aptcd travel tourism guide
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Hyderabad India
Charminar
Built in 1591 by Muhammed Quli Qutub Shah as a talisman to stop a deadly epidemic, the Charminar offers a panoramic view of the city from its four (char) minarets that are about 49 m high.
This mascot of the city was built, in an Arabic style of architecture, with lime and mortar. Within the Charminar is a mosque and a temple exists at the base of one of its minars.
Timings: 9.00 am – 5.30 pm (Open all days)
Entry Fee: Rs. 5. for Indain Nationals, Rs. 100. for Foreign Nationals
Videography: Rs. 25
Contact: +91 40 – 24522990
Golconda Fort
Originally a mud fort founded by the Kakatiya kings of Warangal during the 13th century, Golconda attained glory under the Qutub Shahi dynasty (1518 to1687) who reinforced it into a formidable granite structure. A marvel of architecture because of its acoustics and a resourceful water supply system, this area is purported to be the site where the priceless Kohinoor diamond was found. Being amongst the famous forts of India, an added attraction here is an excellent sound & light show in the evenings.
Timings: 10.00 am – 7.00 pm (Closed on Monday)
Entry Fee: Rs. 10. for Indain Nationals, Rs. 100. for Foreign Nationals
Videography: Rs. 25
Photography: Free
Contact: +91 40 – 23512401
Sound & Light Show:
Timings: All days 7.00 pm to 8.00 pm
Entry Fee: Rs. 40
Contact: +91 40 – 23451065, Salarjung Museum: +91 40 – 23453036
Pochampally
Pristine environment , rustic beauty and wonderful weaves, thats Bhoodan Pochampalli for you. A centre of excellence for Ikkat ( the art of ‘tie and dye’ in fabrics), which will cast its spell on you, this serene village is a wonderful getaway from urban lifestyles.
Easily accessible and only 45 km from Hyderabad has many temples, a lake offering boat rides, 101 Darwaja House, Chenetra Gurukulam, Swami Ramananda Thirtha Rural Instititute and most importantly the Vinobha Mandir.
Visit to relish the rural delicacies,also avail great bargains on sarees, fabris, furnishings and handicrafts.
Click here to know more about Pochampally
Mecca Masjid
Mecca Masjid owes its name to the presence of the bricks in the structure, which were brought from the holy city of Mecca. The second largest mosque in the country, it has within its periphery the graves of the families of Asaf Jahi kings. The stately architecture consists of single slab granite columns and five arches each on three sides. Construction started under the Qutub Shahi kings but was completed by Aurangazeeb in 1694.
Timings: 8.00Am – 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm to 8.00 pm (Open all days)
Contact: +91 40 – 24524023
Qutub Shahi Tombs
Nowhere in world history has an entire dynasty of rulers, been buried at a single site other than the Qutub Shahi Tombs. Just a kilometre away from the Golconda Fort, the tombs were designed and commissioned by the Qutub Shahi rulers themselves. Built in an Indo-Persian style, the structures have a square base with domes that have pointed arches.
Timings: 9.30 am – 6.30 pm
Entry Fee: Rs. 10 to 20 for Indain Nationals, Rs. 100. for Foreign Nationals
Contact: +91 40 – 23513410
Osmania University
Indo-Sarcenic in style with huge Moorish arches, the main block and Arts College of the Osmania University, is an amazing structure. The premier University of the state and one of the oldest (1918) in the country, this institution has been named after Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan. With flowing lawns and a picturesque landscape garden, the campus is surrounded by various college dedicated to different streams of education. A large library is housed in a stately building.
Timings: 10.30 am – 5.00 pm (Open all days)
Contact: +91 40 – 27098048
High Court
Designed by Vincent Esch a British architect in a Mughal style, this stately structure was built in 1916, opposite the Osmania Hospital with the Musi River flowing in-between. The red sandstone used gives it a solid indomitable appearance.
