:30 AM, 4:00 PM, 6 PM, More shows in Telugu and one show in Hindi. Fr-We. The show at the planetarium lasts 35 minutes and is moderately interesting. The technological museum, on the other hand, is poorly maintained. The Dinosaurium at the upper level contains a complete skeleton of a dinosaur Kotasaurus yamanpalliensis discovered in the village of [Yemanapalli]] in Andhra Pradesh in 1988. This dinosaur is quite interesting to see, as are the artifacts at the lower level that display the personal collection of Nirmala Birla. Museum: Rs. 15, Planetarium: Rs. 17, Combined admission: Rs. 35. Parking Rs. 20

• H.E.H The Nizam's Museum, : Purani Haveli, Behind Princess Durru Shehvar Children's HospitalHyderabad-2, : +91 40 2452 1029. 10am-5pm Sa-Th Adults-Rs.50 Students & children-Rs.15

• Qutub Shahi Tombs Site Museum, : Hyderabad-8, : +91 40 2351 341. 9am-4.30pm Sa-Th Rs.2/

• Hyderabad State Museum, : Public Gardens, Public Garden Road,Hyderabad-1

• Purani Haveli Museum, : Purani Haveli, Hyderabad.. Home to the world's longest wardrode, built in two levels with a hand-cranked wooden lift(elevator) in place. This occupies the entire length of one wing of the palace.

• The Natural History Museum, Nehru Zoological park. Has some rare and interesting exhibits.

[edit] Performing Arts

• Ravindra Bharathi, Saifabad

[edit] Art Galleries

• Kala Bhavan, : Ravindra Bharathi complex, Saifabad

• State Gallery Of Art (Chitramayee), : Road No. 1, Kavuri Hills, Madhapur, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad 500033, : 91 40 3091 3947, +91 40 3091 3922
• (Kalahita Art Foundation), : Lakshmi Towers, Nagarjuna Hills, : +91 40 2335 0543

• Alankrita Art Gallery, : Kavuri Hills, Madhapur, : +91 40 2311 3709
• Pegasus Art Gallery, : Road No.72 Jubilee Hills, : +91 98486 66262

• Le Cafe De Art, : Road No.1 Banjara Hills, : +91 40 6550 6661

• Gallery Space, : Road No.12, Banjara Hills, : +91 40 6554 1836

• Shilparamam, : Hi tec city, Madhapur. Designed as a contrast to the futuristic Cyber tower that lies across the road, the crafts village of Shilparamam ("sculpture village") lies at the entrance to Hi tec city. The intent is to showcase and preserve the old. There is a bazaar where you can buy assorted handicrafts and art work. There is also an entire village (additional entrance fee of Rs. 2) where you can find realistic looking sculptures of villagers of yore carrying out their traditional crafts. You can also find a rock museum which contains natural rock formations that allegedly look life-like - skip this if you are short of time. There are swings for children to play and a food court where you can consume oily snacks. An open air auditorium hosts classical Carnatic performances. A night bazaar is under construction. Nearby is Shilpkala vedika [http://www.shilpakalavedika.com/index.htm], a venue for performing arts. Worth a visit, and make sure you carry cash to buy anything you like - credit cards are not accepted by any shop. Rs. 10

[edit] Mosques

The Qutubshahi mosques in Hyderabad are so named because they were built by the Qutubshahi dynasty. Most of them were built by Quli Qutb Shah, the founder.

• Mecca Masjid. a 400 year old mosque

• Toli Masjid, : Karwan. 300 years old. Known for its splendid architechture.

• Moula Ali Dargah. 400 stairs brings you to a place of worship built by the Asif Jahis. The Moula Ali Dargah was built in the memory of Hazrat Ali, the son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. Legend has it that Yakoob, a eunuch in the court of Ibrahim Quli, went to the hill after he saw Hazrat Ali seated on it. To his surprise, he saw the impression Ali's palm on a stone, which he had dreamt. He had the impression cut out and installed in a shrine. Ibrahim Shah later built a mosque beside the dargah. A Ashurkhana , a Baradari (pavilion) and an Nqqar khana (place for beating drums) were built during the Qutb Shahi period.

