This is the month of Ramzan, and if you happen to be visiting Hyderabad this weekend, it's really the perfect time to soak in the festive spirit and celebrate Eid. The historic city comes alive during this holy month, and there's a constant buzz in the air as people from near and far drop in to pray at the iconic Charminar, meet family and friends, indulge in soul nourishing haleem and biryani, and splurge in festive shopping at the night market that emerges during the festive month.
Wondering how to make the most of your time? Here's a list of things you should include in your itenary to experience the best of the city during Eid:
1. Get a taste of haleem
Like they say you should never do things on an empty stomach, so start with tasting a plate of haleem at what's considered food institutions in Hyderabad - Pista House (multiple outlets) and Shah Ghouse (Salarjung Colony, Tolichowki). Haleem is a meat porridge, that's slow cooked for hours or even overnight. It's made of pounded meat, broken wheat, barley and lentils, and is served with bread.
(Also read: Ramzan 2018: 3 Places To Visit In Delhi For The Best Iftaar Food)
2. Pick pearls and diamonds
Known as the 'City of Pearls', you must invest in stunning jewellery when in Hyderabad. It's not just pearls, but also diamonds that Hyderabad is renowned for. One of the most popular and reliable stores is Mangatrai Jewellery, which has been around since 1905. From black Tahitian pearls to natural pearls, you will find it all, as well as diamond jewellery.
3. Pray at and admire the regal Charminar
Yes, it's maddening to even think of heading to the Charminar and surrounding areas during Ramzan, but it's worth doing so for the festive spirit. It's another feeling to see people come together to pray at the iconic four minarets-structure that still holds its old charm. Of course, there are many other marvelous ancient monuments to admire - Makkah Masjid, Golconda Fort, Qutb Shahi Tombs in Ibrahim Bagh, Moula Ali Dargah, to name a few.
4. Shop at the night market
During Ramzan, the area around Charminar transforms to become a night market where people can shop till wee hours in the morning. There are numerous makeshift shops and hawker stalls that occupy the footpath. From itar and dry fruits to junk jewellery, traditional weaves with hand embroidery, zardozi work, henna, fabric for salwar suits, kohl, etc. shoppers can find everything needed for Eid shopping.
5. Buy glass bangles in Laad Bazaar
A part of the bazaar area near Charminar, Laad Bazaar is famous for its glass bangles. There are rows and rows of stalls selling sparkly and colourful glass bangles for very reasonable prices. You can load up on your stock for festive dressing. You can even buy textiles and perfumes.
6. Pick Bidri artefacts
Bidri is an exquisite metal craft with beautiful inlay work in silver. Head to Abids, which is the oldest market for bidri in the city, and pick bidri hookahs, tableware and jewellery boxes.
7. Indulge in Hyderabadi biryani and kebabs
Last but not the least, you need to indulge in the world famous Hyderabadi biryani for a fitting experience. While locals may debate over who sells the best biryani in town, you need to make you own pick. Some of the most popular eateries include Hotel Shadab, Paradise, Cafe Bahar and Shah Ghouse.
Go all out in Hyderabad this festive season and have a blast of a time.
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