SEMI-LUXURY HOTELS
Hotel Green Park
Greenlands, Begumpet, Hyderabad
Tel: 91-040-23757575
Fax:91-040-23757677
email: hyd@hotelgreenpark.com
Web Site: www.hotelgreenpark.com
Status: 4 Star
3 Km from airport, 6 km from Secunderabad railway station, 148 well furnished rooms, 24 hours check out. Sight seeing tours on request. Secretarial services and business facilities. Travel assistance & car rental. Sight seeing tours on request. Data port in the room.
Tariff: Deluxe Single Rs.2200 & Double Rs.2650, Business Club Single Rs.2650 & Double Rs.3250, Junior Suites Rs.3450, Executive Suites Rs.4250 & Quality Suites Rs. 4450
Amrutha Castle
5-9-16, Saifabad,
Opposite Secretariat
Hyderabad - 500004
Tel: 91-040-55633888
Fax:91-040-55828222
email: amruthacastle@pol.net.in
Status: 4 Star
Hotel Amrutha Castle is situated right opposite the State Secretariat at Saifabad, it is about 20 minutes drive from the Hyderabad Airport. The significant landmarks en-route to Hotel Amrutha Castle are Somajiguda Circle, Necklace Road, British Library and the A.P. State Secretariat. The Hotel is about 6 kms from the Airport and a prepaid taxi from the Airport should cost you around Rs.200/-
Tariff : Rs. 2300 - Rs. 2800
Hotel Golconda
10-1-127, Masab Tank, Hyderabad-500 028
Tel: 91-040-23320202
Fax: 91-040-23320404
email: hotel_golconda@hotmail.com
Website: www.hotelgolconda.com
Status:3 Star
6.5 Km from Begumpet airport, 13 km from Secunderabad railway station, 157 Rooms, 18 Twin Single Rooms, 134 Executive Single Rooms, 2 Executive suites and 3 Deluxe suites.
Tariff: Executive Single Rs.2100 & Double Rs.2400, Executive Suite Rs.2700 and Deluxe Suites Rs. 2900.
Quality Inn Residency
Public Garden Road, Hyderabad
Tel: 91-040-23204060
Fax: 91-040-23204040
emails: reservation@theresidency-hyd.com
Status: 3 Star (Deluxe)
7 km from Begumpet airport, 8 km from Secunderabad railway station and bus station, 95 Rooms, 38 Deluxe Rooms, 36 Executive Club, 9 Junior Suites, 6 Executive Suites and 3 Residency Suites
Tariff: Deluxe Single Rs.1595 & Double Rs. 1995, Executive Club Single Rs. 1795 & 2195, Junior Suite Single Rs. 1995 & Double Rs. 2450, Qulaity Inn Suite Rs.3800 and Residency Suite Rs.3200
Fortune Katriya Hotel
8, Rajbhavan Road, Somajiguda
Tel: 91-040-23325678
Fax: 91-040-23344119
email: mail@fortunekatriya.com
Status: 3 Star
4.5 Km from Airport, 7 Km from Secunderabad Railway station, 144 beautifully appointed rooms including 108 Deluxe Rooms, 28 Fortune Club Rooms, 6 Deluxe Suites and 2 Club Suites, 24 hours Room Service, Doctor on call, Computerized check in /check out fully equipped business center with Internet access, Swimming Pool.
Tariff: Deluxe Single Room Rs.2800 & Double Rs.3300, Fortune Club Single Room Rs.3500 & Double Rs.3800, Deluxe Suites Rs.5000 (rates inclusive of Buffet Breakfast)
Baseraa Inn
5-9-30/16-20,
Opp Ghandhi Medical College
Basheerbagh, Hyderabad
Tel: 91-040-23236504
Fax: 91-040-23298855
email: reserve@baseraa.com
Website: www.baseraa.com
Status: 3 Star
7.5 Km from Begumpet airport 7Km from Secunderabad railway station and bus station. The hotel has 77 spacious and well appointment rooms. The other facilities include Multi-cuisine restaurant, Coffee shop, Ice Cream Parlour, and Pub. The hotel also offers Banqueting & Conference facilities.
Tariff: Standard Single Rs.1650, Deluxe Single Rs.2200, Superior Deluxe Single Rs.2500, Executive Single Rs.2800, Standard Double Rs.1850, Deluxe Double Rs.2700, Superior Deluxe Double Rs.3000, Executive Double Rs.3300, Presidential Suite Rs.5000
Hotel I K London Residency
6-3-656, Kapadia Lane, Somajiguda, Hyderabad
Tel: 91-040-55625555
Fax: 91-040-55759519
email: iklondonresidency@yahoo.com
Status: 3 Star
4.5 Km from airport, 8 Km from Secunderabad railway station, 24 hours check out time. Money Exchange facility, Health Club, Business Center, Airport and Railway Station transfer on request. Personalized valet and mini bars.
Hotel Rukmini Riviera
6-1-1062,
Lakdi ka pool, Hyderabad
Tel: 91-040-55785566
Fax: 91-040-55660631
email: hotelrukminiriviera@yahoo.co.in
Status: 3 Star
6 Km from airport, 8 Km from Secunderabad Railway Station, 24 hour check out, 70 rooms, No charges for children below 8 years
Tariff: Deluxe Room AC Rs.1110 (Single), Rs.1300 (Double)
Deluxe Room AC Rs.825 (Single), Rs.975 (Double)
Kamat Lingapur Hotel
1-10-44/2, Chikoti Gardens, Begumpet, Hyderabad-500 016
Tel: 91-040-27764242
Fax: 91-040-27765151
email: reserve@kamatlingapur.com
Website: www.kamatlingapur.com
Status: 3 Star
Barely a Km from Airport and 4 Km from Secunderabad Railway Station, 77 Rooms, 77 Seatre Multi Cuisine Vegetarian Restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, Continental and Hyderabadi Delicacies, Money Exchange, 24 hours Room Service.
Hotel Deccan Continental
Sir Ronal Ross Road,
Secunderabad-500003
Tel : +91-040-27840981/27819173/55260269
Fax: +91-040-27840980
email: hoteldeccan@satyamonline.com
Status: 3 Star
The hotel is very conveniently located — 1 km from the Rajiv Gandhi airport, 3 km from the Secunderabad railway station, and 1 km from the main shopping area of Secunderabad. It has a fine panoramic view of Hussain Sagar lake. It has 84 rooms well appointed rooms.
The hotel provides several facilities. The hotel has two restaurants: Black Stallion, an a la carte multi cuisine restaurant, and Bear Point, a multi-cuisine food and beverage outlet. The hotel is ideally suited for seminars, conventions, conferences, training programs and weddings.
Tariff: Rs.500 - Rs.1500
Aditya Park Inn
Aditya Trade Center,
Ameerpet, Hyderabad.
Tel : 55788888 55789999 (Fax)
E-Mail: adityaparkinn@vsnl.net
Website: www.sarovarparkplaza.com
Status: 3 Star
Aditya Park Inn International is strategically located at Ameerpet, Hyderabad's hub of activity and is approximately 3 km from the airport. The Hotel provides services as Concierge, Currency exchange, facilities for the physically challenged, laundry, Parking, Valet.
Aditya Hotel provides Banqueting business centre, Conference rooms and Meeting facilities. It also provides Recreational Facilities like Barber, Beauty salon, Gift/souvenir shop, Health and fitness center, Swimming pool.
It has air conditioned rooms with mini bar, Electronic safe, Electric kettle, Hair dryer, Internet connectivity, ISD/STD, Telephone, Bathtub, Rollaway bed/s, Cable TV, VCR.
Tariff : Rs. 2400 - Rs. 2800
Comfort Inn WoodBridge Hotel
11-4-94/C, AC guards, Lakdi ka pool
Hyderabad - 500004
Tel: 91-040-55510001 / 55510004
Fax: 91-040-55666111
email: wood_bridge@usa.net, wood_bridge@hotmail.com
Status: 3 Star
The Hotel Comfort Inn Woodbridge is located at Lakdi-ka-pul, Hyderabad and it’s about 5 Kms from the Airport. The main landmarks on enroute are Somajiguda Square, Punjagutta Square and Lakdi-ka-pul. Prepaid Taxis will charge you around Rs 250/- to the Hotel from the Airport.
Tariff : Rs. 1995 - Rs. 2300
Hotel Asrani International
1-7-179, M.G. Road,
Near Paradise Circle,
Secunderabad-500003,
Tel: 91-040-27846901
Fax: 91-040-27845583
Status: 3 Star
The 3 Star / Private Limited Company consists of total rooms-63, Double-63, (A/C),2 km. from Hyderabad Airport;1.5 km. from Secunderabad Railway Station;1 km. from Jubilee Bus Stand The Hotel provides the facilities of the Hotel Banquet Halls-2, Restaurants-2, Bar-2, Cuisine-Multi-cuisine
Tariff : Rs. 1000 - Rs. 1500
Hotel Tara
Ramoji Film City, Hayatnagar Mandal,
Anajpur Gramam, RR District-501512
Tel : +91-925-246444 / 925-246593 / 925-246424
email: rfcsales@hd2.dot.net.in
Status: 3 Star
Tara is a budget hotel where you experience uncompromising standards of service at an unbelievable price. The hotel's 126 rooms–glowing with understated elegance–are benevolent sanctuaries for refection and leisure. The hotel also has a Conference hall with desired seating arrangements.
