So much is said about the 400-year history of the city of Hyderabad that you might be forgiven for believing that this Deccan settlement appeared magically on a wild plateau four centuries ago. In fact, habitation in this region apparently goes back to more than 4,000 years. For the first time, Hyderabad’s full archaeological history—dating back to evidence from the megalithic period—is accessible at the newly opened City Museum, an extension of the HEH Nizam’s Museum in Purani Haveli. An initiative of the Nizam’s Jubilee Pavilion Trust, and designed by Anuradha Naik, it uses pottery, coins, figurines, maps and photographs to trace the city’s history and its various aspects trade, commerce, transport, education, architecture, cuisine and geography. An interactive touchscreen kiosk introduces the visitor to 50 of its mohallas.
Devote a morning to this magnificent 11 sq km fort, or better still, make a day of it by including the impressive sound-and-light show in the evening.
An ‘inclusive’ cultural space, Lamakaan is a favourite with Hyderabad. Catch an event to feel its vibe, or try the simple, authentic Hyderabadi lunches khatti daal, keema and anda bhurji.
The amazing rock formations of the Deccan are about 2,500 million years old. Go walkabout with the Society to Save Rocks third Sunday every month.
The Charminar area's oriental bazaar you must not miss. Shop for bangles, wedding accessories and an unimaginable assortment of embellishments.
There's a constantly evolving "Top Ten" list for the best biryani in Hyderabad but you can't go wrong with Paradise.
There's many tourist destinations near Hyderabad. Think Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary (109 km), Khilla Ghanpur Fort (118 km), Bidar Fort (142 km), Ethipothala Waterfall (186 km), to name a few.
The best time to visit Hyderabad is from October to February, during the winter months.
This story was first published on August 26, 2014; and it has since been updated.