• Hussain Shah Wali Dargah

• Shahi Masjid. Royal mosque in Public Gardens

• Begumpet Mosque. Known for its Spanish Architecture

[edit] Temples

• Birla Mandir, : Adarsh nagar, Naubat Pahad (While driving there are two different routes depending on whether you want to drive right to the top or whether you want to park at the bottom of the hill and climb the stairs.). 10:AM-12 noon, 2:00 PM-8:00 PM. The industrial house of the Birlas have the tradition of building magnificent marble temples in cities of India. This one is one of the best. Located on top of Naubat Pahad (mountain), this clean, sparkling white temple dedicated to Venkateshwara has viewing areas that afford a great view of the city. Sadly, cameras and camera mobiles are banned; your bags are checked at the entrance. There is a free cloakroom where you can deposit those. Free

• St. Josephs Cathedral
• Sanghi Temple(Hayat Nagar)

• Chilkur Balaji Temple (Gandipet)- also known as Visa Balaji since many Visa seeking people visit this and it is said that their wishes come true after which they perform 111 pradakshinas
• Keesara Gutta (Shiva Temple)
• HareRama HareKrishna Temple (Abids)
• Nagmata Temple (Secbad)
• Kachiguda Mahankali Temple
• Dhartimata Temple( BegumBazar)
• Gandi Maisamma (GandiPet)
• Shyam Mandir(Kachiguda Station)
• Ujjaini Mahankali Temple (Secbad)

[edit] Lakes

• Hussain Sagar (Tank Bund/Buddha Statue)
• Osman Sagar / Gandipet
• Himayat Sagar
• Durgam Cheruvu (Secret Lake)
• Shamirpet - 24 Kms away to the north of Secunderabad, Shamirpet has a beautiful lake & a deer park. Its peaceful environs make it a great picnic spot. AP Tourism offers comfortable cottages facilities for accommodation (under private management), while the forest lodge can be booked with the AP Forest Department office at Saifabad.

• Saroornagar

[edit] Parks

• Necklace Road ( The Chaupati of Hyderabad)
• Indira Park - A sprawling 76 acre park located near Tank Bund with a nice little pond and boating.
• Public Gardens (This was the old zoo and now is a beautiful place for both children and adults).
• Sanjeeviah Park
• Krishna Kanth Park
• Lotus Pond [12](Jubilee Hills)
• Botanical Garden (Kondapur)
• Nehru Zoological Park
• KBR National Park (Chiraan Palace)
• Chilkur Wildlife Park
• Jalavihar Family Water Park (Necklace Road)
• Mahaveer Vanasthali Wildlife park

(The wild life parks, botanical garden and zoo have several educational programs including lectures with live snakes)

[edit] IT Corridor Attractions

• Hitech City (Hyderabad's Silicon Valley)

• Cyber Towers (First landmark building built by APIIC and L&T)

• Cyber Gateway.
• Cyber Pearl, An Ascendas IT Park
• Raheja I.T. Park/Mindspace IT Park
• Deccan Park(TCS campus)

• The V, An Ascendas IT Park
• iLabs Center
• Microsoft Inc Located at Gachhi Bowli

[edit] Do

[edit] Fun & Frolic

• NTR Gardens, : NTR Marg (West of Hussain Sagar lake). 2 PM-8:30 PM. Built by Chandrababu Naidu in memory of N T Rama Rao, his father in law and ex-Chief Minister, this is an amusement park which houses some nice attractions like a mini-train, a haunted house, a boat ride, etc. There is a cafe where the seating is in the shape of vintage cars. You can either spend money on the rides or generally stroll around and gape at the fountains and the giant insects. For rides, the Rs. 45 combo you can buy at the entrance is a good deal. Rs.15 for entry, rides extra.

• Lumbini Park, : NTR Marg (West of Hussain Sagar lake). 9 AM-9 PM. See water cascades, go on guided car rides. Go on a boat ride and see the Buddha statue at the centre of the lake. Rs.5, rides extra

• Runway 9[13] Ph+95-8418-232 752/232 753/232 633, 09885333160(Mobile)
• Treasure Island, Gandipet
• Ramoji Film City ( A complete movie studio similar to Hollywood)
• Thunder Bowl - Bowling, pool
• Yatri Nivas
• Stop Over
• Ocean Park , Gandipet, Ph: +91-40-2322 5660/2322 3824 - A water-theme park
• Bowling Alley's - Bowling, pool, fooz ball
• Country Club
• SafilGuda Mini Tank Bund(Malkajgiri)
• Necklace Road
• Snow World
• Diginet Digital Experience Zone (AP's Best Gamecenter. Wifi hotspot, coffee shop, shopping)Ph: 55580009
• Friends of Snakes Society (For reptile conservation work and field trips) Tel: 27112719.

