Lotus Temple

Lotus Temple - (24 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 6:30 am – 7:30 pm (Daily)

Address: Himayat Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500075

Entry fee: Free

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Photography: Allowed

Description: At a distance of 21 km from Nampally Railway Station, 15 km from Golconda Fort & 3 km from Chilkur Balaji Temple, Kamaldham Mandir is also called as Lotus Temple. It is located in Sri Swaminarayan Gurukul on the highway near Himayath Nagar junction 3 Kms before Chilkur Balaji Temple.

The temple has wonderful architecture with lush green surroundings. The temple is built on a pond with lotus-shaped base. The presiding deities are Lord Sri Swaminarayan, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Lord Ganapati, Goddess Parvati and Lord Surya.

All the devotees visiting Chilkur temple make sure to visit this place as well.

Keesaragutta Temple

Keesaragutta Temple - (36 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 
6:00 AM - 1:00 PM
3:00 PM - 7:30 PM (Daily)

Address: Keesara Gutta, Hyderabad, Telangana 501301

Phone: 098488 17732

Entry fee: Free

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Photography: Allowed

Description:  Sri Ramalingeswara Swami Devasthanam is located on a small hillock present at Keesaragutta Mandal of Ranga Reddy District. Main deity of this temple is Lord Shiva in the form of Lingam with the name of Sri Ramalingeswara Swami. This temple is 40 km away from Hyderabad city. Sri Ramalingeswara Swami Temple present in Keesaragutta Mandal is an ancient temple built before 4th Century CE for Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consorts Bhavani and Sivadurga. We can see thousands of devotees visiting this ancient temple during Shivaratri festival. This temple is also known as Keesaragutta Ramalingeswara Devasthanam. The main temple was constructed on the Samadhi of Shri Prabhu in granite with Italian marble flooring as complex of majestic gateway known as Naubatkhana, Anand Mantap and Shejghar where the holy relics are preserved. Devotees can see the huge chandelier presented by the Nizam of Hyderabad at this temple.

History of the Temple

History of Sri Ramalingeswara Swami Temple in Keesaragutta starts from 4th Century CE. This temple was believed to be built before 4th or 5th Century CE. Archeologists found the existence of human civilization during Vishnukundins Era at this place. We can observe a 5 storied Gopuram built on the entrance of this ancient temple. Explorations and Excavations conducted by the archaeological department at the temple surroundings showed the presence of brick structures and Shiva Lingas at the north of the temple on the Hill. Along with these ancient brick structures they also found a sloppy Hillock near the water resource. All these remnants belonged to Vishnukundins Empire. Excavators found the Fortification of walls, Yaga shala and Prayer hall’s at the temple premises indicating the civilization at this place. Scientists found the remnants and rock cut cisterns and Idols of Jain Thirthankars on the hills indicating the existence of Jainism and Buddhism contemporarily at this place.

Legend has it that Sri Rama installed the Siva lingam here to atone for the sin of killing Ravana, a Brahman. He selected this beautiful valley surrounded by hills and verdant greenery for the purpose and ordered Hanuman to bring a Sivlingam from Varanasi. Hanuman was late in arriving with the Siva lingam and as the auspicious hour was nearing, Lord Siva himself appeared before Sri Rama and presented a Sivilingam for installation. Hence the lingam in the temple is called Swayambhu Linga. It is also called Ramalingeswara as lord Sri Rama had installed the lingam.

Hanuman returned with 101 lingams for selection from Varanasi and felt aggrieved at not having his lingam installed. Hence he threw them all over the area. Even to this day several lingams are found scattered all over the place outside the temple.

To mollify Hanuman, Sri Rama ordained that precedence would be given to him for worship at the temple. He also said that the hillock where the lingam was installed would bear his name kesarigiri i.e., Hanuman, the son of Kesari. Over a period of time, it has colloquially transformed and is now known as Keesara and the hill as Keesaragutta. Ever since, the rituals follow the command of Sri Rama.

