Weekend in Hyderabad: Haleem and other hearty delights in the city of Nizams

Affairs of the state(hood) have taken a lot of steam off this city in the South in recent years. That, however, does not cloud its new identity as one of the metros in India. Hyderabad, which attracts many business visitors, also has as much fun and entertainment to offer you for a good weekend sojourn.

Here is where you head off to right after you get off the expressway that connects you to the city from the airport:

1. Biryani at 'Paradise': I hope you are hungry when you reach Hyderabad! One of the first things that you do as you land in Hyderabad is go hunting for a good meal of biryani. Most head towards Paradise hotel, which is a landmark in itself. If you are yearning for more meat delights like haleem and brain fry, head to Pista House at Nampally, Hyderabad House at Madhapur, and Hotel Rumaan at Tolichowki that also serves beef haleem.

These joints serve mouth-watering vegetarian food as well, with their selection of sumptuous daals and brinjal preparations. Don't be shocked to find most of the dishes garnished by cashews. That is how royals used to eat and the city's patrons are no less royal! Eating in Hyderabad is not just about the big meals, though. There is always a lot of snack with multiple variety of cookies at Karachi Bakery at Banjara Hills. Do not forget to taste Andhra sweets at Pulla Reddy at Abids.

2. Ramoji Film City: Designed on the lines of Hollywood of Universal Studios, this tour has as much to offer with picture perfect replicas of most landmarks in India. Be sure to spend an entire day here.

3. Nizam splendour: Even after your endless gastronomic explorations in this city of Nizams, you have not had enough of the culture of the city unless you have visited the museum at Salarjung. The beautiful jewels, swords and other artifacts are worth checking out, besides a visit to the heritage site Golconda Fort. You don't want to forget to test its amazing acoustics, too.

4. Museum of cars: The city also boasts of a whacky museum full of unique cars, shaped like a billiard table car, or a bed car or a bad car. It is truly an exclusive museum. Make sure you carry a camera.

5. Pearls for everyone: You will be popular with the ladies after you get back from Hyderabad as there will be pearls for everyone in your bag. That does not mean you will spend a fortune on them. Beautiful varieties of natural pearls in many designs will ensure your gifts are worth their price. Make sure that you ask for a 'corporate discount', which the jewelers would like to give to the shoppers.

6. Shilparamam: The former capital of Andhra Pradesh is also a centre for the state's handicrafts. The cultural centre, Shilparamam, has many of them for sale. It also holds folk shows on a regular basis.