Tariff: Rs.500 - Rs.1500
Hotel Ashoka
Beside Central Court, Lakdi ka Pool
Hyderabad.
Tel: 91-040-23230105 / 55510222
Fax: 91-040-55510220
Status: 3 Star
Hotel Ashoka is 3 star rating and consists of 90 rooms, it is situated in the heart of City. Hotel Ashoka is 11 kms. from Airport; 1/2 km. from Railway Station; 5 kms. from Central Bus Stand (M.G.B.S)
Tariff : Rs. 500 - Rs. 840
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Tulip Manohar
Tulip Manohar
Located at the centre of the city, Tulip Manohar offers matchless standards of luxury and comfort if given a try by any tourist visiting Hyderabad.
With 135 sound-proof rooms, and an exclusive Executive Club Floor for the corporate business traveler, the hotel is situated adjacent to the airport exit road.
Address: Adjacent to Airport Exit Road, Begumpet, Hyderabad - 500 016.
Phone: 91-40-2790 3333
Tariff: Standard Single Rs.2900 & Double Rs.3100, Executive Club Single Rs.3500 & Double Rs.3750, Junior Suites Single Rs.4500 & Double Rs.5250, Deluxe Suites Single Rs.5250 & Double Rs.5950 and Presidential Suites Rs.11000
Hotel Viceroy
Hotel Viceroy
Viceroy is a sophisticated new generation award winning hotel. Placed amidst a unique and picturesque precinct, it is an architectural masterpiece with majestic appeal spruced with lush greenery, tranquil fountains and is bestowed with an enchanting view of Lord Buddha in the Hussain Sagar Lake.
Endowed with these distinctions and facilities it is a premium business hotel with paramount concern for hospitality. Situated 3 km away from the airport, it offers 180 well appointed rooms and suites.
Address: Opp. Hussain Sagar Lake Tank Bund Road, Hyderabad 500080
Phone: +91-40-27538383
Url: www.viceroyhotels.com
Tariff: Deluxe Single Rs.2500 & Double Rs.2900, Lake View Single Rs.2800 & Double Rs.3200, Executive Business Rooms Single Rs.3600 & Double Rs.4000 Deluxe Suites Rs.3900 and Corporate Club Suites Rs.4900
ITC Hotel Kakatiya Sheraton & Towers, Hyderabad
ITC Hotel Kakatiya Sheraton & Towers, Hyderabad
Located in the new commercial hub of the city, in Begumpet, the hotel is easily accessible from both Secunderabad and Hyderabad and is 3 km from the airport.
The hotel offers 188 rooms, including suites with an exclusive world where you can experience the finest in hospitality and personalized service in an atmosphere of gracious elegance.
Address: 6-3-1187, Begumpet, Hyderabad 500016
Tel: 91-40-23400132
URl: www.welcomgroup.com
Tariff: Corporate Room Rs. 4500, Executive Club Rs. 5500, Sherton Towers Rs.7500, Club Suites Rs. 10000, Luxury Suites Rs. 20000
Taj Residency
Taj Residency
Located in Hyderabad's elite Banjara Hills, this elegant hotel offers a welcome respite for both leisure and business travellers alike.
Spread over six acres of landscaped gardens, it is conveniently located 6 km from the airport and offers 140 comfortable and spacious rooms including 5 suites
Address: Road No. 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad - 500 034
Tel: 91-40-23393939
URl: www.tajhotels.com
Email: residency.hyderabad@tajhotels.com
Tariff: Standard Single Rs. 3400 & Double Rs. 3900, Residency Room Single Rs. 4200 & Double Rs. 4700, Executive Suites Rs. 8000 & Deluxe Suites Rs. 9500
Taj Krishna
Taj Krishna
RAn architectural masterpiece, Taj Krishna offers a grand staircase, marble pillars, and ornately carved décor that wraps the guests in opulent luxury. The guests can flick of the luxurious comfort in any of the 260 rooms and suites.
Strategically located close to the business and shopping areas of Hyderabad and 7 kms from airport, the hotel rooms offer views of tourist attractions in Hyderabad like Hussain Sagar Lake and the Golconda Fort.
Address: Road No. 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad - 500 034
Tel: 91-40-55662323
URl: www.tajhotels.com
Email: krishna.hyderabad@tajhotels.com
Tariff: Superior Single Rs.5000 & Double Rs.6000, Deluxe Single Rs.5500 & Double Rs. 6500, Taj Club Single Rs.7500 & Double Rs.8750, Executive Suites Rs.10000, Deluxe Suites Rs.14000, Luxury Suites Rs.20000 & Presidential Suite Rs.30000
Luxury hotel - Taj Banjara
Luxury Hotels
Taj Banjara
Situated in Banjara Hills, overlooking its own private lake, this hotel offers tranquil relaxation, spacious comfort and excellent amenities. The hotel offers 118 comfortable and spacious rooms including 8 suites.
The hotel is just a 10-minute drive from the bustling business and shopping districts and 7 kms from the airport.
Address: Road No. 1, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad - 500 034
Tel: 91-40-55669999
URL: www.tajhotels.com
Email: banjara.hyderabad@tajhotels.com
Tariff: Standard Single Rs. 3400 & Double Rs. 3900, Residency Room Single Rs. 3900 & Double Rs. 4400, Executive Suites Rs. 8000, Deluxe Suites Rs. 9500 & Presidential Suites Rs. 13000
Dhola-Ri-Dhani
Dhola-Ri-Dhani
You must be aware that M/s.Gupta's Hotel & Motels have created "An Ethnic Rajasthani Village" at Kompally on Medchal Highway under the banner of "DHOLA-RI-DHANI" just 11km away from Secunderabad.
The Majestic entrance opens the door to a word of folk love and
culture, an Ethnic fantasy a culmination of the images and dreams of a visitors to experience the true Rajasthani life style. In the evening
the whole village is lit up with 2000 lanterns and village fair goes on
with complete zest.
We also have some unique attractions like Boating, Came/Horse ride,
Puppet show,Rajasthani folk, music and dances along with Disco & Rain dance and not to forget we also have a beautifully laid out Swimming pool to splash off the days heat in style. It is also the corporate suitable structure with the floating public of nearly 550/600 per day and in the weekend upto 1000 and above. You can make every celebration work for you. From get away to get-together, private parties to corporate seminars,Jagrans to dinner, Kitty parties to AGM(S).
The conference Hall by the name 'Tabshila','Sangri', 'Athithi' can
easily accommodate 250/300 people with complete accessories like
Microphone, Podium, Projectors, Carousel, Slide, Overhead screen, with VCR music channel and special lights. We also specialize in holding religious festivals, wedding ceremonies, Jagrans,Poojas, Birthday parties and also theme based programs can be organized. Being an Ideal tourist spot, no wonder that the place is being visited by many people and is also a major locate for film shooting. So come, relish, explore, enjoy and celebrate the centuries old tradition with pride and in style of its own.
Introducing Dhola-ri-Dhani to explore the concept of 'Film Shooting'.
Dhola-ri-Dhani is an ideal place for film shooting too. We have perfect settings with beautiful locations as required for a good film. Many super hit films like Kanyadanam, Sivayya, Suryavansham, Chandralekha etc. people and is also a major locate for film shooting.
Contact Address
Dhola-ri-Dhani
Ethnic Rajasthani Village,
Kompally Village, Medchal Road
(11kms. from Secunderabad),
You must be aware that M/s.Gupta's Hotel & Motels have created "An Ethnic Rajasthani Village" at Kompally on Medchal Highway under the banner of "DHOLA-RI-DHANI" just 11km away from Secunderabad.
The Majestic entrance opens the door to a word of folk love and
culture, an Ethnic fantasy a culmination of the images and dreams of a visitors to experience the true Rajasthani life style. In the evening
the whole village is lit up with 2000 lanterns and village fair goes on
with complete zest.
We also have some unique attractions like Boating, Came/Horse ride,
Puppet show,Rajasthani folk, music and dances along with Disco & Rain dance and not to forget we also have a beautifully laid out Swimming pool to splash off the days heat in style. It is also the corporate suitable structure with the floating public of nearly 550/600 per day and in the weekend upto 1000 and above. You can make every celebration work for you. From get away to get-together, private parties to corporate seminars,Jagrans to dinner, Kitty parties to AGM(S).
The conference Hall by the name 'Tabshila','Sangri', 'Athithi' can
easily accommodate 250/300 people with complete accessories like
Microphone, Podium, Projectors, Carousel, Slide, Overhead screen, with VCR music channel and special lights. We also specialize in holding religious festivals, wedding ceremonies, Jagrans,Poojas, Birthday parties and also theme based programs can be organized. Being an Ideal tourist spot, no wonder that the place is being visited by many people and is also a major locate for film shooting. So come, relish, explore, enjoy and celebrate the centuries old tradition with pride and in style of its own.
Introducing Dhola-ri-Dhani to explore the concept of 'Film Shooting'.
Dhola-ri-Dhani is an ideal place for film shooting too. We have perfect settings with beautiful locations as required for a good film. Many super hit films like Kanyadanam, Sivayya, Suryavansham, Chandralekha etc. people and is also a major locate for film shooting.
