Charminar

The Charminar is as much the signature of Hyderabad as the Taj Mahal is of Agra or the Eiffel Tower is of Paris. Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of Hyderabad, built Charminar in 1591 at the centre of the original city layout. It is said to be built as a charm to ward off a deadly epidemic raging at that time. Four graceful minarets soar to a height of 48.7 m above the ground. Charminar has 45 prayer spaces and a mosque in it. Visitors can view the architectural splendour inside the Charminar. The monument is illuminated in the evenings and a pedestrianisation project around the monument is under implementation.

Mecca Masjid: A two hundred yards southwest of the Charminar is the Mecca Masjid, so named because the bricks were brought from Mecca to build the central arch. The Qutb Shahis never finished the building of the mosque, which was completed by Aurangzeb in 1694.

Laad Baazar: This is famous, colourful shopping centre of the old city, tucked away in one of the streets leading off from Charminar. Bridal wear, Pearls and the traditional Hyderabadi glass and stone studded bangles are sold here.

• Ph: 23522990
• Visiting Hours: 9 am – 5.30 pm

Golconda Fort

Golconda is one of the famous forts of India. The name originates from the Telugu words "Golla Konda" meaning "Shepherd's Hill". The origins of the fort can be traced back to the Yadava dynasty of Deogiri and the Kakatiyas of Warangal. Golconda was originally a mud fort, which passed to the Bahmani dynasty and later to the Qutb Shahis, who held it from 1518 to 1687 A.D. The first three Qutb Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years. The fort is famous for its acoustics, palaces, ingenious water supply system and the famous Fateh Rahben gun, one of the cannons used in the last siege of Golconda by Aurangzeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.

Sound & Light Show at Golconda Fort: Ph: 23512401 The glorious past of Golconda Fort is narrated effectively with matchless Sound and Light effects. The unique Sound & Light Show takes you right back in time, when Golconda was full of life, glory and grandeur.

Qutb Shahi Tombs: The tombs of the legendary Qutb Shahi kings lie about a kilometre away from Banjara Darwaza of the Golconda Fort. Planned and built by the Qutb Shahis themselves, these tombs are said to be the oldest historical monuments in Hyderabad. They form a large group and stand on a raised platform. The tombs are built in Persian, Pathan and Hindu architectural styles using grey granite, with stucco ornamentation, the only one of its kind in the world where an entire dynasty has been buried at one place.

• Ph:23512401

AP State Archaeological Museum

A visit to the Andhra Pradesh State Archaeological Museum is a delight for art lovers. Located in the picturesque Public Gardens, the museum boasts of one of the richest repositories of antiques and art objects in the country. Built in 1920 by the Nizam VII, the museum building itself is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The museum contains a Buddhist gallery, Brahmanical & Jain gallery, Bronze gallery, Arms & Armour gallery, Numismatics gallery, Ajanta gallery and more. Adjacent to the State Museum is the Contemporary Art Museum.

Public Gardens: Hyderabad has several beautiful gardens, one of the most popular being the Public Gardens, which also encloses the State Legislature, State Archaeological Museum, Jubilee Hall, Jawahar Bal Bhavan and Telugu Lalita Kala Thoranam, an open-air theatre.

• Ph: 23234942
• Visiting Hours : 10.30 am – 5 pm (Friday Closed)

Shilparamam (The Arts & Crafts Village)

Another attraction at Madhapur besides Hi-tec city in Hyderabad is the 30-acre village, which showcases arts and crafts of the country. India is an ocean of various arts and crafts but the talent of most of the artisans and artists goes unrecognized. To encourage them and give the necessary boost to their art, the crafts village hosts annual bazaars, where artists and artisans from all over the country exhibit their talent.

• Ph: 23100455

The Nizam'S Silver Jubilee Museum

The stately Purani Haveli, the palace acquired around the year 1750 by the second Nizam, is now converted into a museum with a fascinating collection. The museum exhibits the gifts and mementos presented to the last Nizam on the occasion of the silver jubilee celebrations in 1937. A 1930 Rolls Royce, Packard and a Mark V Jaguar are among the vintage cars displayed. There is an interesting collection of models made in silver of all the prominent buildings of the city and citations in Urdu about H.E.H. Mir Osman Ali Khan, gold burnished wooden throne used for the silver jubilee celebrations, gold tiffin box inlaid with diamonds, and a gold model of Jubilee Pavilion.

• Ph: 23555072

Chow Mohalla Palace

Built in several phases by the Nizams between 1857-1869, this is now one of the heritage buildings. The complex comprises four palaces in Moghal and European styles, of which the main palace is double storeyed with the others being single-storeyed blocks.

Nehru Zoological Park

Spanning 300 lush green acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is a must for nature lovers. It has over 250 species of animals and birds, most of which are kept in conditions as close to their natural habitats as possible. This is the first zoo to create moated enclosures for animals. The Lion Safari Park, Natural History Museum and Children's Train are the added attractions.

Mir Alam Tank: Mir Alam Tank is a large lake adjacent to Nehru Zoological Park. AP Tourism operates boats on the lake, for which one has to enter through the Zoo.