The Nizam’s Museum
A collection of the memorabilia, personal effects, mementos and gifts presented to the last Nizam on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee Celebration are housed in the Nizam’s Museum. Located in the Purani Haveli, a palace which is more than 250 years old, the collection consists of the gold burnished throne used for the Jubilee in 1937, gold model of the Jubilee Pavilion, a golden Tiffin box studded with precious stones and an excellent filigree of a mahout atop an elephant. Also on display are silver models of all the prominent buildings and three vintage cars, a 1930 Rolls Royce, a Packard, a Mark V Jaguar and various other antiques.
Timings: 9.30 am – 4.30 pm (Closed on Friday)
Entry Fee: Rs. 65 for Adults, Rs. 15 for Children
Contact: +19 40 – 24521029
Salar Jung Museum
The envy of global collectors, a treasure-house of antiques and an amazing display of art- the Salar Jung Museum is the largest single man collection in the world. Compiled by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan, the collection is mind boggling not only in number but also in the wide variety of items. Exhibits in gold, silver, precious gems, jade, ivory, porcelain, glass & crystal ware, oh the list is endless! Some of the unique items are, the Veiled Rebecca, Marguerite& Mephistopheles (a two sided sculpture), the Sword of Aurangazeeb, gem studded daggers of Emperors Jahangir & Shah Jahan and Queen Noor Jahan, etc.
Timings: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm (Closed on Friday & Public Holidays)
Entry Fee: Rs. 10 for Indain Nationals, Rs. 150. for Foreign Nationals, Students with ID card are given 50% concession
Contact: +91 40 – 24523211
Andhra Pradesh State Museum
Predominantly consisting of a collection of Heritage and Historic significance, this museum contains a Buddhist gallery, Brahminical & Jain gallery, Ajanta gallery, Arms & Armoury gallery, Numismatics gallery, antiques, art objects, etc. This museum is alongside the Contemporary Art Museum, both of which are located in the Public Gardens.
Timings: 10.30 am – 5.00 pm (Closed on Friday)
Entry Fee: Rs. 10 for Adult, Rs. 5. for Children
Contact: +91 40 – 23232267
Public Gardens
Locally known as the Bagh-E-Aam, the Public Gardens is located in the heart of Hyderabad. This popular park contains the State Legislative Assembly, Telugu Lalitha Kala Thoranam, Telugu University, Andhra Pradesh State Museum, Contemporary Art Museum, etc.
Timings: 8.00 am – 8.00 pm
A.P. Tourism operated pedal boats
Contact: +91 40 – 23243842
Legislative Assembly
Sparkling white and a combination of Rajasthani and Persian architectural designs, the Legislative Assembly complex, is located alongside the emerald green lawns of the Public Gardens. Originally the Hyderabad State Town Hall and built in 1913, the only addition now is the imposing bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the lawns.
Timings: 10.00 am – 5.00 pm (Closed on Monday)
Contact: +91 40 – 23232171
Birla Planetarium / Birla Science Museum
Perched atop the Naubat Pahad, overlooking the Legislative Assembly, the Birla Planetarium is a favourite amongst lovers of astronomy. Equipped with advanced Japanese technology, the planetarium is the most modern and first of its kind in India. Adjoining the planetarium is the Science Museum which showcases India’s growing science and technological advancements.
Birla Planetarium
Timings: 11.30 am – 8.00 pm
Entry Fee: Rs. 18.
Shows: English – 11.30 am – 4.00 pm, 6.00 pm, Telugu – 12.15 pm, 3.00 pm, 5.00 pm, 6.45 pm, 8.15 pm, Hindi – 7.30 pm
Contact: +91 40 – 23241604
Birla Science Museum
Timings: 10.30 am – 8.00 pm
Entry Fee: Rs. 15.
Contact: +91 40 – 23235081
Birla Mandir
Referred to as the mini Tirumala, the Birla Mandir is a pure white marble temple, dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara. Built on the Kala Pahad, overlooking the Hussainsagar Lake and visible from miles around, the temple seems to be a projection of heaven.
Timings: 7.00 am – 12.00 pm an 2.00 pm – 9.00 pm
Photography: Not allowed
Contact: +91 40 – 23235308, 23233259
Hyderabad Botanical Garden
The botany enthusiasts have something to boast about with Andhra Pradesh’s first Botanical Gardens. Spread across 120 acres, this park will have large water bodies, sprawling meadows, green grasslands, dense forests and exciting rock formations. Envisioned to have 19 sectors, the first phase of 5 sectors is already open to the public, providing visitors an awe inspiring experience.
