Tourist Guide – 3 Days Itinerary to See the Best of Hyderabad
Hyderabad, popularly known as the ‘City of Nizams’ and ‘City of Pearls’, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Seeped in history, the city impresses its visitors with grand architecture, traditional cuisine and old yet vibrant bazaars. On the other hand, the buzzing nightlife and emerging financial districts of Hyderabad present the contemporary vibe of the city.
Hyderabad boasts of one of the most remarkable architectural heritage of the by-gone era as well as a rich diversity of flora and fauna. A three day trip to this amazing city will help you to explore the various corners of the city, as you can visit several famous places in Hyderabad.
Things To Do In A 3 Day Hyderabad Trip
Three days will just be enough to visit the important sightseeing places in the city. We have planned your Hyderabad itinerary for 3 days, which will help you explore the best of cultural and historical places in the city. In case you just have a day to explore the city; do not worry, we also have a detailed one-day itinerary planned just for you.
Here is a list of best places to visit during your three day trip in Hyderabad.
So, let us start the tour!
Day 1 of 3-Day Hyderabad Tour
The first day of your tour will begin early, so I suggest you to eat breakfast at the hotel you are staying at. Depending on the area you are staying, schedule your time and try to reach ISKCON Hyderabad by 8 o’clock in the morning.
The iconic heritage buildings of the city are the most popular tourist places in Hyderabad. Therefore on the first day of the tour, you will be visiting most of them which are located in the Old City of Hyderabad.
1. ISKCON Hyderabad
The ISKCON Hyderabad was established by His Divine Grace A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Srila Prabhupada in the year 1976. This magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna is also known as Sri Radha-Madana-Mohana temple.
The temple attracts devotees from across the globe to experience the divine energy through aarti, meditation, kirtan, bhajans, lectures on Bhagavad Gita and many such spiritual activities. Every Sunday, special programs and feasts are also arranged at ISKCON Hyderabad.
The splendid temple boasts of beautiful paintings and idols decked up in rich clothes and jewellery. The intricate work on the structure of the temple includes impressive arches, columns and verandahs. The lush green lawn and fountains near the temple add to the tranquillity of the place.
- Location: Nampally Station Road, Sri Sri Radha Madanmohan Mandir, Hare Krishna Land, Abids, Hyderabad, Telangana 500001
- Timings: 4:30 AM to 1 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:45 PM
- Time required to visit ISKCON Hyderabad: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
2. Salar Jung Museum
Salar Jung Museum is the third largest museum in India, which displays a wide variety of artefacts collected by Nawab Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, popularly known as Salar Jung III for about 35 years. Thus, it is one of the most visited historical places in Hyderabad. The museum was inaugurated on 16 December 1951 by the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru. Until then, it was a private museum of the Salar Jung family.
The imposing white two-storeyed museum with 38 galleries is spread over a sprawling area of about 10 acres. The rich collection of artefacts ranges from sculptures, textiles, paintings, armours from India and other parts of the world like Europe, the Middle East and South-East Asia.
- Location: Salar Jung Road, near Minar Function Hall, Darulshifa, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Friday.
- Entry fee:
- ₹ 20 for Indians and ₹ 500 for Foreigners
- Free for students with ID Card (below 18 years)
- 50% concession for Defense personnel in uniform and organised Kian parties
- Time required to visit Salar Jung Museum: Approximately 2 hours
3. Purani Haveli
The Purani Haveli was the official residence of the Nizams for several centuries. Masarrat Mahal Palace and Haveli Khadeem are some of the popular names of Purani Haveli. This 18th-century palace beautifully blends the elements of Indian and European architecture.
Sikandar Jah, the third Nizam of Hyderbad lived there for a few years before shifting his residence to Khilaurat complex in the Chowmahalla Palace. The palace was abandoned until Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad, made it his official residence. Thus, it is known as Purani Haveli.
The palace houses an elaborate collection of artefacts and antique furniture. Ayina Khaana (Mirror House), Chini Khana (Chinese Glass House) and Nizam’s Museum are some of the buildings located within the premises of Purani Haveli that are worth visiting.
- Location: Pathar Gatti, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Friday.
- Entry fee: ₹ 80 for adults and ₹ 15 for children. Additional charges for the camera.