Mrugavani National Park

Mrugavani National Park - (20 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Daily)

Address: Moinabad, Ranga Reddy District, Chilkur, Telangana

Phone: 099513 23558

Entry fee: INR 5 per person

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Photography: Allowed

Description: Located at Chilkur in Moinabad Mandal, Mrugavani National Park is at a distance of approximately 25 km from Hyderabad. Spread over an area of 850 acres, it is home a wide array of wild animals and flora. Its lush surroundings are bestowed with best of both fauna and flora.

Mrugavani National Park was announced as a wildlife sanctuary by the Indian Government in the year of 1994, with the motive of preserving nature and wildlife in an undisturbed way without much human intervention, creating a suitable habitat for the fauna and flora to flourish.

It is home to many different species of animals. Some of the common animals found here are Wild boars, black-naped hares, India vipers, foxes and many others. It also boasts of a rich avian fauna. Some of the birds that you can see at this wildlife sanctuary are peacocks, warblers, flower peckers, lapwings. With more than 100 varied species of birds, this is an ideal place for bird-watchers.

Mrugavani National Park showcases a strong Deccan formation as it is comprised of many rocky formations. Its flora is predominantly tropical with dry forest and grasslands. It is mostly covered with shrubs and herbs. Some of the trees that you can find here are Teak, Sandalwood, Bamboos, etc.

Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park

Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park - (19 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Daily)

Address: 2/B, National Highway 9, Vanasthalipuram, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, Auto Nagar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500070

Phone: 040 2428 6523

Entry fee:
 INR 20 per Adult
 INR 15 per Child

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Photography: Not allowed for Video Camera

Not allowed for Still / DSLR Camera

Description: Historical city of Hyderabad has equally enticing natural beauty to capture its visitors’ attention. Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is place every nature lover and wildlife enthusiasts must visit. Established in the year of 1975, it has been named after the great Jain saint Lord Mahavir, in his honour on the occasion of his 2500th birth anniversary. Located in Vanasthalipuram, at a distance of 15 km from Hyderabad, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is famous for being a home to the endangered species of Black Buck Deer.

Visiting Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park offers glimpses of not only black buck deer, known as Jinka in Telugu language but also offers the rare opportunity to explore the extensive range of flora and fauna. Some of the animals that you can see here are Cheetahs, monitor lizards, wild boars, porcupines and varied kinds of snakes.

Spread across an area of approximately 15 km, this national park boasts of a rich avian fauna as well. Some of birds here are cormorants, partridges, pond herons, quails, egrets along with doves, peacocks, kingfishers, vultures, kites and many others. If you like to spend some time bird-watching and studying various species, then plan a visit to this park. Here you will find a range of beautiful birds. Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is also home to about eighty species of migratory birds. If lucky you can also get a glimpse of rare bird Short-toed Eagle that has also made this place as its home.

There are good facilities for visitors to observe animals; many sheds and viewing towers have been made for the purpose. Get on these watch towers for a mesmerising view of the area around, vast spread of nature in its wildest form, without buildings and vehicles to obstruct your view. There is also the facility of safari in the park. To get the real experience is to actually watch the wildlife live in action. The safari rides at the park presents every visitor with that opportunity. There are vans which take visitors around the national park, presenting view of the animals amid the dense vegetation. Neem, Acacias, Buteas and Bauhinias are only a few names out of the vast species of flora here at the national park. Along with this, there is an exhibition hall as well, which offers a detailed insight into the wildlife conservation; an informative library and a collection of audio visual presentation on wildlife.

Durgam Cheruvu

Durgam Cheruvu - (14 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 10:00 am – 6:30 pm (Daily)

Address: Road Number 46, Masthan Nagar, CBI Colony, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500033, India

Phone: 

040 2355 5072
1800 425 46464

Entry fee: Free

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Photography: Allowed

Description: Situated quite close to the Hi-tech City, Durgam Cheruvu is one of the popular sightseeing places of Hyderabad. Presenting captivating scenic beauty, the lake is also known as the ‘Secret Lake’. This can be because of the fact that it is hidden by the surrounding granite rocks. The rock formations surrounding the lake are spread across an area of 63 acres of land and are said to be approximately 2500 million years old.