Contact Address
Dhola-ri-Dhani
Ethnic Rajasthani Village,
Kompally Village, Medchal Road
(11kms. from Secunderabad),
Ramoji Film City
Ramoji Film City
The largest, most comprehensive and professionally planned film production center in the world - the Ramoji Film City is one of its kinds. It has surpassed the size and facilities offered at the Universal Studios of Hollywood. Located at an hour's distance from Hyderabad, the 10,000 million rupees Film City spreads over an area of more than 1000 acres. A cursory glance at this fantasy world is enough to leave the visitors speechless and awe-struck. Tastefully landscaped, meticulously maintained, exquisitely designed with palace-like edifices, temples, beautiful rock figurines, shopping arcades, railway station, airport and all that a producer can dream of! All a producer has to do is - enter the film city with the script and the cast and leave with the completed film reel!!
Prior permission is required to visit the Ramoji Film City. Visitors have to arrange a private mode of transport to reach the Film City. The visiting charges are as follows:
On Week Days
Rs. 600 for adults and Rs. 300 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 5-Star Hotel Sitara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
Rs. 400 for adults and Rs. 200 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 3-Star Hotel Tara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
On Weekends
Rs. 750 for adults and Rs. 375 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 5-Star Hotel Sitara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
Rs. 550 for adults and Rs. 275 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 3-Star Hotel Tara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
Package Offer
One Day Stay at 5-Star Hotel Sitara for 2 persons: Rs. 4800 (Food allowance upto Rs. 1000)
One Day Stay at 3-Star Hotel Tara for 2 persons: Rs. 1890 (Food allowance upto Rs. 600)
Down in the clouds
Cinema: A hundred films can be shot
at a time in Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad
RENJI KURIAKOSE in Hyderabad
You can prance in the Alps if you wish or sip ceremonial tea outside a Japanese temple. You can hop from Dharavi, Asia's biggest slum, to Nagpur railway station in a jiffy. The spread of 1,000 acres caters to every whim. Gardens, temples, sprawling countryside, a fort, hotels, city streets, railway stations, a palace, an airport, a mobile kitchen... you name it and it's there.
An instant palace, crafted by skilled artisans
Ramoji Film City, 45 km from Hyderabad, is every film unit's dream come true. The 40 studio floors, a fully-equipped prop shop, a set design and construction division, state-of-the-art equipment, experienced production staff, and hi-tech digital editing, dubbing and sound-recording facility, along with luxury hotels, became functional in September.
There was no inaugural function, only a visit by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on September 9. The shooting of a Telugu film starring Srikanth and Simran, commenced the next day. The Film City has the capacity to shoot 100 films at a time and its target customers are Hindi and Telugu producers. Crores have been invested for packing excellence under one roof.
The unique selling point of the Film City is its capacity to rebuild any place for a shoot. This ensures that no location will become jaded from repeated exposure. You have a vast choice of flexible locations, typical as well as spontaneous.
You can choreograph song sequences in any or all of the gardens and later change the look of the fountain, the layout of the street, the facades of the buildings in the streets or the shape of the multi-dimensional pond to create a totally different locale.
The sets (a street corner at right) can be remodelled to resemble something else at short notice
"A producer can walk in with a script and walk out with the canned film," said media baron Ramoji Rao, the producer and director of this spectacular project. "The idea is to save time, energy and resources and focus on creative excellence, executional quality, economical schedules and meticulous planning."
The chairman of the Eenadu-Margadarshi group, Rao chose Nitish Roy as the creative director of the Film City. The national award-winning art director has worked for directors like Shaym Benegal, Mrinal Sen, Govind Nilhani, Rajkumar Santoshi and Vinod Chopra, besides 5,000 ad films and television serials like Discovery of India, Chanakya and Mirza Ghalib.
John Flynn and Sam Toyoshima of the Acoustics Design Group form the other members of the core team. Assisting them is Dr A. Appa Rao, former vice-chancellor of Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University, who has been involved in the landscaping, designing and layout of the 150 exotically-endowed gardens in the Film City.
The meticulously maintained gardens offer a vast, varied and fantastic canvas for films. A filmmaker can recreate an English or a Japanese garden or create his own floral pattern mid-song to suit the heroine's costume. Besides, there is a nursery with tens of thousands of flowering plants from all over the world to take care of floral backdrops. All for a price, of course.
Everything is not make-believe. The Film City boasts of a five-star hotel, Sitara, which comes with all amenities, restaurants, pool, gym and business centre. There is also a three-star hotel, Tara, and for those who would rather opt out of a hotel, there are dormitories well equipped to accommodate even the largest of crews. A special office complex, Samra, houses well-appointed offices and air-conditioned cabins for producers.
There are 40 studio floors of varying sizes, as small as 20 x 30 feet and as large as 135 x 210 feet, and most are adaptable enough for filmmakers to create the settings of their choice. In the workshops of the Film City, over a thousand skilled carpenters, moulders and sculptors help art directors create truly authentic and unique sets.Using wood, fibreglass and plaster of paris, these craftsmen have already created thousands of objets d'art in styles ranging from ancient Greek to Renaissance and ancient Indian to modern and abstract.
The name of prop supply division is 'Parade'. This six-storey structure houses costumes, jewellery, furniture and appliances. Parade's inventory runs into hundreds of categories with an amazing variety of objects, from flutes and fishing rods, Belgian crystal and bullockcarts to hammocks and horse saddles.
The furniture division, 'Harmony', has a pool of designers and carpenters who conjure up traditional Indian or pseudo Chippendale furniture, a Swiss chalet or a mahogany panelled boardroom.
Since the locations scattered over a vast area, the Film City has conveniently provided over 250 make-up rooms at various spots. "You can choose between air-conditioned deluxe rooms and economy ones, each one well-lit and comfortably fitted to provide the relaxed environment your unit needs," said Roy. "Or if your shoot so demands you can even use one of the mobile make-up rooms."
During production and post-production the Film City, which employs 5,000-odd people, can support filmmakers with its own experienced staff of spot boys, electricians, carpenters and painters, even dancers and extras.The filmmakers can also draw an army of editors, recordists, musicians and sound technicians, film editors, Beta editors and dubbing artistes in the City to ensure that post-production runs smoothly.
Besides raw stock and tapes, a complete range of lights, a choice of film cameras, cranes, dollies, booms and whatever else filmmakers need are available on the studio floor and on outdoor locations. The Film City claims to have the country's most advanced processing system, high-quality wet and dry printers and a high-speed inspection station that allows rapid optical sound track checking.
Designed by Acoustics Design Group, a well-known name in the field, the Film City will provide a fully-integrated digital environment for the entire audio post-production process, from dialogue replacement to final mix down. It is equipped with a recording theatre with acoustics that comfortably surpass Dolby and THX standards.
Besides basics like convenient modes of transport and telephones for quick communication, the Film City's huge kitchens are equipped to cook for 2,000 people at a time. Moreover, the City has made provisions to take care of between-meal demands through mobile refreshment vans.The Film City's infrastructure includes its own power sub-station, telephone exchange and post-office. There is an in-house travel agency to look after ticketing, airport pickups, car hiring and other requirements. In case a filmmaker faces a temporary fund problem, the Film City's exclusive financing service can help him out.
It is a self-contained world, perhaps the first of its kind. And it hopes to invigorate the Indian film industry and help produce some of the finest films of our times. Now, how's that for focus.
The largest, most comprehensive and professionally planned film production center in the world - the Ramoji Film City is one of its kinds. It has surpassed the size and facilities offered at the Universal Studios of Hollywood. Located at an hour's distance from Hyderabad, the 10,000 million rupees Film City spreads over an area of more than 1000 acres. A cursory glance at this fantasy world is enough to leave the visitors speechless and awe-struck. Tastefully landscaped, meticulously maintained, exquisitely designed with palace-like edifices, temples, beautiful rock figurines, shopping arcades, railway station, airport and all that a producer can dream of! All a producer has to do is - enter the film city with the script and the cast and leave with the completed film reel!!
Prior permission is required to visit the Ramoji Film City. Visitors have to arrange a private mode of transport to reach the Film City. The visiting charges are as follows:
On Week Days
Rs. 600 for adults and Rs. 300 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 5-Star Hotel Sitara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
Rs. 400 for adults and Rs. 200 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 3-Star Hotel Tara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
On Weekends
Rs. 750 for adults and Rs. 375 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 5-Star Hotel Sitara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
Rs. 550 for adults and Rs. 275 for children between 5 and 10 yrs., per day.
(Inclusive of breakfast and lunch at the 3-Star Hotel Tara plus 3-4 hrs. of sightseeing.)
Package Offer
One Day Stay at 5-Star Hotel Sitara for 2 persons: Rs. 4800 (Food allowance upto Rs. 1000)
One Day Stay at 3-Star Hotel Tara for 2 persons: Rs. 1890 (Food allowance upto Rs. 600)
Down in the clouds
Cinema: A hundred films can be shot
at a time in Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad
RENJI KURIAKOSE in Hyderabad
You can prance in the Alps if you wish or sip ceremonial tea outside a Japanese temple. You can hop from Dharavi, Asia's biggest slum, to Nagpur railway station in a jiffy. The spread of 1,000 acres caters to every whim. Gardens, temples, sprawling countryside, a fort, hotels, city streets, railway stations, a palace, an airport, a mobile kitchen... you name it and it's there.