• Ph: 24477355
• Visiting Hours: (Monday Closed)

Toli Masjid

Toli Masjid is an ornate mosque, which situated in the suburban area of Karvan, near Purana Pul. It is located nearly 2 km away from the Golconda fort. It was constructed in 1671 by Mir Musa Khan Mahaldar, who was a majestic designer of Abdullah Qutb Shah. The frontage comprises of five arches, each of which consists of lotus decorations in the spandrils. The main arch is somewhat broader and more ornate. The inner side of the masjid is separated into two halls, which are a transversal outer hall and an inner hall got into the triple arches. The masjid is one of the gorgeous memorials in Hyderabad. It is an extraordinary example of the architecture of Qutb Shahi. The masjid is embellished by two minarets of about 20 meters on either side. As per the regal records, the Toli Masjid is also called as Damdi Masjid.

Salar Jung Museum

This museum houses one of the biggest one-man collections of antiques of the world by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, Salar Jung III. The objects d'art include Persian carpets, Moghal miniatures, Chinese porcelain, Japanese lacquerware, famous statues including the Veiled Rebecca and Marguerite and Mephistopheles, a superb collection of jade, daggers belonging to Queen Noor Jahan and the Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb's sword and many other fabulous items

• Ph: 24523211
• Visiting Hours: 10 am – 5 pm (Friday Closed)

Qutub Shahi Tombs

Qutub Shahi Tombs are located at around one kilometer away from the Golconda Fort. Qutub Shahi Tombs are a clump of tombs – there are more than thirty tombs in the composite besides some other open air tombs. It is the most trustworthy evidence of the architectural traditions of the Qutub Shahi. The Qutub Shahi phratry constituted out of the 5 fragments of the Kingdom of Bahmani, which was founded by Sultan Quli in the year 1518. He contributed numerous buildings to Golconda and reinforced its fortification.

These tombs and some other buildings of the king of the Qutub Shahi characterize the evolution of a modern architectural style. The style of architecture is a mixture of the Hindu, Pathan, and Persian forms. The main material utilized in the construction of these tombs is grey granite, which was ornamented with stucco decoration wheresoever required.

• between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm on all days except Friday

Maula Ali Dargah

The Maula Ali Dargah was constructed in the retention of Hazrat Ali, who is the son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. It was constructed by the Asif Jahis. The 400 steps make you to contribute your religious interest. The dargah is located on the top of a hillock near Moula-Ali, which is in north-eastern part of Hyderabad. The panoramic view of the Hyderabad city from the top of the Moula-Ali hill is a breathtaking scene.

The Moula-Ali Dargah is incomparable in a sense since it does not have anybody's mortal remains. The Heritage Conservation Committee of HUDA has identified this dargah as one of the eleven heritage sites. To get life comfortable for the visitors, there is a long stairway to go up the hill to arrive at the Dargah.

Even though the Paigah tombs are recent discovered, they belong to the late eighteenth century and incarnate unique decoration and elegance in marble. These tombs cover an area of around two acres. Paigah Tombs are located in Santosh Nagar, which is 10 km away from Hyderabad. The main attractions of these tombs are the unique architecture and the carvings of the marble.

The tombs are a chain of large burial chamber built for the Paigahs and the proximate members of the families Paigahs. These structures are the examples of noteworthy artistry expressing the dainty inlaid mosaic work. The people of Hyderabad claim that the geometric conventions of the sculptural characteristics of these tombs are incomparable and not seen at any place in the world.

Begumpet Mosque

Begumpet Mosque is one of the marvelous mosques present in Hyderabad. It's well known among the people because of its amazing architecture. The architecture followed in this mosque is the Spanish Architecture. The mosque was constructed by Sir Vicar-ul-Umra a Paigah Nawab

Hitec City

One of the modern monuments of trade and technology, it embodies the newfound attitude of Hyderabad and today finds a place of pride. Situated on the outskirts of the city, it is the nucleus of Cyberabad, the IT destination in this part of the world. Cyber Towers is the main building here.

Buddha Statue

The Buddha Statue is the world's largest single-stone statue of Buddha, which is made of a white granite rock. It is 22 metres (72 feet) in height and 450 tonnes (4,50,000 kilograms) in weight. It is located in the center of the lake on the rock of Gibraltar in the tranquil waters of the Hussain Sagar Lake. It was a contribution of the Buddha Poornima Project held in the year 1985.

The statue was carved by 200 artisans for more than two years. The statue has been shipped to Hyderabad in November 1988, after some initial troubles, the Buddha statue was raised up on 12 April 1992. The atmosphere ponders peace and perseverance. A visit to the Buddha statue by boat would be an unforgettable experience.

Assembly

At a distance of 2 kms from Nampally Railway Station, The Legislative Assembly of Hyderabad is an impressive building situated adjacent to the Public Garden.

It was built out of funds raised by citizens of Old Hyderabad State, on occasion of the 40th birthday of Nizam Mehboob Ali Khan in 1905. Completed in 1913, it initially functioned as the Town Hall. The architecture is a synthesis of Rajasthani and Persian styles, with an all white, aesthetic look. A massive statue of Mahatma Gandhi in a sitting posture is erected at the entrance park to the Assembly. New additions have been made of late to accommodate the legislative offices of Ministers and political parties. The New Assembly Building of Andhra Pradesh, adjoining the Old Assembly Building, is surrounded by lush green lawns. It was inaugurated in 1985 by the then Prime Minister of India Rajiv Gandhi.

