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What makes Hyderabad different than other metropolitan cities of India is the way it has developed without overshadowing its cultural aspects. Today, Hyderabad is one of the fastest growing cities and a visitor would find a lot of opportunities to entertain themselves. Being the… read more
As the charismatic capital of the Indian state of Telangana, Hyderabad dons many hats. History, heritage, royalty, culture and commerce blend into a beautiful cup of chai. Travellers come from far and wide to explore this gorgeous city, eating and drinking their way through the region’s eclectic offerings. As a hub of tourism, Hyderabad makes sure to delight individuals through the year. While winters are magical, summers are laid back and monsoons are enchanting.
When the question of what is the best time to visit Hyderabad arises, one need not look to far to find the answer. Thomas Cook has simplified your decision-making process! With this travel guide, you will be acquainted with each of Hyderabad’s seasons and all it has to offer. So, are you the type of person who loves the chill, or do you prefer those balmy days? Or perhaps you are more of the singing in the rain type of personality? Irrespective of what time you choose, be sure to have a great time.
So, here’s a quick snapshot of the climate:
Peak Season – November to February
Shoulder Season – July to September
Low Season – March to June
Travel Seasons |
Min/Max Temperature |
Season |
March to June |
21-40°C |
Summer - Hot and humid |
July to October |
22-31°C |
Monsoon - Mid-high rainfall |
November to February |
13-30°C |
Winter - Chilly |
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of winter generally fluctuates between 13°C and 25°C, although it may sometimes rise to a maximum of 30°C.
Weather – Hyderabad during winter is a splendid affair. The climate is cool, the atmosphere is crisp, and the air is fresh. While early mornings and nights can get quite cold, the days are graced with mild sunshine. For exploration of the city, sight-seeing and nomadic wandering, this is the best season to visit Hyderabad in.
Significance – Most travellers find themselves in the city of Hyderabad during the delightful season of winter, for this is the most ideal time to navigate the regions history and culture. Here are some of the recommended sites - Chowmahalla Palace, Salar Jung Museum, Taj Falaknuma Palace, and Nizam's Museum
Why you should visit now – Experiencing winter in the cultural city of Hyderabad is wonderful. From the museums to the monuments, palaces and forts, cuisine and cityscape, one can get lost in the regions multifarious offerings. And, what better time to do this than when there is a beautiful nip in the air?
Things to know before the visit – The season of winter is deemed peak tourist period. With this title comes a range of consequences. For instance, sightseeing queues will be longer, crowds will be larger, and hotels will be booked out sooner. Hence, make sure to plan your trip well in advance to avoid last minute hassles.
Tips – Hyderabadi winters may not be the coldest, but that doesn’t mean you dress lightly. Long sleeve shirts, pants, socks, sweaters and a warm jacket are imperative items. If you’re someone who is prone to feeling cold, throw in a scarf and some vests too! It’s always good to carry moisturizer and lip balm during this season.
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 21°C and 40°C, although it may sometimes soar to 45°C.
Weather – The climate of Hyderabad in summer is severe. With soaring temperatures, high levels of humidity and a stagnant atmosphere, the conditions can get quite unbearable. Although, early mornings and evenings are significantly better.
Significance – Hyderabadi summers are meant for indulgences in its sumptuous cuisine and drink. What better time to unwind at hotels and restaurants than when you’re dodging the sun? What’s more? One can even engage in some exciting excursions to places like Snow World and AP State Archaeology Museum.
Why you should visit now – This is far from the best climate to visit Hyderabad in, but there are some advantages of planning a trip during these months. For instance, you can optimise on great offers on hotel and tour packages. Furthermore, you can engage in indoor sight-seeing and relax at luxurious hotels.
Things to know before the visit – Due to extreme weather conditions, there is risk of individuals suffering from heat exhaustion or sunstrokes. As such, take all the necessary precautions and try limiting your time outdoors. On a lighter note, since this is off season, travel and accommodation will be more affordable.
Tips – The summer months can be unforgiving and so you must be fully prepared. Light cotton clothing is imperative so that you prevent stickiness and irritation of skin. SPF 30+ Sunscreen will help prevent sun burn and tanning. A hat and sunglasses will protect you from the blazing sun! Lastly, water is the elixir during this period as are balanced meals.
Temperature – The air temperature during the season of monsoon fluctuates between 22°C and 31°C.
Weather – The weather of Hyderabad in monsoon is nothing short of alluring. The average temperature is pleasant, perfect for long strolls and drives. The climate is neither hot nor cold. The landscape is rejuvenated with drizzles and showers, rendering the region a green paradise.
Significance – Between July and September, Hyderabad is greeted by the monsoon Gods. But, worry not. They bless the region with magnificence! Here are some of the best places to visit during this time - Golconda Fort, Shilparamam, Birla Planetarium and Technological Museum, Sudha Cars Museum, Purani Haveli, and Taramati Baradari.
Why you should visit now – During the season of monsoon, everything is more lush and earthy. The cityscape is washed anew. The atmosphere is blanketed in mystique and enchantment, courtesy to purple clouds and mist. There is a general feeling of romance and thrill in the air. This is a good time to watch the palaces and forts glisten with glory.