Currently it has been developed into a hangout place where people come and spend some time in a relaxed environment by the side of a calm water body. Durgam Cheruvu now has an artificial waterfall and floating fountain which attracts more visitors. It is nothing less than a pleasant wonder to see a calm lake and rocks, beside the concrete buildings of offices and a shopping mall.

It is said that the lake was used as the source of drinking water for the Golconda Fort. Also called as the ‘Madhapur Lake’, Durgam Cheruvu promises some refreshing moments to each and everyone.

It is a common venue for film shootings, owing to its scenic beauty and unique location. Durgam Cheruvu Lake is surrounded by granite rocks, which is said to be a rare thing not just in India but in all over Asia. Once at the lake, you can try out various kinds of interesting activities. The place has the facilities available for boating, camping as well as trekking. There are varied kinds of boating choices at Durgam cheruvu, ranging from Pedal Boat, mechanised Boat to Water Scooter. The ticket price for boating varies with the kind you choose.

Some visitors can also be seen trying out their luck in fishing, an activity which is very rare in the city. Amid the hectic schedule of the city lives and pressure of works, Durgam Cheruvu presents a refreshing opportunity soothing surroundings and rare sports like fishing.

There is also a cafeteria and refreshment centre located on the lake side. There is also an amphitheatre at the rock garden. Along with these, there is also a restaurant at the lake. The Inorbit Mall is just at a stone throw distance, making it easier for visitors to access other facilities, if needed. One can spend a quiet evening here at the lake, watching the breathtaking sunset and can end their day at Inorbit Mall which houses many popular restaurants and a multiplex as well.

The view of the nearby places and the Hi-Tech city from here at Durgam Cheruvu is worth watching. This place is ideal for a relaxed yet fun filled hang out of the city. Although not as popular at the Hussain Sagar lake, it is often considered at a popular party zone, a reason why especially more youngsters can be see here. It is also an ideal place for nature lovers; you can spend time amid the beautiful creations of nature right amid the city. It is open on all days, from Monday to Sunday. Timings for Durgam Cheruvu are from 10 am to 6.30 pm.

Himayat Sagar

Himayat Sagar - (26 Km From Nampally)

Timings: NA

Address: Himayat Sagar Lake, Hyderabad, Telangana, 501504, India

Entry fee: Free

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Photography: Allowed

Description: The construction of reservoir on Esi a tributary of Musi River was completed in 1927, for providing drinking water source for Hyderabad and saving the city from floods, which Hyderabad suffered in 1908. It was built during the reign of the last Nizam of Hyderabad, Nizam VII and is named after his youngest son Himayat Ali Khan.

                               The Himayat Sagar and Osman Sagar reservoirs provided continuous water supply to the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad until recently. Due to population growth, they are not sufficient to meet the cities' water supply demand.

                                 The engineer at the time of construction was late Khaja Mohinuddin, son of Mohammed Hussein, Madri.

                                                 The grassy area adjoining the lake is an ideal picnic and recreation spot. The road atop the bund is popular for a good drive.

                                   In June 2012, the water level at Osman Sagar was 1769.8 feet. On October 1, 2012, the level was 1771.8 feet, an increase of a mere 2 feet. Similarly, in Himayatsagar, the water level in June 2012 was 1743.3 feet and on October 1, it was 1,747.4 feet, an increase of about 4 feet. In October 2011, the water levels at Osmansagar and Himayatsagar were 1781.9 feet and 1754.9 feet respectively.

