As a Mumbaikar, who is used to the city’s relentless pace, chaos, and coastal humidity, a recent trip to Hyderabad was a refreshingly wonderful change.
I landed expecting good food and maybe some Nizami architecture. I returned surprised by how much more the city had to offer.
Biryani
For me, food is the first benchmark of a city. Hyderabad didn't disappoint one bit. Biryani, of course, lived up to its name. Aromatic, tender. Served with peanut & mirchi ka salan and raita in generous portions.
Hyderabad Meals
Beyond the biryani, I was smitten by the meat quality, spicy Andhra meals, crispy wadas, dosas, Irani chai. The flavours are bold. Portions are designed for someone who just ran a marathon. Trust me people there can really eat! Double ka meetha, mulberry cream, Pootharekulu make for the perfect ending.
History And Monuments
Founded by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in 1591, it was the capital of Qutb Shahi dynasty. It later came under the Nizam's rule. Charminar, Golconda Fort, Chowmahalla Palace, Salar Jung Museum make your saunter back in time!
Weather
For all the 4 days I was there the skies were overcast. Travel was comfortable. Evenings were especially pleasant with a gentle breeze. I actually didn't sweat at all. I heard winters are much better, ideal for bonfires and barbecues.
Traffic
The commute from the airport to the city was smooth thanks to the well-maintained Outer Ring Road (fondly called the ORR by locals). Traffic is very well managed compared to Aamchi Mumbai where travelling 10 km could take you more than an hour!
People
There’s charm in the way Hyderabadis speak Hindi; the local touch just makes it sound adorable. I was amazed by how fluently locals switch between Telugu, Hindi, English.
More On The People
People seem to have more breathing room in their day. Conversations are not always in a rush. While strolling, I was stopped and offered snacks & badam milk by a family who had opened a new store. Sweet peeps, who just wanted to make me a part of their celebration.
Parks
The fact that you can begin your morning with a walk around a lake (Malkam Cheruvu) or walk in a national park with peacocks (KBR National Park) is so refreshing! The presence of actual walking spaces that are wide, clean, and well maintained was heartening.
Cleanliness
I noticed a clear effort in Hyderabad to maintain cleanliness especially in public areas. Many of the streets were surprisingly litter-free.
Roads
Finally, coming to the roads. Let’s just say Hyderabad’s roads make you feel like you're in a different country. Wide lanes, almost no potholes, disciplined flyovers. The ORR makes driving/cab rides a BREEZE! With my stomach and heart full, I bid my adieu to the lovely city hoping to return for more..