Things to know before the visit – With moderate to high rainfall, the weather may hinder day tours. It’s important to check the forecast when making plans, which means you can’t schedule too many weeks in advance. But when it comes to hotel bookings, make those arrangements beforehand.
Tips – Gear up for the pitter patter of the monsoon! Carry an umbrella, windcheater and rain proof footwear/gumboots. Clad yourself in light clothing that is also protective. Shelter those electronic gadgets in plastic bags, especially when touring. Don’t forget to lather yourself with mosquito repellent, you’ll need it! Lastly, keep away from unhygienic street food stalls.
Have you decided on your best time to visit? If yes, run through Thomas Cook’s Hyderabad tour packages and get ready for an exciting trip!
Golconda Fort is one of the most renowned places that is associated with the southern city of Hyderabad. Sometimes known as Golconda Qila, is a fortress and remains of a ruined city, that is located on the outskirts of Hyderabad. As per Golconda Fort history, it was called Mankal and the Golconda Fort was built by the ruler Prataparudra in the 11th century.
The importance of Golconda Fort comes from the fact that it is surrounded by diamond mines. The Kollur Mine resulted in making Golconda a trade centre and it flourished because of some of the largest diamonds and most famous diamonds of all time. The Kohinoor Diamond, which is now under British custody, was mined in Golconda.
Currently, in ruins, the colossal fort has 8 gates and 87 bastions. The fort later came under the Bahmani rulers, and it was further extended and fortified. After coming under the rule of Aurangzeb, the fort was left without any attention in 1687. Though the Golconda Fort was built by Prataparudra, it was extended and updated by later rules as well.
The complex Golconda palace with remains of mosques and pavilion, is what you can witness during your visit to the fort. Even in ruins, the fort is magnificent and will leave you in awe of the design and architecture which is centuries old now.
Golconda Fort history is quite rich and diverse, and it has undergone several rules in the past. It is located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, about 12 kilometres from the city centre. The entire fort occupies an area of 3 square kilometres. The Golconda Fort height is about 130 metres, which gives an excellent bird’s eye view of the nearby places. The granite hill on which the fort lies, is another 120 metres. The fort is easily accessible by road.
You can speak various languages while visiting Golconda Fort or Hyderabad in general. Telugu and Urdu are the city's two official languages. However, you'll also hear a lot of Hindi and English spoken. Since Golconda ka Kila is just on the outskirts of Hyderabad, you won't encounter any language barriers if you speak one of these four languages when visiting the lake. If you struggle with any of these languages, it still should not hamper your trip to Golconda Kila, since the people around are extremely friendly.
To visit the Golconda Fort, you will need Rupees as the currency. Either for buying tickets or for reaching the location via public transport or auto rickshaws, you will need rupees. For all the shops nearby, you can use the Rupees for buying. Though some of them now support UPI payments. If you use any of the UPI apps on your phone, you can make payments via them.
Golconda Killa in Hyderabad is known for several reasons. Primarily, it is one of the most stunning and complex fortress complexes in the country. Surrounding the fort were mines that were used for Diamonds. The Kohinoor diamond was mined in the Golconda mines. You can also experience the Golconda light show, which is exquisite, to say the least. There is even a legendary iron block that weighs 250 kilos. It is said that the iron weight was used to test the strength of the soldiers before their recruitment to the king’s army.
A historical fortress that has a long history associated with it. The Golconda Fort was built by ruler Praraparudra and has been there since the 11th century. After Aurangzeb took over, the fortress has mostly been in ruins. Presently, you can visit the fortress and learn about its history. Even the light and sound show depicts its royal past. The Golconda Fort ticket price is mentioned below. By paying the ticket price, you gain access to the different parts of the fortress. To make the most of your trip, it is recommended to visit anytime between September and March.
For those wondering, Golconda Fort is located in which state, it is in the southern state of Telangana. And the Golconda Fort located on the outskirts of the capital city of Telangana. To visit the fort, you will first need to visit Hyderabad. The capital city is extremely well connected with the world. If you are travelling from outside India, the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport links a lot of popular cities across the globe.
Now that you know Golconda in which state, you can explore other options to visit Hyderabad. You can take a train to Hyderabad as well. And road connectivity to Hyderabad is quite good as well. Depending on your convenience levels, you can choose any of these methods to reach Hyderabad.
Once you are in Hyderabad, you would want to know how to reach Golconda Fort. If you have your vehicle, you can easily drive to the fort, which is approximately 12 kilometres from the centre of the city. The Golconda Fort location is about 9 kilometres from the famous Hussain Sagar Lake. You can use the public transport system of Hyderabad as well, which will take you to the fort. Alternatively, you can take autorickshaws to the fort as well.
The following are some Golconda information that you must know before visiting the fort. There are a lot of interesting things about the fortress. Here are some of the most prominent ones.
