Known as one of the country’s most historic yet modern cities, Hyderabad is a top spot for tourism in India. Places to visit in Hyderabad include the ancient citadel of Golconda Fort, the 16th-century Charminar mosque and the world record-breaking theme park of Ramoji Film City. Of course, this fascinating capital of Telangana State has dozens of other activities and attractions. Travelers won’t have a hard time finding things to do in Hyderabad, but here are five sites that should be on every itinerary.
1. Charminar
The centerpiece of one of Hyderabad’s busiest areas for tourism, Charminar is an ancient structure and mosque that dates to 1591. Visitors can tour Charminar, which translates to “four minarets” or “four pillars,” and get a bird’s-eye view of the bustling shops and marketplaces of Laad Bazaar, which operates on the streets around Charminar. Also in the area is Mecca Masjid, an ornate mosque made with bricks from Mecca.
Charminar opening hours: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
Entry fee: 100 INR (1.30 USD) for foreigners
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2. Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad
Tourists can do more than tour Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad. They can book a stay at this lavish mansion as well! Built privately in the late 1800s for a wealthy family, Taj Falaknuma Palace was eventually bought by the sixth ruler of Hyderabad (Nizam VI), who used the palace as a royal guesthouse. The mansion contains 220 rooms, all of which feature unique and exquisite décor.
Opening hours & entry fee for Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad
- Guests who book a stay at Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad can roam the grounds at their leisure.
- Tours of Taj Falaknuma Palace take place on weekends and must be arranged through Telengana Tourism. Online booking is available. Half-day tours are an option for visitors who do not wish to stay overnight at the palace. Some packages include a high tea experience.
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3. Golkonda Fort
Guests are invited to tour one of Hyderabad’s most recognized attractions, Golkonda Fort. This ancient little city features impressive granite rock walls, structured housing and paved roads, and guests even get to see an ancient communications method and water systems, along with weaponry. As Hyderabad developed into a diamond mining zone (which has produced several of the world’s most valuable diamonds), Golconda Fort was used to protect the region and its valuable resource.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Entry fee: 200 INR (2.70 USD) for foreigners
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4. Ramoji Film City
Listed on Guinness World Records as the largest studio complex in the world, Ramoji Film City is a fun way to spend an entire day in Hyderabad. The park offers the use of 50 sets to filmmakers across the globe, but visitors are welcome to tour the facility and enjoy the many shows!
Hours: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Entry fee: varies depending on package
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5. Amusement Parks in Hyderabad
Hyderabad is known for its thrilling amusement parks and water parks, so visitors may want to spend a day playing games and seeking thrilling rides at one of these three places to visit in Hyderabad.
- Ocean Park, near CBIT College, Gandipet – open 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily; tickets are 450 INR (6 USD) for adults and 350 INR (4.70 USD) for children.
- Wonderla Amusement Park, Hyderabad, Nehru Outer Ring Rd, Exit No. 13, Ravirala – open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; tickets start at 845 INR (11.30 USD) for adults and 675 INR (9 USD) for children.
- Jalavihar Water Park, 22/9, Necklace Rd, Hussain Sagar, Khairtabad – open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; tickets are 350 INR (4.70 USD) for adults and 250 INR (3.30 USD) for children.
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Pragati Green Meadows and Resort