[edit] Cinemas

There are roughly 200 Cinemas in and around Hyderabad,Here are a reputed few:-

• Prasad's Imax (5 Screens) (Necklace Road)
• PVR Cinemas, (5 Screens)(Hyderabad Central,Panjagutta) +(91)-(040)-6662 1115, 6662 1116, 505787, (dial From Mobile), [14].
• Sangeet (Sec'bad)
• Santosh and Sapna (Abids)
• Vimal 70mm (Balanagar)
• Vishwanath (Kukatpally)
• Bhramarambha and Mallikarjuna (KPHB)
• Arjun and Shivaparvathi(KPHB)
• Satyam (Ameerpet)
• Devi, Sudarshan (RTC X roads)
• Skyline and Sterling (Basheerbagh)
• Sushma and Vishnu (vanasthalipuram)
• Konark, Rajadhani (Dilshuknagar)

[edit] Golf Courses

• Hyderabad Golf Club, Tolichowki, Mohammedi Lines, Golconda, Hyderabad 500008 Ph: +91-40-2356 7207
• ACS Golf Course 4, 214 KPHB Colony, Kukatpally, Hyderabad500072 Ph: +91-40-2315 6433, 2305 0211, 2315 7241
• Army Golf Course Club, Risala Bazar, Bolarum, Secunderbad 500010 Ph:+91-40-2786 1943
• Bolarum Golf Club,Risala Bazar, Bolarum, Hyderabad500010 Ph: +91-40-2786 1943

[edit] Tennis Courts

• Gaddam Susheela Memorial Tennis Centre Park View Enclave, Boinpally Sec'bad

[edit] Learn

[edit] Institutions

• Osmania University
• HCU, University of Hyderabad (Central University)]
• Jawahar Lal Nehru Technological University
• Indian School of Business, Gachibowli, Hyderabad ISB
• NALSAR, University of Law
• CIEFL ( Central Institute of English and Foreign Languages)
• National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Hyderabad NIFT
• Chaitanya Bharathi Institute Of Technology [CBIT,Hyderabad
• International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad IIIT
• Potti Sriramulu Telugu Viswavidyalayam

[edit] Work

[edit] Buy

• Pearls of Hyderabad (Abids and Somajiguda Jewelry shops) popular for their Quality And Lustre. Choose from 3 varieties in Pearls Viz. Natural, Cultured, and Imitation.
• Ornaments & jewelry (Punjagutta,Abids and Somajiguda)
• Imitation Jewelery From Charminar.
• The Golden Mile of Hyderabad for shopping, consisting of shopping plazas, Malls, Designer Boutiques and upmarket shops - Starting from Lifestyle near the Begumpet Flyover and extending all the way till Road No.1 Banjara Hills.

[edit] Handicrafts

• Lepakshi[15] Ph: 040-2766 8178
• KalanjaliMargadarsi House, 5-10-195, Fathemaidan Raod, Opp: Ploice Control Room, Nampally, Hyderabad. Ph: 040-2323 1147/2329 7196/2329 7197 Fax: 040-23233204
• Bidri Crafts (Gunfoundry,Abids) Ph: +91-40-2323 2657/2323 3663 [16]

• Vishwakarmarts gallery Esteemhouse Opposite to model house Punjagutta Dwarakarapuri colony PH: 040 66615039

[edit] Bazaars

• Laad Bazaar exotic lacquer and glass bangles market
• Begum Bazaar
• Sultan Bazaar
• General Bazaar (Budget clothes Shopping)
• Monda Market (Vegetable Market)
• Feel Khana Khadim

[edit] Malls

• Lifestyle (Begumpet)
• Hyderabad Central (Punjagutta)
• Shoppers stop (Begumpet)
• City Centre (Road No.1,Banjara Hills)
• Pantaloons (Begumpet)
• Maheshwari Plaza (Abids)
• Big Bazaar (2 Branches)(Abids and Ameerpet)
• Brand Factory (Abids)

[edit] Eat

Hyderabadi cuisine that developed as an attempt to satisfy the palate of the Nizam, his court and his army. While heavily influenced by traditional Telangana cuisine, it is distinct from it.

The most famous Hyderabadi dish is the Hyderabadi Dum Biryani. Dum refers to the baking process where Basmati rice and meat or vegetables are mixed in a pot and heated for a long time. During the Nizam's time, the Biryani was made with lamb's meat carefully cooked with rice. Culinary delicacies of Hyderabad include Gosht, which is made from a buck/billy/young goat, and is associated with the Hyderabadi cuisine.Hyderabadis prize the meat of a male goat.Kachchi gosht ki biriyani of Hyderabad, where raw meat is stir fried with spices(masala) for couple of minutes and then covered with rice and put on dum. Today, Biryani is also made using vegetables, chicken, seafood and beef. The beef Biryani is known as Kalyani Biryani, available at many small eateries in the city. Although any Irani cafe might serve this delectable dish, there are a few places better known for tasteful food than their hygiene.

Hyderabadi Haleem is another dish which is available only in the month of Ramadaan(Ramzan).

Mirchi ka salan — spicy chilly gravy, is another dish that serves as a tasty accompaniment to any rice item.

Khubani ka meetha is Hyderabad's preferred dessert sweet. It is made from apricots boiled in sugar syrup till they achieve a thick consistency. It looks similar to, but tastes different from gajar ka halwa. It is often topped with ice-cream or cream.

Double Ka Meetha is a dessert made from bread, milk and dry fruits.

