Visiting Hyderabad? – A 24-hour Itinerary to Cover Everything
Hyderabad has a special place in the bucket list of all travellers. Just like the rich cultural heritage of Mumbai, Hyderabad also attracts tourists from across the globe to this emerging cosmopolitan city.
To experience ‘The City of Nizams’ at its best you will have to spend at least two days in Hyderabad, but if you are not able to do so, then do not worry. Although a one day tour of Hyderabad may seem to be an impossible task for you, we have sorted the plan for your day. In this one day itinerary, you will get to visit the most iconic landmarks of Hyderabad from historic places to the restaurants and cafes.
Things to do in 24 hours in Hyderabad
In this article, we have planned your day for you, right from breakfast to dinner. Follow the schedule and you can be guaranteed to make the most of your one day trip to Hyderabad.
So, let’s get started!
1. South-Indian Style Breakfast
They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. You can either have your breakfast in your hotel that you are staying in or have it in one of the tiffin centres either on your way to Golconda or near Golconda.
Village Aaharam, Dosa Factory, Udupi’s Upahar, Dibbarotti – Pure Traditional Veg Tiffins and House of Dosas are some of the popular breakfast places near Golconda where you can enjoy some lip-smacking South-Indian food especially breakfast.
Most of the above-mentioned breakfast places are about a 20 minute drive from Golconda. Therefore, schedule your timings accordingly and start your day as early as you can.
2. Golconda Fort
It is one of the most majestic forts in India, spread over an area of 11 kilometres. The Kakatiya dynasty laid the foundation of this fort after which each ruling dynasty of Hyderabad contributed to the architecture of Golconda Fort to give it the present structure.
There are four forts, mosques, temples, bastions, lawns and royal apartments within the premises of Golconda Fort. The lofty spiked gates of about 15 to 18 feet will definitely amaze you. Another architectural marvel of Golconda Fort is Bala Hisar, the highest point inside the fort. It is said that a clap from the entrance of the fort can be heard till the Bala Hisar, the highest point of the fortress. This was how the guards at the gate warned the royals, who were almost a kilometre away at times of attack.
- 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
- Time required: 90 minutes
- Leave by: 11 AM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Qutb Shahi Tomb
- Tomb of Abdullah Qutb Shah (VII King)
- Hyderabad Golf Club
3. Qutub Shahi Tombs
The rulers of the Qutub Shahi dynasty have been laid to eternal rest in this area. The beautiful blend of the Indo-Islamic architecture and the lush green lawns are a sight to behold. Each of the seven tombs of the Qutub Shahi dynasty has a unique architectural style that gives you an understanding of the developments of the architecture during each ruler’s reign.
- 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: 45 minutes (Including 10 minutes of travelling time from Golconda Fort)
- Leave by: 11:45 AM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Tomb of Abdullah Qutb Shah (VII King)
- Hyderabad Golf Club
- Golconda Fort
4. Salar Jung Museum
This grand two-storeyed museum spreads over a sprawling area of 10 acres with 38 galleries, and is the third-largest museum in India. The Salar Jung Museum houses a collection of artefacts from India and various parts of the world like Europe, the Middle East and South-East Asia. This treasure of antiques, painting and armours was collected for over 35 years by Salar Jung III. This was previously a private museum of the Salar Jung Family until 1951, after which it was opened to the public.
- Location: Salar Jung Rd, 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: 120 minutes (including 45 minutes of travelling time from Qutub Shahi Tomb)
- Leave by: 1:45 PM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Mecca Masjid
- Charminar
- Hussain Sagar Lake
- Chowmahalla Palace
- Nehru Zoological Park
5. Biryani for Lunch
India is known to have many variants of Biryani that are found all across the country. Any trip to Hyderabad is incomplete without tasting the famous Hyderabadi Biryani. Hotel Shadab, Bawarchi Restaurant, Paradise Biryani, Shah Ghouse Hotel, Hotel Nayaab, Rumaan Restaurant and Cafe Bahar are some of the popular restaurants serving Hyderabadi Biryani and other Hyderabadi dishes near Salar Jung Museum.
