TELANGANA is a state that is rich in culture and cuisine, and its many vibrant markets and bazaars offer unique food experiences to visitors. From traditional Hyderabadi cuisine to fresh produce and seafood, these markets have something for every palate. Let’s take a quick virtual tour:
Charminar Bazaar: Located in the heart of Hyderabad, this is one of the most famous food markets in Telangana and is known for its traditional Hyderabadi cuisine, including biryani, haleem, and kebabs. Visitors can also find a variety of sweets and snacks, such as khubani ka meetha, double ka meetha, and osmania biscuits. Beyond food, the market is also known for its pearl jewellery and traditional clothing.
Begum Bazaar: In the old city of Hyderabad, Begum Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest markets in Telangana, and draws shoppers for its wide assortment of spices, including staples like turmeric, cumin, and coriander. A variety of good quality dry fruits, such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios, can also be stocked up during a visit here. Retailers of traditional perfumes and attars offer a touch of charm to the chaotic proceedings.
Koti Sultan Bazaar: This Hyderabadi market is well known for its street food offerings. Visitors can find a variety of snacks, such as samosas, kachoris, and chaat, and also traditional sweets like jalebi, gulab jamun, and rasgulla. Other shopping options here — clothing and accessories.
Gudimalkapur Flower Market: Hyderabad’s Gudimalkapur Flower Market is among the largest of its type in Telangana. The market is known for its wide range of flowers, including roses, marigolds, and jasmine. Also available here are a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as mangoes, bananas, tomatoes — i.e. both seasonal and non-seasonal produce. The market is a haven for buyers looking for traditional handicrafts, such as pottery and woodwork.
Warangal Vegetable Market: Warangal Vegetable Market, located in the city of Warangal, is Telangana’s largest. The market is known for its wide range of fresh vegetables, including staples like tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. Visitors can also find a variety of fruits, such as mangoes, bananas, and guavas. Looking for traditional brassware and woodwork? You’ll be well-served by visiting here. Also of interest: Kothapet Fruit Market.
Nampally Market: Another street food market in Hyderabad where you can sample everything from kebabs and biryani to chaat. Traditional sweets such as laddu, barfi and peda are also sold here, among the ubiquitous stalls retailing clothing and accessories.
Secunderabad Fish Market: With a wide range of fresh fish, including prawns, pomfret, and mackerel to name just a few, this is the veritable one-stop destination for seafood lovers who want to pick up the day’s catch. Prefer crabs and lobsters? Secunderabad Fish Market has plenty of that too.
Honourable mentions for street food in Hyderabad: Madina Market, Moazzam Jahi Market, Mir Alam Mandi, Siddiamber Bazaar.