[edit] Budget

[edit] Mid-range

• Malgudi, : +91-40-55632277. The name is inspired by the fictional South Indian town created by R K Narayan. It has an ambience that suits the name, with waiters clad in ''dhotis''. On the menu, you will find foodstuff from the four southern states that are rare to find in other restaurants, like gutti vankai or kodi pulusu. Service is slow. In Hyderabad, it has three branches: Rs. 150-250

• , : Life style building 1st floor, Begumpet, : +91-40-6663 2277, +91-40-66632272
• , : KPHB,, VI Phase, Kukatpally, : +91-40-4006 2200, +91-40-4006 2338
• , : Lumbini Mall, 4th floor, Banjara Road no. 2, : +91-40-6452 2195

[edit] Splurge

• Little Italy, : 275, Film Nagar, Opp. KBR Park, at Applo Crossing, Hyderabad - 500034, : +91-40-2355 8001, +91-40-2355 8002, +91-40-2355 8003, Website: http://www.littleitaly-india.com/rest_hyder.html. Vegetarian and authentic Italian food. Franchisee of the popular restaurant chain headquartered in Mumbai. Serves cocktails too.

This article or section does not match our manual of style or needs other editing. Please plunge forward, give it your attention and help it improve!

[edit] Local cuisine

In these Hotels one can get the Hyderbadi dishes, it's an experience to have a meal in these restaurants.

• 4 Seasons(Toli Chowki,Mehdipatnam)Ph: (+91)- (040) -2356 7439 , 6557 8671 - by awarded The Best Biryani by Times of India in 2006.
• Alpha (Secunderabad Station), famous for its Beja Fry available only in the morning, served for breakfast.
• Bahaar (BasheerBagh, Ph: (+91)-(040)-2323 1295
• Baawarchi (RTC X Roads), Ph:(+91)-(040)-2763 4494/2760 5308
• Deccan Palace (Red Hills, Ph: (+91)-(040)-566-0786
• Dum Pukht (Grand Kakatiya Sheraton Hotels & Towers (Only Dinners) Begumpet,Ph: (+91)-(040)-2340 0132
• Hyderabad House[17](over 10 branches) Try the authentic Lukhmi
• The Paradise Restaurant(Secunderabad)M.G. Road,Phone: (+91)-(040)-2784 3115
• Mandaar(Toli Chowki, Mehdipatnam)
• Niagara (Chaderghat & (Hyderguda Ph: (+91)-(040)-3225486/2453 9539)

• Shadaab (Madina Building), Ph: (+91)-(040)-23313 4446 famous for its Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani and Jabda Gosht available only in the morning, served for breakfast.

• Sarvi,Mehdipatnam & Banjara Hills Ph:(+91)-(040)-2663 3166
• Sohail (Malakpet)
• The Jewel of the Nizam(Hotel Golconda, Masab tank), Ph:(+91)-(040)-2332 0202
• Kebab-e-Bahar (Taj Banjara, Banjara Hills) Ph: (+91)-(040)-2339 9999
• Kholani's Kitchen, Boggula Kunta, Ph:(+91)-(040)-2475 3444, 2475 7657 - try Malai Kebabs (chicken), Apollo Fish
• Pista House (Shalibunda,Charminar)
• Our PlaceRoad No 10, Banjara Hills,Ph: (+91)-(040)-2335 3422

Hyderabad also offers a midnight feast of Biryani along with a lavish spread of other dishes. The Midnight Biryani Buffet normally opens at 2330 hrs and remains open into the wee hours of the day.

If Biryani is not your choice of meal or you have had your fair share of it, do not fret. Hyderabad offers a wide variety of food on its platter, and many of the luxurious hotels offer authentic cuisine even from places such as Afghanistan - Dum Pukt in Grand Kakatiya is a case in point. Besides, there is unending array of thematic food festivals to soothe your appetite.

