Even though it’s known as India’s newly formed 29th state, Telangana’s history is deeply influenced by great dynasties like the Sathavahanas, Kakatiyas, Chalukyas, Mughals, Qutub Shahis and Asaf Jahis.

While the Kakatiyas contributions to architecture are considered most impressive, the Sathavahanas ruled the Telangana region for about 400 years, right from the 2nd century BC to beyond the 2nd century AD. Among Kakatiyas, Prataparudra was considered a great ruler who ruled till 1323 AD.

Owing to its rich history and culture, the state of Telangana is abundantly blessed with ancient temples, age-old architectural delights and scenic natural beauty. The state capital Hyderabad, affectionately known as the city of pearls was recently ranked amongst the 2nd best places to visit by the National Geographic Traveller India.

Hyderabad offers the traveller a wide range of tourist attractions that effortlessly blend its rich cultural and historical traditions spanning a history of 400 years. Some popular attractions include: Golconda Fort, the Qutb Shahi Tombs, Taramati Baradari, Chowmohalla Palace, Birla Mandir, Birla Planetarium, Hussainsagar Lake and the famous Salar Jung Museum. It’s impossible to speak of Hyderabad and not mention the grand Charminar. It is to Hyderabad what the Taj Mahal is to Agra or the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of the city of Hyderabad, laid the foundations of the Charminar in 1591. It has 45 prayer spaces and a mosque, which is a symbol of architectural splendour. Located adjacent to the south west of the Charminar is the famous Mecca Masjid, which was completed by Aurangzeb in 1694.

For those looking beyond monuments, Hyderabad is a shoppers’ paradise. The Laad Baazar, is a colourful shopping centre of the old city. Shoppers can pick up a variety of bridal wear, pearls and the traditional Hyderabadi stone studded bangles here.