When you discuss iconic monuments and historical landmarks in Hyderabad, Charminar is the one that pops up in people’s minds. This majestic monument in the heart of Hyderabad is more than a simple landmark; it has people’s emotions associated with it. The beauty of Charminar is that the experiences lie beyond the monument itself. The surrounding Charminar Road has a lot of unique experiences waiting to be explored. Whether shopping or visiting a nearby historical spot, there are many things to do in Charminar. If you want to make the most out of your Charminar and Old City exploration, the key lies in planning ahead of time.
Top Things To Do In Charminar
Charminar and its surrounding area offer many experiences waiting to be unveiled. There will be a lot of walking involved, so put on your walking shoes and get ready to embark on a memorable exploration.
1. Start With The Monument Exploration
Image Credit: Santosh Kumar Velamala for Wikimedia Commons
Your trip to Charminar wouldn’t be complete without exploring the monument itself. It stands tall in the middle of the road, featuring a blend of Indo-Islamic architecture. The highlight of this historical landmark lies in its uniformity. It doesn’t matter which side of Charminar you are viewing it from; it is the same on every side. The blend of grand arches and towering minarets adds to its charm. You can begin by climbing the spiral staircase that takes you to the upper floor, where you get a glimpse into the beauty and charm of the old city. While inside, pay close attention to the architecture, inscriptions and the beauty of the insides.
Address: Charminar Rd, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (all days of the week)
Cost: ₹25 for Indian citizens, ₹300 for foreign tourists
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2. Visit The Mecca Masjid
Image Credit: Tarunsamanta for Wikimedia Commons
Although a few steps away from Charminar, you can consider visiting this mosque as one of the things to do in Charminar. Depending on the time of the day you visit, there’s a capacity to accommodate up to 10,000 people at once. The highlight of this mosque lies in its structure and architecture, especially given that it’s made out of granite. The main hall in the mosque features well-designed arches and minarets, which add to the beauty of this monument. Once you finish exploring the mosque’s perimeter, sit and relax in the courtyard.
Address: Charminar Rd, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India
Timings: 4:00 AM to 9:30 PM (all days of the week)
Cost: Free
3. Wander Through Laad Bazaar
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The moment you step outside Charminar, you step into the bustling markets of Laad Bazaar, aka Choodi Bazaar. Now, back in the day, the market was renowned specifically for its laad bangles, or lacquer bangles. However, it has become a versatile market with all your basic shopping needs. From decorated and vibrant coloured bangles to unique bridal wear and jewellery, you can find it all. The market also sells textiles, perfumes, and traditional Hyderabadi attire. It’s a perfect place to pick up souvenirs and gifts. As you navigate the narrow lanes, stop at one of the many street vendors to get some mehendi done.
Address: Near Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India
Timings: 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM every day
Cost: Free
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4. Savour Hyderabadi Biryani At Shadab Restaurant
Hotel Shadab or Shadab Restaurant is around a kilometre away from Charminar but well within the perimeter of the landmark. So, once you are done with the exploration and want to slow down and catch a break, make your way to Shadab Hotel to savour the robust flavours of Hyderabadi Biryani. Depending on the rush, you can either sit down and eat or get takeaway. Either way, you can’t miss out on trying the biryani while you are in the Charminar area. For some variance, try their Nihari or Haleem too.
Address: 21-1-140-144, Near High Court, Madina Building, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India
Timings: 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM every day
Cost: ₹300 – ₹600 per person
5. Sip On Some Irani Chai
Your trip to Old City in Hyderabad is incomplete if you don’t sip some authentic Iranian chai with Osmania biscuits. Head to iconic cafes like Nimrah or Charminar Bakery for an authentic experience. Most of the time, these spots are full and overcrowded. So, you can either plan to wait for some time or try at one of the many roadside stalls that sell tea and biscuits. The taste isn’t drastically different, but there is a difference in the price point and waiting time. Either way, this is one of the most fun things to do in Charminar.
