Hyderabad, the city of Nizams, holds a treasure trove of things to do waiting to be explored. From ancient architectural wonders to lip-smacking cuisine and vibrant cultural traditions, Hyderabad offers an unforgettable journey for every traveller. In this blog, I will unveil the top 25 things to do in Hyderabad, showcasing the city’s rich history, culinary delights, and diverse attractions. Get ready to immerse yourself in the allure of Hyderabad as I take you on an exciting adventure through its top experiences.
Top 25 Things to Do In Hyderabad:
1. Step into History: Exploring the Majestic Charminar:
No visit to Hyderabad is complete without seeing the iconic Charminar. This magnificent monument, built in 1591, is a symbol of the city and its rich history. Climb to the top for panoramic views and immerse yourself in the bustling market around it.
If you are looking for the best things to do in Hyderabad between October and March, you can choose to visit Charminar. The reason is that you can experience pleasant climatic conditions during this period.
2. Journey Back in Time: Discovering the Splendour of Golconda Fort:
Step back in time as you wander through the impressive ruins of Golconda Fort. Marvel at the intricate architecture, visit the grand Durbar Hall and don’t miss the famous Fateh Rahben cannon and the sound and light show in the evening.
Are you looking for wonderful things to do in Hyderabad in the night? If so, you can consider a visit to the Golconda Fort as you can expect to get a wonderful experience.
3. Palace of Royalty: Chowmahalla Palace and Its Opulent Grandeur:
Discover the opulence and grandeur of the Nizams at Chowmahalla Palace. Admire the magnificent architecture, stroll through the lush gardens, and explore the exhibits showcasing royal artefacts, vintage cars, and exquisite clothing.
If you are newly married and looking for one of the best things to do in Hyderabad for couples, a visit to this palace will help both of you to get a different experience.
4. Serenity by the Lake: Enjoy a Boat Ride on Hussain Sagar:
Are you looking for things to do in Hyderabad in the summer? If so, the best thing you can do is to take a boat ride on the Hussain Sagar Lake. This lake is located in the main part of Hyderabad.
You can take a leisure boat ride on the picturesque Hussain Sagar Lake. Enjoy the panoramic views of the cityscape, visit the iconic Buddha Statue located in the middle of the lake, and capture some unforgettable moments.
5. Delight Your Taste Buds: Indulge in Authentic Hyderabadi Cuisine
Are you a foodie? If so, enjoying the local food in Hyderabad is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Hyderabad with your friends or family members.
Hyderabad is famous for its lip-smacking cuisine. From the iconic Hyderabadi biryani to mouth-watering kebabs and delicious desserts like Qubani ka Meetha, make sure to savour the authentic flavours of this gastronomic paradise. If you love Briyani, then, do not forget to taste the Hyderabadi Biryani when you are in the City of Pearls.
6. Art and Artefacts: Salar Jung Museum’s Fascinating Collection:
Art and history enthusiasts shouldn’t miss out on the Salar Jung Museum, one of the largest art collections in the world owned by a private party. Marvel at the vast array of artefacts, including sculptures, paintings, textiles, and manuscripts, spanning various civilizations.
Indeed, you can spend an entire day in this museum walking around the rooms, where different things are displayed. But you will also find a park to relax after you explore the different items displayed. Are you looking for things to do in Hyderabad with kids? If so, they can spend time playing in the park when you explore things displayed in the museum.
7. Tranquility Amidst Greenery: Strolling through Lumbini Park:
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at Lumbini Park, a beautiful green space located near Hussain Sagar Lake. Enjoy the musical fountain show, take a relaxing boat ride, or simply unwind amidst the serene surroundings.
If you are looking for things to do in Hyderabad with your family, you will love taking your family to this park. Also, they are located close to each other. So, you can plan a visit to this park and the Hussain Sagar Lake on the same day. You can cover both these places even when you start at around 4 pm from your place of accommodation. You can return to your room around 10 pm after finishing your dinner in one of the best restaurants in Hyderabad. If you are wondering where to stay in Hyderabad, my post on the best hotels in Hyderabad with great accommodation facilities will help.
8. Architectural Marvels: Beholding the Qutub Shahi Tombs:
Are you thinking about the things to do in Hyderabad this weekend? If so, you can plan a visit to the majestic Qutub Shahi Tombs.
