Hyderabad is a city rich in history, culture, and craftsmanship, offering a variety of unique items that reflect its heritage. From intricate pearl jewelry to vibrant Bidriware and fragrant spices, the city is home to many specialty goods that have gained recognition over the years.
In this guide we’ll take a closer look at what Hyderabad is famously known for in terms of shopping—whether it’s traditional attire, handcrafted accessories, or culinary delights. Understanding these specialties not only adds to the shopping experience but also offers a glimpse into the city’s artistic and cultural legacy.
10 Famous Things To Buy In Hyderabad
Here’s a curated list of 10 famous things to buy in Hyderabad:
| Category | Popular Items | Best Places to Buy | Price Range (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pearls | Hyderabadi Pearls | Krishna Jewellers Pearls & Gems, Modi Pearls | ₹500 – ₹50,000 |
| Bangles | Lac Bangles | Laad Bazaar (Charminar area) | ₹500–₹5,000 |
| Biscuits | Osmania Biscuits | Nimrah Café (near Charminar) | ₹50 – ₹200 |
| Handicrafts | Bidriware | Shilparamam Craft Village, Pochampally | ₹1,000–₹20,000 |
| Textiles | Pochampally Sarees | Pochampally village, Shilparamam | ₹1,500–₹15,000 |
| Wooden Toys | Kondapalli Toys | Kondapalli village, Shilparamam | ₹500–₹2,000 |
| Spices | Hyderabadi Biryani Masala | Shahran Market (Charminar area) | ₹200–₹500 |
| Perfumes | Attar (Traditional Perfume) | Shops around Charminar | ₹1000–₹5,000 |
| Jewelry | Kundan and Polki Jewelry | Shops around Charminar, Madina Building | ₹2,000–₹50,000 |
| Sweets | Putharekulu (Sweet Pancakes) | Shops near Pochampally, Shilparamam | ₹300–₹1000 |
Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on quality, craftsmanship, and place of purchase.
Detailed Breakdown Of Best Items To Buy In Hyderabad
Hyderabad is a city that blends heritage, craftsmanship, and culinary delights, making it a perfect place to buy many unique items. Here’s what makes these specialties stand out in Hyderabad:
1. Pearls
Hyderabad is known as the “City of Pearls” due to its centuries-old tradition of pearl trading. The pearls here are sourced, polished, and handcrafted into stunning jewelry. From classic white pearls to rare colored varieties, Hyderabad’s markets—like Laad Bazaar and Basheerbagh—offer high-quality pearls that have global recognition.
2. Bangles
The iconic Laad Bazaar near Charminar is famous for its exquisite lac bangles, which are handcrafted and often studded with stones and mirrors. These bangles, with their intricate designs and bright colors, are an essential part of traditional attire and festive celebrations in Hyderabad.
3. Biscuits
Hyderabad’s Osmania biscuits, originating from the time of the Nizams, are a must-try. Crisp, mildly sweet, and melt-in-the-mouth, they are a perfect accompaniment to Irani chai. Famous bakeries like Karachi Bakery offer a variety of biscuits, including their signature fruit biscuits that have a distinct flavor and texture.
4. Handicrafts
Hyderabad boasts stunning Bidriware, a traditional craft known for its black metal inlay designs. Other regional handicrafts include Pochampally Ikat fabric, intricate wood carvings, and brass artifacts that reflect the artistic legacy of Telangana.
5. Textiles
The city is famous for Pochampally silk sarees, featuring geometric patterns and bright colors. These sarees, woven with precision by local artisans, are prized for their intricate craftsmanship. Hyderabad also offers Khadi, cotton fabrics, and embroidered textiles, making it a great place to shop for traditional wear.
6. Wooden Toys
Crafted in Kondapalli, these handmade Kondapalli toys are an iconic part of Hyderabad’s artisan heritage. Made using softwood and painted with vibrant natural colors, these toys are a wonderful representation of the region’s rich craftsmanship and storytelling traditions.
7. Spices
Hyderabad’s spice markets are filled with the finest aromatic spices, essential for making authentic Hyderabadi cuisine. Garam masala, saffron, turmeric, and dried red chilies are commonly found, adding depth to biryanis and curries. The markets near Begum Bazaar are great places to explore and purchase fresh spices.
8. Perfumes
Known locally as “Ittar,” traditional perfumes in Hyderabad have been crafted for centuries using natural ingredients. These fragrances, often made with floral and woody notes, are sold in glass vials in bazaars near Charminar, offering a personalized and luxurious olfactory experience.
9. Jewelry
Hyderabad’s jewelry heritage is unmatched, with gold, silver, and diamond-studded ornaments available in markets like Basheerbagh and Sultan Bazaar. Traditional Nizami jewelry, including Kundan and Polki designs, reflects the grandeur of the royal era and remains highly sought after.
10. Sweets
The city’s famous sweets include Double Ka Meetha, Qubani Ka Meetha, and Jauzi Halwa, each carrying a rich blend of flavors inspired by royal kitchens. Well-known sweet shops across Hyderabad offer these delicacies, making them perfect souvenirs for food lovers.
Whether you’re looking for fine craftsmanship or delicious treats, Hyderabad’s markets provide a truly authentic shopping experience. These items not only reflect the city’s cultural heritage but also make for meaningful purchases—be it as souvenirs, gifts, or personal collections.