- Time required to visit Purani Haveli: Approximately 1 hour
4. Sudha Cars Museum
Sudha Cars Museum is one of the most unique places to visit in Hyderabad for an automobile enthusiast. The museum was established in 2010 by Kanyaboyina Sudhakar, popularly known as K. Sudhakar.
This one of a kind museum showcases an interesting collection of cars that resembles everyday objects like a shoe, handbag, Shivling and many others. Sudhakar is also recognised for building the smallest double-decker bus and the largest tricycle in the world featured in this museum.
The display of the cars in Sudha Cars Museum includes vintage cars, modified cars and those made by Sudhakar himself.
- Location: 19-5-15, 1/D, Bahadurpura X Road, APHB Colony, Bahadurpura West, Hyderabad, Telangana 500064
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 6 PM
- Entry fee: ₹ 50 for Adults and ₹ 15 for Children
- Time required to visit Sudha Car Museum: Approximately 1 to 2 hours
5. Biryani for Lunch
The flavourful Biryani of Hyderabad has put the city on the global map. The Biryani of Hyderabad has a distinct flavour, even though it may still look very similar to the biryani prepared in other parts of the country. Hotel Shadab, Hotel Nayaab and Rumaan Restaurants are some of the notable restaurants in the nearby areas that serve Hyderabadi Biryani.
- Time spent on Lunch: Approximately 1 hour
6. Chowmahalla Palace
This majestic palace is one of the most popular heritage buildings in Hyderabad. It is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious places to visit in Hyderabad. The construction of Chowmahalla Palace was started in 1750 by Nizam Salabat Jung and the construction was completed almost a century later during the reign of Afzal Jah V, the fifth Nizam of Hyderabad.
Chowmahalla Palace is one of the most alluring palaces in the city, spread over an extensive area of over 45 acres of land. Afzal Mahal, Mahtab Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal, Aftab Mahal, Roshan Bangla, Durbar Hall, Bara Imam and Clock Tower are some of the most attractive structures within the premises of the luxurious palace. The charming design of the structures, grand glass chandeliers and rich collection of artefacts enthral every visitor at the Chowmahalla Palace.
- Location: 20-4-236, Motigalli, Khilwat, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Fridays
- Entry fee: ₹ 50 for Indian (Adult), ₹ 10 for Indian (Child) and ₹ 200 for Foreigners
- Time required to visit Chowmahalla Palace: Approximately 2 to 3 hours
7. Charminar
A Hyderabad city tour is incomplete without visiting the iconic Charminar. The charming facade was constructed in 1591 by Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. The city of Hyderabad was planned around Charminar.
This 450-year-old Indo-Saracenic style structure is one of the most popular historical monuments in Hyderabad. The intricately decorated minarets, balconies and lofty arches are some of the most striking features of Charminar. In 1889, four clocks were added on each side of this square building.
- Location: Charminar Road, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry fee: ₹ 5 for Indians and ₹ 100 for Foreigners
- Time required to visit Charminar: Approximately 1 hour
8. Mecca Masjid
Mecca Masjid is one of the oldest and largest mosques in India. This grand mosque is not only a famous religious place in Hyderabad but also a heritage site that is visited by travellers from across the globe. The construction of the mosque was initiated by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in the year 1614 and almost eight decades later in 1694, its construction was completed under the reign of Aurangzeb.
The enormous columns, intricate designs on the structure and the beautiful calligraphy on the arches of Mecca Masjid demonstrate the artistic skills of the by-gone era. The bricks used in the construction of this mosque were prepared from the soil of the Holy Land of Mecca. Thus, the name Mecca Masjid or Makkah Masjid.
- Location: Charminar Road, Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Timings: 4 AM to 9:30 PM
- Entry fee: No entry fee.
- Time required to visit Mecca Masjid: Approximately 1 hour
9. Laad Bazaar
Hyderabad city tour is incomplete without visiting this iconic bazaar near Charminar. Laad Bazaar, also known as Choodi Bazaar, is one of the favourite street shopping places for tourists as well as the residents of the city.
