-
City traffic is really bad (even by Indian standards). Autos go to most of the sights. But the pollution and noise is exaggerated with an auto. Autos don't go by the meter.
-
Abids area is the reasonable centre-point for all attractions. It is better to combine Golconda and Qutb Shahi tombs in one trip. It is better to do this trip early in the morning to avoid the mid-day heat. Cameras and mobile phones are not allowed into Salar Jung museum. If you bring either of them, you need to check them into cloak room first.
-
Chutney's and Minerva Coffee House are good for vegetarian food. Paradise serves the best biryani and Universal Bakery, the best burgers
-
Hotel Mercure (Abids): The rooms are excellent. Complimentary breakfast spread is very good as well. But the service is not upto the mark. The front desk isn't very helpful with booking transportation.
-
Hyderabad to Warangal: ~150 km, 2 to 3 hrs. The hard part is getting out of Hyderabad. After that the highway is in excellent till about Yadagiri Gutta. After that it is one lane road till Warangal.
Warangal to Ramappa Temple: ~70 km, 1 hr. Road is one-lane, but the traffic is light and the road is reasonably smooth.
Hyderabad to Bidar: ~140 kms, 2 to 3 hrs. The hard part is getting out of Hyderabad. The road is one lane throughout.
Time Required at the Sights
- Golconda Fort: 1.5 hrs. Guide recommended.
- Salar Jung Museum: 2 to 3 hrs.
- AP state museum: 30 mins; the Jain sculptures section is the only interesting room.
- Qutb Shahi Tombs: 2 to 3 hrs.
- Warangal Fort: 30 mins to one hr.
- Chowmahalla Palace: 1 hour.
- HEH Nizam Museum: 30 mins. Guide recommended.