Apart from being a fortress and an ancient ruin, there are a lot of other compelling reasons to visit the Golconda Fort. Golconda history is quite interesting, and you will learn a lot about Golconda and its history when you visit the fort. Here are some of the major attractions when you visit the Golconda location.
Golconda Fort timing for visitors is from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day, including weekends and public holidays. If you are planning to get inside Golconda Fort, you must reach the fort between these times.
However, please note that the Golconda fort timing can vary, and it's always a good idea to double-check the current timings before planning your visit. You can contact the local authorities or tourism office for the most up-to-date information regarding the Golconda Fort timing.
If you want to enjoy the sound and light show at the fort, there are different shows and timings that you can make the most of. On all days, the Golconda Fort light show is its first show in English. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, the second show is in Telugu.
On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays the second show is in Hindi. The timings for the first show are at 6:30 PM and that of the second show is 7:45 PM between the months of November and February. For the rest of the year, the first show starts at 7 PM and the second show starts at 8:15 PM.
Golconda Fort ticket counter for the light and sound show opens at 5:30 PM every day. The Golconda Fort entry fee along with the prices of the ticket are mentioned below. However, if you do not want to stand in a queue and buy the tickets, you also have the convenience of buying Golconda Fort tickets online.
You will need to pay the Golconda Fort entry ticket price to enter the fort and spend time. Here are the charges for Golconda Fort tickets.
Activity |
Ticket Price |
Entry Fee |
|
Indians |
Rs. 25 per person |
Foreign tourists |
Rs. 300 per person |
Still cameras |
Rs. 25 per camera |
Golconda Fort light and sound show |
|
Normal tickets for adults |
Rs. 80 per person |
Normal tickets for children |
Rs. 60 per child |
Executive tickets for adults |
Rs. 140 per person |
Executive tickets for children |
Rs. 110 per child |
Hussain Sagar in Hyderabad, is situated in the southern state of Telangana. The lake was built in the year 1563 by Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah and its shape is quite similar to that of a heart. The lake has made a name for itself, as being the largest artificial lake in Asia and is one of the biggest attractions that Hyderabad has to offer.
The lake is also known as Tank Bund and is fed by the River Musi. Apart from being a lake in the middle of the city, it also has a long dam wall, which happens to connect the cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Indira Park, Lumbini Park, and Sanjeevaiah Park surround the lake on three sides, making it quite relaxing.
Hussain Sagar Lake is famous for being a relaxing place amidst the chaos of the city that is constantly on the move. A lot of people from within the city and outside, visit the lake for its enormity, since it spreads across 5.7 square kilometres. There are a lot of other activities that you can do at the lake as well, right from water sports to the serene parks nearby.
The Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad is right in the middle of the city and is a place that can be easily accessed. The lake is about 3 kilometres away from the Nampally railway station and 4.5 kilometres from Secunderabad railway station. You can easily access the lake using your bike or car as well. Taking your personal transportation can be a bit more rewarding, thanks to the necklace road surrounding the lake. People who walk a lot can also consider a long stroll.
During your visit to the lake or Hyderabad in general, you can use multiple languages. The official language spoken in the city is Telugu and Urdu. However, you will also find a lot of people talking in English and Hindi. If you know any of these four languages, you will not struggle during your visit to the lake. The people of Hyderabad are quite friendly and will go out of their way to help you at times.
The currency used in Hussain Sagar Hyderabad is predominantly rupees. If you just want to visit the lake and come back, you might do that without spending any money. However, for all the attractions in the lake and park, it is recommended to carry cash. You can refer to the chart below for the charges for various activities.
For the fast food chains near the lake, you can use various payment methods such as UPI payments and Card payments or cash. A lot of the vendors around the lake now support UPI payments, making it even more seamless for you to have fun, without having to worry about carrying cash.
There are quite a few things for which Hussain Sagar Lake is famous. Firstly, the lake is almost heart-shaped, when viewed aerially. Giving it a unique character. The lake is man-made and one of the largest in Asia. A monolith Buddha statue was installed in the middle of the lake, which is one of the most sought-after things in the lake. It is also known as the Hussain Sagar Buddha statue.
Apart from this, you can have a very relaxed and leisurely time on the lake by opting for boating. A lot of people visit the lake just for boating around and have street food surrounding the lake. Evenings are particularly beautiful, once the lake and its surrounding area are well-lit.
The Hussain Sagar Lake is a major attraction of the city. The lake is in the centre of the city and offers a lot of activities. Hussain Sagar is incredibly scenic and the Necklace road around it is ideal for evening or late-night drives. The lake and the parks around it offer laser shows, musical fountains, boat rides, and above all pristine nature in the middle of the city to unwind. Following are all the activities that you enjoy at the lake. The attraction which is more than 2 centuries old, does not require any entry fees to enjoy the man-made lake.
If you are wondering about how to reach Hussain Sagar Lake, you will first need to visit Hyderabad for that. The city of Hyderabad is well-connected to all the major cities in the country. The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is very well connected to a lot of international destinations as well. The presence of direct flights makes it even more convenient to reach the city.