The elegant pearl jewellery and vibrant Laad bangles of Hyderabad are considered to be one of the best souvenir options that you can buy from Laad Bazaar. You can shop to your heart’s content for a variety of Indian wear, especially zari or embroidered ones at great prices.
In the evenings, Laad Bazar comes to life as you can find a plethora of street food stalls selling lip-smacking food items at pocket-friendly prices.
- Location: Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Time required to visit Laad Bazaar : Approximately 2 to 3 hours
Day 2 of 3-Day Hyderabad Tour
The second day of the tour will begin early as you will have an interesting list of places to see in Hyderabad. It is advisable to eat breakfast at the hotel and start your day early. Since you will be visiting a national park to spot some rare birds and animals, try to reach the park by 6 o’clock in the morning.
1. Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park
Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park, popularly known as KBR National Park, is often described as “a jungle amidst the concrete jungle”. This lush green park, located at Jubilee Hills is one of the best parks to visit in Hyderabad. If you are a nature-lover, then Hyderabad sightseeing is incomplete without visiting this national park.
Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park is home to about 600 species of flora, 140 species of birds and 30 different varieties of butterflies and reptiles. Pangolins, porcupines, small Indian civets and peacocks are some of the rare species that you can spot in this park.
The Chiran Palace, Mor Bungalow, Gol Bungalow and Motor Khana are some of the prominent sites inside the park that you must visit on your trip to KBR National Park.
If you are a fitness freak, you will enjoy every moment that you will spend here in this serene park. The park has an open gym and walking or jogging tracks approximately 7 kilometres long. During your visit to Hyderabad if you are staying in Banjara Hills and Jubilee Hills, try to visit this park early in the morning for an unforgettable experience.
- Location: Road Number 2, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500034
- Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Entry fee: ₹ 20 for Adults and ₹ 10 for Children
- Time required to visit Kasu Brahmananda Reddy National Park: Approximately 3 hours
2. Breakfast at Tiffin Centres
After spending hours amidst nature and clicking some nice photographs of rare birds and animals, you can refuel yourself at the various tiffin centres located near KBR Park or your way to Qutub Shahi Tombs. These tiffin centres offer a lip-smacking South-Indian breakfast at pocket-friendly prices.
- Time required to have breakfast: Approximately 30 minutes
3. Qutub Shahi Tombs
Located close to the Golconda Fort, the Qutub Shahi Tombs are one of the popular tourist attractions in Hyderabad. The tombs and mosques located within this premises were built by several rulers of the Qutub Shahi dynasty.
Each of the seven tombs of the Qutub Shahi dynasty beautifully blends the elements of Indo-Islamic architecture. The larger tombs are designed to have double-storeyed galleries while the smaller tombs have a single-storeyed gallery. Although all of these tombs belong to the same family, the minute differences on the carvings on each of the tombs will mesmerise you.
- Location: Qutub Shahi Tombs, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM
- Entry fee: ₹10 for adults and ₹5 for children
- Time required to visit Qutub Shahi Tomb: Approximately 2 hours
4. Traditional Lunch
There are several restaurants and cafes in and around the area of Qutub Shahi Tombs and Golconda Fort. Most of the restaurants either serve Biryani or South-Indian dishes; although a few of the restaurants serve North-Indian dishes. Pachi Pulusu Authentic Telugu Cuisine, Bab al Mandi, Eggden and Bhojanam Restaurant are some of the popular restaurants in this area.
5. Golconda Fort
The majestic fort is one of the most attractive places to visit around Hyderabad. In the 12th-century, the Kakatiya dynasty laid the foundation of Golconda Fort and later Quli Qutub Shah contributed to the architecture of this fortress to make it one of the most awe-inspiring structures that stands in the city.
Golconda Fort is spread over a sprawling area of 11 kilometres, thus making it one of the largest forts in India. Your trip of Hyderabad is incomplete if you do not visit this alluring fort that houses mosques, temples, bastions, lawns and royal apartments within its extensive premises.
The Light and Sound Show brings to life the interesting history of Golconda Fort. Thus, you must witness this magical show for a lifetime experience.
- Location: Khair Complex, Ibrahim Bagh, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Entry fee: ₹ 15 for Indians and ₹ 200 for Foreigners
- Activities: Light and Sound Show in English, Telugu and Hindi.
