Dussehra is one of the most important (and biggest) festivals in Telangana, marking the time for harvest and abundance in the farming community. Communities across various states and cultures come together to join in on these festivities that typically go on for nine days. From Bathukamma celebrations central to Telangana folks, Pujos for Bengalis and Navratri Utsavs organised by the Gujarati and Marwari communities in Hyderabad, the diversity in celebrations is palpable during this time of the year. If you find yourself in Hyderabad during this time of the year, here are the best things to do in Hyderabad during Dussehra.
7 Best Things To Do In Hyderabad During Dussehra
Attend a Dandiya Night
Dress up in your ethnic best and head to the nearest Dandiya Nights celebration for nights filled with fun. Gather your big gang of friends and cousins to head to a Navratri celebration. Check out the best Dandiya nights happening in town.
Visit the Ujjaini Mahankali Temple
Ujjaini Mahankali Temple is a 190-year-old temple dedicated to Goddess Mahakali and is one of the most iconic places to visit in Secunderabad. We recommend visiting the temple in all its glory especially around Dussehra and Bonalu. You could also go to the nearby Jaggu Mithai for Chaat and Mithai when you visit the temple.
Bathukamma Celebrations
Bathukamma is a Telangana based celebration known as the 'celebration of life' and a celebration of femininity in the Deccan. Women dress up in traditional saris and create a flower offering to celebrate the bond between the elements. You can contact your neighbourhood community or a local temple for the local Bathukamma festivities and join in on the fun.
Visit the Peddamma Thalli Temple
Peddamma Thalli Temple is said to be over 150 years old and attracts devotees especially during Telangana's famous Bathukamma and Bonalu festivals. The temple's current form took shape in 1993, and has been a hub for staunch worshippers for years now. A visit to the temple during these festivals is a must to witness Telangana's local festivities in all their grandeur during Dussehra.
Attend Pujo Events
Hyderabad's Bengali community goes all out during Dussehra with the most gorgeous pandals and the grandest pujo events with everything from good food, auspicious prayers, performances and cultural activities galore. Here are some unmissable Pujo events for good music, shows, competitions, killer Beguni Bhaja and Kosha Mangsho.
Plan a Weekend Trip
Most families plan visits to their ancestral homes to visit the extended family or plan trips around the Dussehra holidays, given that a lot of schools declare holidays for children. Whether you're looking to getaway on a bigger holiday or can spare a few days, here are some getaways from Hyderabad perfect to visit at the cusp of winter.
Have a day of fun at Wonderla
One of the best amusement parks in Hyderabad is currently organising a grand celebration for Dussehra, including a Mangalore Doll procession with a band, a street food festival, Live DJ sets and fun games. The rides here are not for the faint of heart, so get set for a day full of thrills ending with a lively procession between the dates of 14th and 24 October 2023.