This building is not open for public visit.

Mecca Masjid

At a distance of 4.5 kms from Nampally Railway Station (200 meters from Charminar), The Mecca Masjid is one of the oldest and biggest mosques in the entire country.

The construction of this mosque was started by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1617 and completed by Aurangzeb in 1694. The hall of the masjid measuring 67m long, 54m wide and 23m high can accommodate nearly 10000 worshippers at a time. The roof is supported by 15 graceful arches. Inscriptions from the holy Quran have been intricately depicted on many of the arches and doors. It is believed that bricks brought from Mecca were implanted in the walls of the central arch and hence the name Mecca Masjid.

In the courtyard of the mosque, there is a beautiful man-made pond of bluish water, flanked by two stone and slab seats. The masjid also houses many ancient and sacred relics, one of which is the hair of Prophet Mohammed. Towards the southern end of the mosque lie the marble tombs of members of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.

Purana Haveli

At a distance of 5 kms from Nampally Railway Station (1 Km from Charminar - southeast of Afzal Gunj Bridge), Purana Haveli is the main residence of Mahbub Ali Pasha, the Nizam VI.

Purani Haveli is a 'U' shaped complex with a single storied central building in European style, bordered by two double storied oblong wings. The lavish life lived by Nizam can be seen from the Massarat Mahal, situated on the eastern wing of the building. It houses the Nizam's wooden wardrobe, a giant 73-sqm room having two closets and an elevator. The two closets are of two levels, and the mechanical elevator is used to reach the top level of the closets. A library and the Mukarram Jah Technical Institute form part of the complex.

The Nizam's museum is also found in the Purana Haveli with seventh Nizam's collection of gifts.

• Timings: 10:30 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Fridays.

Archival Museum

At a distance of 6 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Archival Museum located in Tarnaka is one of the important museums in Hyderabad.

It is present in the premises of AP State Archives and Research Institute. There are many galleries present in this museum, which includes sculptures, weapons, coins, paintings, and so on. The museum also contains many historical records, rare manuscripts, and historical documents.

• Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Open all days

Falaknuma Palace

At a distance of 9 kms from Nampally Railway Station (about 5 Kms from Charminar), Falaknuma Palace was built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra, the Prime Minister of Hyderabad in 1898. Falaknuma (meaning 'Star of Heaven') was designed by an Italian architect.

The Nizam VI has used this palace as a royal guest house as it had a commanding view of the entire city. One of the highlight's of the palace is the state reception room, whose ceiling is decorated with frescoes and gilded relief's. The ballroom contains a two-ton manually operated organ said to be the only one of its kind in the world. The Jade collection of the Palace is considered to be unique in the world. The famed dining hall of the palace could seat 100 guests on its dining table. The ground floor of the palace housed the living quarters.

The Taj group has taken over the palace on lease and the restoration work is in progress. Currently this palace is not open for public.

Ramoji Film City

At a distance of 25 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Ramoji Film City (RFC) is the world-s largest integrated film studio complex. It is also a popular tourism and recreation centre.

Situated near Hayathnagar on NH9 towards Vijayawada, this facility is spread over 2,500 acres of land. Owned by film producer and media baron Ramoji Rao, construction of RFC was completed in 1996. Various gardens ranging from Japanese to Tea gardens, imitated structures like temples, schools, colleges, havelis, airports, hospitals, etc. There is also a south Indian village, a north Indian village, sky scrapers, slums, Ajanta and Ellora caves, a bazaar, a multi-purpose building, a pool and artificial waterfalls etc.

Accommodation and cottage facilities are also available here. Several travel agents in the city offer visit to RFC as a full day trip.

• Timings: 9AM to 6 PM.

Chilkur Balaji Temple

The Balaji Temple is located at Chilkur in the Hyderabad district. It is 33 Kms away from Mehdipatnam. Approximately 75,000 to 1,00,000 devotees visit in a week. Generally temple gets heavy rush on Saturdays and Sundays. Set in sylvan surroundings, the temple attracts thousands of pilgrims every year and is an ideal place for sequestered retreat and meditation.

Birla Mandir (Venkateswara Temple)

This white marble temple of Lord Venkateshwara floats on the city skyline, on Kala Pahad. The idol in the temple is a replica of the one at Tirumala Tirupati.

Birla Planetarium: Ph: 23241067 Birla Planetarium is India's most modern planetarium and first of its kind in the country. It is equipped with advanced technology from Japan and is built on Naubat Pahad adjacent to Kala Pahad. And the Science Museum stands tribute to the advancement achieved by Science and Technology.

• Ph: 23233259

ISKCON Temple

ISKCON Temple is located at Nampally in Hyderabad. It is one of the famous temples constructed by the ISKCON organization. The main deity of this temple is Lord Krishna. Other deities of this temple are Sri Gaura-Nitai, Sri Jagannatha Baladeva-Subhadra, and Sri Radha Madana-Mohana.