[edit] North Indian

• Angeethi (Banjara Hillas)
• Aangan ( Yatri Niwas) SP Road, Secunderabad, Ph: (+91)-(040)-2781 6881
• Chillies Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Ph: (+91)-(040)-5578 8867
• Copper Pot (Hotel Manohar Begumpet)
• ElixirBanjara Hills, Hyderabad,Ph: (+91)-(040)-5566 3470/71
• Fusion 9, Road No.1, Banjara Hills Ph: +91-
• Koyla (Banjara Hills)
• Kabura (Lifestyle Building)
• Laguna, Road No.2 Banjara Hills Ph: (+91)-(040)-6451 1988
• Moksh, Necklace Road Ph: +(91)-(40)-6620 0111, 6620 0112, The Rs.140 Non-Veg, Lunch-buffet is really tasty. Service, ambience and the lake-sade location is awesome.
• Ohri's (Banara Hills & Basheerbagh)
• Olive GardenMadhapur, Hyderabad, Ph:(+91)-(040)-2310 0300
• SwagathAmeerpet, Hyderabad, Ph: (+91)-(040)-2373 3987/2375 0382
• The HubPunjagutta, Hyderabad, Ph: (+91)-(040)-2330 1588
• Tandoor, white house, Begumpet, Ph: (+91)-(040)- 40133663
• Touch of Class (Central Court),Lakdi ka pul, Hyderabad, Ph:(+91)-(040)-2323 3262
• Tulips Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Ph: (+91)-(040)-2335 3035
• Taj IndusHimayathnagar, Hyderabad Ph: (+91)-(040)-55786478/5550 6878
• Tycoon Begumpet, Ph:(+91)-(040)- 5566 8820
• Water Front Beside Eat Street, Necklace Road Ph: +(91)-(040)-2330 8899, 6527 8899
• Zafraan Exotica, Road No.2 Banjara Hills Ph: (+91)-(040)-6558 5500

[edit] Dhaba

• Sony Family Dhaba , Medak Road, Near Satyam Technology Centre.Bahadurpally X Roads,

+91-40-65457754, Mobile # 9346909700...this is for all those who require to manage food when working late in STC. :-) all the best for re-imbursements!!!

• SHAHJI DA DHABA, Lakdi Ka Pul
• Papaji-Da-Dhaba ,Boggulakunta,Abids, Ph:+91-40-2756 0365, 2756 6437
• Sher-e-Punjab (Diamond Point,Boinpally)
• Sahara Dhaba, Kompally
• Deewan Dhaba, Kompally
• Sony Dhaba , Boinpally
• Santosh Dhaba(Vegetarian) Road No.1 Banjara Hills Ph:+91-40-6678 7887; Hanuman Tekdi, Abids Ph:+91-40-6677 7887; Paradise Circle,Sec'bad Ph:+91-40-6521 7887
• SIMRAN-SHER-E-PUNJAB DHABA , Punjagutta X road, Ph:+91-40-5515 2999,5576 3999
• Mahalakshmi Dhaba (Vegetarian), 15-9-905, Mohaboob Gunj, Beside Sri Ambica Lodge +(91)-(040)-6656 0225
• NEEDS, Begumpet. This miniature setup down the lane next to Lifestyle building is the authentic taste of the highway Dhabas you will find all over Punjab and nearby North Indian towns.

[edit] Marwadi

• Dhola-ri-Dhani,Kompally Ph: +91-8418-232 086 & +91-40-2772 1586
• Hot Rottis Vinak Nagar,Hitec City, Madhapur; Indira Nagar, Gachibowli Ph:+91-9886354129,9849657210

[edit] Vegetarian

• Athithi Inn (Greenlands), Taj Tristar (Patny)
• Chutney's (Nagarjuna Circle) Ph:91-40-2335-0569, 2335-8484, 5557-8651 One of the Best Hotels serving authentic Vegeterian Food. A 'not to be missed' affair for veggies or vegans.
• Kamat Nampally, Secunderabad (SD Road, Clock Tower)
• Minerva Coffee Shop (Somajiguda, Himayatnagar & Nayapul), Jiva (Raj Bhavan Road), Shanti Bhavan (Raj Bhavan Road)Ph:91-40-2340-4635, 2341-5910
• Shaanbagh Punjagutta, Basheerbagh
• Taj Himayathnagar, Koti, Abids
• Utsav (Secunderabad) Ph:91-40-2772-0638,5526-3646

[edit] Udupi(Vegetarian)

The Udipi hotels are the best hotels to eat authentic south Indian food. A favourite food joint for breakfast & snacks.

• Kamat (Clock Tower, Paradise, Birla Temple, Nampally Station Road)
• Shanbhag (Punjagutta & Basheerbagh), Sweekar (Kachiguda X Road
• Sweekar (Kachiguda X Roads)
• Taj Mahal' (Abids, Patny), Kamat (Birla Temple, Nampally, Paradise & Clock Tower)

[edit] Andhra Meal

• Rajdoot,Non-Veg (Lakdi-ka-pul, Ph: +91-40-2329 9414
• Southern Spice,Non-Veg (Nagarjuna Circle) Ph: +91-40-2335 3802/2335 3803

local eat-to-your-heart-content type food Venalla - madhapur

[edit] Chinese

• Mainland China (Banjara Hills)[18] +(91)-(040)-2330 4500, 6621 4500- For Authentic Chinese dishes, prior booking highly advised, higher prices.
• Hai King (Himayat Nagar)
• Wang's Kitchen (Panjagutta & Madhapur) An upmarket chinese joint
• Chung Hua (Minister Road) Try out the Thai varieties, nice, cosy place
• Golden Dragon, Taj Krishna, +(91)-(040)-23392323, 66662323, Extn, 3309
• Nan King (Parklane,Secunderabad)