Telangana State Archaeology Museum

Telangana State Archaeology Museum - (2 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 10:30 am – 4:30 pm (Daily)

Address: 5-10-193, I Floor, H A C A Bhavan, P G Road, Near Control Room, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004

Phone: 040 2323 4942
040 2323 2267

Entry fee: Free

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Photography: Allowed, 

INR 20 for Still Camera

INR 100 for Video Camera

Description: Telangana State Archeology Museum or Hyderabad Museum is a museum located in Hyderabad, India. It is the oldest museum in Hyderabad state. Archeologist Henry Cousens first explored the site in the beginning of the 19th century, and around 1940 the mound was excavated under the supervision of Nizam of Hyderabad. The excavated items were placed in a museum built on the ancient site. In 1952, the museum's contents were moved to the current build, under the administrative control of Archaeological Survey of India

                             This museum's main attraction is its Egyptian mummy, which was brought[when?] to Hyderabad by the son-in-law of VI Nizam Mahbub Ali Khan, and donated to the last Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan. He reportedly bought it for 1000 pounds

                                        There is a huge gallery on Buddha dating back to last century. The museum has a wide variety of archaeological artifacts from the Nizam, Kakatiya dynasty.

Taramati Baradari

Taramati Baradari - (14 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (Daily)

Address: Near PBEL City, Ramdev Guda, Ibrahim Bagh, Hyderabad, 500031

Phone: 040 2345 0165

Entry fee: Free

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Photography: Allowed

Description: Taramati Baradari is a historical sarai as part of Ibrahim Bagh, a Persian style garden built during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah, the second Sultan of Golconda.

  The Baradari was constructed on the banks of the Musi river. Today, the region comes under the city limits of Hyderabad, India. The tourism department attributes the name to the reign of the Seventh Sultan of Golconda, Abdullah Qutb Shah who as an ode to his favorite courtesan, Taramati, is said to have named the sarai Taramati Baradari.

Osman Sagar

Osman Sagar - (22 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 9:30am – 5pm (Daily)

Address: Gandipet Lake, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500075, India

Phone: 040 6604 9545

Entry fee: INR 5 per person for Indians

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• Photography: Allowed
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Description: Gandipet Lake Hyderabad: It is not just forts and palaces that constitute Hyderabad sightseeing places. Gardens, waterfalls and lakes such as Gandipet Lake present a beautiful touch of nature around the city of Hyderabad. Also known as Osman Sagar, Gandipet Lake is spread across an area of 46 Km.

                                        Osman Sagar Lake has been named after the late seventh Nizam of Hyderabad Mir Osman Ali Khan who in 1920 built a Dam over the lake so as to protect the city from flooding. The Dam is the main reservoir for the twin cities - Hyderabad and Secunderabad. This lake is now one of the main sources of drinking water for both Hyderabad and Secunderabad.

                       Along with this the lake makes for an amazing sightseeing option as well. The sunset and sunrise at the lake are simply mesmerising. Osman Sagar, Gandipet, is often visited by families and those who are looking for some peaceful time away from the hustle bustle of the city. The lawn towards the lower side of the lake offers a picturesque ambience, dotted with lush greenery by the side of vast lake body. It presents a perfect setting for family outings. It is one of the popular one day picnic spots in Hyderabad, where families and friends can relax and spend some time amid the refreshing atmosphere. Many visitors bring their own food and games to play in this serene environment. For others, there is also a cafeteria here.  

                         Go for boating at the lake and experience the calm water and beautiful surroundings. The best time to visit lake is during months of October to March, when the climate is much cooler to sit out and enjoy the soothing surrounding.

                              There are options of staying overnight as well. Guest house named Sagar Mahal by Andhra Pradesh Tourism offers decent staying options by the side of serene lake and soothing atmosphere away from the hustle bustle of the city life. This guest house, Sagar Mahal in Gandipet once used to be the summer resort of Nizams. Some portion of this mahal has been now open to public; there are about 10 double rooms for accommodation. It offers its guests not only a royal ambience and breathtaking view of the lake but also scrumptious delicacies to pamper their taste buds. 

                       For those looking for some excitement and thrill, and especially for those travelling with children, the place has various entertainment parks nearby. Theme Parks like Ocean Park Hyderabad and Treasure Island are located quite close to the Gandipet lake Hyderabad. The Shirdi Sai Baba temple is located at the Northern end of the resort and attracts hordes of religious tourists every year. It is quite near to the famous Chilkur Balaji Temple as well.                  

