Hyderabad is a city that cocoons centuries worth of history in its arms. A paradise for culture and food enthusiasts, this old city offers iconic experiences to be cherished as if you’re a local. The classic cuisine, the old streets, the tinge of royalty, and the ambassador of Biryani - the realms of this region will wow you at every point.
Relish Food In The Old City
Even though Biryani is tied to Hyderabad's identity, it is not the only culinary gem it has. From the fancy restaurants to the local street food - whatever you taste, has a lingering effect on your tongue and memory. Irani Chai, Haleem, Hyderabadi Dum ka Murgh, Mutton Dalcha, Hyderabadi Baigan are just some of the many dishes exclusive to the Hyderabadian soil and hence must not be missed. The variety of culinary wonders you’ll come across will fetch and keep your interest in good food. And if you’re already a foodie, keep your stomach empty and ready for the adventure of flavours. The best part is, you can ask as many questions as you want about the history behind the items you’re devouring. You can just ask the locals and chefs, who will be more than happy to give an answer!
Rediscover The Classic Biryani
Rice is the most common ingredient of Indian cuisine. A day is incomplete for Indians who don’t have rice, at least once a day. The Hyderabadis took this simple item and creatively transformed it into an unforgettable dish. The reflection of the Nizams, Persians, and Mughals can still be felt in the Biryani. The secret ingredients make it even more intriguing! What exactly makes Biryani in Hyderabad stand out all over the country? It is simply a mixture of rice, meat and spices but evokes a variety of emotions in the hearts of those who consume it. And don’t forget that the Biryani you find here is unparalleled to the ones you find in other parts of India. Trace the lineage of the dish and also watch how it’s prepared by the locals to rediscover Biryani, in a different way! From how the ingredients are chosen to how it’s cooked - know the 13 different shades of Biryani.
Take A Walk Around Charminar
The Charminar is an iconic structure that is lined with a fascinating history. A pride of Hyderabad, it dates back to 1590 and 1591. And the area around Charminar gives you a glimpse of the authentic Hyderabadi life. It is a beautiful collage of crafts, business, modernity, ancient tales, and a thriving culture. What was Hyderbad like under the reign of Qutub Shahi and Asaf Jahi dynasties that controlled the region for over 500 years. The ancient Laad Bazaar and spiritually rich Mecca Masjid will elevate your senses and the grandeur of the Nizams through a tour around the Chowmahalla Palace will be a breathtaking experience.
Dive Into The Hidden Side of Hyderabad
Every city has hidden stories within the walls of its realm. And Hyderabad isn’t any different. Away from the modern buildings and structures, you should go to the bylanes of the Old City that will transport you back to the past. Some of them have been converted into public buildings, whereas, some are still mirroring the spirit of Hyderabad's history. Once you walk into the lesser-known areas of the old city, you will get enlightened about its story. Old Havelis with their aged charm will take your breath away. From the footprint of Prophet Mohammed to the factory of paans that many Bollywood actresses relished, in this walk, you will discover a side of Hyderabad that’s always hiding in plain sight.
Trace History One Tomb At A Time
At Golconda Fort, you’ll find the tombs of emperors, courtesans, noblemen and saints from the time of Qutub Sahi and Asaf Jahi’s era. The tombs have provided rest to six generations of rulers in the history of Hyderabad. And the structure itself reflects the gorgeous Islamic architectural style. Here, you will also get to know about Sufism’s presence and essence in Hyderabad. The hush-hush scandals to the wars that were and the ones that were lost - the land is full of tales that will make it to your journal, vlog or memories.
Exploring The Nizami Realm
It was because of the Nizam-ul-Mulk, a title taken by the Asaf Jahi dynasty, that Hyderabad changed into a rich princely state. The diamonds and emeralds from the Golconda mines pushed the wealth higher up, and the last Nizam named Osman Ali Khan was considered to be the world’s richest man. Devote an entire day to delve into the history of this city, especially when it was under the rule of the Nizams. From the Chowmahalla Palace, Purani Haveli, Laad Bazaar, to Mecca Masjid and Paigah Tombs - your journey will be filled with so many extraordinary facts that will make your eyebrows go up!
Watch The Fabric Of Hyderabad In-Making
Hyderabad is known for weaving. Ikat designs including a weaving process that leads to the making of dyes, and then forming patterns and weaving. You’ll watch it being created live! You will go behind the scenes of how Ikat fabric is beautifully made. And also get a sneak-peek of the village life of Telangana. You’ll also cross paths with the Pochampally’s Padmashali and Devangas community weavers who specialize and have mastered the art of Ikat weaves & dyes.
Reconnect With Spirituality
Faith comes in various shapes & sizes. Different shades, different religions, different beliefs and Hyderabad is where this inter-faith culture has become a norm. It is because the city used to be home to many faiths for centuries. It used to be a very enlightening Buddhist learning centre between 2nd century BC and 2nd century AD, this region has also welcomed Sufi saints from all around the planet. All this while Hindus also co-existed peacefully among them. There is no other city in India that is so spiritually vast and open-minded. You should make sure to visit some shrines and spots of worship and hear tales about the stories behind these iconic religious places.