Shopping
There wouldn't be an Indian shopaholic who hasn't heard about the famous Hyderabadi Pearls. Just one trip here, and you would understand why this city is called The Pearl City. The variety of pearl jewellery on offer is just amazing - bracelets, Satlads (seven strand pearl, set with precious stones), lacchas, chand bali (a moon shaped ear-ring), chokers, rassi (a chain set in the form of rope) chatai (a mat type chain, earrings and rings), hath phool (for the fingers and the wrist), vaddenam (waist belt) and Tanmani, you will find it all here.
Your visit to Hyderabad isn't quite complete without having shopped for Pochampally sarees and dress material. Vibrant, colourful and with unique patterns, take home these sarees and be a proud owner of this spectacular handloom.
Kalamkari- the art of painting and printing fabrics, the craft has been in existence for the last thousand years. Today the two main centres of Kalamkari production are Machilipatnam and Srikalahasti, having different styles. In Machilipatnam style, outlines are printed with beautifully carved blocks, while the interiors are filled in with the vegetable dyes using the 'kalam'. It chiefly produces large pieces of textiles used for sarees and linen. The Srikalahasti style, on the other hand involves free hand drawing. The application of colors is done with a brush from start to finish. The style is noted for its wall panels depicting mythological tales. Shops housing ethnic wear and cottage emporiums are home to a wide collection of Kalamkari products.
There's something to shop for your home too. Kondapalli village is home of the famous Kondapalli Toys. These toys are made with a special wood that's found on the hills here. Intricate and colourful; these toys capture the vibrancy of Andhra Pradesh.
The lanes around Charminar are a shopper's paradise, both in terms of the wide range of wares and the wallet friendly price tags. Shop for the filigree- the delicate and intricately designed silver craft. Silver etched into fishes, chains and handmade mementos are worth a look. A special mention is required here, for the colourful lacquer bangles, available at Laad Bazaar, near the Charminar. The burst of colours is a feast to the eyes.
Intricately designed gold and silver jewellery studded with gems and semi-precious stones, in contemporary to traditional designs, you will find a great range to choose from. Also, famous here is the rich Zardosi saris, embroidered salwaar suits & dress materials, and in accessories. You'll be fascinated by the intricacy in Zardosi work here. While here, make sure you visit Shilparamam, an exclusive arts & crafts village, located at Madhapur just ahead of Jubilee Hills for its spectacular collection of handloom and handicrafts.