If you prefer trains, the Hyderabad station is also a great alternative. With trains to most parts of the country, you will never be too far away from boarding the fastest train to the southern city. The road infrastructure in and around Hyderabad is excellent as well. Thus, opening the option to drive to the city also.
Once you are in the city, you can either take a cab or auto rickshaw to the lake. If you have your vehicle, you can easily take it to the lake and park it in the paid parking lot. If you want to avail of public transport, you can get down at the bus stops of DBR Mills, Necklace Road, or Tank Bund. Taking the bus is one of the most economical ways of reaching the lake.
The lake which has been around for more than two centuries, has a few interesting facts. Here are some of them.
The Hussain Sagar Lake has been a popular location in Hyderabad for a long time now. And there are quite a few reasons for the same. Apart from being a picturesque lake that stands out in the hustle and bustle of a city, it has a few amazing parks surrounding it as well. If you haven’t visited the lake yet, here are some prominent reasons for you to do so.
Hussain Sagar has a musical fountain that is magnificent, to say the least. The musical fountain spans over 180 metres and is the largest in India. The fountain has about 8 high-powered nozzles and 880 LEDs that are underwater.
Lumbini Park, which is sometimes known as Hussain Sagar Park, is bordered by the lake. It is a peaceful park, where you can unwind after a hectic day. A little over 7.5 acres, there is ample space for everyone, with a deck that opens to the lake. You can even opt for boating which usually starts from Lumbini Park.
People who are a bit more adventurous can even try parasailing and jet skiing in the lake. These water sports make a visit to the lake even more enthralling. NTR Gardens, which is just 200 metres from the lake, is another popular place. The 36-acre park has a lot of attractions.
And once you are done visiting the lake and park, you can indulge in some mouth-watering street food. The Eat Street near Hussain Sagar Lake is one of the most famous in Hyderabad and for good reasons. Right from fast food chains such as Mcdonald's, Subway, and Baskin Robbins, to local vendors, there are a lot of food options to explore from.
The Hussain Sagar Lake has opening and closing timings. If you want to explore the lake and its various attractions, you must visit within this time frame. Hussain Sagar Lake is open between 8 AM and 10 PM every day. If you want to witness the musical fountains, there are four shows that occur between 7 PM to 10 PM. These shows usually occur on weekends and on public holidays.
The laser shows in Lumbini Park take place on the weekends at 7:15 PM and on the weekends at 7:15 PM and 8:30 PM. If you are travelling by your vehicle, you can avail of the paid parking services at the lake. The ideal time to visit the lake and its attractions is between the months of October to March. You can avoid the peak summer season, as it can get quite scorching.
You do not have to pay anything to enter the lake. However, to enjoy most of the attractions inside the lake, you must buy tickets.
As mentioned already, you do not have to pay any fees to enter the lake or even the park. However, for the various activities, you will need to pay the following charges.
Activity |
Charges per Adult |
Charges per Kid |
Boating |
||
Mechanised Boat |
Rs. 50 |
Rs. 30 for kids below 6 years |
Speed Boat |
Rs. 350 for 4 people for one trip |
NA |
Dancing on a boat |
Rs. 100 |
Rs. 80 |
Jet Ski |
Rs. 250
|
NA |
Rajahamsa Boat |
Rs. 100 |
NA |
Water Sports |
||
Parasailing |
Rs. 300 |
NA |
Jet Ski |
Rs. 250
|
NA |
Cruise |
Rs. 8000 for the first 2 hours and Rs. 3000 for each consecutive hour |
NA |
Laser Show |
||
Price of ticket |
Rs. 50 |
NA |
Parking |
Rs. 10 |
NA |
Golconda Fort is one of the most renowned places that is associated with the southern city of Hyderabad. Sometimes known as Golconda Qila, is a fortress and remains of a ruined city, that is located on the outskirts of Hyderabad. As per Golconda Fort history, it was called Mankal and the Golconda Fort was built by the ruler Prataparudra in the 11th century.
The importance of Golconda Fort comes from the fact that it is surrounded by diamond mines. The Kollur Mine resulted in making Golconda a trade centre and it flourished because of some of the largest diamonds and most famous diamonds of all time. The Kohinoor Diamond, which is now under British custody, was mined in Golconda.
Currently, in ruins, the colossal fort has 8 gates and 87 bastions. The fort later came under the Bahmani rulers, and it was further extended and fortified. After coming under the rule of Aurangzeb, the fort was left without any attention in 1687. Though the Golconda Fort was built by Prataparudra, it was extended and updated by later rules as well.
The complex Golconda palace with remains of mosques and pavilion, is what you can witness during your visit to the fort. Even in ruins, the fort is magnificent and will leave you in awe of the design and architecture which is centuries old now.
Golconda Fort history is quite rich and diverse, and it has undergone several rules in the past. It is located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, about 12 kilometres from the city centre. The entire fort occupies an area of 3 square kilometres. The Golconda Fort height is about 130 metres, which gives an excellent bird’s eye view of the nearby places. The granite hill on which the fort lies, is another 120 metres. The fort is easily accessible by road.
