"Cyberabad" a Hyderabad Travel Page by JohnniOmani

Hyderabad and Secunderabad, City of Pearls is skipped over by most travellers but after travelling around the city for three full days I can say that this city has to be one of the most pleasant surprises of India. I knew most travellers skipped this city because of its conservative nature with regards to Islam but after living in the Middle East I was anxious to see the Islamic areas of India and see how they differ from other Islamic areas throughout the world. Hyderabad is clearly more conservative than any other city Ive seen in India and a majority of the women roam the streets in chadors and hijabs. The city has been hit by the cyber world and is well connected but I was more taken in by the citys Islamic quarters and monuments not to mention how relaxed the locals were in comparison to other cities around the country. Nobody hasseled me for three full days which was like a breath of fresh air after coming from the North. The city gracefully combines Hindu and Islamic traditions- while a strategically placed 18 m Buddha looks over the city. I found Hyderabad one of the coolest cities in India and it has a ton to offer visitors. Brilliant time.

Hyderabad is home to one of the most interesting forts in the South of India. Golconda dates from the 16th century and its history may go back even further than most archaeologists believe and despite the heat I really enjoyed my afternoon at the site. The citadel is built on a huge hill overlooking the city and it is preserved considering the lack of attention museum officals in India pay local sites. The main gates are still there and you can see the massive iron spikes on the doors that were used to obstruct war elephants. The overall size of the citadel and its walls are very impressive and the the most enjoyable aspect of this site is that you can visit the citadel in peace. If this citadel was in any other part of India touts would hound you and you would need more patience than Buddha himself but thanks in part to the locals' chilled out vibe the atmosphere is perfect.

These beautiful tombs were again another unexpected delight, they are near the Golconda Fort and they are surrounded by gardens. It is an easy walk from the fort and an autorickshaw shouldnt cost more than 10 rupees. Most travellers know of these graceful tombs but instead pass and go straight for the fort. What a waste. I had a fantastic time walking around the grounds and snapping some great photos and during the two hours I spend poking around, I was the only traveller. I highly recommend taking in these tombs because their designs are great.