36 hours in Hyderabad, Telangana

Start your day with a healthy breakfast of south Indian staples and when you are here the Ghee Karam Idly, smeared with a flavourful gun powder is a must. Also try the Rava Dosa and Medu Vada served with four chutneys - tomato, groundnut, coconut, and ginger. You must also try the signature MLA Pesarattu that is stuffed with upma on the inside and makes for a great combination.

9 am: Golconda Fort

Golconda Fort, Hyderabad. (Photo: Bindu Gopal Rao)

With its origins as a mud fort dating to the 11th century, the Golconda Fort is a citadel that was fortified in the 16th century. The massive fort needs a lot of climbing and it is best to wear comfortable shoes and a hat that will come in handy when you are here. As a space that is testimony to Hyderabad’s glorious past, the fort has exquisite halls, gateways, drawbridges, and cannons. Do not miss the acoustic architecture at the start at Fateh Darwaza. This is where you can clap, and the sound is heard at the top almost a kilometer away. This was used to alert the staff of any potential attacks on the fort. As you climb to the top, you will be rewarded with some amazing views of the city.

11.30 pm-noon: Qutub Shahi Tombs

Located close to the Golconda Fort are the Tombs of Subhan Quli and Sultan Quli which are among the several tombs of the dynasty that are called the Qutub Shahi tombs. The domed structures with intricate stonework set amidst lush landscaping are built on raised platforms and are an ode to Indo Persian architecture. Spend some time admiring the architecture and the perfect symmetry of the structures here which incidentally is also a favourite for film song shoots.

12.30 pm: Taramati Baradari

Taramati Baradari, Hyderabad. (Photo: Bindu Gopal Rao)

Taramati Baradari is also close to the Golconda Fort and is said to be the place where artist Taramathi and other courtesans performed for the 7th Sultan of Golconda, Abdullah Qutub Shah. There are several stories of Taramati and Premamati, whose tombs are also part of the Qutub Shahi tombs complex which indicate that their role was more than just dancers in the court. The pavilion has 12 doorways, and the symmetrical structure is an architectural marvel as it allows excellent cross ventilation. Once you climb to the top using the stairway, there are excellent views and sights that are waiting for you.

2 pm: Lunch at Paradise

If you love Biryani, then Paradise Biryani with its eclectic choices of biryani is a must. When here try the Mirchi Salan, Chicken Dum Biryani, Tandoori Chicken, Butter Chicken, Mutton Biryani and Chicken Hara Bhara Kebab are other favourites. The chain that started in 1953 has outlets across the city has an interesting range of kababs as well and as they keep adding new options on the menu, it is a good idea to check on the same with the staff before you order.

4.30 pm: Boating on Hussain Sagar Lake

Hussain Sagar Lake, Hyderabad. (Photo: Bindu Gopal Rao)

Boating and Water Sports are a great way to spend time here. If you are up for an adrenaline rush hop on a speedboat to crisscross across the lake. There are also regular paddling boats and diesel operated boats that allow you to enjoy the sights here at a slower pace. You can also catch a nice sunset from here. A must see is the monolith of Lord Buddha in the middle of the lake on a structure called ‘Rock of Gibraltar’. Once done you can spend time on the charming promenade and see the park on the opposite side that has statues of the famous people of the state. Time permitting, you can also visit the beautiful Birla Mandir whose white marble edifice is seen from the Lake.

7.30 pm: Dinner at Aish, THE Park

Thaali at Aish, THE Park, Hyderabad. (Photo: Bindu Gopal Rao)

For an authentic meal that marries Nawabi sensibilities and Telangana fare, head to Aish at THE Park that has a décor to match. The restaurant whose interiors are designed by Tarun Tahiliani welcomes guests with a string of pearls. The best way to sample the fare is to opt for the set menus, Zar-e-Khas, Shaan-e-Dakkhan or Heera-e-Aish that come with welcome drink, amuse-bouche, a selection of soups, kebabs, mains and accompaniments, unique seasonal sorbets, and some great desserts. Coffee or tea with Osmania biscuits and ginger chocolate cookies completes the slow meal. And is also a spending way to end a busy day.

DAY 2

7 am: Breakfast at Shah Ghouse

Hyderabadi meal. (Photo: Bindu Gopal Rao)

Shah Ghouse is an Irani Cafe where you can try typical Hyderabadi favourites like Khichdi with Keema and Khatta, Char-Koni Naan with Paaya and Nizami khichdi with Khatti, desiccated coconut & peanut gravy and more. These are not typical breakfast in other parts of the country and hence not for the faint hearted but will serve you well as you spend the rest of your time in the Old City.

9 am: Charminar and Old City

Charminar, old city, Hyderabad. (Photo: Bindu Gopal Rao)

For a fitting end to your trip, a visit to Hyderabad’s iconic Charminar is a must. Arguably the most recognised monument of the city, its four gateways are visible from a distance. Constructed in 1591, the monument has intricate stonework, and you can buy a ticket to climb up the monument from where you can see the bustling Old City as well as admire the interiors from close quarters.

Lac bangles at Laad Bazaar, Hyderabad. (Photo: Bindu Gopal Rao)

Once you are done, hop over to the famed Laad Bazaar to buy the well-known lac bangles. You can browse the lanes that have shops on either side and see how these bangles are made in a few stores. Look around the marketplace and you will also see how warq (used as silver coating on desserts) is made.