Although Hyderabad is now the capital of Andhra Pradesh and one of India's largest cities, its days as the capital of the Qutab Shahi dynasty, as a center of the Mughal empire and as the seat of the wealthy Nizams have left an indelible mark. Regardless of Hyderabad's increasing importance in modern India , the city most people are drawn to is the Hyderabad of history. The first dynasty to make an impact here was that of the Quatb Shahi Kings who rose to power in the 16th century. Upon arrival in Hyderabad they promptly built the city's most famous landmark, the Charminar.

Until they moved to Hyderabad in 1590 they ruled from the near by fortress at Golconda. The Micca Masjid, near the Charminar , is one of the world's largest and most impressive mosques. Hyderabad is an important center in the air transport network of south India. The other prominent places in Hyderabad include Hussain Sagar the largest of the lakes of Hyderabad around which the city is spread. The twin lakes of Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar were the sole suppliers of drinking water.

Naubat Pahad, are now adorned by two pavilions and a hanging garden. There is Nehru Zoological park. The Vansthalipuram Deer Park, has many species of deer and other wildlife. The Birla Planetarium is one of the most modern in the country. Then there is the Salar jung Museum. Other museums of interest are Government Archaeogical Museum, Birla Archaeological Museum & Khazana Museums. The Public Garden is a well laid out gardens.