The temple is usually crowded on Krishnashtami since thousands of devotees visit this temple. The temple has been kept under strict watch by the police personnels. Many metal detectors have been set up at the gateways by which no frisking was executed.

Usual programmes are performed on daily basis. On Sundays special programmes are performed. The temple also distributes the Krishna Prasadam to nearly 1,000 devotees every month. Bhakti Vrksha facilitates devotees to get personal attention and guidance on how to exercise bhakti yogas and sustain good association.

The construction of Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad employed 8000 masons working round the clock for 77 years. The Masjid is one of the oldest, and biggest, mosques in the entire country. This mosque is located 100 meters from the Charminar. The myth is that bricks used for the construction of this masjid comprised of bricks from Mecca.

The masjid houses a 75-foot-high hall, which has dimensions of 220 feet by 180 feet. Belgian crystal chandeliers adorn the mosque. The structure started withering and cracking, making the government announce the region to be traffic free.

Shyam Mandir Temple / Veeranna Gutta

At a distance of 4 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Shyam Mandir Temple is located at Kachiguda, about 1 Km from Kachiguda Railway Station. Shyam Mandir Temple is a new name for Veeranna Gutta.

The temple has great beauty and splendor; it is located on a small hillock. Originally, the temple had lord Hanuman as main shrine; however, later a temple for lord Shiva was built. It is now recreated There are small temples inside the temple complex dedicated to Lord Sri Anjaneya, Lord Sri Kaal Bhairava, Lord Sri Radha Krishna, Lord Sri Shiva, and Lord Sri Shyam Baba. The mandir has also encloses temples for Amba Mata, Naag Devta, and possibly Navagraha.

Taramati Baradari

Taramati Baradari is located at Ibrahimbagh, on the Osman Sagar (Gandipet) Road, close to Golconda. The complex is spread over a sprawling 7-acre area amidst lush green environs with the backdrop of the famed Golconda Fort. The heritage monument built by the Seventh Sultan of Golconda is accessed from the complex.

With two fully equipped theatres, Taramati Baradari Culture Village is the perfect venue for music concerts, performing arts, social events etc. The Baradari illuminated in dynamic lighting forms the backdrop of all activities.

• Ph: 23520172
• Visiting Hours: 8 am – 9.30 pm

Shahi Masjid

Shahi Masjid is a majestic masjid located in the premises of Public Garden in Hyderabad. The masjid reflects the Shahi architecture. The spectacular arches, columns, domes, and minarets of this masjid are adding treat to the eyes of the visitors.

Kachiguda Mahankali Temple

At a distance of 10 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Kachiguda Mahankali Temple is the locale for the famous Bonali procession. It is one of the most important & popular pilgrimage sites in Hyderabad. Devi Navarathri Utsavam is one of the famous pujas done in this temple.

Peddamma Temple

At a distance of 10 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Peddamma Temple located near Jubilee Hills check post is very famous among 'Bonaalu' celebrating community.

There is no clear evidence about the existence of the temple. Most of the current structure was built in 1993, including the Rajagopuram. This temple is very popular in the twin cities, next to 'Ujjaini Mahakali Temple' Secunderabad.

The word 'Peddamma' means 'Mother of Mothers'. She is one of the 11 forms of Village Deities and The Supreme most. The Temple is a must-visit during the 'Bonaalu' festival which occurs during June-July every year. People offer their prayers and sacrifices to The Mother round the year.

Sanghi Temple

At a distance of 25 kms from Nampally Railway Station (near NH9 towards Vijayawada) Sanghi Temple is a picturesque complex with 15 feet tall sacred Raja Gopuram. It is situated in a hillock called as Paramanand Giri.

There are 3 tall gopurams seen at the foot of the hillock. The presiding deity of the complex is Lord Venkateshwara, 9.5 feet tall structure. The majestic temple complex is built in the Chola-Chalukya style of architecture.

There are small temples inside the complex dedicated to Padmavati, Shiva, Rama, Anjaneya, Ganesha, Navagrahas, Goddess Ashtalakshimi, Durga and Kartikeya. There is also a Pavitra Vanam or a holy garden in the temple complex where special leaves and flowers are grown for performing poojas.

• Timings: 6 AM to 1 PM & 4 PM to 8 PM.

Narasimha Zarana Cave Temple

Narasimha Zarana Cave Temple - It is also known as Narasimha Zarna Cave temple, and Jharani Narasimha Temple. The famous cave temple enshrines the powerful deity Lord Narasimha on the wall at the end of a cave,and it is an architectural wonder. It is believed that the shrine at Narasimha Jheera Cave Temple is a swayambu (self-manifested) roopam. A perennial stream of water is said to be flowing continuously for hundreds of years in this place. It is a thrilling experience to walk through waist deep water for 300 meters through a cave-like tunnel, to seek a view of Lord Narasimha. It is one of the main attractions of Bidar.

Cave having natural spring water which leads to the deity Narasimha Swamy .

