Telangana
Discover Telangana
Telangana (Telugu: తెలంగాణా) is a state in Southern India. It is a mainly agricultural state, but a cosmopolitan atmosphere can be found in the major city and capital, Hyderabad. It is bordered by the states of Maharashtra to the north and north-west, Karnataka to the west, Chhattisgarh to the north-east, and Andhra Pradesh to the south and east. Telangana sits at the heart of the Deccan Plateau, shaped by rugged hills, rocky landscapes, and ancient boulders scattered across its terrain.
What to Experience in Telangana
Taste of Telangana...
Perhaps unique from its surrounding states, millet-based breads are more common in Telangana. Common dishes, known and popular in other Indian states, can be found here but may be called by a different name. Curries here are often more tamarind-based and may be called koora or pulusu. In general you will find that tamarind, red chilies (koraivikaram) and asafetida are frequently used to flavor dishes. For variety and ease of access, Hyderabad is the place to eat. Don't forget to taste Hyderabadi biryani when you go to Hyderabad, as the city is considered to be the dish's birthplace. It is spicy but worth the taste. Eat at renowned biryani restaurants like Paradise, Bawarchi, and Cafe Bahar for the best experience. It is important not to dismiss food establishments found in the smaller villages. Many times the best and most authentic experiences can be found off the main streets. A traditional alcoholic drink widely available across Telangana is kallu (toddy), a naturally fermented sap extracted from two types of palm trees: eetha chettu (silver date palm) and thaati chettu (palmyra palm). Thaati kallu has a mild, sweet flavor, while eetha kallu is slightly stronger with a more distinct taste. Freshly tapped toddy is refreshing, but it ferments quickly and becomes more potent over time. It is commonly consumed in rural areas and sold at licensed toddy shops.
Culture & Religion
Culture
Telangana has a vibrant cultural heritage, deeply rooted in classical arts, folk traditions, and festivals. The state has a rich tradition in classical music, with Carnatic and Hindustani influences shaping its musical landscape. The Perini Shivatandavam, an ancient warrior dance performed in honor of Lord Shiva, is one of Telangana's most revered classical dance forms. Folk arts hold a special place in Telangana’s cultural identity. Burra Katha, a storytelling tradition using music and dialogue, is a staple of rural entertainment. Shadow puppet shows (Tholu Bommalata) bring mythological tales to life through intricate leather puppetry. Gusadi Dance, performed by the Gond tribal community, is a visually striking ritual dance featuring elaborate costumes and vibrant movements. Kolatam, a rhythmic stick dance, and Bathukamma, a floral festival celebrated with group singing and dancing, add to the state's colorful traditions.
A Rich Past
Explore the historical roots that shaped Telangana into what it is today.
Telangana's history is marked by a succession of dynasties and cultural influences. In the 12th and 13th centuries, the Kakatiya dynasty, with its capital at Warangal, played a pivotal role in shaping the region's identity. Following the Kakatiyas, the area came under the rule of the Bahmani Sultanate and later the Qutb Shahi dynasty, which established Hyderabad as a prominent center of culture and commerce. In the 18th century, the Nizams of Hyderabad rose to power, maintaining autonomy during British colonial rule through a subsidiary alliance. After India's independence in 1947, this region's statehood status has seen multiple changes. Originally called the state of Hyderabad, it was annexed in 1950. In 1956, it was merged with Andhra State to form Andhra Pradesh. On 2 June 2014 this region was promoted to statehood, with the city of Hyderabad as its capital, and called Telangana following a popular movement for separation. Telangana Formation day is celebrated annually on 2nd June. Don't let the newness of the state deceive you; Telangana is rich in cultural heritage and historical sites. Telangana has a vibrant cultural heritage, deeply rooted in classical arts, folk traditions, and festivals. The state has a rich tradition in classical music, with Carnatic and Hindustani influences shaping its musical landscape. The Perini Shivatandavam, an ancient warrior dance performed in honor of Lord Shiva, is one of Telangana's most revered classical dance forms....
Festivals & Events
Experience the vibrant festivals and cultural celebrations of Telangana.
Participate in the Sammakka Saralamma Jatara – Held biennially in Medaram, this tribal festival is one of the largest gatherings in the world, attracting around 10 million devotees. The vibrant atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions make it a must-experience event. Bathukamma Festival – A floral festival celebrated by women across Telangana, showcasing colorful flower arrangements and traditional folk dances. Shop for Pochampally Sarees – Known for their intricate Ikkat designs, these handwoven sarees from Pochampally are famous worldwide. Nirmal Toys and Paintings – Exquisitely handcrafted wooden toys and paintings that make for great souvenirs. Laad Bazaar – Located near Charminar, this bustling market is a paradise for bangle lovers, offering traditional lacquer bangles, pearls, and intricate jewelry. There are several scenic locations in Telangana perfect for nature camping. Ananthagiri Hills offers a refreshing escape with lush forests and trekking trails.