[edit] International Cuisine

• Tex Mex ,Jubilee Hills, Ph: +(91)-(040)-2354 1493, 2354 2835

• IndieJo (City Center, Banjara Hills Road No.1) Ph:+(91)-(040)-66683333

[edit] Fast Food

• McDonalds (Prasad's Imax, Abids, Vikrampuri(Kharkhana) & City Centre Banjara Hills)
• KFC (Himayathnagar,Raj Bhavan Road, M.G.Road,VikramPuri & Rani Gunj)
• Pizza Hut (Hyderabad Central,Raj Bhavan Road, Banjara Hills & Madhapur).
• Pizza CornerBanjara Hills, Prasad's IMAX, Punjagutta, Boinpally Ph: +91-40-2789 9111
• Dominos (Himaythnagar, Madhapur & Raj Bhawan Road).
• Deli 9 Lifestyle Building
• Ohri's (Prasad's Imax,Banjara Hills & Basheer Bagh)
• Universal Bakers (Paradise, Himaythnagar & Masab Tank), King & Cardinal(Himayathnagar)
• 5th Avenue Bakery (Sainikpuri)

[edit] Drink

There is plenty to do at night in Hyderabad, though local regulations have most places serving last drinks by 11 pm. On weekdays, drinks in the some of the pubs have best offers, as most clubs are empty until Thursday or Friday nights, when the clubbers emerge. But the sheer number of nightlife spots makes it hard to choose which ones to list. As a general rule they tend to be clustered around Begumpet, Road No.1 Banjara Hills.

[edit] Alcohol

Alcohol is available easily from numerous Liqour Shops, known as Wines' in local parlance, spread across the twin cities, in Restaurants who have taken licence for serving alcohol (includes most upscale ones) and also in Pubs like

[edit] Pubs

• Afterlife Road No.12 Banjara Hills Ph: +(91)-99899 99996, 99499 02202, 98666 77755, 99122 22224
• Bottles & Chimneys, Near Begumpet Airport Ph: 91-40-2776 2368,2776 6464
• Dublin, ITC Hotel Kakatiya Sheraton & Towers, Begumpet, Hyderabad-16 Tel. +91-40-2340 0132
• Easy Rider, Lakeview Palace, Opp. Taj Banjara, Rs. No. 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500 034 Tel.+91-40-2784 2267 --shutdown temporarily
• Firangi Paani, City Centre, Banajara hills Road No.1 [19]
• Ten Downing Street, My Home Tycoon, Behind Lifestyle, Begumpet, Hyderabad-16 Tel.+91-40-5562 9323 [[20]
• Sparks, My Home Tycoon, Behind Lifestyle, Begumpet, Hyderabad-16 Tel.+91-40-55629977. Redone pub, nice hip ambiance, reasonable rates.
• Escape, (The fun place), Green Park, Greenlands, Begumpet, Hyderabad-16 Tel.+91-40- 2375 7575, Fax. 2375 7677. Reasonable prices, good food and often find one-for-one beer offers Monday to Friday
• Out Swinger, Hotel Baseraa, S.D.Road, Secunderabad-3 Tel.+91-40-2770 3200
• Passport, Ramada Hotel Manohar, Airport Exit Road Begumpet Hyderabad-16 Tel. +91-40-2790 3333/5531 3333
• Redd, Road No.1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad-34 Tel.+91-40-557 77733, 5577 7744
• Spanish Fly, (Asrani International, Sec'bad)
• Ahala, Taj Krishna, Road No.1, Banjara Hills,Hyderabad-34 Tel.+91-40-5566 2323
• Nirvana, (Aalankrita, Shameerpet)
• One Flight Down, Nampally Station, Ph: 91-40-3061 6161
• Under Deck, Hotel Taj Banjara, Road No.1, Banjara Hills Hyderabad-34 Tel.+91-40-5566 9999
• Where Else, Road No.10, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500 034 Tel.+91-40-2335 8737

[edit] Lounge Bar

• Atrium Bar Taj Residency,Road No.1 Banjara Hills,Hyderabad-34 Tel.+91-40-2339 3939
• Touch Trendset Towers, Road No. 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 34 Tel. +91-40-2354 2422, 2354 2433. Upscale,celebrity hang-out, great place but very expensive.
• Liquids Bhaskar Plaza, Road No.1, Opp. Taj Banjara, Rs. No. 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500 034 Tel.+91-40- 5525 9907 Sleek, trendy lounge bar.
• Fashion (FTV) Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500 034, trendy lounge bar.