Lumbini Park
An entertainment galore, the Lumbini Park a kid’s haven, is located on the bank of the Hussainsagar Lake. The colourful Floral Clock and musically synchronized water fountain are spell-binding. The jetty here provides for various types of pleasure-boat riding.
Laser Show
Timings: Daily one show at 7.15 pm, Saturday & Sunday at 7.15 pm and 8.30 pm
Contact: +91 40 – 2345301
NTR Gardens
Set on 36 acres of lush landscapes this is a memorial (Samadhi) in honour of Late N.T Rama Rao, a dynamic personality and Andhra Pradesh’s most charismatic Chief Minister. Being one of the most visited spots, with serene ambience and recreational facilities, NTR Gardens overlooks the Hussainsagar Lake. A monorail train regales visitors with glimpses of the Machan( tree house), Japanese Garden, Car Café, Souvenir shops, Fruit Restaurant and children playing area, that are a part of this park.
Timings: 2.30 am – 9.00 pm
Contact: +91 40 – 234503035
Hussainsagar Lake
Set in-between the twin-cities, with one of the world’s tallest monolithic statues of Buddha in the middle, the Hussainsagar is a picturesque man-made lake.
Created by Hussain Shah Wali, during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah in 1562, the lake has facilities for speed boats, a huge 48 seated launch with starlit onboard dining and provision for private parties.
Boating Fee: Rs. 30. for Adults, Rs. 20. for Children
Speed Boat Fee: 4 person’s Rs. 160
Water Scooter Fee: Rs. 60 Per trip
Contact: +91 40 – 23453315
Osmansagar Lake
Popularly known as Gandipet, the most sought after picnic-spot, Osmansagar Lake is a drinking water reservoir for Hyderabad.
Created by a dam across the Isa, a tributary of the River Musi, the lake overlooks the heritage Sagar Mahal resort.
Shamirpet
Soothing environs, comfortable cottages, a serene lake abutting a deer park, Shamirpet is an ideal getaway because of its proximity to the city that’s just 24 km away.
Contact: +91 40 – 292844510, 292844520, 08418-244510
Nehru Zoological Park
Home for around 3000 animals, birds and reptiles, the Nehru Zoological Park is spread across 300 acres of verdant greenery, with 250 species living in conditions resembling their natural habitat. The biggest zoo in India, also the first to create moats around enclosures, the park has a Lion Safari, Natural History Museum, a children’s train, APTDC maintained Haritha Restaurant.
Timings: 8.30 am – 5.30 pm (Closed on Monday)
Entry Fee: Rs. 25. for Adult, Rs. 15. for Children
Contact: +91 40 – 24477355
KBR National Park
With over 100 species of birds, 20 species of reptiles, and 15 species of butterflies, KBR National Park is one of the city’s largest parks. The area is a Southern tropical deciduous forest and representation of the endemic flora of the Hyderabad region.
Mrugavani National Park (Chilkur)
An urban refuge for small mammals such a Wild Boar, Jungle Cat and birds, containing the endemic flora of Hyderabad, the parks offers quietude and is just 25 km from Hyderabad.
Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park
Sheltering 350 Blackbucks, 400 Cheetal, Wild Boar, small mammals, reptiles and over 50 species of birds, this park is a good location to spend a day off being only 15 km from Hyderabad.
HI-TEC City
The modern technology hub of Hyderabad, a zone for IT/ITES MNCs, HITEC City is situated at Cyberabad. This area is the new face of Hyderabad with towering spacious office complexes.
Ocean Park
A dream destination for all those with an affinity for water Ocean Park offers wholesome entertainment. A multi-cuisine restaurant serves piping hot dishes to the ravenously hungry, after a gala time in the pool, amusement rides,water rides,etc. Spread over 20 acres, Ocean Park is located at Gandipet just 15 km from Hyderabad.