You can speak various languages while visiting Golconda Fort or Hyderabad in general. Telugu and Urdu are the city's two official languages. However, you'll also hear a lot of Hindi and English spoken. Since Golconda ka Kila is just on the outskirts of Hyderabad, you won't encounter any language barriers if you speak one of these four languages when visiting the lake. If you struggle with any of these languages, it still should not hamper your trip to Golconda Kila, since the people around are extremely friendly.
To visit the Golconda Fort, you will need Rupees as the currency. Either for buying tickets or for reaching the location via public transport or auto rickshaws, you will need rupees. For all the shops nearby, you can use the Rupees for buying. Though some of them now support UPI payments. If you use any of the UPI apps on your phone, you can make payments via them.
Golconda Killa in Hyderabad is known for several reasons. Primarily, it is one of the most stunning and complex fortress complexes in the country. Surrounding the fort were mines that were used for Diamonds. The Kohinoor diamond was mined in the Golconda mines. You can also experience the Golconda light show, which is exquisite, to say the least. There is even a legendary iron block that weighs 250 kilos. It is said that the iron weight was used to test the strength of the soldiers before their recruitment to the king’s army.
A historical fortress that has a long history associated with it. The Golconda Fort was built by ruler Praraparudra and has been there since the 11th century. After Aurangzeb took over, the fortress has mostly been in ruins. Presently, you can visit the fortress and learn about its history. Even the light and sound show depicts its royal past. The Golconda Fort ticket price is mentioned below. By paying the ticket price, you gain access to the different parts of the fortress. To make the most of your trip, it is recommended to visit anytime between September and March.
For those wondering, Golconda Fort is located in which state, it is in the southern state of Telangana. And the Golconda Fort located on the outskirts of the capital city of Telangana. To visit the fort, you will first need to visit Hyderabad. The capital city is extremely well connected with the world. If you are travelling from outside India, the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport links a lot of popular cities across the globe.
Now that you know Golconda in which state, you can explore other options to visit Hyderabad. You can take a train to Hyderabad as well. And road connectivity to Hyderabad is quite good as well. Depending on your convenience levels, you can choose any of these methods to reach Hyderabad.
Once you are in Hyderabad, you would want to know how to reach Golconda Fort. If you have your vehicle, you can easily drive to the fort, which is approximately 12 kilometres from the centre of the city. The Golconda Fort location is about 9 kilometres from the famous Hussain Sagar Lake. You can use the public transport system of Hyderabad as well, which will take you to the fort. Alternatively, you can take autorickshaws to the fort as well.
The following are some Golconda information that you must know before visiting the fort. There are a lot of interesting things about the fortress. Here are some of the most prominent ones.
Apart from being a fortress and an ancient ruin, there are a lot of other compelling reasons to visit the Golconda Fort. Golconda history is quite interesting, and you will learn a lot about Golconda and its history when you visit the fort. Here are some of the major attractions when you visit the Golconda location.
Golconda Fort timing for visitors is from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day, including weekends and public holidays. If you are planning to get inside Golconda Fort, you must reach the fort between these times.
However, please note that the Golconda fort timing can vary, and it's always a good idea to double-check the current timings before planning your visit. You can contact the local authorities or tourism office for the most up-to-date information regarding the Golconda Fort timing.
If you want to enjoy the sound and light show at the fort, there are different shows and timings that you can make the most of. On all days, the Golconda Fort light show is its first show in English. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, the second show is in Telugu.
On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays the second show is in Hindi. The timings for the first show are at 6:30 PM and that of the second show is 7:45 PM between the months of November and February. For the rest of the year, the first show starts at 7 PM and the second show starts at 8:15 PM.
Golconda Fort ticket counter for the light and sound show opens at 5:30 PM every day. The Golconda Fort entry fee along with the prices of the ticket are mentioned below. However, if you do not want to stand in a queue and buy the tickets, you also have the convenience of buying Golconda Fort tickets online.
You will need to pay the Golconda Fort entry ticket price to enter the fort and spend time. Here are the charges for Golconda Fort tickets.
Activity |
Ticket Price |
Entry Fee |
|
Indians |
Rs. 25 per person |
Foreign tourists |
Rs. 300 per person |
Still cameras |
Rs. 25 per camera |
Golconda Fort light and sound show |
|
Normal tickets for adults |
Rs. 80 per person |
Normal tickets for children |
Rs. 60 per child |
Executive tickets for adults |
Rs. 140 per person |
Executive tickets for children |
Rs. 110 per child |
Hussain Sagar in Hyderabad, is situated in the southern state of Telangana. The lake was built in the year 1563 by Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah and its shape is quite similar to that of a heart. The lake has made a name for itself, as being the largest artificial lake in Asia and is one of the biggest attractions that Hyderabad has to offer.
The lake is also known as Tank Bund and is fed by the River Musi. Apart from being a lake in the middle of the city, it also has a long dam wall, which happens to connect the cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Indira Park, Lumbini Park, and Sanjeevaiah Park surround the lake on three sides, making it quite relaxing.