                           Osman Sagar location is about 20 km from Secunderabad. Visitors can either take bus or even go in their own vehicles. Gandipet route offer pleasant driving experience. Many people visit the lake in early morning as not only the sunrise is mesmerising but even the drive till there is utterly refreshing. Sunset at Gandipet also lures many visitors.

Jalavihar

Jalavihar - (8 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 11am – 7:30pm (Daily)

Address: 22/9, Necklace Rd, Hussain Sagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500063, India

Entry fee:

• INR 200 per Adult
• INR 150 per Children
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• Photography: Allowed
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Description: Jalavihar is a family entertainment and a water park. It is one of the prime tourist attractions in Hyderabad city, located in Telengana. Covering an area of 12.5 acres, Jalavihar is strategically located. It is situated besides the Sanjeevaiah Park and along the Hussain Sagar lake on the Necklace Road in the heart of the state capital of Telangana. 

Jalavihar Park Attractions

There are two main zones of the park: The Party Zone and the Entertainment Zone with all fun activities, games and rides.

Party Zone

There are three party zones in the park. The first one is the beautiful ampitheatre zone with lush green lawns that can accommodate about 2,000 people. The second is the Aesthetic Vedhika zone, which can accommodate close to 300 people. There is the Grand view party zone, which can accommodate 150 people. The entire party zone in the park is just perfect for grand family occasions or corporate events.

Entertainment Zone

Wave pool: This is supposed to be the largest in the country, a swimming pool where there are artificially generated large waves, like those of the ocean waves. This pool is 18,000 square feet and can accommodate around 1,000 people at a time. The pool occupies only 10% of the total area of the park.

Water rides: The park offers some very thrilling water rides for all age groups. From rides in the pool to adventurous multilane rides, there are 10 such rides. There are some special rides meant for the kids only.

Dry rides: The park also has exclusive zones for dry rides such as scary house, bungee jumping, bouncy castle, bull ride, battery bike, bumper car, mini train, super jet, etc.

Rain dance: Another prime attraction is the area exclusively for rain dance, where kids and adults dance to the latest chartbusters while water is jet sprayed on them from all sides.

Fun activities: Besides the rides, you can also opt for other games and fun activities known by various names such as float slide, moon walker, mini joker, pendulum, mini aqua trailers, tilt bucket, mushroom umbrella, rainbow wheel and many more.

Game zone: The park also offers a game zone where visitors can play video games, air hockey, water shooter, basketball, cricket etc.

Food Court: Last but not the least, how can we forget the food court? Being a perfect family entertainment park, it also has a food court, serving a wide range of delicious cuisines. It is a routine for all regular visitors and the tourists to head to the food stalls after having enjoyed the rides to the fullest.

Jalavihar Park Facts

This park is safe as the management ensures the safety of each of its visitors. There are well-trained life guards in every nook and corner of the park who see to the visitors’ safety. First-aid centres are also located inside the park.

The park also has counters to get costumes and lockers on rent with a small deposit amount.

Dress code

For men: Beach shorts / Tights / Shorts of nylon material allowed.

For women: Swim wear/ Leggings/Tights/Tees of nylon material allowed. Sarees and Salwar Kameezs are strictly not allowed.

For kids: Swim wear/ Beach wear in Nylon only allowed.

For water rides, clothes are available on rent.