This is the final resting place of the rulers of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Admire the impressive domes and intricate carvings, and soak in the historical significance of these tombs.
9. Shopping Extravaganza: Lose Yourself in the Vibrant Laad Bazaar:
Do you or one of your family members love shopping? If so, you should engage in shopping in the Laad Bazaar. This is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Hyderabad for shopping enthusiasts.
Embark on a shopping spree at Laad Bazaar, renowned for its exquisite bangles, pearls, traditional clothing, and handicrafts. Lose yourself in the vibrant lanes filled with colourful shops and experience the true essence of Hyderabadi shopping. You can gift a great-looking pearl necklace to your spouse by shopping at this place. It will turn out to be a memorable gift to your spouse for sure.
10. A Royal Retreat: Experiencing the Grandeur of Falaknuma Palace:
Experience royal indulgence at Falaknuma Palace, a mesmerizing heritage hotel known for its grandeur and old-world charm. Enjoy a guided tour, relish a sumptuous high tea, and immerse yourself in the royal history of the palace.
Hyderabad, indeed, has many palaces for visitors to explore. If you wish that the things to do in Hyderabad you choose should be royal, you can consider a visit to this palace as one of the experiences not to miss out on hin Hyderabad.
11. Lights, Camera, Action: Exploring the Magic of Ramoji Film City:
Are you a film freak? If so, one of the not-to-miss-out things to do in Hyderabad is to visit the Ramoji Film City. In addition to knowing how films are made, you can take some nerve-wracking rides at this place. Your family will undoubtedly love a visit to this film city.
You can venture into the world of movies at Ramoji Film City. It is one of the largest film studios in the world. Take a guided tour, witness live film shootings, enjoy thrilling rides, and be mesmerized by the stunning sets and landscapes.
12. Spiritual Bliss: Seeking Blessings at Birla Mandir:
Hyderabad holds the pride of being the home of one of the big Birla Mandirs. If you are looking for one of the best spiritual things to do in Hyderabad, a visit to Birla Mandir should never be missed out on.
Visit the serene Birla Mandir, a white marble temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Admire the intricate carvings, enjoy the peaceful ambience, and catch breathtaking views of the city from its hilltop location.
13. Art Appreciation: State Gallery of Art and Its Diverse Exhibits:
Art enthusiasts should not miss the State Gallery of Art, showcasing a wide range of contemporary and traditional artworks by renowned artists. Immerse yourself in the diverse collection and appreciate the beauty of Indian art.
If you would like to spend days exploring artistic displays, you can choose a visit to the State Gallery as one of the wonderful things to do in Hyderabad.
14. Timeless Devotion: Marvelling at the Magnificent Mecca Masjid:
Do you feel that visiting a traditional mosque is one of the best things to do in Hyderabad alone, you can choose a visit to the Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad.
You can marvel at the grandeur of Mecca Masjid, one of the oldest and largest mosques in India. Admire the stunning arches, the enormous courtyard, and the breathtaking prayer hall, which can accommodate thousands of worshippers.
15. Wildlife Encounters: Nehru Zoological Park’s Animal Kingdom
Most people choose a visit to a zoo as one of the best experiences to get irrespective of the city they visit. If you wish to explore different animals, a visit to the Nehru Zoo is one of the great things to do in Hyderabad.
You can spend a day at the Nehru Zoological Park, home to a diverse range of animal species. Witness majestic tigers, playful elephants, and exotic birds as you explore this sprawling wildlife sanctuary.
16. Visa Wish Fulfillment: Unraveling the Mystique of Chilkur Balaji Temple
Have you been struggling to get your visa application accepted to visit any foreign land? Then, one of the important things to do in Hyderabad is to visit the Visa Balaji Temple. Yes, Chilkur Balaji Temple is fondly denoted by this name by devotees.
The reason is that many people have experienced that their long-pending Visa application was fulfilled after offering prayers to the lord. You will undoubtedly enjoy the serene atmosphere and soak in spirituality.
17. Cultural Extravaganza: Attending a Vibrant Show at Shilparamam:
Would you love to explore the culture of Hyderabad? If your answer to this question is affirmative, one of the best things to do in Hyderabad is to attend a vibrant cultural show in Shilparamam.
