Travel Blog“The Pearl City, Hyderabad with its unmatched blend of history and modernity, hypnotizes everyone, whoever sets his/her foot in this beautiful city of Nizams.”
Steeped in history, thronged with people and buzzing with commerce, the Old City of Hyderabad is one of India's most evocative ancient quarters. Exploring the lanes of this district, with its chai shops and spice merchants, you'll encounter a teeming urban masala of colour and commerce.
History
The history of Hyderabad dates back to 500 BCE, according to archaeologists. In the third century BCE, it was ruled by Ashoka the Great, of the Mauryan Empire. In 1321 AD, Warangal was conquered by Muhammad bin Tughluq, from the Delhi Sultanate. The area fell into the hands of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, in 1589. Hyderabad is believed to be named after Haidar, son of Quli Qutb Shah. For a brief period, the city was ruled by Mughals, under Aurangzeb. After the fall of the Mughals, the city came under the Asaf Jahis, till a year after Independence of India. The Nizam wanted his kingdom to remain independent before finally surrendering to the Indian Union. For a few years, Hyderabad was a separate state, before merging with the newly created Andhra Pradesh and became its capital. On 2nd June 2014, after the separation of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh, it became the capital of Telangana and remains as de jure capital of Andhra Pradesh.
Culture
Hyderabadi culture is also known as ‘deccani tehzeeb’. It is the result of a large number of Muslim dynasties that ruled the city in the past. A blend of Hindu and Muslim traditions adds to the unique culture of Hyderabad. The former rulers contributed to the arts, literature and architecture. Classical Indian music and Kathak dance are popular in the city and are performed at several cultural events held every year.
Interesting Facts
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Hyderabad is one of the chief producers of natural pearls and is also a major contributor to the diamond trade, hence is referred to as the City of Pearls.
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With a height of 18 m and weight around 450 tons, this breath taking statue of Buddha is the biggest single rock statue in the world.
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Hyderabadi Biryani is a dish invented during the period of Nizam Rule and is made with rice, spices and chicken or goat. It is mainly of two types, raw and cooked. There are around 140 varieties of Hyderabadi Biryani.
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Kohinoor, a 105 karat priceless diamond is one of the most expensive diamonds in the world is believed to be mined here.
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The Salar Jung Museum is considered the best museum in Southern India. It has around 40,000 collections from all over the world.
Climate
Hyderabad experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, bordering on hot and semi-arid. The best time to visit Hyderabad is between the months of October and March. The winters in Hyderabad are cool and dry.
- October - March