Hussain Sagar Lake is famous for being a relaxing place amidst the chaos of the city that is constantly on the move. A lot of people from within the city and outside, visit the lake for its enormity, since it spreads across 5.7 square kilometres. There are a lot of other activities that you can do at the lake as well, right from water sports to the serene parks nearby.
The Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad is right in the middle of the city and is a place that can be easily accessed. The lake is about 3 kilometres away from the Nampally railway station and 4.5 kilometres from Secunderabad railway station. You can easily access the lake using your bike or car as well. Taking your personal transportation can be a bit more rewarding, thanks to the necklace road surrounding the lake. People who walk a lot can also consider a long stroll.
During your visit to the lake or Hyderabad in general, you can use multiple languages. The official language spoken in the city is Telugu and Urdu. However, you will also find a lot of people talking in English and Hindi. If you know any of these four languages, you will not struggle during your visit to the lake. The people of Hyderabad are quite friendly and will go out of their way to help you at times.
The currency used in Hussain Sagar Hyderabad is predominantly rupees. If you just want to visit the lake and come back, you might do that without spending any money. However, for all the attractions in the lake and park, it is recommended to carry cash. You can refer to the chart below for the charges for various activities.
For the fast food chains near the lake, you can use various payment methods such as UPI payments and Card payments or cash. A lot of the vendors around the lake now support UPI payments, making it even more seamless for you to have fun, without having to worry about carrying cash.
There are quite a few things for which Hussain Sagar Lake is famous. Firstly, the lake is almost heart-shaped, when viewed aerially. Giving it a unique character. The lake is man-made and one of the largest in Asia. A monolith Buddha statue was installed in the middle of the lake, which is one of the most sought-after things in the lake. It is also known as the Hussain Sagar Buddha statue.
Apart from this, you can have a very relaxed and leisurely time on the lake by opting for boating. A lot of people visit the lake just for boating around and have street food surrounding the lake. Evenings are particularly beautiful, once the lake and its surrounding area are well-lit.
The Hussain Sagar Lake is a major attraction of the city. The lake is in the centre of the city and offers a lot of activities. Hussain Sagar is incredibly scenic and the Necklace road around it is ideal for evening or late-night drives. The lake and the parks around it offer laser shows, musical fountains, boat rides, and above all pristine nature in the middle of the city to unwind. Following are all the activities that you enjoy at the lake. The attraction which is more than 2 centuries old, does not require any entry fees to enjoy the man-made lake.
If you are wondering about how to reach Hussain Sagar Lake, you will first need to visit Hyderabad for that. The city of Hyderabad is well-connected to all the major cities in the country. The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is very well connected to a lot of international destinations as well. The presence of direct flights makes it even more convenient to reach the city.
If you prefer trains, the Hyderabad station is also a great alternative. With trains to most parts of the country, you will never be too far away from boarding the fastest train to the southern city. The road infrastructure in and around Hyderabad is excellent as well. Thus, opening the option to drive to the city also.
Once you are in the city, you can either take a cab or auto rickshaw to the lake. If you have your vehicle, you can easily take it to the lake and park it in the paid parking lot. If you want to avail of public transport, you can get down at the bus stops of DBR Mills, Necklace Road, or Tank Bund. Taking the bus is one of the most economical ways of reaching the lake.
The lake which has been around for more than two centuries, has a few interesting facts. Here are some of them.
The Hussain Sagar Lake has been a popular location in Hyderabad for a long time now. And there are quite a few reasons for the same. Apart from being a picturesque lake that stands out in the hustle and bustle of a city, it has a few amazing parks surrounding it as well. If you haven’t visited the lake yet, here are some prominent reasons for you to do so.
Hussain Sagar has a musical fountain that is magnificent, to say the least. The musical fountain spans over 180 metres and is the largest in India. The fountain has about 8 high-powered nozzles and 880 LEDs that are underwater.
Lumbini Park, which is sometimes known as Hussain Sagar Park, is bordered by the lake. It is a peaceful park, where you can unwind after a hectic day. A little over 7.5 acres, there is ample space for everyone, with a deck that opens to the lake. You can even opt for boating which usually starts from Lumbini Park.
People who are a bit more adventurous can even try parasailing and jet skiing in the lake. These water sports make a visit to the lake even more enthralling. NTR Gardens, which is just 200 metres from the lake, is another popular place. The 36-acre park has a lot of attractions.
And once you are done visiting the lake and park, you can indulge in some mouth-watering street food. The Eat Street near Hussain Sagar Lake is one of the most famous in Hyderabad and for good reasons. Right from fast food chains such as Mcdonald's, Subway, and Baskin Robbins, to local vendors, there are a lot of food options to explore from.
The Hussain Sagar Lake has opening and closing timings. If you want to explore the lake and its various attractions, you must visit within this time frame. Hussain Sagar Lake is open between 8 AM and 10 PM every day. If you want to witness the musical fountains, there are four shows that occur between 7 PM to 10 PM. These shows usually occur on weekends and on public holidays.
