Hyderabad , India

Diamonds & Dynasties of Southern India

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14d

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund. If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund. If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the "Diamonds & Dynasties of Southern India" where history, culture, and architectural marvels await. Begin in Hyderabad, a city steeped in 400 years of history, where you'll explore the iconic Golconda Fort and the majestic Charminar. Witness the grandeur of the Qutubshahi Tombs and delve into the treasures of the Salarjung Museum. Venture to Bidar to marvel at its magnificent fort and ancient Islamic university. Continue to Gulbarga and admire its historic fort before journeying to Bijapur to witness the awe-inspiring Gol Gumbaz. Explore the ancient wonders of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal, each boasting a rich tapestry of temples and monuments. Conclude your odyssey in the mesmerizing ruins of Hampi before unwinding in the sun-kissed beaches of Goa. This expedition promises an enriching blend of heritage, architecture, and natural beauty, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Available options

Tour Price Without Hotels

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

Price using 3 star hotels

Stay in 3 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

Price using 4 star hotels

Stay in 4 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

Price using 5 star hotels

Stay in 5 star hotels: + Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary. Pickup included

What's included

Private AC car/van for airport transfers, sightseeing, and excursions as per the program.

13 Nights' accommodation (if option selected) in selected price category hotels.

Government taxes.

Bottled drinking water in the car.

Breakfast

Monument entrances and activity charges mentioned in the itinerary.

English speaking tour guide on sightseeing days (local guide in each city), as per the program

Assistance on arrival at the airport.

What's not included

Any flight ticket.

Camera charges at monuments if any.

Expenses of personal nature like liquor, laundry, tips, telephone, fax, internet, etc.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Hotels used or similar

Hyderabad x 2 nights
3* - Aditya Park/ Lemon Tree Hotel
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel/ Fortune Park Vallabha
5* - ITC Kakatiya, a Luxury Collection/ Trident Hotel

Gulbarga x 1 night
3* - Atharva Hotel/ Hotel Heritage Inn
3* / 5* - Citrus Hotel

Bijapur x 1 night
3* - Sun Hotel/ Hotel Mayura Adilshahi
4* - Sun Hotel/ Hotel Mayura Adilshahi
5* - Sun Hotel/ Hotel Mayura Adilshahi

Badami x 2 nights
3* - Rajsangam Hotel/ The Heritage Resort
4* / 5* - Badami Court/ Krishna Heritage

Hospet/Hampi x 2 nights
3* - Krishna Palace/ Kishkinda Heritage Resort
4* - Heritage Resort / Royal Orchid Central Keerti
5* - Hyatt Place/ Hampi Boulders

Goa x 3 nights
3* - Varca Le Palm/ Lambana Resort
4* - Lemon Tree Hotel Candolim/ The Chances Resort & Casino
5* - Zuri Varca Goa White Sand Resort & Casino/ Alila Diwa Goa

Mumbai x 2 nights
3* - Hotel Suba Palace/ BW Hotel Sahil
4* - Sun-N-Sand Hotel/ Fariyas Hotel
5* - Trident Hotel/ ITC Grand Central

About Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, delectable cuisine, and thriving tech industry. This city of pearls blends ancient traditions with modern advancements, offering a unique cultural experience.

Top Attractions

Charminar

Charminar is an iconic monument and a symbol of Hyderabad. Built in 1591, it's a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture and a major tourist attraction.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Golconda Fort

Golconda Fort is a magnificent fort located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the city. It's known for its acoustics, light and sound show, and rich history.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours INR 50-100 for Indians, INR 200-300 for foreigners

Hussain Sagar Lake

Hussain Sagar Lake is a heart-shaped lake that connects Hyderabad and Secunderabad. It's a popular spot for boating, picnics, and enjoying the iconic Buddha statue on the lake.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boating charges apply)

Salar Jung Museum

Salar Jung Museum is one of the largest one-man collections in the world, featuring a vast array of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures from around the globe.

Museum 2-3 hours INR 50-100 for Indians, INR 200-300 for foreigners

Ramoji Film City

Ramoji Film City is the world's largest film studio complex, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at the Indian film industry. It features theme parks, museums, and film sets.

Entertainment Full day INR 1000-1500 per person

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hyderabadi Biryani

A fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with spices, meat (chicken, mutton, or goat), and saffron. It's a must-try for any visitor to Hyderabad.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Haleem

A slow-cooked stew made with wheat, lentils, meat, and spices. It's a popular dish during Ramadan but can be enjoyed year-round.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Irani Chai

A sweet and milky tea served in small glasses, often accompanied by biscuits or snacks. It's a popular drink in Hyderabad, especially at Irani cafes.

Beverage Vegetarian

Double Ka Meetha

A popular dessert made with double roti (a type of bread), milk, sugar, and cardamom. It's a sweet and aromatic treat that's perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Trekking in Shivaram Wildlife Sanctuary Water sports at Osman Sagar Lake Paragliding at Golconda Fort Boating at Hussain Sagar Lake Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking at KBR National Park Visiting museums and art galleries Attending traditional dance and music performances

Best Time to Visit

October to February

This is the best time to visit Hyderabad as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The city hosts several festivals during this period.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Telugu, Urdu
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Widely spoken in urban areas, moderately spoken in rural areas

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30 (Indian Standard Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Hyderabad is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of street food hygiene, choose vendors with high turnover and clean surroundings.
• Avoid drinking tap water, stick to bottled or filtered water.
• Be cautious of traffic and road conditions, especially when crossing streets and walking in busy areas.

Getting there

By air

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport • 24 km from city center

By train

Hyderabad Deccan, Hyderabad Begumpet

By bus

JBS (Jubilee Bus Station), MGBS (Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station)

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is clean, efficient, and a popular choice for commuting within the city. It's air-conditioned and operates from 6 AM to 11 PM.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City Banjara Hills Hitec City Secunderabad

Day trips

Warangal

145 km from Hyderabad • Full day

Warangal is a historic city known for its ancient forts, temples, and museums. It's a great day trip for history lovers and those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Telangana.

Vikarabad

70 km from Hyderabad • Full day

Vikarabad is a scenic town surrounded by hills, forests, and waterfalls. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering activities like trekking, camping, and water sports.

Nalgonda

100 km from Hyderabad • Full day

Nalgonda is a historic town known for its ancient temples, forts, and caves. It's a great day trip for those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Telangana.

Festivals

Bonalu • July/August (month of Ashadam) Deccan Festival • February Eid • Varies (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Visit during the winter months (October to February) for pleasant weather and festivals, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
Try the local cuisine, especially Hyderabadi biryani, haleem, and Irani chai, for an authentic taste of the city.
Explore the Old City on foot or by rickshaw for a unique and immersive experience, but be prepared for crowds and chaos.
Use app-based ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber for a more reliable and transparent experience than traditional taxis.
Bargain politely when shopping at markets, it's a common practice and expected by vendors.