6. Chowmahalla Palace
This opulent palace was once the official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad. The breathtaking view of the Chowmahalla Palace, which is more than 200-years-old, is sure to charm every visitor. The elaborate display of the timeless items of the by-gone era of crockery, coins and home decor is another attractive part of 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: 90 minutes (including 15 minutes of travelling time to Chowmahalla Palace)
- Leave by: 4 PM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Tahniyat Mahal
- Aftab Mahal
- Sudha Car Museum
- Nehru Zoological Park
- Khursheed Jah Devi
7. Charminar
This iconic architectural structure is literally the face of Hyderabad. Charminar was built by the fifth ruler of the Qutub Shahi Dynasty, Quli Qutub Shah in 1591 AD. This architectural marvel, which is over 450 years old, continues to fascinate onlookers till today. The minarets are located at a height of about 48.7 meters from the ground level. The beautiful ornamentation on the balconies of the Charminar is the most attractive feature of this Indo-Islamic structure.
- 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: 30 minutes (including 10 minutes of travelling time from Chowmahalla Palace)
- Leave by: 4:30 PM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Mecca Masjid
- Sudha Car Museum
- Public Gardens
- Chowmahalla Palace
- Nehru Zoological Park
8. Mecca Masjid
This is another iconic mosque of India that was built by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah. Although the foundation of this beautiful mosque was laid in the year 1614, it was completed by Aurengzeb in 1694. The verses of the Holy Quran are inscribed on the doors and arches of the Mecca Masjid. Some of the rulers of the Nizam dynasty have been laid to rest in an enclosure of the Mecca Masjid.
- Location: Charminar Road, Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Timings: 4 AM to 9:30 PM
- Entry fee: No entry fee.
- Time required: 30 minutes (including 5 minutes of walking time from Charminar)
- Leave by: 5 PM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Charminar
- Public Gardens
- Laad Bazaar
- Chowmahalla Palace
- Salar Jung Museum
9. Laad Bazaar
A trip to Hyderabad would be incomplete without visiting its bustling markets. The Laad Bazaar is one of the most popular markets of Hyderabad frequented by tourists.
Your trip to Hyderabad would be incomplete if you do not buy the Laad or Lacquer bangles either for yourself or as souvenirs. You can also buy pearl jewellery or zari or embroidered Indian wear from Laad Bazaar.
- Location: Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
- Timings: 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Famous for: Bridal wear, Laad bangles, pearl jewellery, Indian wear.
- Time required: 60 minutes (including 5 minutes of walking time from Mecca Masjid)
- Leave by: 5:30 PM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Khursheed Jah Devi
- Nehru Zoological Park
- Sudha Car Museum
- Aftab Mahal
- Tahniyat Mahal
10. Cafe Niloufer
This iconic cafe of Hyderabad was established over 40 years ago in the year 1978. Cafe Niloufer since then has been serving their famous cup of Irani chai to its customers. Bun Maska and Osmania biscuits along with Irani chai is a perfect evening snack.
- Location: 11-5-422/C/B, V.P, Red Hills Road, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004
- Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
- Cost for two: ₹ 200
- Time required: 60 minutes (including 20 minutes of travelling time from Laad Bazaar)
- Leave by: 6:30 PM
11. Hussain Sagar Lake and Buddha Statue
The twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad are separated by Hussain Sagar Lake. It was built by Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah in 1563 and is said to be the largest artificial lake in Asia.
The Buddha statue is situated on the Gibraltar Rock of Hussain Sagar Lake. This gigantic 72 feet structure is carved out of a single rock, thus making it the world’s tallest monolith structure of Gautama Buddha.
The ferry ride from the Lumbini Park to the Buddha statue will enthral you with the tranquil environment and the scenic cityscape. The Buddha statue illuminated with lights is sure to mesmerise you when you reach the Gibraltar Rock.
If you are not in the mood to go for a boat ride, then you can enjoy the cool breeze and some street food near Lumbini Park or simply enjoy the view of the lake and the park.
- Location: Hussain Sagar, Khairatabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500003
- Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM
- Entry fee: No entry fee.