The legend goes that, Lord Narasimha after killing Hiranyakashpu, proceeded to kill a demon named Jalasura. Jalasura was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. After he was killed by Lord Narasimha, Jalasura turns into water starts flowing from Lord's feet. And to this day water keeps flowing from lord's feet and fills the cave.

So, to reach the lord we will have to wade through a 300 feet long cave, with water about 4 feet deep. Bats hanging from the cave's ceiling add to the thrill. Lighting and ventilation have been recently installed. The water is a little muddy, since it is flowing water it is not uncomfortable to walk thorugh it.

There is a water fountain outside the temple, in which people bath before entering the cave.

At the end of the cave we have Lord Narasimha and also the Shiva linga which Jalasura was worshiping. There is very less place to stand, around 8 people can see the lord at once. If there are more people they have to wait in water.

How to reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi international airport (Hyderabad)(just 120km)

By Rail: Bidar is connected by well maintained rail network running to Hyderabad and Bangalore.

One can also travel to Gulbarga city from where take a bus to reach Bidar within one and half hours.

By Road: Regular luxury buses run from Bangalore via Hyderabad on NH 7 and NH9; the journey takes nearly 16 hours.

NTR Gardens

At a distance of 3 kms from Nampally Railway Station, NTR Gardens is one of the most recent and glamorous attractions of Hyderabad.

Located on the banks of Hussainsager Lake (past Lumbini Park), it is a memorial to the late N T Rama Rao, one of the most charismatic film stars of the south and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Setup in an area of 36 acres, it provides recreation facilities such as a Machan Tree, Japanese Garden, Car Cafe, Souvenir shops, Fruit Restaurant and Children's Playing area and lot of more. A monorail system takes the visitors around the garden. It boasts a vast collection of flora, a unique fountain, an imposing entrance plaza besides other attractions.

• Timings: 2.30 PM to 10 PM. Entrance Rs.15 for adults and Rs.10 for children

Lumbini Park

Lumbini Park is situated a few yards from the famous monolithic Buddha statue of the Hussain Sagar Lake. Lumbini Park is part of the Buddha Poornima Project, and is named after the birthplace of Buddha. A large 'clock' designed using flowering plants at the entrance welcomes the visitors.

The park is a serene landscape decorated with seasonal flowering plants, rocks and cacti. Children have a lot to be entertained here, including the musical fountain and water cascades. The musical fountain dances to the tunes of popular Hindi and Telugu numbers.

The park is open to visitors on weekdays, except on Mondays.

Osmansagar Lake

Osmansagar, better known as Gandipet, on the outskirts of Hyderabad is an excellent picnic spot. Osmansagar is one of the two lakes on the city's periphery that supplies drinking water to the great metropolis. The lake is a reservoir created by a dam across the Isa, a tributary of the River Musi. Abutting the lake and the bund are lush gardens that provide the ideal ambience for an outing. Overlooking the lake is the heritage building, Sagar Mahal, built as a resort by the Nizam of Hyderabad and converted now into a lake resort managed by AP Tourism.

Shamirpet

Another attraction at Madhapur besides Hi-tec city in Hyderabad is the 30-acre village, which showcases arts and crafts of the country. India is an ocean of various arts and crafts but the talent of most of the artisans and artists goes unrecognized. To encourage them and give the necessary boost to their art, the crafts village hosts annual bazaars, where artists and artisans from all over the country exhibit their talent.

• Ph: 23100455

Hussainsagar Lake

Excavated in 1562 A.D. by Hussain Shah Wali during the time of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah, the lake has a promenade that is a busy thoroughfare today. Boating and water sports are a regular feature in the Hussainsagar. One of the World's tallest monolithic statues of the Buddha stands on the 'Rock of Gibraltar', in the middle of the lake. Added to all these, AP Tourism has additional boating facilities like speed boats, motor boats, 48 seater launch etc. Starlit dinner on-board and private parties also can be arranged on the Launch.

Surroundings of Hussainsagar Lake provide marvellous entertainment options like NTR Gardens, Necklace Road, Tank Bund, Prasads Multiplex, Lumbini Park, Sanjeevaiah Park etc.,

Hyderabad Botanical Gardens

The first Botanical Gardens in Andhra Pradesh, spread over 120 acres. Already open to public is the first phase, with the completion of some sections. The sections include medicinal plants, timber trees, fruit trees, ornamental plants, aquatic plants and bamboos. The Park has been designed to have large water bodies, Rolling Meadows, natural forests, rich grasslands and exquisite rock formations.

Durgam Cheruvu

The 'Secret Lake' is situated close to Shilparamam Crafts Village and Hitec City, behind Jubilee Hills. AP Tourism organizes boating in the lake. 'Something Fishy', a bar at Secret Lake (Durgam Cheruvu)

• Ph:23110523
• Visiting Hours:9 am – 8.30 pm

Mrugavani National Park

Located at Chilkur, 25 km. from Hyderabad, the park contains the endemic flora of Hyderabad and is an urban refuge for small mammals like wildboar, jungle cat etc. and birds.

Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park

Located 15 Km. from Hyderabad, the park has more than 350 black bucks, 400 cheetals and a number of wild boars, small mammals, reptiles and over 100 species of birds.