You can witness mesmerizing dance performances and traditional music concerts, and browse through the handicraft stalls showcasing local artistry. Also, ready my post on Shilparamam.
18. Nizam’s Legacy: Immerse Yourself in History at the Nizam Museum
You can delve into the history of the Nizams at the Nizam Museum, located in the Purani Haveli. Explore the exhibits displaying the Nizams’ belongings, vintage cars, weaponry, and exquisite jewellery, offering a glimpse into their extravagant lifestyle.
Are you looking for things to do in Hyderabad in a day? If your answer is affirmative to this question, do not forget to plan a visit to the Nizam Museum.
19. Old World Charm: Exploring the Historic Streets of Old Hyderabad
You know that visiting Charminar is one of the best things to do in Hyderabad. Not only for this reason but also to explore the historic streets of Old Hyderabad, you should visit Charminar Bazaar.
You can explore the narrow lanes and bustling streets of the Old City, also known as Charminar Bazaar. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, shop for traditional artefacts and clothing, and relish the street food delicacies.
20. Science and Learning: Engaging with Knowledge at Birla Science Museum
Are you looking for one of the best things to do in Hyderabad with kids? If so, taking them to the Birla Science Museum will be a very good idea.
At this museum, your kids can engage in interactive learning, which showcases various exhibits on science, technology, and astronomy. You can take them to the planetarium for an awe-inspiring celestial experience and expand their knowledge.
21. Retail Therapy: Indulge in Shopping at Hyderabad’s Premier Malls:
Nowadays, not only in other cities but also visiting malls is one of the best things to do in Hyderabad too.
Shopaholics can explore the city’s modern side by visiting the numerous malls in Hyderabad. From luxury brands to local boutiques, these malls offer a wide range of shopping options, along with entertainment and dining experiences.
22. Stage Performances: Unleashing the Arts at Ravindra Bharathi:
Witness the vibrant performing arts scene of Hyderabad by attending a live performance at Ravindra Bharathi, a renowned cultural centre. From classical music and dance recitals to theatrical performances, immerse yourself in the world of art.
If you would like to explore different forms of art, you will agree that visiting Ravindra Bharathi is one of the great things to do in Hyderabad.
23. Historical Tranquility: Discovering the Qutub Shahi Heritage Park
If you are staying for more than 5 days in Hyderabad, my post on the 5-day Hyderabad itinerary will help you. Otherwise, if you are thinking about exploring places around Hyderabad, my post on top places to visit near Hyderabad will help you.
On the other hand, if you wish to choose one of the things to do in Hyderabad in a day, you can explore the stunning Qutub Shahi Heritage Park, a vast necropolis housing the tombs of the Qutub Shahi rulers. Admire the intricate mausoleums, manicured gardens, and the serene ambience of this historical site.
24. Nostalgic Rides: Horse-Drawn Carriage Experience at NTR Gardens:
NTR Gardens is not only one of the best places to visit in Hyderabad. Yes, it is the home for many things to do to in Hyderabad as well.
Experience a touch of nostalgia by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride at NTR Gardens. Enjoy the scenic beauty, unwind amidst nature, and create beautiful memories with your loved ones by taking them to this place.
25. Celebrating Culture and Literature: Hyderabad Literary Festival Experience
Are you thinking about one of the best things to do in Hyderabad in January, you should never miss out on celebrating the culture and literature of the city.
If you happen to visit during January, don’t miss the Hyderabad Literary Festival, a celebration of literature, art, and culture. Engage in intellectual discussions, attend book readings, and immerse yourself in the literary world.
Conclusion:
Hyderabad, a city that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity, presents a myriad of captivating experiences for every visitor. From exploring the architectural marvels of Charminar and Golconda Fort to savouring the exquisite flavours of Hyderabadi cuisine, and immersing oneself in the city’s vibrant cultural scene, Hyderabad offers an enchanting journey like no other. Embark on a memorable adventure as you check off the top 25 things to do in Hyderabad, unravelling the city’s rich heritage, gastronomic delights, and unforgettable moments that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. If you are wondering how to reach Hyderabad, my post on how to reach Hyderabad by train, flight and bus from different cities will help you for sure.