An instant palace, crafted by skilled artisans
Ramoji Film City, 45 km from Hyderabad, is every film unit's dream come true. The 40 studio floors, a fully-equipped prop shop, a set design and construction division, state-of-the-art equipment, experienced production staff, and hi-tech digital editing, dubbing and sound-recording facility, along with luxury hotels, became functional in September.
There was no inaugural function, only a visit by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on September 9. The shooting of a Telugu film starring Srikanth and Simran, commenced the next day. The Film City has the capacity to shoot 100 films at a time and its target customers are Hindi and Telugu producers. Crores have been invested for packing excellence under one roof.
The unique selling point of the Film City is its capacity to rebuild any place for a shoot. This ensures that no location will become jaded from repeated exposure. You have a vast choice of flexible locations, typical as well as spontaneous.
You can choreograph song sequences in any or all of the gardens and later change the look of the fountain, the layout of the street, the facades of the buildings in the streets or the shape of the multi-dimensional pond to create a totally different locale.
The sets (a street corner at right) can be remodelled to resemble something else at short notice
"A producer can walk in with a script and walk out with the canned film," said media baron Ramoji Rao, the producer and director of this spectacular project. "The idea is to save time, energy and resources and focus on creative excellence, executional quality, economical schedules and meticulous planning."
The chairman of the Eenadu-Margadarshi group, Rao chose Nitish Roy as the creative director of the Film City. The national award-winning art director has worked for directors like Shaym Benegal, Mrinal Sen, Govind Nilhani, Rajkumar Santoshi and Vinod Chopra, besides 5,000 ad films and television serials like Discovery of India, Chanakya and Mirza Ghalib.
John Flynn and Sam Toyoshima of the Acoustics Design Group form the other members of the core team. Assisting them is Dr A. Appa Rao, former vice-chancellor of Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University, who has been involved in the landscaping, designing and layout of the 150 exotically-endowed gardens in the Film City.
The meticulously maintained gardens offer a vast, varied and fantastic canvas for films. A filmmaker can recreate an English or a Japanese garden or create his own floral pattern mid-song to suit the heroine's costume. Besides, there is a nursery with tens of thousands of flowering plants from all over the world to take care of floral backdrops. All for a price, of course.
Everything is not make-believe. The Film City boasts of a five-star hotel, Sitara, which comes with all amenities, restaurants, pool, gym and business centre. There is also a three-star hotel, Tara, and for those who would rather opt out of a hotel, there are dormitories well equipped to accommodate even the largest of crews. A special office complex, Samra, houses well-appointed offices and air-conditioned cabins for producers.
There are 40 studio floors of varying sizes, as small as 20 x 30 feet and as large as 135 x 210 feet, and most are adaptable enough for filmmakers to create the settings of their choice. In the workshops of the Film City, over a thousand skilled carpenters, moulders and sculptors help art directors create truly authentic and unique sets.Using wood, fibreglass and plaster of paris, these craftsmen have already created thousands of objets d'art in styles ranging from ancient Greek to Renaissance and ancient Indian to modern and abstract.
The name of prop supply division is 'Parade'. This six-storey structure houses costumes, jewellery, furniture and appliances. Parade's inventory runs into hundreds of categories with an amazing variety of objects, from flutes and fishing rods, Belgian crystal and bullockcarts to hammocks and horse saddles.
The furniture division, 'Harmony', has a pool of designers and carpenters who conjure up traditional Indian or pseudo Chippendale furniture, a Swiss chalet or a mahogany panelled boardroom.
Since the locations scattered over a vast area, the Film City has conveniently provided over 250 make-up rooms at various spots. "You can choose between air-conditioned deluxe rooms and economy ones, each one well-lit and comfortably fitted to provide the relaxed environment your unit needs," said Roy. "Or if your shoot so demands you can even use one of the mobile make-up rooms."
During production and post-production the Film City, which employs 5,000-odd people, can support filmmakers with its own experienced staff of spot boys, electricians, carpenters and painters, even dancers and extras.The filmmakers can also draw an army of editors, recordists, musicians and sound technicians, film editors, Beta editors and dubbing artistes in the City to ensure that post-production runs smoothly.
Besides raw stock and tapes, a complete range of lights, a choice of film cameras, cranes, dollies, booms and whatever else filmmakers need are available on the studio floor and on outdoor locations. The Film City claims to have the country's most advanced processing system, high-quality wet and dry printers and a high-speed inspection station that allows rapid optical sound track checking.
Designed by Acoustics Design Group, a well-known name in the field, the Film City will provide a fully-integrated digital environment for the entire audio post-production process, from dialogue replacement to final mix down. It is equipped with a recording theatre with acoustics that comfortably surpass Dolby and THX standards.
Besides basics like convenient modes of transport and telephones for quick communication, the Film City's huge kitchens are equipped to cook for 2,000 people at a time. Moreover, the City has made provisions to take care of between-meal demands through mobile refreshment vans.The Film City's infrastructure includes its own power sub-station, telephone exchange and post-office. There is an in-house travel agency to look after ticketing, airport pickups, car hiring and other requirements. In case a filmmaker faces a temporary fund problem, the Film City's exclusive financing service can help him out.
It is a self-contained world, perhaps the first of its kind. And it hopes to invigorate the Indian film industry and help produce some of the finest films of our times. Now, how's that for focus.
Nehru Zoological Park
Nehru Zoological Park
Sprawling across 300 lush green acres, the Nehru Zoological park is one of the biggest zoos in Asia with over 250 species. 2450 animals and birds are kept in natural environment. The lion safari park, the first in Asia, natural history museum, pre-historical animals park, nocturnal birds, a children park with a train ride are other impressive sights. It's special sections and amusement facilities are a popular draw.
Gandipet
Osman Sagar
The Osman Sagar lake lies a few kilometers from the Biradari (Pavilion) of Taramati, a famous dancer of the Qutub Shahi era. The lake is 29 sq kms in area and constitutes the major source of water supply to the city of Hyderabad. It is bordered by parks and grass on all sides and makes for a pleasant picnic spot. Popularly known as Gandipet, is bordered by a landscaped park. The resort facilities offered close by make for a pleasant stay with family or friends.
Hussain Sagar
Hussain Sagar
Hussain Sagar is a large lake in the midst of the city and was constructed in 1562 A.D. The Tank Bund links the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The broad road on the bund is lined with lawns and 33 statues of famous personalities of the State stand along the bund of the lake. The well laid out Lumbini park located in the Buddha Purnima project has a musical fountain.
Buddha Statue at the Hussain Sagar :
The 16 meter tall, 350 tone monolithic colossus rises high from the placid waters of the picturesque Hussain Sagar lake. The statue of Lord Buddha is placed on the rock of Gibraltar in the middle of the Lake.
Birla Mandir
Birla Mandir
Hyderabad reflects a synthesis of varied cultures. It presents a beautiful blend of the northern and southern styles of architecture. One such marvelous edifice is the Birla Mandir. An enchanting temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the Birla Mandir stands in all its grandeur on the hilltop of Kalapahad. Made of pure white marble from Rajasthan, the Birla Mandir overlooks the serene and placid waters of the Hussain Sagar lake. The magnificent shrine offers a fantastic panoramic view of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. The intricate carvings of the temple, the ceiling and the mythological figures are a standing testimony to the dexterity and sculptural excellence of the craftsmen. Beautiful scenes from the great epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata are finely sculpted in marble.
A number of lofty steps lead the visitor to the sanctum sanctorum. Along the winding path are many a marble statue of gods and goddesses of Hindu mythology located in the midst of verdant gardens, full of blossoms. The Birla Mandir presents a colorful spectacular sight when illuminated at night. The temple is open for visitors from 7 a.m. to 12 noon and 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. all days of the week.
A trip to Hyderabad remains incomplete without a visit to the enchanting Birla Mandir !!
Mecca Masjid
Mecca Masjid
This principal mosque stands 100 yards Southwest of the Charminar. The mosque is said to comprise bricks brought from Mecca built into the central arch, hence the name. The five arched facades were carved out of a single piece of granite, a stone which took five years to quarry. The courtyard houses a large pond flanked by two stone and slab seats. Legend has it that a visitor who sits on one of these seats will definitely return to Hyderabad. A room in the courtyard is said to contain sacred relics, one of which is the hair of Prophet Muhammad.
The construction of the Mecca Masjid was begun under the orders of Sultan Quli Qutub Shah in 1617 and was completed in 1694 under direct orders of Emperor Aurangazeb. The mosque is one of the largest in the country and can accommodate ten thousand people at one time. It is the biggest mosque in Hyderabad and is adjacent to Charminar just across the road. The constructions of this mosque was started by Sultan Muhammad Qutub Shah, The work continued during the reign of Abdullah Qutub Shah and Abul Hassan Tana Shah and was completed in 1694 by the Moghal Emperor Aurangzeb.
The hall of the mosque is about 75 feet high, 220 feet wide and 180 feet long, Each of the two octagonal columns on either side are made out of a single piece of granite, It took about 8000 Masons and laborers and 77 years to complete.
It is said that when the foundation stone was being laid, Sultan Muhammad Qutub Shah invited all the pious religious elders of
the city. It was announced that the king wanted the foundation stone to be laid by one who had never missed his prayers. None
came forward, therefore Sultan Muhammad himself laid the foundation for he had never missed even his midnight prayer since
the age of 12.