KBR National Park

One of the largest parks within the city KBR National Park is a Southern tropical deciduous forest and the last vestigial representative of the endemic flora of Hyderabad region, with over 100 species of birds, 20 species of reptiles and 15 species of butterflies.

• Ph: 23607663

Krishna Kanth Park

At a distance of 8 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Krishna Kanth Park located at Yusufguda is one of the youngest parks in Hyderabad.

Named after format Vice President of India, this park was opened for public in 2003.

• Ph: 23607663

Indira Park

At a distance of 16 Kms from Nampally Railway Station (lower Tank Bund, near Hussain Sagar Lake), Indira Park is spread over 76 acres.

Opened for the public in the year 1978 with complete landscaping, it is named after the former Prime Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi. It is one of the oldest parks in the twin cities. Indira Park was very uniquely designed without disturbing the natural elements existing in Park such as wild date palms, keuvda plantation and Sandal wood trees and fruit plants like mango, kalajamun etc.

Later in 1994 Computerized Musical dancing fountain and water falls, commercial nursery and rose garden are added to the park attractions.

Boating facility is available.

• Timings: 5AM to 7PM.

Public Gardens

At a distance of 0.5 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Public Gardens is the one of the city's oldest and largest gardens.

Built in the year of 1846 by Nizam, this beautiful garden houses number of public buildings. To the right of the main gate is a small beautifully constructed Mosque, where the 7th Nizam is said to have prayed every Friday. To the left are Jawahar Bal Bhavan and Indira Gandhi Auditorium where exhibitions and contests for children are held.

The public garden houses the Health Museum and Andhra Pradesh State Archaeological Museum, a park for kids and an open air auditorium named Lalitha Kala Bhavan. Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly building is just adjacent to the Public Gardens.

• Timings: 9 AM to 12 PM & 2 PM to 5 PM. Closed on Fridays.

Ocean Park

At a distance of 15 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Ocean Park is an amusement park situated at Gandipet.

Developed in 20 acres of land, this park offers a good range of water sports along with swimming pools, wave pool, water slides, the 60 feet high ride, bumping cars, etc. Toy train, Toy helicopters, huge air filled balloon, video games are available for children. Tora tora ride, single loop roller coaster are few of the other attractions. Food points are also available within the park.

• Timings: 11 AM to 8 PM. Open all days.

Keesara Gutta

At a distance of 30 kms from Nampally Railway Station, Keesara Gutta is known for the famous Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple.

The presiding deity of the Temple is Sri Ramalingeswara Swamy accompanied by Sri Bhavani and Sri Shiva Durga. The temple is recently renovated. Around this temple, there are a number of ruined shrines in the Gupta architecture of fifth century. There are scores of meter-high lingas the phallic symbol around the main deity. To Hindus, these lingas signify life and fertility. The base of these lingas is set in a base structure that signifies the womb.

A nice park is laid down recently at bottom of this temple.

• Timings: 9AM to 6 PM.

Yadagiri Gutta

Yadagiri Gutta is a mythologic pilgrim place, which is located around 60 km away from Hyderabad. The dwelling of Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy (an incarnation of Lord Visnu) is present in a cave at the top of the hillock is known as Yadagiri Gutta. At the top the hillock there is a water body called kund. It is a wonderful sacred place every one must visit.

This cave temple Yadagiri Gutta is located at an altitude of 300 feet on the hillock, Yadagiri. This is an ancient sacred place of pilgrimage for Hindus. Yadagiri Gutta is renowned as Vedagiri because Lord Vishnu brought all Vedas and believed to be kept all the Vedas on this sacred place.

Surendrapuri

Regarded as an abode of all divine worlds, Surendrapuri Mythological awareness Museum, is a center of artistic and sculptural excellence and allows the tourists to have a vision of all gods. It is a pilgrim center where tourists can see the celestial world of Lord Brahmaloka, Vishnuloka, Sivaloka, Nagaloka, Indraloka, Yamaloka, Narakaloka, Patalaloka, Padmavyuham and Padmadweepam, from proximity.

Various episodes from the Mahabharata, Ramayana and Bhagvad Gita also also been interpreted in forms of sculptures. Pilgrims co e here to get a deep insight on the lives of the various gods and goddess through various sculptures, exhibits and paintings.

Kunda Satyanarayana Kala Dhamam transports you into a new world of joy, with the exhilarating boon of a vision of all deities, Gods and Goddesses in one spectacular mythological awareness centre.

One can have the Darshan of the deitiees of all the famous pilgrimage centres of India at Surendrapuri.

The fascinating events of the Ramayana, the Mahabharatha , the Bhagavatha and other Puranas are carved out in exquisite eyecatching sculptures that are unparalleled.

The unique bringing of different celestial worlds together in one place - Brahmaloka, Vishnuloka, Sivaloka, Nagaloka, Indraloka Yamaloka, Narakaloka, Patalaloka, Padmavyuham, Padmadweepam. Many more can be witnessed in stupendous sculpted splendor.