- Ticket counter opens from 5:30 PM
- Cost of Tickets:
For Executive class: ₹140 for adults and ₹110 for children
For Normal class: ₹80 for adults and ₹60 for children - First Show Timings:
6:30 PM (November to February)
7 PM (March to October) - Second Show Timings:
7:45 PM(November to February)
8:15 PM (March to October)
- Time required to visit Golconda Fort: Approximately 3 hours (excluding Light and Sound Show)
6. Karachi Bakery
This famous 67-year-old bakery of Hyderabad is renowned for its premium quality bakery goodies. The bakery items from this bakery, especially the cookies and cakes will delight any confectionery lover back home. Fruit cake, Dil Khush, Almond biscuits, Osmania biscuits, Fruit biscuits and Plum cake are some of the mouth-watering bakery bakery items that you must taste from Karachi Bakery.
- Location: 8-1-301, 302/303, Shaikpet Rd, Sabza Colony, Ambedkar Nagar, Toli Chowki, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Day 3 of 3-Day Hyderabad Tour
On the last day of the city tour, you will explore some of the most interesting and unique places in the city. The Hyderabad tourist places list remains incomplete without visiting the following iconic landmarks.
1. Ramoji Film City
Ramoji Film City is one of the most popular tourist destinations that you must visit during your Hyderabad trip. Ramoji Film City is spread over a sprawling area of 1666 acres, thus making it the World’s largest Film City Complex as recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records. This fascinating film city was established in 1996 as the brainchild of Ramoji Rao, a Film Producer, and Nitish Roy, an Art Director.
Ramoji Film City has some of the most alluring film sets that replicate the streets of London, Hollywood signs and gardens. Enjoy the lush greenery of the Mughal Gardens and the Japanese Garden; and then step into the sophisticated set of Bhagavatam and Princess Street for an unforgettable experience. Hop on a Red Bus that will give you a tour of every nook and corner of the Fim City along with a Tourist Guide. Bird Park, Fundustan and Ecozone are some of the popular attractions within the premises of the film city.
You can enjoy some mouthwatering snacks, drinks and meals at the various restaurant and food outlets located within the premises of Ramoji Film City.
- Location: Ramoji Film City Main Rd, Hyderabad, Telangana 501512
- Timings: 9 AM to 5:30 PM (Tour Timings) and 9 AM to 2 PM (Entry Timings)
- Entry fee: ₹ 1150 for Adults and ₹ 950 for Children
- Activities:
- Studio Tour
- Live Shows
- Bird watching at Wings
- Kids Park
- Time required to visit Ramoji Film City: Approximately 4 hours
2. Andhra-style Lunch
Although the luscious biryani has become the face of the culinary heritage of Hyderabad, the modest Andhra cuisine must not be missed. To relish the different flavours of Andhra cuisine, devour a Andhra Thali that will provide you with an assorted variety of traditional Andhra dishes. Okra, Simply South, Chutneys and Rayalaseema Ruchulu are some of the famous restaurants that serve impeccable Andhra dishes.
3. Shilparamam
This iconic arts and crafts village located at Hitech City holds an important spot on the Hyderabad tourist places list. Spread over an area of over 65 acres of land, it serves to promote and preserve the tradition of Indian arts and crafts.
The 15 huts depicting a rural Indian market at Shilparamam gives the opportunity to city dwellers to have a glimpse into the lifestyle of rural artisans. Handicrafts, Chanderi sarees and Indian wear are some of the exquisite items that you can purchase from this iconic market.
- Location: Hi Tech City Main Road, Madhapur Rd, HITEC City, Hyderabad, Telangana 500081
- Timings: 10:30 AM to 8 PM
- Entry fees: ₹40 for adults and ₹20 for children
- Time required to visit Shilparamam: Approximately 2 hours
4. Spanish Mosque
The splendid architecture that can be spotted in this ‘City of Nizams’ always surprises its visitors; the Spanish Mosque at Begumpet is one of them. Mosque of the Moors, Masjid Iqbal Ud Daula and Jam e Masjid Aiwan-E-Begumpet are some of the popular names of the Spanish Mosque in Hyderabad.