Paigah Tombs

Paigah Tombs - (9 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 10am – 5pm  & Closed on every Friday

Address: Qalender Nagar Rd, Santosh Nagar, Kanchan Bagh, Hyderabad, Telangana 500059

Phone: 1800 4254 6464

Entry fee: Free

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• Description: 
• Paigah Tombs or Maqhbara Shams al-Umara, are the tombs belonging to the nobility of Paigah family, who were fierce loyalists of the Nizams, served as statespeople, philanthropists and generals under and alongside them. The Paigah tombs are among the major wonders of Hyderabad State which known for their architectural excellence as shown in their laid mosaic tiles and craftsmanship work. The Paigah's necropolis is located in a quiet neighbourhood 4 km southeast of Charminar Hyderabad, at Pisal banda suburb., down a small lane across from Owasi Hospital near Santosh Nagar. These tombs are made out of lime and mortar with beautiful inlaid marble carvings. These tombs are 200 years old which represent the final resting places of several generations of the Paigah Nobles.
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• At first, Paigah Tombs may look deserted and totally uncared for, but on a closer look you will find the place quite enthralling. With marvelous carvings and motifs in floral designs and inlaid mosaic tile-works, the tombs are exquisite to walk around. The tombs and their walls are delicately carved and enclosed in pierced marble facades, some of them in rows and some with beautifully carved screens and canopies.
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• The place is easily approachable and is set amidst a labyrinth of concrete houses built around the 30 acres of property in which the tombs are nestled. They are almost obscure and a marvelous piece of artistry in marble lost in time. The Indo-Islamic architecture is a mix of both the Asaf Jahi and the Rajputana styles of architecture. You will also see décor in fabulous stucco work, representing the Mughal, Persian and Deccan style too. The geometrical designs with their perforated screens are unique in their make and craftsmanship.

Kasu Brahmananda Reddy(KBR) National Park

Kasu Brahmananda Reddy(KBR) National Park - (9 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 5:00AM–9:30AM, 4:00PM–6:00PM (Daily)

Address: Near to LV Prasad Eye Hospital, Opp TDP Office, Rd No 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500034

Phone:  040 2355 5463

Entry fee:

• INR 20 per Adult
• INR 10 per Child
• INR 400 Monthly Fee per Person
• INR 1000 Yearly Fee per Senior Citizen
• INR  1500 Yearly Fee per Person
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Photography: Allowed

Description:  is a national park located in Jubilee Hills in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The park has an approximate area of 390-acre (1.6 km2). The entire park was declared as a National park by the Andhra Pradesh state government after getting approval from the central government in the year 1998. It is located centrally in Jubilee Hills and is described as a jungle amidst the concrete jungle. It has peacocks and other animals.

NTR Gardens

NTR Gardens - (4 Km From Nampally)

Timings: 12:30 pm – 8:30 pm (Daily)

Address: NTR Marg, Central Secretariat, Khairatabad, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004

Phone: 040 2345 0337

Entry fee:
INR 20 for adults
INR 10 for children

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• Photography: 

INR 30 for Still Camera

INR 65 for Camcorder

Description: Deemed as one of most expensive gardens in India, the NTR Garden is a popular attraction of the city of Hyderabad. Sprawling across an area of 55 acres, it houses the memorial of the great leader of Andhra Pradesh, Late N T Rama Rao. The park was created by the Government of Andhra Pradesh with a lavish budget of 40 crores, in order to honor the respectable leader. Today, NTR Garden is not only one of the most beautiful locations of Hyderabad, but is also regarded as an attractive leisure and entertainment centre.

Located near the famous Hussain Sagar Lake, the park serves as a quick getaway from the cumbersome activities of the city life. The colourful flowers, trees, shrubs and plants in the park make the setting even more attractive for the visitors who relish the profound beauty of this place. Apart from a serene atmosphere, the park also offers a variety of recreational activities to keep the visitors entertained. Some of the interesting facilities of this place include a Machan Tree, a Car Cafe, and a play area for children, Japanese Park. There are also some souvenir shops and several food joints in this place.

Though the offerings of the NTR Garden are boundless, the major attractions of this place include a mono rail that runs as a joy-ride across the park, a cascading waterfall that lures the visitors and the boating facilities to venture into the adjoining Hussain Sagar Lake. The food offered at the various restaurants also needs a special mention. The resplendent greenery of the park makes the environment excessively fresh and relaxing. A place which started off as a memorial has now turned into a popular amusement park that is crowded with visitors all through the day.

Whether a native of the city or just a visitor, you must visit this park at least once!