The laser shows in Lumbini Park take place on the weekends at 7:15 PM and on the weekends at 7:15 PM and 8:30 PM. If you are travelling by your vehicle, you can avail of the paid parking services at the lake. The ideal time to visit the lake and its attractions is between the months of October to March. You can avoid the peak summer season, as it can get quite scorching.
You do not have to pay anything to enter the lake. However, to enjoy most of the attractions inside the lake, you must buy tickets.
As mentioned already, you do not have to pay any fees to enter the lake or even the park. However, for the various activities, you will need to pay the following charges.
Activity |
Charges per Adult |
Charges per Kid |
Boating |
||
Mechanised Boat |
Rs. 50 |
Rs. 30 for kids below 6 years |
Speed Boat |
Rs. 350 for 4 people for one trip |
NA |
Dancing on a boat |
Rs. 100 |
Rs. 80 |
Jet Ski |
Rs. 250
|
NA |
Rajahamsa Boat |
Rs. 100 |
NA |
Water Sports |
||
Parasailing |
Rs. 300 |
NA |
Jet Ski |
Rs. 250
|
NA |
Cruise |
Rs. 8000 for the first 2 hours and Rs. 3000 for each consecutive hour |
NA |
Laser Show |
||
Price of ticket |
Rs. 50 |
NA |
Parking |
Rs. 10 |
NA |
Golconda Fort is one of the most renowned places that is associated with the southern city of Hyderabad. Sometimes known as Golconda Qila, is a fortress and remains of a ruined city, that is located on the outskirts of Hyderabad. As per Golconda Fort history, it was called Mankal and the Golconda Fort was built by the ruler Prataparudra in the 11th century.
The importance of Golconda Fort comes from the fact that it is surrounded by diamond mines. The Kollur Mine resulted in making Golconda a trade centre and it flourished because of some of the largest diamonds and most famous diamonds of all time. The Kohinoor Diamond, which is now under British custody, was mined in Golconda.
Currently, in ruins, the colossal fort has 8 gates and 87 bastions. The fort later came under the Bahmani rulers, and it was further extended and fortified. After coming under the rule of Aurangzeb, the fort was left without any attention in 1687. Though the Golconda Fort was built by Prataparudra, it was extended and updated by later rules as well.
The complex Golconda palace with remains of mosques and pavilion, is what you can witness during your visit to the fort. Even in ruins, the fort is magnificent and will leave you in awe of the design and architecture which is centuries old now.
Golconda Fort history is quite rich and diverse, and it has undergone several rules in the past. It is located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, about 12 kilometres from the city centre. The entire fort occupies an area of 3 square kilometres. The Golconda Fort height is about 130 metres, which gives an excellent bird’s eye view of the nearby places. The granite hill on which the fort lies, is another 120 metres. The fort is easily accessible by road.
You can speak various languages while visiting Golconda Fort or Hyderabad in general. Telugu and Urdu are the city's two official languages. However, you'll also hear a lot of Hindi and English spoken. Since Golconda ka Kila is just on the outskirts of Hyderabad, you won't encounter any language barriers if you speak one of these four languages when visiting the lake. If you struggle with any of these languages, it still should not hamper your trip to Golconda Kila, since the people around are extremely friendly.
To visit the Golconda Fort, you will need Rupees as the currency. Either for buying tickets or for reaching the location via public transport or auto rickshaws, you will need rupees. For all the shops nearby, you can use the Rupees for buying. Though some of them now support UPI payments. If you use any of the UPI apps on your phone, you can make payments via them.
Golconda Killa in Hyderabad is known for several reasons. Primarily, it is one of the most stunning and complex fortress complexes in the country. Surrounding the fort were mines that were used for Diamonds. The Kohinoor diamond was mined in the Golconda mines. You can also experience the Golconda light show, which is exquisite, to say the least. There is even a legendary iron block that weighs 250 kilos. It is said that the iron weight was used to test the strength of the soldiers before their recruitment to the king’s army.
A historical fortress that has a long history associated with it. The Golconda Fort was built by ruler Praraparudra and has been there since the 11th century. After Aurangzeb took over, the fortress has mostly been in ruins. Presently, you can visit the fortress and learn about its history. Even the light and sound show depicts its royal past. The Golconda Fort ticket price is mentioned below. By paying the ticket price, you gain access to the different parts of the fortress. To make the most of your trip, it is recommended to visit anytime between September and March.
For those wondering, Golconda Fort is located in which state, it is in the southern state of Telangana. And the Golconda Fort located on the outskirts of the capital city of Telangana. To visit the fort, you will first need to visit Hyderabad. The capital city is extremely well connected with the world. If you are travelling from outside India, the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport links a lot of popular cities across the globe.
Now that you know Golconda in which state, you can explore other options to visit Hyderabad. You can take a train to Hyderabad as well. And road connectivity to Hyderabad is quite good as well. Depending on your convenience levels, you can choose any of these methods to reach Hyderabad.
Once you are in Hyderabad, you would want to know how to reach Golconda Fort. If you have your vehicle, you can easily drive to the fort, which is approximately 12 kilometres from the centre of the city. The Golconda Fort location is about 9 kilometres from the famous Hussain Sagar Lake. You can use the public transport system of Hyderabad as well, which will take you to the fort. Alternatively, you can take autorickshaws to the fort as well.