• Ticket Booking Timings: 8 am till 5 pm
• Visiting Timings : 8 am till 7 pm

Jain Temple - Kolanupaka

At a distance of 81 Kms from Warangal and 81 Kms from Hyderabad, the 2000 years old Jain Temple of Mahavira is located in Kolanupaka village (also called as Kulpak) in Nalgonda district. The temple is decorated with beautiful images of Tirthankaras and it's one of the important Jain pilgrimage sites in the country.

The 5 ft high image of Mahavira is carved entirely out of jade. Kolanupaka was the second capital town of Kalyani Chalukyas during the 11th century. During this period the village was a great Jain centers in the south. The architecture of the temple is stunning with wonderful carvings on the temple walls.

To visit Kolanupaka, one has to take diversion at Aleru town (the nearest Rail head) between Hyderabad & Warangal (75 Kms from Hyderabad & Warangal) and travel for 6 Kms. The Jain temple is 0.5 Kms from Kolanupaka Bus Station.

• Timings: 9AM to 6 PM.

Narasimha Cave Temple in Bidar

Narasimha Zarana Cave Temple - It is also known as Narasimha Zarna Cave temple, and Jharani Narasimha Temple. The famous cave temple enshrines the powerful deity Lord Narasimha on the wall at the end of a cave,and it is an architectural wonder. It is believed that the shrine at Narasimha Jheera Cave Temple is a swayambu (self-manifested) roopam. A perennial stream of water is said to be flowing continuously for hundreds of years in this place. It is a thrilling experience to walk through waist deep water for 300 meters through a cave-like tunnel, to seek a view of Lord Narasimha. It is one of the main attractions of Bidar.

Cave having natural spring water which leads to the deity Narasimha Swamy .

The legend goes that, Lord Narasimha after killing Hiranyakashpu, proceeded to kill a demon named Jalasura. Jalasura was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. After he was killed by Lord Narasimha, Jalasura turns into water starts flowing from Lord's feet. And to this day water keeps flowing from lord's feet and fills the cave.

So, to reach the lord we will have to wade through a 300 feet long cave, with water about 4 feet deep. Bats hanging from the cave's ceiling add to the thrill. Lighting and ventilation have been recently installed. The water is a little muddy, since it is flowing water it is not uncomfortable to walk thorugh it.

There is a water fountain outside the temple, in which people bath before entering the cave.

At the end of the cave we have Lord Narasimha and also the Shiva linga which Jalasura was worshiping. There is very less place to stand, around 8 people can see the lord at once. If there are more people they have to wait in water.

How to reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi international airport (Hyderabad)(just 120km)

By Rail: Bidar is connected by well maintained rail network running to Hyderabad and Bangalore.

One can also travel to Gulbarga city from where take a bus to reach Bidar within one and half hours.

By Road: Regular luxury buses run from Bangalore via Hyderabad on NH 7 and NH9; the journey takes nearly 16 hours.

Warangal

Warangal or Orugallu or Ekasila Nagaram is a historical city in Warangal district in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is located in the Telangana region of the state. At a distance of 150 Kms from Hyderabad, Warangal is the district headquarters and fourth largest city in Andhra Pradesh.

Warangal was the capital of a Hindu Shaivite kingdom ruled by the Kakatiya dynasty from the 12th to the 14th centuries. The Kakatiyas left many monuments, including an impressive fortress, four massive stone gateways, Thousand Pillar Temple, the Swayambhu temple dedicated to Shiva, and the Ramappa temple situated near Ramappa Lake. Along with these, there are many Architectural Monuments, Wild Life Sanctuary, Musical Garden, Rock Garden, etc.

The cultural and administrative distinction of the Kakatiyas was mentioned by the famous traveler Marco Polo. Famous rulers of Kakatiya dynasty include Ganapathi Deva, Prathapa Rudra, and Rani Rudramma Devi. After the defeat of Prataparadura, the Musunuri Nayaks united seventy two Nayak chieftains and captured Warangal from Delhi sultanate and ruled for fifty years. Jealousy and mutual rivalry between Nayaks ultimately led to the downfall of Hindus in 1370 A.D. Bahmani Sultanate later broke up into several smaller sultanates, of which the Golconda sultanate ruled Warangal

Nagarjuna Sagar

Nagarjuna Sagar, located at a distance of 165 Kms from Hyderabad in Nalgonda district, is one of the most prominent Buddhist centers in India.

Known in ancient days as Vijayapuri, Nagarjuna Sagar takes its present name from Nagarjuna, one of the most revered Buddhist monks lived in 2nd century AD. It is also a place of immense archaeological significance & excavations revealed this place as a center for the propagation of Buddhist teachings in South India during 3rd century AD.

One of the early river valley civilizations took birth here. Enthused by the peaceful environs of this place, Buddhists made this land a great hub of learning, setting up one of the four major Viharas here. Further down in history, one of the first Hindu kingdoms of South India, Ikshvakus made this city their capital. Today known as Nagarjuna Sagar, this holy land now boasts one of the world's tallest dams.

Nagarjuna Sagar Dam was completed in 1966 with a height of 124 meters and a length of over 1450 meters with 26 crest gates. The lake created by the dam is the third largest manmade lake in the world. There is a viewpoint at a distance of 4 Kms from the dam that offers a panoramic view of the amazing landscape.

