Direct answer
Hyderabad is a vibrant, historic city in southern India known for its Charminar, Golconda Fort, biryani, and a booming tech sector. Prepare for warm weather, diverse cuisine, crowded markets, and a mix of modern and historic neighborhoods.
Visa / Entry Requirements
- Most foreign nationals need an Indian visa. Apply for an e-Visa (tourist/business/medical) online at the official Indian government portal well before travel.
- Ensure passport validity: at least six months from date of arrival and with two blank pages.
- Carry a printed copy of your e-Visa and digital confirmation.
- Some nationalities require registration with FRRO for longer stays—check current rules.
Best Time to Visit
- October to March (post-monsoon and winter): pleasant temperatures (15–30°C / 59–86°F), ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- April to June: hot (often 35–45°C / 95–113°F), not ideal unless you tolerate heat.
- June to September: monsoon season—green scenery but expect heavy rains and occasional flooding.
Safety Tips
- Hyderabad is generally safe for tourists; exercise usual precautions in crowded areas and at night.
- Keep valuables secure; use hotel safes for passports and excess cash.
- Use only licensed taxis or app-based services (Uber, Ola). Agree on fares for auto-rickshaws or insist on the meter.
- Avoid isolated areas at night; stick to well-lit, populated districts.
- Beware of minor scams in tourist spots—official guides will display IDs; be cautious with unsolicited help.
Local Customs & Etiquette
- Hyderabad has a mix of Muslim and Hindu cultural influences—dress modestly at religious sites (cover shoulders/legs; women may be asked to cover heads in some mosques).
- Greet people with a smile; a handshake is common in business; traditional namaste is also appropriate.
- Remove shoes before entering homes and many temples/mosques.
- Accepting food or chai offered by hosts is polite; if unsure about meat/dairy due to dietary rules, ask.
Currency & Payments
- Indian Rupee (INR). Carry some cash for small vendors, markets, and auto-rickshaws.
- Cards widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, malls, and many taxis. UPI and mobile wallets are common for local payments.
- ATMs are plentiful—notify your bank before travel and carry multiple cards.
Transportation
- Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) connects domestically and internationally; airport is ~30–40 km from central city.
- App-based taxis (Uber, Ola) are convenient and often the safest option. Prepaid airport taxis are available at counters.
- Metro: Hyderabad Metro connects key areas (useful for avoiding traffic); rickshaws useful for short trips.
- Local buses run extensively but can be crowded and slower.
- Driving: traffic can be heavy and driving styles aggressive; avoid driving if unfamiliar with Indian roads.
Must-Know Tips & Practical Advice
- Food: Try Hyderabadi biryani, haleem (seasonal), kebabs, and Irani chai with Osmania biscuits. Street food is delicious—choose busy stalls with high turnover.
- Hydration & health: Drink bottled or filtered water only. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated in hot months.
- Markets & shopping: Laad Bazaar for bangles and pearls, Biryani in Old City; Hyderabad is known for pearls, traditional jewelry, and local handicrafts. Bargain in bazaars; fixed prices in shops/malls.
- Timing for attractions: Visit Charminar, Chowmahalla Palace, and Mecca Masjid early morning to avoid crowds. Golconda Fort has a sound-and-light show in evenings.
- Day trips: Ramoji Film City (film studio complex), Salar Jung Museum, Hussain Sagar Lake (Buddha statue), and nearby religious or historical sites.
- Connectivity: Good mobile coverage and fast internet in most areas; buy a local SIM at the airport with passport and visa if needed.
- Language: Telugu and Urdu are local languages; Hindi and English are widely understood in tourist and business areas.
Final local insight
Hyderabad blends old-world charm and modern tech-city vibes. Embrace the food, historic architecture, and warm hospitality; plan around the heat and traffic, and you'll have a rich, memorable visit.