Best Shopping Areas In Hyderabad
Hyderabad offers a rich tapestry of shopping experiences, blending traditional markets with modern retail spaces. Here are some of the city’s most notable shopping destinations:
| Market Name | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Laad Bazaar | Pearls, Lac Bangles, Silver Jewelry |
| Charminar Markets | Traditional Clothes, Mojaris, Handicrafts |
| Begum Bazaar | Spices, Dry Fruits, Household Items |
| Sultan Bazaar | Handloom Fabrics, Footwear |
| Shilparamam Craft Village | Authentic Handicrafts & Souvenirs |
| CTC, Secunderabad | Electronics & IT Products |
1. Laad Bazaar
Laad Bazaar, also known as Chudi Bazaar, is a historic market located adjacent to Hyderabad’s iconic Charminar. Established during the Qutb Shahi era, this vibrant bazaar has been a hub for traditional craftsmanship for centuries.
The market is renowned for its extensive collection of bangles, particularly the lacquer bangles adorned with semi-precious stones and pearls. Beyond bangles, visitors can explore a variety of items, including saris, bridal wear, imitation jewelry, silverware, Nirmal and Kalamkari paintings, bidriware, and an array of perfumes.
2. Charminar Markets
The area surrounding Charminar is a bustling commercial hub, featuring a network of markets that reflect Hyderabad’s rich cultural heritage. These markets are renowned for their diverse offerings, including traditional jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts.
The markets near Charminar are particularly famous for their pearls and diamonds, with many shops offering intricate jewelry designs that have been a part of Hyderabad’s legacy for generations. citeturn0search13
3. Begum Bazaar
Established during the Qutb Shahi rule, Begum Bazaar stands as one of Hyderabad’s largest commercial markets. Situated near Afzal Gunj, this market is famed for its wide selection of goods, including handicrafts, crockery, home accessories, and a variety of gifting options.
Shoppers can find reasonably priced saris, materials, stone-studded bangles, perfumes, and silverware. The market operates both retail and wholesale, attracting a diverse clientele. Its strategic location and extensive range of products make it a must-visit destination for those seeking traditional Hyderabadi items.
4. Sultan Bazaar
Located between the Abids and Koti areas, Sultan Bazaar is a bustling market that caters to a wide range of shopping needs. With over a hundred street shops, this market offers everything from traditional jewelry (jhumkas) and ethnic wear (kurtis) to decorative goods and accessories, all at budget-friendly prices.
The market’s beautiful atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience the city’s rich shopping culture.
5. Shilparamam Craft Village
Shilparamam is an arts and crafts village located in the Madhapur area of Hyderabad. Established in 1992, it serves as a platform for preserving and promoting traditional Indian arts and crafts.
The village features over 65 acres of land, showcasing life-sized huts that depict rural and tribal lifestyles, providing visitors with a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage.
Attractions include the Rural Museum, Rock Museum, Sculpture Park, and a variety of craft exhibitions. Shilparamam also hosts numerous cultural festivals and events throughout the year, attracting artisans and tourists alike.
6. CTC, Secunderabad
The Commercial Tax Complex (CTC) area in Secunderabad is a notable commercial district known for its diverse range of shops and markets. This area offers a variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and household items.
The bustling streets are lined with numerous shops, making it a popular destination for shoppers seeking a wide array of products at competitive prices. Its strategic location and extensive offerings make it a significant commercial hub in the Secunderabad region.
Tips For Shopping In Hyderabad
Hyderabad’s bustling markets and diverse shopping experiences make it a shopper’s paradise. To make the most of your shopping adventure, consider the following tips:
Bargaining is Key: Engaging in negotiation is common practice in many of Hyderabad’s markets, especially in street shops. Haggling can lead to significant discounts and is part of the local shopping culture. For instance, Charminar Bazaar and Laad Bazaar are known for their vibrant street shopping scenes, where bargaining is customary.
Check Authenticity: When purchasing pearls and silver jewelry, it’s crucial to verify their authenticity. Opt for purchases from reputable stores that provide proper certification. The markets around Charminar, such as Laad Bazaar, are renowned for their exquisite jewelry, but ensuring quality and authenticity should be a priority.
Explore Local Markets: Some of the best deals are often found in smaller, less commercialized markets. Exploring these areas can offer unique items at competitive prices. For example, the antique market near Moazzam Jahi Market offers a range of items that reflect the city’s rich history.
Shop During Festivals: Hyderabad comes alive during festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Sankranti, with markets offering special discounts and a festive atmosphere. Laad Bazaar, in particular, is known for its vibrant displays during these times, making it an ideal period for shopping.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enhance your shopping experience in Hyderabad, ensuring both memorable and rewarding encounters in the city’s vibrant markets.
Conclusion
Hyderabad offers a diverse shopping experience, combining traditional markets with modern retail options. Exploring areas like Laad Bazaar, Sultan Bazaar, and Banjara Hills provides a mix of traditional crafts and contemporary fashion.
Remember to check the authenticity of items like pearls and silver jewelry, and don’t hesitate to bargain to get the best deals. Visiting during festivals can also offer special discounts and a festive shopping atmosphere.
FAQs
Hyderabad is renowned for its vibrant markets offering a blend of traditional and contemporary goods. The city is particularly famous for its exquisite pearl jewelry, with markets like Laad Bazaar near Charminar providing a wide array of bangles and bridal wear.
Hyderabad offers a variety of unique gifts that reflect its rich heritage. Hyderabadi pearls are a popular choice, known for their lustrous beauty and quality. Lacquer bangles, especially those studded with stones, add a touch of traditional elegance. For distinctive gifts, Bidriware—a type of metalwork unique to the region—makes for a memorable choice.
Hyderabad is renowned for several specialties that highlight its rich history and culture. The city is famous for its pearls, earning it the nickname “City of Pearls,” with markets like Charminar Bazaar offering exquisite pearl jewelry. Bidriware, an intricate metalwork reflecting Persian influence, is another notable specialty.