The construction of the splendid Jam e Masjid Aiwan-E-Begumpet was initiated in 1887 by Sir Viqar ul-Umara and completed in 1906 by his heir, Nawab Sultan-Ul-Mulk. The architecture of this mosque is in stark contrast to the other mosques in the city. Slender minarets, octagonal spires, pointed arches and minimal geometric patterns are some of the unique characteristics of this Moorish style mosque.
- Location: S.P Road, Indian Airlines Colony, Begumpet, Hyderabad, Telangana 500016
- Entry fee: No entry fee.
- Time required to visit Spanish Mosque: Approximately 1 hour
5. Birla Mandir
This imposing white temple constructed by Birla Foundation stands on Naubat Pahad, a hillock at Khairtabad. The temple aesthetically blends Dravidian, Rajasthani and Utkala styles of architecture, which lends it a soothing impression.
Birla Mandir is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple also has separate shrines for consorts of Lord Venkateswara, Padmavati and Andal; and other Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Unlike traditional temples, Birla Mandir does have bells and is open to people of all faiths.
- Location: Hill Fort Rd, Ambedkar Colony, Khairatabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004
- Timings: 7 AM to 12 PM and 3 PM to 9 PM
- Entry fee: No entry fee
- Time required to visit Birla Mandir: Approximately 1 hour
6. Hussain Sagar Lake and Buddha Statue
Hussain Sagar Lake is a heart-shaped lake built on River Musi. This lake separates the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad and is a popular recreational spot in the city. This lake was built by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah in 1563. Hussain Shah Wali was the designer of this lake, thus the name Hussain Sagar Lake.
The gigantic 72 feet Buddha statue stands on the Rock of Gibraltar of the lake. The imposing statue of Gautama Buddha is sure to mesmerise you, especially in the evenings when the statue is illuminated with lights.
A boat ride to the Buddha statue from the Lumbini Park, a scenic park located in the vicinity of the lake, especially just before dusk is sure to enthral you. After watching the sunset from the Rock of Gibraltar, return to the park as you enjoy the scenic cityscape and the breeze.
- Location: Hussain Sagar, Khairatabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500003
- Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM
- Entry fee: No entry fee.
- Boat Ride fee: ₹ 55 per person
- Activities: One can enjoy boat rides on the tranquil waters of the lake on Mechanised Boat, Jet Ski Boat or Rajahamsa Boat.
- Time required to visit Hussain Sagar Lake: Approximately 2 hours
7. Cafe Nilofer
Relish the creamy taste of Irani chai along with Bun Maska or Osmania biscuits from this 40-year-old. Cafe Nilofer is one of the most prominent cafes of the city that continues to serve its customers with delicious bakery items.
- Location: 11-5-422/C/B, V.P, Red Hills Rd, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004
- Timings: 7 AM to 12 AM
Best time to visit Hyderabad
The months between November and February is the best time to visit Hyderabad. The weather remains pleasant during these months and the temperature varies between 15°C and 28°C.
How to reach Hyderabad?
The city of Hyderabad is well connected to all major cities of the country through road, air and rail.
- Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is located at around 30 kilometres from the city.
- Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station or Nampally Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
- Secunderabad Railway Station is located at a distance of about 7 kilometres from Hyderabad.
- Kachiguda Railway Station is located at a distance of about 2 kilometres from Hyderabad.
- Private buses and buses under Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation connect Hyderabad to major cities located in Southern, Central and Western India.
Where to stay in Hyderabad?
In Hyderabad, you can find several hotels, resorts and dormitories that are located in almost every nook and corner of the city. Whether you are looking for budget hotels or opulent 5-star and 4-star hotels, the warm hospitality and services at each of these hotels will ensure that you have a memorable stay in the city.
On A Final Note
The grandeur of the city of Hyderabad can only be witnessed if you visit various tourist places that are spread across the city. I hope that this three-day itinerary will help you to discover the best places in the city. Although there are several other tourist attractions in and around the city, I have tried my best to curate this itinerary in such a way that you visit the best of places in the city and have ample time for rest as well.
If you have any suggestions relating to this three-day itinerary, please share it in the comment section below. Also, if you have been on a three-day tour of Hyderabad before, then share with us your experience along with the list of places that you had visited during your stay in the comment section below.
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