Gawk At Nizami Antiques & Tuck Into A High Tea: Explore Hyderabad & Its Andaaz

There’s a simple way of going back in time and one that does not require the hassles of a time machine. Why it’s a museum of course! Located in Darulshifa is one of the world’s largest art museums, housing exquisite treasures of the past — Salar Jung Museum. What’s even more incredible is that these antiques were single-handedly collected by the Salar Jung family. From jade-encrusted daggers of Emperor Jehangir and Noor Jahan to Aurangzeb’s sword — Salar Jung Museum houses many such treasures. But the most notable of the exhibits and the ones you should be sure to check out are the Veiled Rebecca and the infamous British Bracket Clock where a miniature toy figure comes out to strike a gong at every hour.

Timing: 10 am - 5 pm

Cost: INR 20 - 500

Say lights, camera, action at 2,000 acres of the largest integrated film city in Telangana and the largest studio complex in the world — that’s saying something! You need to keep aside a whole day or more to explore Ramoji because it is just so vast and that’s been made easy with hotel accommodations at Tara and Sitara. 

Can’t go to Paris? That’s okay because Paris is right here in Ramoji, you can virtually travel to world-famous cities all at once! No passport required! 

Timing: 9 am - 5:30 pm

Cost: INR 1,050 - 1,250

If you’ve made plans to go mega shopping, there’s one place you should definitely consider. Shilparamam is a unique place to visit for shopping as craftspeople from different parts of the country bring in a big selection of traditional handicrafts — from terracotta pots to silver jewellery, all under one roof. Pick up colourful pompom earrings, traditional Kolhapuris, intricate Kutchi embroidery bags, and some cutesy furniture and home decor here. Plus, there’s also the sarees, Kashmiri stoles and cotton home linen. 

Timing: 10:30 am - 8:00 pm

Cost: INR 40

Overlooking green gardens stands a tall white structure that houses the Jewel of Nizam, a restaurant that sounds like something straight out of a fairytale. Jewel of Nizam — The Minar — is a fine dining restaurant located in Golkonda Resort, Gandipet. The intricate ivory decor and delicate chandeliers give the place a charming, elegant look and feel, and the cobalt blue crystal glasses and seating add a spunk of colour. But the cherry on top is the fantastic view from the tower, while you feast and clink your glasses to celebrate life in Hyderabad. Start your meal with Gulab Ras Thandai, move on to Varqui Lukme kebab and Barkas Patthar Ghosth. Pick mains such as Hyderabad Khatti Dal, Mutton Rogan Josh, Murgh Dum Biryani and end with Double Ka Meetha. Do book your table in advance before dropping in for a meal.

Timing: 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm and 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm

Cost: 2,200 for two people (approximately)

Very simply named La Makaan (or the house) a combination of French and Urdu, this cultural space in Banjara Hills is a must visit simply for the buzz of activities that always goes around here. This is a space for creative minds to come together to not only inspire but be inspired as well. It also prides itself on being all-inclusive which means that no one gets left out, irrespective of caste, creed, and gender. It is always crowded, so get ready to share a table with fellow intellectuals (there’s free but rather slow WiFi) and drink their chai while you wait for performances to begin. 

Everybody knows Hyderabad is the home of biryani and there is absolutely no particular time or rule to have some. Shah Ghouse is everybody’s favourite biryani destination in town. But please keep in mind that this is not the place for fancy dining or ambience yet absolutely perfect if you are all about good food. It’s a typical local eatery, so go there for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Anytime you want biryani, you’re going to get it, yes, even at 7 am in the morning. Apart from biryani, try the kebabs and Double Ka Meetha for some sweet, sweet cravings. And if you’re really following through and dropping in at 7 am then binge on the Nihari Paya as well.

Timing: 5 am - 1 am

Cost: INR 700 for two people (approximately)

Taj Falaknuma Palace stands as an icon of luxury and a grand symbol of the Nizams. It’s not hard to go back and experience the vintage charm of a royal bygone era by reserving a table at the Falaknuma Palace Hotel. Sip on tea and snack on sandwiches and scones as you take in the view of the beautiful green gardens at the special High Tea Palace Tour that takes place in the late afternoon. Now here’s a history lesson we won’t mind taking.

Timing: 7 am - 11 pm 

Cost: INR 500 plus taxes

Long day, eh? Don’t break more sweat. Park yourself at one of the coolest breweries in town. We say, go for the outdoor seating and switch out from the work mode by ordering their craft beers. But first, ask for samples to see what’s more like your thang — is it the Scarecrow {a fruity, spicy, and grainy – Zero40’s take on classic farmhouse}? Psst. the food here is as delicious as the drinks!

Timing: 12 pm - 12 am

Cost: INR 2,400 for two people (approximately)

Rediscover the charm of the Old City at Charminar. We’d recommend you begin the day by demolishing the hot dosas at Govind Dosa or go for Saag Puri at the Iqbal Hotel. Spend the later part of the day visiting Mecca Masjid, Chowmahalla Palace and admire the architecture. While you’re at it, make sure to buy bangles, pearls, and all authentic jewellery Old City has to offer.

Timing: 9:30 am - 5:30 pm

Cost: INR 5