Hyderabad Trip : Kurnool, Golconda Fort, Shilparamam

It was a last minute trip to Hyderabad. Eight of us left Bangalore early in the morning at 5 30 on new year day, quickly cruising along the butter smooth National Highway 7. After crossing the first toll plaza near airport, we were nearing Chikballapur. That's when we faced first hurdle in our 600 km long journey, foggy roads. Switching on the parking lights, we continued our journey to stop briefly at strategic locations to witness the refreshing sunrise. Needless to say, it was an opportunity to take those album/profile photos for the social media :)

Foggy Roads en route Hyderabad

Kurnool : At around 10 30 we reached Kurnool with a craving for breakfast. Getting up early in the morning and a five hour journey till then had taken its toll. Surprisingly till Kurnool, you don't find good restaurants along the way.
Hotel Suraj Grand, Kurnool was suggested by our cousin who stays in Hyderabad and makes frequent trips between Bangalore and Hyderabad. This choice did not disappoint us at all and we had a sumptuous breakfast there. Looking at menu, I was surprised to find Mysore Bajji. In Bangalore, it is called Mangaluru Bajji and in Mangalore, it is called Goli Baje! Continuing our journey, which was around 200 km from Kurnool, we could reach Hyderabad at around 2 pm. Our cousin was waiting for us at outer ring road and at his home, Mangalorean chicken curry was ready to the delight of the tired guests!

Golconda Fort, Hyderabad

Golconda Fort : After relaxing for a while, in the evening we unanimously agreed to go to Golconda Fort. When we reached the entrance of the fort, it was jam-packed with vehicles owing to narrow streets leading to the main fort. Though we could make it to the fort, with fading sunlight, it was not a right time to explore the historical fort, first built by Kakatiya dynasty. Nevertheless we could enjoy the panoramic view of the Hyderabad city from the fort - a fascinating sight indeed!

Panoramic View of Hyderabad city from Golconda Fort

Shilparamam : Our next destination was Shilparamam, the arts, crafts and cultural village, spread over 65 acres in Madhapur, Hi-Tech city, an upscale part of Hyderabad. It is an ideal destination if you want to buy crafts, decorative items for home. Neatly maintained place has a bustling crowd anytime. Near to Shilparamam is the night bazar, which is open till 2 am.

Shops at Shilparamam, Hi-Tech City, Hyderabad

By the time we could finish our roaming around Shilparamam, it was time to call it a day!
Next day : Visit to Char Minar, Mecca Masjid, Birla Mandir and Chilkur Balaji Temple. Then feasting at Hyderbad's popular eateries - Paradise Biryani and Cream Stone

Golconda Fort, Hyderabad

Related Posts :
Hyderabad Trip - Day 2: Char Minar, Mecca Masjid, Birla Mandir, Chilkur Balaji Temple
Hyderabad Trip - Day 3: Fun at Ramoji Film City