Salarjung Museum
Salarjung Museum
Salarjung Museum the single largest one- man collections of the world. If this one-man had not chosen to remain a bachelor the world would have been bereft of one of the greatest collection of antiques. We are talking about art objects collected by Yusuf Ali Salar Jung, the prime minister to the Nizam. Though Salar Jung III is credited with this fantastic collections, it all started with his father and grandfather.
In 1912, at the age of 23 he became the prime minister to Nizam, but resigned two and a half years later. Thereafter, antiques and art were the only passions in his lonely life. Besides of course patronizing poets, artists and sportsmen.
Salarjung had passion for the rarest of antiques and interesting bric-a-brac. It is believed that he spent half his income and his entire life towards collecting the art objects, rare manuscripts and paintings from all over the world. No wonder more than 40,000 of them are housed in the famous Salarjung museum located in old city area in Hyderabad.
He collected sculptures, wood carvings, religious objects, swords, daggers, armours, manuscripts, furniture, vases, snuff boxes, utensils, archer’s rings, ornaments, pottery, clocks, miniature paintings, portraits, silver, costumes and even toys !!
And they came from all over the world, France, England, Switzerland, Germany, Persia, China, Japan, Burma, Sri Lanka. The artifacts were originally in Diwan Devdi his residence. It was shifted to the present building in 1968 and declared an "institution of national importance" by an act of parliament in 1961.
The highlights in the museum include the "veiled Rebecca", "Mestophiles" and "the Lady with the lamp". In the jade room one can see the swords, daggers and the clothing of the Mughal emperors and of Tipu Sultan. The clock room is one of the best galleries with a collection of more than 300 clocks and the famous musical clock with a toy figure of watchman, who pushes open the door every hour in a great hurry, to beat the melodious gong.
If you are visiting Hyderabad it will be truly incomplete if you do not visit this simple building on the banks of Musi river.
Qutub Shahi Tombs
Quite close to the Golconda fort are the tombs of the seven Qutub Shahi rulers in the Ibrahim Bagh.
The galleries of the smaller tombs are of a single story while the larger ones are two storied. In the center of each tomb is a sarcophagus which overlies the actual burial vault in a crypt below. The domes were originally overlaid with blue and green tiles, of which only a few pieces now remain.
The tombs are domed structures built on a square base surrounded by pointed arches. The mausoleums of the Sultans of Golconda, the founding rulers of Hyderabad are truly magnificent monuments that have stood the test of time and braved the elements. They lie about a kilometer north of the outer perimeter wall of Golconda Fort's Banjara Darwaza amidst the Ibrahim bagh.
The tombs form a large cluster and stand on a raised platform. They display a distinctive style, a mixture of Persian, Pathan and Hindu forms. The tombs are graceful structures with intricately carved stonework and are surrounded by landscaped gardens.
The tombs were once furnished with carpets, chandeliers and velvet canopies on silver poles. Qurans were kept on supports and readers recited verses from the holy book at regular intervals. Golden spires were fitted over the tombs of the Sultans to distinguish their tombs from those of other members of the royal family.
During the Qutub Shahi period, these tombs were held in such great veneration that criminals who took refuge there were granted pardon. But after their reign, the tombs were neglected, till Sir Salar Jung III ordered their restoration in the early 19th century. A pretty garden was laid out, and a compound wall built. And, once again, the tomb-garden of the Qutub Shahi family became a place of serene beauty. All, except the last, of the Qutub Shahi monarchs lie buried here.
Sultan Quli's tomb, the style of which set the example for the tombs of his descendants, is situated on an elevated terrace measuring 30 m each way. The tomb chamber proper is octagonal, with each side measuring around 10 m. The whole structure is crowned by a circular dome. There are three graves in this tomb chamber and 21 on the terrace outside, all uninscribed, except for the main tomb. The inscription on Sultan Quli's tomb is in three bands, in the Naskh and Tauq scripts. The inscription refers to Sultan Quli as Bada Malik (The
Great Master) - the endearing term by which all people of the Deccan used to refer to him. The tomb was built in 1543 A.D. by the Sultan, during his lifetime itself, as was the prevalent custom.
Near the tomb of Sultan Quli is that of his son, Jamshed, the second in the line of Qutub Shahi kings. Built in 1550 A.D., this is the only Qutub Shahi tomb which has not been fashioned from shining black basalt. Its appearance too, is quite unlike the other tombs in the garden - it rises gracefully in two stories, unlike the squat tombs of the other kings. Jamshed's is also only tomb of a Qutub Shahi ruler without any inscriptions; of course, Jamshed's son, Subhan Quli's tomb too does not have any inscriptions. But Subhan Quli ruled for too short a while to really matter. Subhan's tomb stands mid-way between the tombs of his father and grandfather. He was popularly called Chhote Malik (small master).
Sultan lbrahim's-tomb, built in 1580, after his death, is slightly larger than Sultan Quli's tomb. Traces of the enameled tiles ,which once adorned this mausoleum can still be seen on the southern wall. The tomb has two graves in the main chamber and 16 graves on the terrace, some of them probably those of his six sons and three, daughters. There are inscriptions in the Thulth script on all faces of the sarcophagus. It is interesting to note that the three famous calligraphists - Isphalan, Ismail and Taqiuddiii Muhammad Salih - who left a store of Naskh, Tulth and Nastaliq inscriptions on the many Qutub Shahi edifices in the city, were all contemporaries of Ibrahim Shah.
Sultan Muhammad Quli's mausoleum is, by far, the grandest of the Qutub Shahi tombs. Built in 1602 A.D., the tomb is situated on a terrace 65 m square and 4 m high. A flight of steps leads to the mausoleum proper, which is 22 m square on the outside and 11 m square on the inside. There are entrances on the southern and eastern sides. The tomb itself is situated in a vault below the terrace. Inscriptions in Persian and the Naskh scripts decorate the tomb.
Another grand mausoleum is that of the sixth Sultan, Mohanunad Qutub Shah. The facade of this tomb was once decorated with enameled tiles, only traces of which are now evident. There are six graves altogether in this tomb and inscriptions in Tulth and Naskh. The mausoleum was built in 1626. Sultan Abdullah's tomb is the last of the royal tombs, as Abdul Hasaii (Taiia Sliah), the last Qutub Stlafii king, was a prisoner in the Ciiini Mahal in the fortress of Daulatabad, near Aurangabad, when he died.
While the tombs of those who ruled dominate the area, interspersed are many other monuments too, most of them tombs of other members of the Royal family.
The tomb of Fatima Sultan, with its bulbuous dome, is near the entrance to the tomb-garden. Fatima was the sister of Mohammad Qutub Shah. Her tomb houses several graves, two of them with inscriptions. Immediately to the south of Muhammed Qul's tomb are three uninscribed tombs There are the mausoleums of Kulthoom, Mohammad Qutub Shahi's grand-daughter born of be son of The Sultan's favourite wife, Khurshid Bibi, her (Kulthoom's) husband and daughter. Kulthoom's Tomb- is one on the west of this cluster.
The twin-tombs of the two favouritc hakims (physicians) ot'Sultan Abdullah-Nizamuddin Ahamad Gilani and Abdul Jabbar Gilani - were built in 1651. They are among the few Qutub Shahi tombs that are not of Royalty.
Another pair of tombs are those of Premamati and Taramati - the favourites of Sultan Abdullah Shah. These lively beauties, who are believed to have once danced on ropes tied between their pavilion and Abdullah's palace, were laid to rest beside the tomb of their patron. One other tomb which is not that of a Qutub Shahi family member is the tomb of Neknam Khan. Neknam Khan, who served in Abdullah's army, was the commander-in-chief of the Carnatic.
Talboys Wheeler, in his book Madras in the Olden Times,records that the cowle (contract) handing over Madraspattnam to the British, was obtained from Nekam Khan, after the Raja of Chandragiri - whose property Madraspattnam was had fled. His tomb is situated on a platform outside the mausoleum of Ibrahim Qutub Shah. It was built in 1672, two years after the death of Nekam Khan.
The mausoleum which Abdul Hasan, the last Qutub Shahi Sultan, began building for himself, actually houses the grave of Mir Ahmad, the son born of Sultan Abdullah's son-in-law's relationship with the sister of Abbas II Safair, the Shah of Persia. The tomb of Fadma Khanum, one of Sultan Abdullah's daughters, stands near the mausoleum of her husband, Mir Ahamad. Hers is the only Qutub Shahi tomb not surmounted by a dome.
To the west of the tombs lies the dargah of Husain Shah Wali, the revered Sufi Saint, He is affectionately remembered by people of all faiths as the builder of Husain Sagar in 1562. Among other monuments in the garden, that are not tombs, the most important are the Mortuary Bath and the Mosque of Hayat Bakshi Begum.
The Mortuary Bath, which stands opposite the tomb of Muhammad Quli, was built by Sultan Quli to facilitate the ritual washing of the bodies of the dead kings and others of the Royal Family before they were carried to their final resting place. The practice followed was to bring the body out of the fort, through the Banjara Gate, to this bath, before carrying it away for burial with the ritualistic pomp that was required to mark the occasion. A large number of people, fond subjects, friends and relatives attended. The bath itself is one of the finest existing specimens of ancient Persian or Turkish baths.
