One of my favorite cities to visit whenever I go to India is Hyderabad. The city is perfect to explore, and the weather is lovely to experience. I have spent many summers here during my childhood and have joyful memories.
I went to India this year for my cousin’s wedding. We celebrated in style and energy – in addition, we checked out a few places in between and after the wedding.
Moments from the Wedding:
Here is a list of places to see (broken down in categories)!
Sightseeing:
Lumbini Park: This park is a must if you want to see the Buddha Statue closely – walk closer to the water, where you will see a booth to purchase tickets for a boat ride to the statue. This park is also perfect for anyone who wants to take a stroll in the garden.
Buddha Statue: I really wanted to see the Buddha Statue as close as possible – I’ve seen it throughout my childhood when visiting Hyderabad. The best way to see this is to go through Lumbini Park, where you can take a 50-rupee boat ride to see the statue. It is truly worth seeing at night with the different colors reflecting in the water. It was also one of the best experiences I have ever had in my life – I would definitely not miss this chance to see the statue.
Birla Mandir: This famous temple in Hyderabad is beautiful to see at night. You have to leave your shoes and phones at the security checkpoint, but it is worth it so you can focus on praying. At the top, you can also get a marvelous view of the city – it’s breathtaking with the wind gently blowing your hair as you take in your surroundings.
Shopping:
General Bazaar (Kalasiguda, Secunderabad): If you’re looking to start shopping in this awesome city, this is the place. You can find anything from jewelry to fabrics to readymade clothes to shoes. There is so much life rustling in the corners and streets of this bazaar.
Panjagutta: Shopping here is a great experience – you can find anything if you walk down the road. For me, I cherish these shopping experiences with my mother as we look for different and unique pieces to add to our collection. We talk about what events we can wear these pretty clothes to and bond in those times we shop.
Abids: We stopped here for shopping – there were different shops to visit for any need.
HITEC City: Stop by this area to not only see modernized buildings and tech offices, but to visit the famous Inorbit Mall.
- Inorbit Mall: This huge mall has great shops to visit and buy anything – especially Indian wear. Definitely stop by if you do not have enough time to visit specific boutiques around Hyderabad.
- Shilparamam: This cute place in HITEC City was recommended by my friend J. After purchasing tickets, we strolled in the garden and found many shops that sold jewelry, clothes, customized pieces in wood (such as a key holder, chairs, ladles, and wall hangings), and handmade kitchenware (such as teacups and pots).
Banjara Hills: There are a lot of shops in Banjara Hills – another great place to check out or pass by when in this gorgeous city.
Jubilee Hills: We weaved through Jubliee Hills on our way to shop. According to our driver, celebrities stay here. I was not able to check this place out in detail, but it is something you may pass by if you do visit Hyderabad.
Food:
Blue Sea Tea & Snacks: This was my first time drinking Irani chai. It tasted like Therti Pal (Indian sweet in liquid form). There’s no feeling like drinking chai in a busy street on the side at night. Even if you don’t try this place, any quick stop at a coffee place is the best.
Parampara – Flavours of India (Banjara Hills): My family and I came here for dinner. We sat in a booth that reminded me of sitting on the floor near coffee tables at parties to eat; there was live music as well. We ordered dishes that were tasty and spicy – the flavors were quite unique, and I enjoyed the seating style.
Paradise Biriyani: When in Hyderabad, you must have biriyani (rice) – this famous place serves some of the tastiest biriyani.
Sri Narsing Bhel Puri & Pav Bhaji (Abids): My Dad, sister, and I had chaat, Dahi Puri, and more tasty dishes for dinner. This restaurant has outdoor and indoor seating – it is worth a quick stop for an evening snack or meal.
Mayur Pan House (Abids): For some of the tastiest paan (betal leaf), you have to go here.
Me. Poojah.