- Boat Ride fee: ₹ 55 per person
- Time required: 90 minutes (including 15 minutes of travelling time from Cafe Niloufer)
- Leave by: 8 PM
- Nearby Attractions:
- Love Sculpture Hyderabad
- Hussain Sagar View Point
- Buddha Statue
- Lumbini Park
- Jalavihar Water Park
12. Andhra Thali
Dinner is a great time to indulge in the most modest yet flavourful Andhra Thali. There are plenty of restaurants in Hyderabad that serve Andhra Thali, but we have chosen a few restaurants in the vicinity of Hussain Sagar Lake.
Okra, Dakshin, Chutneys, Govinda Meals (Mess and Hotel), Srikanya Comfort Restaurant, Simply South and Rayalaseema Ruchulu are some of the popular restaurants where you can enjoy scrumptious Andra Thali.
13. Karachi Bakery Banjara Hills
The iconic bakery of Hyderabad has always delighted its customers for the past six decades with unbeatable taste and premium quality at pocket-friendly prices. The famous Fruit cake, Dil Khush and Plum cake would make great gifts for your dear ones back at home.
- Location: Khanchand Towers, Rd Number 1, opp. Hotel Taj Banjara, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Cost for two: ₹ 400
- Leave by: 9:45 PM
Points to remember while visiting Hyderabad
To help you travel through the city effortlessly, I have curated a list of suggestions:
- Spending one whole day travelling may seem fun on the surface, but you require a lot of energy for it. So make sure that you have proper sleep the night before you are travelling.
- You will be spending more than 12 hours of the day outdoors, so ensure that you hydrate yourself at regular intervals. Also, for one day forget about your healthy diet regime and indulge in the delectable food that Hyderabad has to offer to you.
- You will be spending many hours walking and sightseeing, so wear comfortable shoes and clothes without compromising on the style factor.
- Do not forget to carry your sunglasses, sunscreen and a bottle of water.
- Book a cab or an auto rickshaw for the whole day of sight-seeing, so you save your time.
- Start your day early and stick to the schedule that has been mentioned in the article. I can assure you that this one day trip to Hyderabad will be memorable.
- And lastly, make sure you travel light and safe.
Best time to visit Hyderabad
The best time to visit Hyderabad is between November and February. The weather during winters remains pleasant at around 28°C during the day and may dip to 15°C at night. During this time, you can enjoy going sightseeing or shopping without any hassle.
How to reach Hyderabad?
Hyderabad is well connected by road, air and rail to all major cities of the country.
- Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is located over 30 kilometres from the city.
- Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station or Nampally Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
- Secunderabad Railway Station is located about 7 kilometres from Hyderabad.
- Kachiguda Railway Station is located about 2 kilometres from Hyderabad.
- Private buses and buses under Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation connect Hyderabad to major cities in Southern, Central and Western India.
Where to stay in Hyderabad?
Hyderabad has a lot of options for an overnight stay depending upon your preferred locality, budget and type of hotel or resort. If you are looking to stay near the airport or railway station you may need to shed a little extra amount. Also, if you are willing to spare Rs. 1000 and above for one night, you are sure to get a safe and hygienic place to spend your stay at Hyderabad.
The opulent heritage hotel, Taj Falaknuma Palace gives you a sneak-peak into the luxurious life of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Taj Krishna needs a special mention here as it houses one of the best fine-dining restaurants in Hyderabad, Firdaus, which serves delectable Hyderabadi as well as continental cuisine. The 5-star and 3-star hotels of Hyderabad have become well-known for their warm hospitality. You can also choose to stay in resorts for a relaxing experience that has facilities of a spa. If you are looking for budget hotels then you will find one without any hassle in Hyderabad whose price will not burn a hole in your pocket, be it for groups, couples or families.
On a Final Note
Hyderabad has a lot to offer to its visitors, from luxurious heritage hotels and palaces that will transport you to the lavish by-gone era and splendid architectural marvels, to the rich culinary heritage of the Nizams and the modest Andhra cuisine. One day is definitely too short a time to explore every nook and corner of the city.
I hope that this itinerary will help you to witness the iconic places of Hyderabad in a day’s time. If you have any suggestions or queries relating to this one-day itinerary, please share it in the comment section below. Also, if you have been to ‘The City of Nizams’ for a day, share with us your experience and list of places that you have visited during your stay.
Image Source: Whatsuplife, New Indian Express, CNN, NDTV Food, The Hindu, Culture Trip, Hyderabad Tourism Travel, Indi Tales, India Today, Zomato.
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