The Qutub Shahis built a number of mosques all over Golconda and Hyderabad, and almost every tomb has a mosque adjacent. The biggest and the grandest such mosque is by the mausoleum of Hayat Bakshi Begum. Popularly known as the great mosque of the Golconda tombs, it was built in 1666 A.D. Fifteen cupolas decorate the roof and the prayer-hall is flanked by two lofty minarets. The impression, as a whole, is one of majesty and splendour. The inscriptions in the mosque are master-pieces of calligraphic art.
Hayath Bakshi Begum was the daughter of Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth king, the wife of the sixth king, Sultan Muhammad Qutub Shah and the mother of Abdullah Quli Qutub Shah, the seventh king. Affectionately known as 'Ma Saheba' (Revered Mother), she was guide and mentor to all three kings. Several monuments survive in her memory in and around Hyderabad. Hayath Nagar Palace (16 kms. east of Hyderabad), where the ceremony of Sultan Abdullah Qutub Shah's first shave was celebrated with pomp and grandeur for twelve days, the Rayath Nagar Mosque which bears testimony to the greatness of Qutub Shahi architecture, the Caravan Sarai (or the Sarai of Ma Saheba), (sarai or rest house - was a
combination of a waterhole and oasis for weary travellers) comprising several hundred rooms intended for the use of travellers, and Ma Saheba Tank, enroute to Golconda. The tomb-garden of the Kings of Golconda was known as Lagar-e-Faiz Athar (a place for bountiful
entertainment) in the days of the Qutub Shahi kings, for some item or song or dance or even an occasional play was staged here every evening, free of cost, to entertain the poor.The present caretaker of the tombs is a descendant of the one appointed by Sir Salar Jung. It is a hereditary occupation.
Falaknuma Palace
Falaknuma Palace
One of the finest palaces in Hyderabad, the monument is situated on a hill 2000 feet high, located 5 Km. south of Charminar. Built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra, the fifth Paigah Emir, it was purchased by Nizam VI in 1897 as was used as a royal guest house and is now the property of Nawab Mukarramjah Bahadur, the grandson of Nizam VII.
The palace was designed by an Italian architect and its foundation was laid on the 3rd of March, 1884, it took 9 years to complete the construction of the Palace. The palace boasts of one of the most lavishly decorated interiors.
This exquisite palace made of Italian marble was built by one of the Paigah nobles Nawab Vicar Ul Umra in 1892. A majesty testimony to the glory of the Nizams, it stands atop a hill 2000 feet high. It has often been referred to as the 'Mirror of the Sky'. The palace was designed by a Italian architect and follows a western architectural style. Falaknuma houses a large collection of rare treasures collected by the Nizam including paintings, statues, furniture, manuscripts and books. The Jade collection of the Palace is considered to be unique in the world.
The palace is laid out in the shape of a scorpion with two stings spread out as wings on the north. The middle part is occupied by the main building and the kitchen and harem quarters stretch to the south. The Nawab being an avid traveller, various influences show on the palace architecture Louis XIV-style decor co-exists with a lavish Mughal ambience, Italian marble staircases and ornate fountains. Its glass stained windows throw a spectrum of colors into the rooms. The palace has a library with a walnut carved roof, a replica of the one at Windsor Castle. The library had one of the finest collections of the holy Quran in India.
One of the finest palaces in Hyderabad, the monument is situated on a hill 2000 feet high, located 5 Km. south of Charminar. Built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra, the fifth Paigah Emir, it was purchased by Nizam VI in 1897 as was used as a royal guest house and is now the property of Nawab Mukarramjah Bahadur, the grandson of Nizam VII.
The palace was designed by an Italian architect and its foundation was laid on the 3rd of March, 1884, it took 9 years to complete the construction of the Palace. The palace boasts of one of the most lavishly decorated interiors.
This exquisite palace made of Italian marble was built by one of the Paigah nobles Nawab Vicar Ul Umra in 1892. A majesty testimony to the glory of the Nizams, it stands atop a hill 2000 feet high. It has often been referred to as the 'Mirror of the Sky'. The palace was designed by a Italian architect and follows a western architectural style. Falaknuma houses a large collection of rare treasures collected by the Nizam including paintings, statues, furniture, manuscripts and books. The Jade collection of the Palace is considered to be unique in the world.
The palace is laid out in the shape of a scorpion with two stings spread out as wings on the north. The middle part is occupied by the main building and the kitchen and harem quarters stretch to the south. The Nawab being an avid traveller, various influences show on the palace architecture Louis XIV-style decor co-exists with a lavish Mughal ambience, Italian marble staircases and ornate fountains. Its glass stained windows throw a spectrum of colors into the rooms. The palace has a library with a walnut carved roof, a replica of the one at Windsor Castle. The library had one of the finest collections of the holy Quran in India.
Sound and Light Show
Sound and Light Show
Sound and Light Show at Golconda
The dazzling Sound and Light show at Golconda Fort holds the audiance spellbound. Not only for those who are interested in history but also for those who have come to spend a quite evening, this show will definitely grab the attention.
The show has Amitabh Bachan's voice as its voice over, taking the audience down the history lane. Events of the bygone era are narrated. The event that unfolded reverberates in Bacchan's booming voice and the place on the fort is tastefully illuminated. This colorful spectacle is organised by the AP Tourism Department. The show can be watched in English, Hindi, and Telugu.
Show timings
Winter (Nov-Feb) 6.30 p.m
Summer (March-Oct) 7.00 p.m
Duration : 55 minutes
English : Wednesday, Sunday
Hindi : Tuesday, Friday, Saturday
Telugu : Thursday,
Closed on Mondays.
Advance booking at Yatri Nivas
10 a.m. to 12 noon. Current booking at Golconda Fort from 5 p.m. onwards. Ticket Rs.20/- per head. Children below 5 years are not allowed. Coach fare and show ticket Rs.45/- (Subject to 50% occupancy).
Sound and Light Show at Golconda
The dazzling Sound and Light show at Golconda Fort holds the audiance spellbound. Not only for those who are interested in history but also for those who have come to spend a quite evening, this show will definitely grab the attention.
The show has Amitabh Bachan's voice as its voice over, taking the audience down the history lane. Events of the bygone era are narrated. The event that unfolded reverberates in Bacchan's booming voice and the place on the fort is tastefully illuminated. This colorful spectacle is organised by the AP Tourism Department. The show can be watched in English, Hindi, and Telugu.
Show timings
Winter (Nov-Feb) 6.30 p.m
Summer (March-Oct) 7.00 p.m
Duration : 55 minutes
English : Wednesday, Sunday
Hindi : Tuesday, Friday, Saturday
Telugu : Thursday,
Closed on Mondays.
Advance booking at Yatri Nivas
10 a.m. to 12 noon. Current booking at Golconda Fort from 5 p.m. onwards. Ticket Rs.20/- per head. Children below 5 years are not allowed. Coach fare and show ticket Rs.45/- (Subject to 50% occupancy).
Golconda Fort
Golconda Fort
Founded originally by the Kakatiyas in the year 1140, Golconda was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a massive fort of granite with walls and ramparts extending to a length of 5km in circumference. This fort was built by Kakatiya kings. From this fort they ruled the nearby areas even when their capital was based in Warangal. This massive fort is 11 km in perimeter and its walls are 15 to 18 ft high. The whole fort is built in granite and is flanked by 70 ramparts and 8 huge gates. Previously the whole fort was surrounded by a deep gorge but slowly this was filled up. While entering from the main gate of the fort, if one claps below the Grand Portico, echoes are heard in a Darbar hall some 128 meters away.
The fortress city within the walls was famous for the diamond trade and is said to been the origin of the famous Koh-i-noor diamond. The historic fort lies 11kms west of the city of Hyderabad. The name originates from the Telugu words "Golla" meaning Shepard and "Konda" or hill - The 'shepherd's hill'. The fort was later taken over by the Bahamani kings, subsequently passing into the hands of the Qutub Shahis, who held it from 1512 to 1687 AD. The first three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda over a span of 62 years.
Famous features of Golconda include it's system of acoustics, palaces, factories, the water supply system. The famous Rahban cannon was used during the last seize of Golconda by Aurangazeb to whom the fort ultimately fell.
A.P.Tourism's dazzling Light and Sound Show every evening reenacts the glory and grandeur of the Qutub Shahi dynasty.
To reach Golconda
Frequent local buses, rickshaws, autorikshaws, taxis are available.
The Charminar
The Charminar
Just around four centuries ago, a devastating epidemic of plague gradually abated in the fabulous kingdom of Golconda, South India. The King, Qutub Shah in thanksgiving decided to build a square pavilion with tall towers at the four corners.
This symmetrical and charming edifice is the landmark of the town of Hyderabad, as the Statue of Liberty is to New York or the Arc of Triumph to Paris.
It is built of the local granite. The design is said to be based on Shia "tazias" erected in honor of Hussain, the son in law of Prophet Mohammad.
The Charminar was the axis of the planned city of Hyderabad. While the Charminar was being completed, broad roads were laid out in a grid iron pattern. Four symmetric gateways called Kamans also were built. There were also a couple of palaces according to medieval travellers but the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb got them burnt down on the fall of the Qutub Shahis. Recently some arched and vaulted foundations were discovered in the area during excavation.