[edit] Bars

• Mehfil (Baseraa, secunderabad) Hotel Basera, Secunderabad +(91)-(040)-2770 3200 Live Ghazal show, everday.
• Tabla Above: ABN Amro Bank, Banjara Hills Road No.1 Tel: �+(91)-(040)-6682 8393, 6682 8283
• Terrace Bay Babukhan Mall, Somajiguda Ph: (+91)-(040)-(2341 8545)
• Ullaasa Dharam Karam Road, Green Lands Tel: (+91)-(040) 2373 9091 Nice ethnic ambience and the rooftop setting is amazing, and the food is excellent.
• Sitara Ameerpet Tel: +(91)-(040)-2373 5444
• Seventh Heaven Punjagutta X Roads, Tel: +(91)-(040)-6666 8822, 6666 8833 Nice rooftop bar and restaurant.
• Celebrations Road No.1, Jubilee Hills Tel: +(91)-(040)-2354 4888, 6453 5888

[edit] Cafes

• Cafe Coffee Day [21]
• Barista [22] Road No.1 Banjara Hills
• Java Green[23] Punjagutta, Hyderabad Central
• Deli 9 Lifestyle Building, Begumpet

[edit] Soft Drinks

The best drink in the summer months is Lassi and Faluda(Paradise serves the best Faluda in Hyderabad), Or Coconut Water and many people here also drink the famous sugarcane juice. But the most famous & favorite drink all over the year irrespective of the season is the the Irani chai ( hyderabadi tea) which is available all over the city.

[edit] Sleep

Hyderabad has a tremendous range of accommodation, from low-rent budget hotels to five-star.

[edit] Hostels

• Hyderabad Youth Hostel, Boat Club near Hussain Sagar Dam. Rs.30to Rs.60

[edit] Budget

• AA Navlok Serviced Apartments[24], Rs.1800 +91-9394568888

• Aahwaanam, J. N. Road, Abids. Rs.295 to Rs.650+5%
• Hotel Asrani International, Paradise Tel: 91-040-27846901 Fax: 91-040-27845583
• Hotel Ashoka, Lakdikapul Phone:+91-40-55510222,+91-40-23230105. Rs.450098 to Rs.84089
• Hotel Deccan International, Secunderabad, Tel : +91-040-27840981/27819173/55260269, Fax: +91-040-27840980
• Hotel Dwaraka Heritage, 116 Chenoy Trade Centre, Park Lane, Secunderabad-3 Ph:+91-40-27845020. Rs.500to Rs.950
• Quality Inn Residency,Public Garden Road Ph: (+91)-(040)-320 4080, (+91)-(040)- 5551 4060, (+91)-(040)-2320 4080 Email: marketing@theresidency-hyd.com [25]
• Hotel Govinsagar, 1-10-44/3, Suraj Gardens, Usilampet, Hyderarabad-16. Rs 135-Rs 215 Phone: +91-040-27764582
• Hotel Preeti Ph: (+91) (040) 2472 1533
• Hotel Lakshmi
• Hotel Harsha, 39 Public Garden Road, Nampally. Rs 1200-Rs 1500 [[26]
• Hotel Haridwar, Koti. Rs.150 to Rs.500
• Hotel Minerva, Himayatnagar. Rs.650 to Rs.900
• Hotel Megacity, 335-339 Basheerbagh cross road. Rs.275 to Rs.550
• Hotel Parklane, 115 parklane S.D.Road, Secunderabad-3. Rs.550 to Rs.800
• Hotel I K London Residency, Somajiguda Tel: 91-040-55625555 Fax: 91-040-55759519
• Hotel Jaya International,Abids
• Hotel Karan, S.D.Road,Secunderabad-03. Rs.700 to Rs.1600
• Hotel Sabharwal & Rajdhani Dhaba, 4-1-35 6/2,Hanuman Tekdi, Near Reddy Hostel,Abids, 4752924. Rs.200 to Rs.550
• Hotel Rukmini Riviera,Lakdi-ka-Pul Tel: 91-040-55785566 Fax: 91-040-55660631
• Hotel Tara, Ramoji Film City[27]

