India · City Guide
Hyderabad
Hyderabad is one of India's most fascinating and gastronomically significant cities, the former capital of the Nizams of Hyderabad and a destination of magnificent Islamic architecture, outstanding pearl and bangle bazaars, the world famous Hyderabadi biryani and a booming technology sector that has made it one of India's most dynamic contemporary destinations. From the Charminar and the Golconda Fort to the Salar Jung Museum and the spice markets of the Old City, Hyderabad offers extraordinary depth.
Explore Hyderabad →Elect's take
"Hyderabad is the Indian city that I most associate with a single dish — the biryani here is genuinely in a category of its own. But beyond the food, the combination of the Nizam heritage, magnificent Islamic architecture and the pearl bazaars creates a destination of remarkable cultural interest."
The Charminar, the iconic four-minaret mosque and arch built in 1591, is the most recognisable symbol of Hyderabad and the heart of the old city. The surrounding Laad Bazaar is one of India's finest bangle markets, a labyrinthine area of stalls selling the famous Hyderabadi lac bangles. The Golconda Fort is one of the most impressive and best preserved fortifications in India, a magnificent hilltop fortress that was once the centre of the diamond trade. The Salar Jung Museum is one of the world's largest one-man collections of art and antiques. The Hyderabadi biryani, slow-cooked in a sealed pot, is widely considered the finest in India.
Best time to visit
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What to expect
Charminar
The iconic four-minaret symbol of Hyderabad at the heart of the magnificent old city.
Golconda Fort
One of the most impressive and best preserved Mughal-era fortifications in India.
Hyderabadi Biryani
The most celebrated biryani in India, slow-cooked in a sealed pot in the authentic Nizami tradition.
Laad Bazaar
One of India's finest bangle markets with the famous Hyderabadi lac bangles.
Salar Jung Museum
One of the world's largest single-person collections of art and antiques.
Nizam Heritage
The extraordinary legacy of the Nizams, the wealthiest rulers in the world in their time.