Address: Nimrah or Charminar Bakery
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Cost: ₹30 to ₹50 per cup.
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6. Discover The Chowmahalla Palace
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Another thing to do in Charminar is visit the nearby Chowmahalla Palace. It is located around 2 km from the main monument of Charminar. If you are walking from Charminar, reaching Chowmahalla Palace wouldn’t take more than 10-15 minutes. The palace complex has four distinct palaces: a vintage car display, landscaped lawns and gardens, an artificial pond and a blend of Persian, Indo-Saracenic, and European architectural styles. As you explore the palace, the true beauty of it lies in the grand halls and the courtyards.
Address: 20-4-236, Motigalli, Khilwat, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays)
Cost: ₹100 for Indians
7. Unearth Historical Gems At The Salar Jung Museum
Image Credit: NAGASREENIVASARAO PUPPALA for Wikimedia Commons
Among the things to do with family in Charminar is visit the Salar Jung Museum, which currently houses 1 million artefacts. It is a two-storey museum with 38 exhibits. Among the many experiences there, don’t miss out on the musical clock and veiled Rebecca. Another popular attraction in the museum is its collection of miniature paintings. It draws in thousands of tourists every year interested in exploring the individual paintings up close.
Address: Salar Jung Road, Darulshifa, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays)
Cost: ₹50 for Indian citizens, ₹500 for foreign tourists
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8. Go For Thrift Shopping On The Roads
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One of the many charms of Charminar and its surrounding market is the affordable finds. Small stalls and roadside shops sell unique and readymade items, such as clothes, shoes, sunglasses, etc., for a fraction of the price. It’s one of the main attractions in the area. You do have to be on your feet for some time, exploring every shop to see which one is the best pick.
Address: Charminar Market
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Cost: Depends on what you are buying
9. Capture Photographs During Evening
The charm of Charminar and the surrounding bustling market is accentuated during the evening. During this period, the monument is illuminated with different-coloured lights, which somehow accentuates the beauty of the monument and the area around it. So, while you are there, one of the fun things to do in Charminar during the evening is to capture the beauty in photographs. You can take drone shots if you have the gear with you.
Address: Charminar area
Timings: 07:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Cost: None
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10. Shop Authentic Pearls
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Hyderabad is alternatively known as the City of Pearls. So, while you are around the Charminar area, exploring the landmark and the surrounding markets, take the time to visit one or multiple jewellery shops in the area. They are renowned for their authentic pearl jewellery that you can buy at an affordable price. The best part is the variety you get. There are natural pearl sets, which come with authentication certificates too. Investing in such amazing and unique statement pieces will surely prepare you for life.
Address: Around Charminar Market
Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Cost: Varies
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The list of things to do in Charminar is extensive. From retail therapy to savouring the local Hyderabadi cuisine, you will have a lot of amazing experiences in Charminar. Since the area is quite close-knit and congested, having a proper plan makes it easier to cover all the individual spots and experience the list of things mentioned. On your next trip to Andhra Pradesh, you can make the most of your Old City exploration with these experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Charminar
Is there an entry fee for Charminar?
Yes, there is a separate entry fee to climb to the top of Charminar. It costs ₹25 for Indian citizens and ₹300 for foreign tourists.
What are the best times to visit Charminar?
The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat. Also, as for the months, the winter months between October and February are peak times.
What is the speciality of Laad Bazaar?
Laad Bazaar is famous for its lac bangles, pearls, bridal jewellery, and traditional Hyderabadi attire. You can also get some mehendi done on your hands.
Are there vegetarian food options available near Charminar?
There are both non-vegetarian and vegetarian food options available near Charminar. You can visit one of the many restaurants there.
How far is Golconda Fort from Charminar?
Golconda Fort is roughly 11 km from Charminar. So, among the list of things to do with family in Charminar, visiting Golconda Fort is one of them.
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