The Charminar is the focus of a characteristic culture which sprang up in Golconda and Hyderabad. Based on the vigorous native Telugu, Kannada and Marathi cultures, Persian culture from Iran, a bit from Arabia and some north Indian immigration have all combined to make "Hyderabadi" a recognizable people's culture. In fact locals insist that Urdu language came into existence here, and not elsewhere attested by the fact that the earliest urdu was called Dakhni language
( of the Deccan, Dakshinapatha).
The streets around the Charminar are still lively today, a bit crowded maybe, and the little shops are thronged by residents and tourists alike.
A characteristic type of wrist bracelet or bangle is made here and is very popular. Although the Charminar and Hyderabad are far away from the sea, it is the centre of pearl Jewellery trade in India.
And more ...
The architectural jewel of Hyderabad, Charminar stands within the four arches of the Charkaman. It is said that Sultan Quli knelt at a crossroads and prayed to the gods when a terrible pestilence swept his kingdom. After it subsided he decide to build a structure at the very spot as thanksgiving to the gods. The structure built in 1591 was the Charminar. Often referred to as the 'Arc of the Triumph' of the East, the Charminar comprises four graceful minarets with its central structure soaring to a height of 180 feet. Centuries old bazaars surrounding the monument throb with the hectic trading of pearls, lac bangles and other accessories fit for a bride.
How to get there..
Buses with Nos. 8 from Secunderabad Bus station will take the visitor to the charming Charminar. Richshaw's and Taxi's are the other modes of Transport to get to Charminar.
Sightseeing
Sightseeing
Discerning wayfarers down the ages have found the city a place to behold, as charming as it is captivating. Added to which, the efforts of the administration of the past decade or so have breathed into the city a look and feel you would love. Hyderabad provides the gamut of sightseeing, shopping, facilities, fun and frolic to fill any visit with wonder. A collage of cultural fervor and activity, every journey into this kingdom becomes a very valuable and very personal discovery.
These special places you could enjoy visiting have been categorized into sites of Historical significance, Worship, Bazaars and places of Fun 'n' Frolic. So take a virtual tour around Hyderabad.
Discerning wayfarers down the ages have found the city a place to behold, as charming as it is captivating. Added to which, the efforts of the administration of the past decade or so have breathed into the city a look and feel you would love. Hyderabad provides the gamut of sightseeing, shopping, facilities, fun and frolic to fill any visit with wonder. A collage of cultural fervor and activity, every journey into this kingdom becomes a very valuable and very personal discovery.
These special places you could enjoy visiting have been categorized into sites of Historical significance, Worship, Bazaars and places of Fun 'n' Frolic. So take a virtual tour around Hyderabad.
Shopping : Pearls
Shopping : Pearls
The Story of the Pearl :
An oyster may be a lowly creature to look at, but pry it open and it could be akin to opening a small Pandora's box. This is just what an obscure Chinese fisherman did, around 4000 years ago, and voila!, he chanced upon what was probably the first pearl to be found by man. The pearl has enamored mankind ever since. As early as 2000 years ago, divers in the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean launched themselves into the deep, dark sea, risking life and limb in the quest to find the perfect pearl. They, like the Chinese and the Arabs, dived to depths of over 40 feet with only their lungs drawing the line between life and death.
In an attempt to speed up the process of pearl formation, Kokichi Mikimoto of Japan came up with the cultured pearl in the 1920's. One clever innovation led to another - and today pearls are cultured in hundreds of underwater cages called 'Oyester Farms', predominantly in Japan and China.
During the glorious era of the Nizams, pearls of various types were showered on the subjects by their patrons. Similarly, the kings received choice pearls as 'nazranas' or gifts, especially the Asif Jahis and the Qutub Shahis - The two dynasties that permanently set the pearl on Indian ornamental history.
The Formation of the Pearl :
The process of pearl formation is as rare as it is fascinating. It starts when an external irritant such as a grain of sand accidentally enters an oyster shell. The oyster, in response to this intrusion, slowly secretes layer after layer of a substance called 'Nacre' or 'Mother-of-Pearl' around the irritant. The oyster may toil away at this for up to three years, which finally results in the formation of a beautiful pearl.
Where to shop for pearls :
1. Aabhushan Pearls & Jewelers
(Pearls, precious stones & silver gift articles)
Shop no. 2, Lower Ground Floor, Liberty Plaza,
Basheerbagh,
2. Arial's Jewelers & Pearls
5-9-43/56, Opp. Gandhi Medical college,
Basheerbagh,
HYD 500 029
3. Boorugu Gems & Pearls
Pop. Amrutha Topaz, Punjagutta,
HYD 500 082
4. Boorugu Jewelers & Pearls Shoppe
95, Parklane, Opp. Chenoy Trade center,
Sec'bad 500 003
5. Chandubhai Jewellers
Block C-16, Mayur Kushal complex,
Gunfoundry, Abids
6.(*) Devi Jewelers & Pearls
47, Babukhan Estate, Basheerbagh, HYD. 500 029
(*) Shopping Arcade, Hotel Viceroy,
Tankbund Road,
HYD.
7. Durga Jewellery
(Pearls, Precious stones, Gold Jewellery)
2-4-45, Near James street Police station,
M.G. Road,
Sec'bad 500 003
8. Dwarakadas Mukundas & Sons Jewelers
(Precious, Semi-Precious stones, Antique Jewellery)
4-3-355/1, Bank Street,
HYD 500 095
9. Gupta Pearls & Jewels
(Dealers in Pearls & Semi-Precious stone Jewellery)
6-3-668/9/B, Melinda Junior college lane,
Opp. Pantaloon, Model House, Punjagutta,
10. Jagadamba Jewellers & Pearls
Gupta Estate, Basheerbagh,
HYD 500 029
11. Kedarnathji Motiwale Jewelers
(Pearls, Gems, Diamonds, Gold, Silver Jewellery)
(*) 36, Babukhan Estate,Hyd 500 001
(*) Beside Bata, Watergate,
HYD. 500 002
12. Krishna Pearls
(*) 22-6-209, Pattergatti, Near Charminar,
HYD 500 002
(*) Cellar, Hotel Krishna Oberoi, Road No.1, Banjara Hills,
HYD. 500 034
(*) Green Park Hotel, Ameerpet,
Hyd 500 016
13. K.Chandrakant & Sons Pearls
7-1-923, R.P. Road, Opp. Canara Bank,
Kingsway,
Sec'bad.
14. K.Liluram Jewellers
21-2-182, Char Kaman, HYD 500 002
15. Kedarnathji Pearls
Shop no. 17, H.A.C.P Colony,
Near Secunderabad Club,
Karkhana, Sec'bad 500 009
16. Mangatrai Pearls & Jewellery
(Precious stones)
Opp. Hotel Nagarjuna, Basheerbagh,
HYD 500 029
17. Mangatrai Ramkumar Pearls
22-6-191, Pattergatti,
HYD 500 002
18. Mode Pearls
95 C, Parklane, Hyd 500 003
19. Meera Pearls & Jewellers
55, Babukhan Estate, Basheerbagh,
Hyd 500 001
20. New Kedarnath's Pearls
Orient Estate, Abids Road,
Hyd 500 001
21. Om Prakash & Sons Jewellers
(*)Machalikaman, Pattergatti,
HYD 500 002
(*)R.P.Road, Sec'bad 500 003
22. P.Satyanarayana & Sons Jewellers
Opp. Gandhi Medical college, Basheerbagh,
Hyd 500 029
23. Pradeep Pearls & Exports
206, A-Block, Maheshwari Towers,
Adj. Sindhuja Supermarket,
Road No.1, Banjara Hills,
Hyd 500 034
24. Raj Jewellers & Pearls
1-6-56, Gandhi Statue, M.G.Road,
Sec'bad 500 003
25. R.R.Thangamaligai Jewellers
Shop No. 1, Sharma Complex, Punjagutta, Hyd
26. Saincher Jewellers
Lower Ground floor, Amrutha Mall, Somajiguda, HYD 500 016
27. Sri Ohm Prakash & Sons Pearls & Jewellers
7-1-938, Kingsway Circle, R.P. Road, Sec'bad 500 003
28. Suraj Bhan Jewellers & Pearls
Opp. Lady Hydri Club, Basheerbagh, Hyd 500 001
29. Suraj Jewellers
21-2-131/7-9, Gupta Complex, Char Kaman, Hyd 500 002
30. Totaram Papalal Sons (Exclusive Silverware)
4-1-966 F.F, Opp.Santosh Talkies, Abid Road, HYD 500 001
31. Vandana Pearls & Jewellers
Royal Plaza, C-9, K.S.Lane, Sultan Bazar, HYD 500 195
The Story of the Pearl :
An oyster may be a lowly creature to look at, but pry it open and it could be akin to opening a small Pandora's box. This is just what an obscure Chinese fisherman did, around 4000 years ago, and voila!, he chanced upon what was probably the first pearl to be found by man. The pearl has enamored mankind ever since. As early as 2000 years ago, divers in the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean launched themselves into the deep, dark sea, risking life and limb in the quest to find the perfect pearl. They, like the Chinese and the Arabs, dived to depths of over 40 feet with only their lungs drawing the line between life and death.