Nagarjuna Konda, where the ancient Buddhist excavations are found is in middle of the waters of Nagarjuna Sagar and can be reached by a boat.

AP tourism operates a wonderful cottage on the banks of Sagar lake, called Vijaya Vihar.

Belum Caves

The tourists are charged an amount of Rs.30.00 for entrance. Foreign Tourists are charged Rs.300.00 per person for entrance. APTDC has installed electronic gates at entrance. After passing through the gates, one can reach the caves by a metal staircase installed by APTDC.

The entrance pit was originally smaller than what one sees today. It has been broadened as part of development of the caves to install the staircase to allow visitors to descend and ascend easily.

he entrance is like that of a Pit Cave. From the ground you can only see two pits side by side and third pit a little further away. After descending around 20 meters by a the stairs from the entrance, the caves become horizontal. The first section one enters is called Gebauer Hall named after Speleologist Mr H. Daniel Gebauer, who had explored and mapped the caves in 1982-1983. The path to Gebauer Hall leads below the second opening, which lies next to the main entrance.

Awards to APTDC for Belum Caves

• In, 2003, APTDC won the prestigious "National Tourism Awards" instituted by Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, for its initiatives in developing and promoting Belum Caves.
• Belum caves was also adjudged the best destination award 2002 at the Tourism and Travel Fair held in Bangalore in 2002.

Accommodation near Belum Caves

APTDC Punnani Hotel at Belum Caves

APTDC runs Punnami Hotel in vicinity of Belum Caves. The only accommodation type offered is a 32 beds dormitory. The charges for dormitory accommodation is Rs.40.00 per person. This hotel is planned to be upgraded in future. APTDC also runs a restaurant and a small shop at the entrance to Belum Caves.

Nearest towns are Tadipatri (30 km) and Banganpalli (20 km) where one can find hotels to stay. There are no other place nearby where one can find a restaurant or any sort of eating joint. It is advisable to carry bottled drinking water when visiting the caves since it get very hot and humid at certain sections.

Kurnool (106 km) and Ananthapur (85 km) are other places to stay and these places have good hotels. Both these places are well connected by road and rail.This cave can also be reached from Nandiyal railway station falling in Guntur-Bangalore section of South Central railway,which is about 60 km away.

Distance from major cities/towns

• 320 km from Bangalore
• 320 km from Hyderabad
• 420 km from Chennai
• 106 km from Kurnool
• 85 km from Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh
• 165 km from Puttaparthi
• 68 km from Proddatur
• 30 km from Tadpatri
• 60 km from Nandyal
• 25 km from Banganapalle
• 34 km from koilkuntla
• 44 km from Jammalamadugu

It is very near to Owk, and adjacent to Belum Village

Himayat Sagar Lake

At a distance of 18 Kms from Nampally Railway Station, Himayat Sagar Lake in the outskirts of the city lies parallel to Osman Sagar lake.

Named after Himayat Ali Khan, the youngest son of the 7th Nizam of Hyderabad, it was constructed over Musi River in 1927. The Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar reservoirs provide continuous water supply to the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The storage capacity of the reservoir is about 3 TMC.

The grassy area adjoining the lake is an ideal picnic spot. The road atop the bund is popular for a good road for a drive. Cottages are also available in the tourist complex.

Pochera Falls

At a distance of 40 Kms from Nirmal, 50 Kms from Adilabad, 257 Kms from Hyderabad and 22 Kms from Kuntala Falls, Pochera Falls is a pretty waterfall on Kadam River. The falls are located at a distance of 10 Kms from Neredikonda village between Nirmal & Adilabad (a diversion is required at Boath cross roads).

The water flows through rocky bed over several steps to finally descend into a big pool from a height of about 40 feet in 2 steps. The surroundings of the falls are maintained well along with a park by AP Tourism. Motorable road is available till the falls. Monsoons and post-monsoons are the best seasons to visit Kuntala Falls. It is not recommended to get into bottom of the falls during peak monsoons. However, there is a small stream at left cornor of the main falls where visitors can play safe in the waters.

Public transport is available till Neredikonda village from where private vehicles can be hired. Nirmal & Adilabad are base stations.

Note: Pochera Falls is usually visited from Kuntala Falls which is about 22 Kms.

Kuntala Falls

At a distance of 43 Kms from Nirmal, 58 Kms from Adilabad & 260 Kms from Hyderabad, Kuntala Falls is the second highest waterfall in AP with a height of 150 feet (after Talakona Falls). It is a breathtaking falls amidst dense forest at a distance of 12 Kms from Neredikonda village between Nirmal and Adilabad.

Formed by Kadam River, Kuntala falls cascades down through two steps and can be seen as two separate adjacent falls after the peak rains. It is one of the famous one day outings from Hyderabad. There is a motorable road till the entry point of falls from where steps are available to reach bottom of falls. The falls is about 10 minutes (one way) walk from the entry point.

Monsoons and post-monsoons are the best seasons to visit Kuntala Falls. It is dangerous to get into water at the bottom when the water flow is high due to sharp rocks and twists.

Public transport is available till Neredikonda from where private vehicles can be hired. Nirmal & Adilabad are base stations.