Climate
The land is mostly dry, with patches of forests and fertile plains along the river basins. The Godavari and Krishna rivers are the state’s lifelines, supporting agriculture and providing water in an otherwise arid region. Summers here can be intense, with high temperatures and dry winds, while the monsoon between June and September brings much-needed rain, transforming the landscape into a lush green expanse. Winters are mild, making it the best time to explore the state’s natural beauty, from its serene lakes to its rolling hills. Telugu is the official language and is spoken by virtually all of the state's inhabitants. Urdu (the largest minority language), Hindi, and English are spoken as well. Minimal knowledge of Telugu is extremely useful, though not essential. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is the only international airport in Telangana.
Essential Information
Best Time to Visit
Year Roundbest time to explore the state’s natural beauty, from its serene lakes to its rolling hills....
Getting There
Multiple OptionsRajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is the only international airport in Telangana. International carriers are Air India, Emirates, Kuwait Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, SriLankan Airlines and Thai Airways. Domestic connections are operated by Air India, Deccan, GoAir, IndiGo and SpiceJet. The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) runs all types of buses including air-conditioned, non air-conditioned and Volvo, Garuda-Plus, Garuda-Sleeper, Indra, Super Luxury and express buses to all major cities in South India There are several state-owned bus operators like KSRTC APSRTC, also there are several private operators like redBus, abhiBus, and Ticketgoose operating bus services to Telangana Like rest of India, buses and railways are the two major forms of transportation within Telangana. Hyderabad also boasts metro rail connectivity, and also MMTS trains for local travel....
Regions
Explore AreasFor travel purposes, the state is divided into five regions, arranged counterclockwise. Telangana sits at the heart of the Deccan Plateau, shaped by rugged hills, rocky landscapes, and ancient boulder…...
Getting Around & Staying
Getting Around
Like rest of India, buses and railways are the two major forms of transportation within Telangana. Hyderabad also boasts metro rail connectivity, and also MMTS trains for local travel. Hyderabad is the heart of Telangana and features a wide assortment of historical sites, bazaars, restaurants and bars. In Hyderabad, the Birla Mandir stands as a calm and inviting place of worship with lovely city views. Shortly after, Yadagiri Gutta provides a revered hilltop temple experience that is popular among pilgrims for its scenic vistas and peaceful atmosphere. You can also visit Dharmapuri and Vemulawada, where traditional temples celebrate lively festivals. Warangal hosts ancient temples that reflect the legacy of the Kakatiya dynasty. Further southeast, the town of Bhadrachalam, located on the banks of the Godavari River, is a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Rama, attracting thousands of devotees, especially during Sri Rama Navami.
Language & Talk
Telugu is the official language and is spoken by virtually all of the state's inhabitants. Urdu (the largest minority language), Hindi, and English are spoken as well. Minimal knowledge of Telugu is extremely useful, though not essential. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is the only international airport in Telangana. International carriers are Air India, Emirates, Kuwait Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, SriLankan Airlines and Thai Airways. Domestic connections are operated by Air India, Deccan, GoAir, IndiGo and SpiceJet.
Safety Information
Safety Overview
Drink plenty of water and avoid going out in the afternoon when the temperature exceeds 40°C in summer (March-June).
Glimpses of Telangana
Capture movement ❤️
The Charminar is a monument and mosque in Hyderabad, India. It was built in 1591 AD by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shahi to celebrate the end of a deadly plague. The Charminar is one of the most famous buildings in India and is similar in significance to the Taj Mahal in Agra.
Charminar mosque in Hyderabad, India. March 2024.
a large body of water with a city in the background
city buildings near gray asphalt road during daytime
white and blue concrete building under white clouds during daytime
a couple of deer standing on top of a lush green field
It is blue and green in colour. It has a beautiful crest on its head that adds to its beauty. This crest is unique to peacock. It is known to have a long, colourful and bright tail.
A small bird sitting on top of a metal pole
a large body of water with a boat in the distance
Capture movement ❤️
The Charminar is a monument and mosque in Hyderabad, India. It was built in 1591 AD by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shahi to celebrate the end of a deadly plague. The Charminar is one of the most famous buildings in India and is similar in significance to the Taj Mahal in Agra.
Charminar mosque in Hyderabad, India. March 2024.