In an attempt to speed up the process of pearl formation, Kokichi Mikimoto of Japan came up with the cultured pearl in the 1920's. One clever innovation led to another - and today pearls are cultured in hundreds of underwater cages called 'Oyester Farms', predominantly in Japan and China.
During the glorious era of the Nizams, pearls of various types were showered on the subjects by their patrons. Similarly, the kings received choice pearls as 'nazranas' or gifts, especially the Asif Jahis and the Qutub Shahis - The two dynasties that permanently set the pearl on Indian ornamental history.
The Formation of the Pearl :
The process of pearl formation is as rare as it is fascinating. It starts when an external irritant such as a grain of sand accidentally enters an oyster shell. The oyster, in response to this intrusion, slowly secretes layer after layer of a substance called 'Nacre' or 'Mother-of-Pearl' around the irritant. The oyster may toil away at this for up to three years, which finally results in the formation of a beautiful pearl.
Where to shop for pearls :
1. Aabhushan Pearls & Jewelers
(Pearls, precious stones & silver gift articles)
Shop no. 2, Lower Ground Floor, Liberty Plaza,
Basheerbagh,
2. Arial's Jewelers & Pearls
5-9-43/56, Opp. Gandhi Medical college,
Basheerbagh,
HYD 500 029
3. Boorugu Gems & Pearls
Pop. Amrutha Topaz, Punjagutta,
HYD 500 082
4. Boorugu Jewelers & Pearls Shoppe
95, Parklane, Opp. Chenoy Trade center,
Sec'bad 500 003
5. Chandubhai Jewellers
Block C-16, Mayur Kushal complex,
Gunfoundry, Abids
6.(*) Devi Jewelers & Pearls
47, Babukhan Estate, Basheerbagh, HYD. 500 029
(*) Shopping Arcade, Hotel Viceroy,
Tankbund Road,
HYD.
7. Durga Jewellery
(Pearls, Precious stones, Gold Jewellery)
2-4-45, Near James street Police station,
M.G. Road,
Sec'bad 500 003
8. Dwarakadas Mukundas & Sons Jewelers
(Precious, Semi-Precious stones, Antique Jewellery)
4-3-355/1, Bank Street,
HYD 500 095
9. Gupta Pearls & Jewels
(Dealers in Pearls & Semi-Precious stone Jewellery)
6-3-668/9/B, Melinda Junior college lane,
Opp. Pantaloon, Model House, Punjagutta,
10. Jagadamba Jewellers & Pearls
Gupta Estate, Basheerbagh,
HYD 500 029
11. Kedarnathji Motiwale Jewelers
(Pearls, Gems, Diamonds, Gold, Silver Jewellery)
(*) 36, Babukhan Estate,Hyd 500 001
(*) Beside Bata, Watergate,
HYD. 500 002
12. Krishna Pearls
(*) 22-6-209, Pattergatti, Near Charminar,
HYD 500 002
(*) Cellar, Hotel Krishna Oberoi, Road No.1, Banjara Hills,
HYD. 500 034
(*) Green Park Hotel, Ameerpet,
Hyd 500 016
13. K.Chandrakant & Sons Pearls
7-1-923, R.P. Road, Opp. Canara Bank,
Kingsway,
Sec'bad.
14. K.Liluram Jewellers
21-2-182, Char Kaman, HYD 500 002
15. Kedarnathji Pearls
Shop no. 17, H.A.C.P Colony,
Near Secunderabad Club,
Karkhana, Sec'bad 500 009
16. Mangatrai Pearls & Jewellery
(Precious stones)
Opp. Hotel Nagarjuna, Basheerbagh,
HYD 500 029
17. Mangatrai Ramkumar Pearls
22-6-191, Pattergatti,
HYD 500 002
18. Mode Pearls
95 C, Parklane, Hyd 500 003
19. Meera Pearls & Jewellers
55, Babukhan Estate, Basheerbagh,
Hyd 500 001
20. New Kedarnath's Pearls
Orient Estate, Abids Road,
Hyd 500 001
21. Om Prakash & Sons Jewellers
(*)Machalikaman, Pattergatti,
HYD 500 002
(*)R.P.Road, Sec'bad 500 003
22. P.Satyanarayana & Sons Jewellers
Opp. Gandhi Medical college, Basheerbagh,
Hyd 500 029
23. Pradeep Pearls & Exports
206, A-Block, Maheshwari Towers,
Adj. Sindhuja Supermarket,
Road No.1, Banjara Hills,
Hyd 500 034
24. Raj Jewellers & Pearls
1-6-56, Gandhi Statue, M.G.Road,
Sec'bad 500 003
25. R.R.Thangamaligai Jewellers
Shop No. 1, Sharma Complex, Punjagutta, Hyd
26. Saincher Jewellers
Lower Ground floor, Amrutha Mall, Somajiguda, HYD 500 016
27. Sri Ohm Prakash & Sons Pearls & Jewellers
7-1-938, Kingsway Circle, R.P. Road, Sec'bad 500 003
28. Suraj Bhan Jewellers & Pearls
Opp. Lady Hydri Club, Basheerbagh, Hyd 500 001
29. Suraj Jewellers
21-2-131/7-9, Gupta Complex, Char Kaman, Hyd 500 002
30. Totaram Papalal Sons (Exclusive Silverware)
4-1-966 F.F, Opp.Santosh Talkies, Abid Road, HYD 500 001
31. Vandana Pearls & Jewellers
Royal Plaza, C-9, K.S.Lane, Sultan Bazar, HYD 500 195
The lustrous Pearl History
The lustrous Pearl History
The Pearl Culture of Hyderabad
Who hasn't heard of the soft, rounded, lustrous, tear drop pearl of Hyderabad? People form everywhere flock here to possess a few of these pearls. Strange that there is no sea anywhere near the city. Yet it has become almost synonymous with quality pearls. Well, read on the pearl story .....
Hyderabad was a princely state and a very rich one too! The royal patronage ensured flourishing of arts, crafts and cuisine. The affluent lifestyle beckoned many a craftsman from distant parts of the world, especially the Arabian Gulf where the rare original pearls are found in abundance. Hence, Hyderabad became the one-stop-destination for pearls. There is an entire street which only comprises of pearl shops named - Patther Gatti.
The Pearl in Hyderabad Today
Jewelers in the pearl markets of Hyderabad have for centuries combined pearls with the glitter of gold, the richness of rubies and the ecstasy of emeralds. It is indeed amazing and heartwarming to see traditional designs still surviving the march of history in the narrow alleys of the Old City today.
Several styles of ornaments using pearls evolved along with the pearl trade. The 'Satlada' and 'Panchlada Haar' are seven and five stringed necklaces. They are often interspersed with emeralds or onyx beads set in nine carat gold. Earrings such as 'Karanphool' and 'Cholaphool', set with uncut diamonds and pearls, are also very popular among the ladies of the city. The pearl markets of the city also offer unlimited varieties of chokers and lockets. The last few decades have witnessed a gradual influence of western designs on the Hyderabadi pearl market. However, the City of Pearls has retained it's luster...
The Bangle Bazaar
In the land of beautiful women, beautiful poetry, beautiful cuisine and beautiful pearls, add one more to the beautiful string, i.e. the breathtaking bangles. Down the centuries, the lure of bangles still draws millions of women who love to adorn their arms with a dazzling set of Hyderabadi bangles. There are about 450 shops flanking either side of the world famous Charminar with around 2,500 craftsmen molding their magic around your arms.
The Pearl Culture of Hyderabad
Who hasn't heard of the soft, rounded, lustrous, tear drop pearl of Hyderabad? People form everywhere flock here to possess a few of these pearls. Strange that there is no sea anywhere near the city. Yet it has become almost synonymous with quality pearls. Well, read on the pearl story .....
Hyderabad was a princely state and a very rich one too! The royal patronage ensured flourishing of arts, crafts and cuisine. The affluent lifestyle beckoned many a craftsman from distant parts of the world, especially the Arabian Gulf where the rare original pearls are found in abundance. Hence, Hyderabad became the one-stop-destination for pearls. There is an entire street which only comprises of pearl shops named - Patther Gatti.
The Pearl in Hyderabad Today
Jewelers in the pearl markets of Hyderabad have for centuries combined pearls with the glitter of gold, the richness of rubies and the ecstasy of emeralds. It is indeed amazing and heartwarming to see traditional designs still surviving the march of history in the narrow alleys of the Old City today.
Several styles of ornaments using pearls evolved along with the pearl trade. The 'Satlada' and 'Panchlada Haar' are seven and five stringed necklaces. They are often interspersed with emeralds or onyx beads set in nine carat gold. Earrings such as 'Karanphool' and 'Cholaphool', set with uncut diamonds and pearls, are also very popular among the ladies of the city. The pearl markets of the city also offer unlimited varieties of chokers and lockets. The last few decades have witnessed a gradual influence of western designs on the Hyderabadi pearl market. However, the City of Pearls has retained it's luster...
The Bangle Bazaar
In the land of beautiful women, beautiful poetry, beautiful cuisine and beautiful pearls, add one more to the beautiful string, i.e. the breathtaking bangles. Down the centuries, the lure of bangles still draws millions of women who love to adorn their arms with a dazzling set of Hyderabadi bangles. There are about 450 shops flanking either side of the world famous Charminar with around 2,500 craftsmen molding their magic around your arms.
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