Hyderabad

The capital of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad is the traditional meeting point of northern and southern India, with cultural influences from both. Today, it’s nicknamed Cyberabad, and known as much for its IT as for its architecture (Microsoft has its largest R&D campus outside the US here). Stray off the beaten track and you’ll discover a different city – a place full of monuments, markets and minarets far from corporate life.

Must See:
Get out and explore a bit of real life at the Laad Bazaar, a colourful kilometre-long shopping road dedicated jewels, fabrics, saris and – especially – bangles.

Must eat at:
In a city that’s fond of its vegetarian specialities, it would be rude not to try a local feast that really knows its onions – and you can do just that at Bean Me Up at 275 Nagar, with vegan options among its spread of local and international veggie delicacies.

Must be there for:
The Ugadi Festival, symbol of rebirth and new life, is celebrated to mark the onset of the New Year in the Hindi Lunar calendar, every spring. Preparations begin weeks in advance – and with brightly decorated houses (and newly bathed residents) it’s a time to look ahead with optimism.

Well-travelled facts:
· Alternative names for Hyderabad include City of Nizams and City of Pearls.
· As well as computing, the city has a developing reputation for pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.

Visa:
British citizens need a visa to visit India for business or pleasure.
For full information, visit http://in.vfsglobal.co.uk/