The following are some Golconda information that you must know before visiting the fort. There are a lot of interesting things about the fortress. Here are some of the most prominent ones.
Apart from being a fortress and an ancient ruin, there are a lot of other compelling reasons to visit the Golconda Fort. Golconda history is quite interesting, and you will learn a lot about Golconda and its history when you visit the fort. Here are some of the major attractions when you visit the Golconda location.
Golconda Fort timing for visitors is from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day, including weekends and public holidays. If you are planning to get inside Golconda Fort, you must reach the fort between these times.
However, please note that the Golconda fort timing can vary, and it's always a good idea to double-check the current timings before planning your visit. You can contact the local authorities or tourism office for the most up-to-date information regarding the Golconda Fort timing.
If you want to enjoy the sound and light show at the fort, there are different shows and timings that you can make the most of. On all days, the Golconda Fort light show is its first show in English. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, the second show is in Telugu.
On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays the second show is in Hindi. The timings for the first show are at 6:30 PM and that of the second show is 7:45 PM between the months of November and February. For the rest of the year, the first show starts at 7 PM and the second show starts at 8:15 PM.
Golconda Fort ticket counter for the light and sound show opens at 5:30 PM every day. The Golconda Fort entry fee along with the prices of the ticket are mentioned below. However, if you do not want to stand in a queue and buy the tickets, you also have the convenience of buying Golconda Fort tickets online.
You will need to pay the Golconda Fort entry ticket price to enter the fort and spend time. Here are the charges for Golconda Fort tickets.
Activity |
Ticket Price |
Entry Fee |
|
Indians |
Rs. 25 per person |
Foreign tourists |
Rs. 300 per person |
Still cameras |
Rs. 25 per camera |
Golconda Fort light and sound show |
|
Normal tickets for adults |
Rs. 80 per person |
Normal tickets for children |
Rs. 60 per child |
Executive tickets for adults |
Rs. 140 per person |
Executive tickets for children |
Rs. 110 per child |
For a more cost-effective transportation medium, train travel is the best option. It is both affordable and reliable. However, one would have to compromise on the time factor which is significantly more than that of air travel.
Hyderabad is blessed with a competent railway system, which operates and maintains 3 main junctions – Hyderabad, Secunderabad and Kachiguda respectively. These aforementioned railheads connect the city with prime destinations across India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and Aurangabad. Individuals may select from a range of popular trains that ply daily, including Kacheguda Express, Hyderabad Express, Shatabdi Express, Charminar Express, Konark Express and Andhra Pradesh Express.
The train durations vary, depending upon the point of origin and point of destination. For example, a train from Chennai to Hyderabad will take approximately 12 hours and 40 minutes, with a distance of 705 km. On the other hand, a train from Ahmedabad to Chennai will take a little over a day as the distance is 1231 km. Upon arrival at the railway stations, individuals can hail cabs that are easily available outside.
If you’re looking to reach the ‘City of Pearls’ in no time, consider opting for air travel. Yes, taking a flight is perhaps the most expedient and efficient way of reaching Telangana’s capital – Hyderabad. It is both, a utilitarian and convenient mode of transportation. However, much depends on which destination you’re departing from and your budgetary restrictions.
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is the primary airport serving the historic city. It is located in Shamshabad, a mere 20 km south of Hyderabad. As one of the busiest airports in the country, it leverages a network of 10 million people boarding both domestic and international flights. The airport is equipped with all the facilities required to make travellers feel at ease, including ATMs, cafes, restaurants, lounges, retail stores and even spas. Upon arrival, one may select from prepaid taxis, terminal cabs and hotel shuttle services to one’s desired destination. The airport is also in close proximity to the Umdanagar and Budvel railway lines, located at a distance of 4 km and 7 km respectively.
The aerodrome charters daily flights to all major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Lucknow. Furthermore, it charters international flights to destinations such as Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur and Dubai. Individuals may select from the following airlines - Jet Airways, Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air Asia, Emirates, Cathay Pacific.
When it comes to the quickest route, Chennai International Airport is the nearest air hub, in terms of aerial distance. Situated only 520 km from the city, it enables a flight duration of approximately 1 hour 5 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes.
An exhilarating way to reach Hyderabad is via the thrills of the road. This poses an alternative to air and train travel but requires a lot more patience and tolerance. For those who love road trips, this option will be most enjoyable.
Telangana is home to an efficient and well-planned network of roadways. In fact, it houses 6 national highways that cut across all districts, rendering seamless and hassle-free connections. Individuals may choose to self-drive or hire a car, spending anywhere between 9 hours to a day in commute, depending on their point of destination.
The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation operates a competent and well-established bus terminal that lays paths to neighbouring cities such as Aurangabad, Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai, Tirupati and Panaji. One may avail of sleeper, deluxe, super deluxe, air-conditioned and Volvo buses, depending upon the budget and type/number of persons travelling.