Snow World
Offering the ‘thrill of the chill’, Snow world is India’s first Snow Theme Park. It is also the first in the world to introduce the Snow Fall concept. With the temperature being minus 5o C, the ambience fulfills the dreams of visitors who have always dreamed of sliding and skating on ice. Thermal clothing is provided to all visitors. Snow World is located near Hussain Sagar Lake.
Treasure Island
The wide variety of leisure and fun oriented activities offered here definitely suit the name ‘Treasure Island’. Horse riding ,disco-dancing, go-karting, indoor games, swimming ,etc, ensure that memories of this entertainment zone are treasured forever. This holiday spot offers night stay, but only to members.
Dhola-ri-Dhani
For those who like the desert experience , Dhola-ri-Dhani is the right place that offers a rustic and ethnic charm of a typical Rajasthani Village. The thrills of the desert include sumptuous dining ,camel rides, puppet shows, folk dances, etc. Entertainment programmes in an amphitheatre, conferencing facilities, a lake for boating , a swimming pool and overnight staying facilities are available here. This theme resort is located at Kompally on the Medchal road just outside Secunderabad.
Pragati Green Meadows & Resorts
For those wanting to enjoy facilities such as swimming pool ,boat rides, children’s park, coffee & snack bar, restaurant, conference hall, fully furnished cottages for an overnight stay, the best choice would be Pragati Resorts. Just an hours drive away from Hyderabad, this 26-acre resort has sprawling lush landscape and offers a complete range of Ayurvedic treatments & medicines. Pragati Sparsh, the wellness wing of the this resort has been set-up in association with Santigiri Ashram of Kerala in coordination with APTDC.
Boulder Hills Golf & Country
Boulder Hills Golf and Country Club is a world-class leisure and residential community spread out over approximately 531 sprawling acres. It has been envisioned as a complete, self-contained township spread around an 18-hole championship golf course where every home is designed to the most demanding international standards.
Click here to know more
Celebrity Club
A favourite family entertainment centre, Celebrity Club offers facilities such as barbecue, bar, restaurant, swimming pool, golf course, horse riding and video games. Located in the outskirts of Hyderabad, this resort has luxury cottages amidst landscaped gardens.
Golkonda Resorts & Spa
With 44 well appointed luxury villas that are centrally air-conditioned with 24×7 room service – hot and cold water – wi-fi connectivity, the Golkonda Resorts & Spa is an excellent weekend getaway. Set over 12 acres, it offers club cars to explore the area, extensive banqueting & conferencing facilities, restaurants and bar.
Leo Meridian Resort
The Leo Meridian Resort is in a league of its own. With a spa, fitness & salon facility, an ultra modern 350-seat cinema & sports complex and 28 state-of-the-art conference & convention facilities, you won’t find anything like this in Hyderabad. And to top it all , the 82 ultra-luxury rooms and 6 suites fulfill the needs of all those seeking a luxurious resort.
Mount Opera
This is another multi-theme park which offers special customised packages for corporates and NRIs. Spread over 50 acres, Mount Opera offers a variety of entertainment and leisure activities at a serene location outside the city.
Alankrita – The Ethnic Resorts
Aqmbience of an heritage site, convenience of a 4-star hotel and an ethnic showpiece – all rolled in one smart package that’;s called Alankrita. Air-conditioned cottages ,meditation centre, restaurant, an antiques shop, exhibition hall, a covered swimming pool for 24×7 use, dance floor, walkway and a sprawling 3000-seat open air theatre, all this located just 16 km from Hyderabad. Can one ask for more?
Dream Valley Resorts
Amongst the first resorts of Hyderabad, Dream Valley Resorts offers the luxury of a 9-hole golf course, a go-karting track, water slide, cascading waterfalls, water squirts, and excellent dining facilities. This resort is located in the vicinity of Gandipet Lake.
Ramoji Film City
Welcome to the awe-inspiring world of celluloid fantasies that exposes you to different environments and sets used for film making. This awesome 1000-acre open studio complex has all that is takes to enthrall you. It has hotels , restaurants, and guest rooms to accommodate artistes, technicians and visitors. One can be a part of the well organised package tours that take you all over the premises