[edit] Mid-range

• AA Navlok Serviced Apartments[28], Rs.2400 +91-9394568888

• The Central Court,Lakdi-Ka-Pul[29] Ph: (+91)-(040)-2323 2323, Mobile : (+91)98493 23232
• Hotel Baseraa, Sec'bad. Rs 2000-Rs 5000 [30] Ph:(+91)-(040)-2770 3200
• The Golconda Hotel,Masab Tank[31] Ph: (+91)-(040)-5511 0101, 2332 0202
• Hotel Kamat Lingapur, 1-10-44/2, Chikoti Gardens, Begumpet, Hyderarabad-16. Rs 1350-Rs 2150 Phone: +91-40-27764242
• Best Western,Secretariat Hotel Amrutha Castle Ph: +91-40-6663 3888
• Hotel Bluefox,Sec'bad
• Hotel Anmol International, Secrateriat[32] Ph: (+91)-(040)-2324 4041, 2324 4042
• Hotel Sai Prakash,Nampally [33] Ph: (+91)-(040)-2461 1726
• Stay Inn,Rani Gunj X Roads, M G Road, Sec'bad Ph: +(91)-(040)-2789 3823
• Leo Continental,Rani Gunj, Sec'bad Phone: +91-40-40020600[34]
• Aditya Park Inn, Ameerpet Tel : +91-40-55788888, +91-40-55789999 (Fax)
• Comfort Inn Woodbridge,Lakdi-ka-pul, Tel: 91-040-55510001 / 55510004 Fax: 91-040-55666111
• Aalankrita Resort, Shameerpet[35] Ph:(+91)-(040)-5527 0037, 2780 2020
• Hotel Sitara, Ramoji Film City[36] Ph:Ph: +91-(08415) 246 555 / 246 333,(+91) 98483 05510

[edit] Splurge

• Grand Kakatiya Sheraton, Begumpet, Hyderabad-16, Tel. 040-23400132 Fax. 040-23401045 Range-Rs.5600 to7750 [37]
• Novotel Accor, Near Hitec City, Izzatnagar,Kondapur HYD-81 Tel:(+91)40/66824422 Fax:(+91)40/66844422 E-mail:reservations@novotelhyderabad.com [38]

• Taj Krishna, Banjara Hills Road No.1 Hyderabad-34 Tel.040-55662323 [39] Range - Rs.5800 to Rs.9050
• Mariott, [40]# Opp Hussain Sagar Lake, Tank Bund Road Hyd-80 Phone:+91-40-2752 2999,Fax:9140-27522888
• Taj Banjara[41], Road No. 1,Banjara Hills, Hyderabad -500 034 Ph:+91-40-6666 9999 Fax : (91-40) 66661070 Email: banjara.hyderabad@tajhotels.com
• Hotel Green Park [42], Greenlands, Begumpet Ph: +91-040-6651 5151, 2375 7575, E-mail: reserv.hyd@hotelgreenpark.com
• Taj Residency, Banjara Hills Road No.1, Hyderabad-34, Tel.040-55663939 Range - Rs.4300 to Rs.5700 [43]
• Katriya Hotel and Towers, No.8, Raj Bhavan Road, Somajiguda, Hyderabad 500 082. Tel.: 040-23325678 Range: Rs.2350 to Rs.5850 [44]
• The Manohar [45], Airport Exit Road, Begumpet, Hyderabad-16 Ph:+91-40-2790 3333, 91-40–5515 3333 Fax: + 91-40-2790 2222

[edit] Contact

[edit] Post Office

India Post[46], a govt-owned ent.,has its headquarters at Abids known as GPO. And its second biggest centre is located in Secunderabad.

[edit] Landlines

The dialing code for Hyderabad is 040. When calling from overseas, dial +91 40 XXXX XXXX. If you have a non-working phone number with only 7 digits try to add "2" in front of it.
There are public call booths everywhere.

[edit] Mobile Phones

One of the cheapest tariffs in the world, one can get a mobile with a calling rate of 49 paise/minute for a local call. It is very easy to get a Prepaid mobile, which is very cheap to get and for calls. One needs to give a Photo ID proof and a photograph for prepaid as well as postpaid connection as per the Govt. regulations.

• Cell One[47]- GSM 900, 1800 and 1900 MHz.(Tri-Band)
• Airtel [48]- GSM 900, 1800 and 1900 MHz.(Tri-Band)
• Hutch [49] - GSM 900, 1800 and 1900 MHz.(Tri-Band)
• Idea[50] - GSM 900, 1800 and 1900 MHz.(Tri-Band)
• Reliance Com[51]- CDMA
• Tata Indicom[52] - CDMA

[edit] Internet

Internet cafes are spread around town and most easily found in the city and residential areas. Charges vary between Rs.15-20 an hour. Reliance WebWorld provides Broadband internet centres, but there are very few of them in the city.
For a long stay and if you have a laptop, it's better to get a Data plan either from Tata Indicom[53] or Reliance Mobile, which are around Rs.1000 a month.

[edit] Stay safe

Hyderabad has the best safety record in India. It has, consistently, been voted The Safest City. Venturing out in the nights is not a problem at all, even for Women. Please do carry some sort of identification as sometimes the police may stop you especially in the night to make sure no antisocial elements are running around. Always keep your well wishers informed about where you are going and by what time you will be back.

[edit] Emergency Numbers

• Ambulance: 108 & 102
• Fire: 101
• Police: 100
• Child Line Facility 1098
• Just Dial (for city tel no's) +91-40-24444444

[edit] Cope

[edit] Money Changers

Many hotels will change money for you at the front desk. However, they may not offer the best rates.

It is best to change