Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in Hyderabad: 6 unusual, must-visit places

From classic to offbeat – take in this city’s sights and sounds. The land of pearls and diamonds reveals traces of weathered markets, busy biryani joints and magnificent eclectic structures.

1. Shilparamam A treasure trove for handmade products, this cultural village retails everything from Patna’s original Madhubani paintings and pretty ikat fabrics from Pochampally, to painted ceramic ware and intricate woodwork. If you support local craft, you will never leave empty handed.Where: Jubilee Enclave, HITEC City, Hyderabad 81

2. Jumerat Bazaar Apart from pre-loved household items, you may also discover a coin from the late 1800s or distorted metal pieces that may have been from Tipu Sultan’s time. Even if you don’t purchase anything, lend a ear to the hard selling vendors who will share stories behind their wares.Where: Chudi Bazaar, Hyderabad 12

3. Spanish Mosque The exotic name is because it looks like Moorish architecture from the southern part of Spain. The distinctive domes, minarets and arches make it a rare marvel and any hobbyist photographer’s delight.Where: Sardar Patel Road, Indian Airlines Colony, Begumpet, Hyderabad 16

4. Sudha Cars Museum One of India’s wackiest museums, it shows off the madcap vehicles of owner K Sudhakar – cars shaped like a cricket bat, hamburger, camera and more!Where: 19-5-15 1D,  Bahadurpura X Road, Near Zoo Park, Hyderabad 64Tel: (040) 24463257

5. Nimrah Cafe This city’s pure-breds will assure you that this little place offers the best views of Charminar. Soak in the majestic monument’s beauty while dunking freshly baked Osmania and Tie biscuits in a steaming cup of Irani chai. Where: Opposite Charminar, Khilwat, Hyderabad 02Tel: (0) 09848089343

6. Hameedi The small outlet is known to make the most authentic jauzi ka halwa – a rich, artery-clogging preparation made of nutmeg and ghee. Legeng says that the last Nizam loved it so much, he sent a letter to name the shop after one of his sons! Where: 5-5-513, Mozamjahi Market, Abids, Hyderabad 01Tel: (040) 24602212

Also read: Secret Shoppers’ Haunts in Bengaluru: 6 unusual, must-visit places…