A Royal Sojourn in Hyderabad: The City of Pearls

1

Day 1: Arrival and the Heart of the Old City

Thursday, January 8, 2026
+3
Activities
7

Arrival in Hyderabad

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD), Shamshabad, Hyderabad
The Pushpak Airport Liner bus is a cost-effective option for reaching various parts of the city. A taxi ride to central areas like Banjara Hills takes about 45-60 minutes.

Check-in and Freshen Up

Banjara Hills, Hyderabad
This is a placeholder cost per night for a mid-range hotel. Consider options like Taj Deccan, ITC Kohenur, or boutique hotels like The Park Hyderabad.

Authentic Hyderabadi Lunch

Shadab Hotel, Ghansi Bazaar
Try the Mutton Biryani or Chicken 65. The restaurant is located in the Old City, making it a perfect starting point for the afternoon's exploration.

Explore the Iconic Charminar

Charminar, Hyderabad
The area is very crowded, so be mindful of your belongings. The monument is beautifully lit in the evening, so you might want to see it again after dark.

Shopping at Laad Bazaar

Laad Bazaar, near Charminar
Bargaining is expected and part of the experience. It's a great place for souvenir shopping. Also, try the local street food here, but choose vendors that look clean and busy.

Step into Royalty at Chowmahalla Palace

Chowmahalla Palace, Khilwat, Hyderabad
The palace closes at 5:00 PM, so this might be tight. An alternative is to visit this first before Charminar. Please check the latest opening hours. Let's adjust the time to 3:30 PM and Charminar to 5:00 PM to see it lit up.

Dinner at a Legendary Biryani House

Paradise Food Court, Secunderabad or other branches
Paradise has many branches across the city. The Secunderabad one is the original and most famous, but others in HITECH City or Gachibowli might be closer to your hotel.
2

Day 2: Nizami Grandeur and Fortress Legends

Friday, January 9, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Irani Chai and Osmania Biscuits

Nimrah Cafe & Bakery, near Charminar
While you are in the Old City area, Nimrah is an iconic spot right next to Charminar. It's a great place for people-watching. Alternatively, find a local 'Cafe' near your hotel.

Salar Jung Museum

Salar Jung Museum, Darulshifa, Hyderabad
The museum is vast; allocate at least 2-3 hours. Photography might have an extra charge. The museum is closed on Fridays, so plan accordingly.

Lunch near Golconda

Shah Ghouse Cafe & Restaurant, Tolichowki
Shah Ghouse is famous for its Biryani and Haleem (though Haleem is primarily a Ramadan dish, some places serve it year-round). It's a popular and authentic choice in this part of the city.

Explore the Majestic Golconda Fort

Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
Wear very comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot of climbing involved. Carry water with you. It's best to hire a guide at the entrance to understand the history and secrets of the fort.

Golconda Fort Sound and Light Show

Golconda Fort, Hyderabad
There are usually two shows, one in English and one in Telugu/Hindi. Check the schedule and book tickets online in advance to avoid queues. Bring a light jacket as it can get cool in the evening.

Dinner with a View

Olive Bistro & Bar, Jubilee Hills
Olive Bistro offers beautiful rustic decor and a view of the 'secret lake' Durgam Cheruvu. It's a great place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Reservation is recommended.
3

Day 3: Cinematic Dreams and Lakeside Serenity

Saturday, January 10, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Travel to Ramoji Film City

Hyderabad
The journey can take 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your starting point and traffic. An early start is crucial to make the most of the day.

A Day at Ramoji Film City

Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad
Book your tickets online to save time. The ticket price usually includes the bus tour and access to most shows and rides. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking. Food is available inside at various restaurants.

Lunch inside Ramoji Film City

Ramoji Film City
Restaurants like 'Hollywood' or 'Superstar' offer a good variety. The cost is an estimate for a mid-range meal per person.

Evening at Hussain Sagar Lake & Necklace Road

Hussain Sagar Lake, Hyderabad
The area is beautifully lit up at night. It's a popular spot for locals to unwind. There are many street food stalls and restaurants around the lake.

Dinner by the Lake

Eat Street, Necklace Road
Eat Street is a popular food court with a variety of options and a lively atmosphere. For a more upscale experience, consider 'The Waterfront' restaurant.
4

Day 4: Royal Necropolis and Departure

Sunday, January 11, 2026
Activities
4

Qutb Shahi Tombs

Qutb Shahi Tombs, Hyderabad
The tombs have been recently restored and are a photographer's delight. It's less crowded than other major attractions, offering a peaceful experience.

Shilparamam - The Arts & Crafts Village

Shilparamam, HITECH City, Hyderabad
This is a great spot for last-minute shopping for high-quality, authentic Indian handicrafts. There's also a rock garden and a small lake inside.

Farewell Lunch

Chutneys, Jubilee Hills
Chutneys is famous for its wide variety of South Indian vegetarian dishes and, as the name suggests, its six different types of chutneys. A great option for a different culinary experience before you leave.

Departure from Hyderabad

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD)
Allow at least 1 hour for travel to the airport from the city center and be sure to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight departure time.
Travel FAQs

Q.What are the must-visit places in Hyderabad?

The top attractions are the Charminar, Golconda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, Chowmahalla Palace, and Ramoji Film City. This ...

Q.What is the best time to visit Hyderabad?

The best time to visit is from October to March. Your travel dates in January are perfect, with pleasant and cool weathe...

Q.How to get around Hyderabad?

Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are widely available and convenient. Auto-rickshaws are good for short distances (ag...

Q.What are the famous food items to try?

You must try Hyderabadi Dum Biryani (mutton or chicken), Haleem (if available), Irani Chai with Osmania biscuits, and va...

Q.Any local tips or cultural etiquette?

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites like mosques. Bargaining is common in local markets like Laad Bazaar. Tippi...

Q.What is the local currency and typical costs?

The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). A mid-range meal can cost ₹500-₹1000 per person. A short auto-rickshaw ride migh...

Q.What should I pack for a trip in January?

Pack light cotton clothes for the daytime. Carry a light jacket, sweater, or shawl for the evenings and early mornings a...