Birla Mandir

The skyline of Hyderabad is dominated by a stunning building which has attracted visitors for decades. The temple of Birla Mandir is dedicated to Vishnu; its design resembles traditional South Indian architectural styles, and it's made entirely of marble. Its peaceful setting hold promise of a tranquil experience.

• Address:

  Birla Mandir Hill Fort Road, Ambedkar Colony, Hyderabad

• Phone:

  +91 402 345 0165

Charminar

Constructed in the 16th century, the Charminar, or ''Four Minarets'', is one of the most famous sites in the city. There are a lot of markets and festivals organised near the mosque, since it's the epicentre of cultural activity of Hyderabad.

• Address:

  Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad

• Phone:

  +91 406 674 5986

• Opening hours:

  Mon-Sun 9am-5.30pm

Chowmahalla Palace

A historic experience awaits those who visit the Chowmahalla Palace. A trip here will offer a glimpse of the lives of royals, and all of the grandeur that has long surrounded them. For some fresh air, take a stroll through the beautiful garden with a pool.

• Web:

  www.chowmahalla.co.in

• E-mail:

  chowmahallapalace@yahoo.co.in

• Address:

  20-4-236, Khilwat, Motigalli, Hyderabad

• Phone:

  +91 402 452 2032

• Opening hours:

  Sat-Thu 10am-5pm

Golkonda Fort

One of the most famous historic sites of the city, the Golkonda Fortand has remained an impressive monument for decades. After a climb to the top of the hill, you will find the breathtaking Taramati Baradari mosque, a building associated with romantic stories of the sultan and his court.

• Address:

  Ibrahim Bagh, Hyderabad

• Phone:

  +91 402 351 2401

• Opening hours:

  Mon-Sun 9am-5.30pm

Hussain Sagar Lake

A destination for the romantics among us, the famous heart-shaped lake of Hyderabad. So famous it is that it has been declared the 'World's Largest Heart-Shaped Mark', and has been attracting tourists for many years. There's one object in the park that you can't miss: the 18-meter-high Buddha statue that towers over the trees of the park.

• Address:

  Hussain Sagar Lake, Hyderabad

Nehru Zoological Park

The Indian rhino, panther, and python are just a few of the inhabitants of the Nehru Zoological Park. It's one of the most visited places in Hyderabad, and it's certainly easy to see why. The zoo is full of exotic creatures, and guarantees a great time for animal lovers of all ages.

• Web:

  www.hyderabadzoo.com

• Address:

  Bahadurpura Road, KundetiGuda, Kishan Bagh, Hyderabad

• Phone:

  +91 40 2447 7355

• Opening hours:

  Tue-Sun 8am-6.30pm

• More info:

  The zoo is located approximately 7 km from the city centre.