10 Things to Buy in Hyderabad: Souvenirs, Food & Traditional Crafts
Hyderabad is a city where history, food and craftsmanship come together. From the iconic Charminar and bustling lanes of the Old City to colourful markets and traditional craft stores, there’s plenty to discover beyond the usual sightseeing spots.
If you’re visiting Hyderabad, shopping for a few local specialties is a great way to take a piece of the city home with you. Whether you’re looking for traditional jewellery, regional food, handmade crafts or colourful textiles, you’ll find plenty of choices.
Here are 10 things to buy in Hyderabad that are worth adding to your shopping list.
1. Hyderabadi Biryani
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word souvenir, but no list of Hyderabad specialties is complete without its legendary biryani.
Hyderabadi biryani is known for its fragrant basmati rice, tender meat, spices and distinctive cooking style. You’ll find plenty of restaurants serving it across the city, each with its own interpretation of this iconic dish.
If you’re travelling home after your trip, look for packaged spice mixes, ready-to-cook versions or other locally produced food products that let you recreate the flavours later.
2. Golconda Paintings
If you prefer something that lasts longer than a meal, look for traditional Deccani and Golconda-inspired artwork.
The Golconda school of painting developed in the Deccan during the medieval period and was influenced by the artistic traditions of the region. Paintings often feature courtly life, nature, landscapes, portraits and intricate decorative details.
A traditional painting can make a meaningful Hyderabad souvenir for anyone interested in Indian art and history.
3. Pearls
Hyderabad has earned a reputation as the City of Pearls, making pearl jewellery one of the most popular things to buy here.
You can find pearl necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings and other jewellery in different styles and price ranges. The Old City, particularly the markets around Charminar, is a popular area for pearl shopping.
When buying pearls, take your time to compare quality, finish, craftsmanship and pricing. For expensive jewellery, it’s worth purchasing from an established jeweller and asking for the appropriate certification or bill.
4. Hyderabadi Haleem
Another iconic Hyderabad food is haleem, a slow-cooked dish traditionally prepared with meat, lentils, wheat and spices.
It is especially associated with Ramadan, when haleem becomes a major part of the city’s food culture. However, several establishments serve it beyond the season as well.
If you’re travelling during the right time of year, tasting freshly prepared haleem is an experience in itself. Packaged versions can also make a convenient food gift, provided they are suitable for travel.
5. Attar or Ittar
For a traditional fragrance to take home, consider attar, also known as ittar.
Unlike many modern perfumes, traditional attars are made using fragrant botanical ingredients and are often blended with a natural oil base. Rose, jasmine, sandalwood and other floral or woody fragrances are popular choices.
They are usually sold in small decorative glass bottles, making them easy to carry and an interesting alternative to conventional perfumes.
6. Bidri Work
Bidriware is a beautiful metal handicraft known for its dark base and intricate silver-coloured inlay work.
You’ll find a variety of Bidri products, including vases, trays, boxes, candle holders, decorative pieces and other objects. Floral motifs, leaves and geometric patterns are commonly incorporated into the designs.
Because the craft requires considerable skill and detailed workmanship, authentic Bidriware can make a distinctive souvenir for someone who appreciates traditional Indian handicrafts.
7. Hyderabadi Bangles
No Hyderabad shopping guide would be complete without mentioning bangles.
Head towards Laad Bazaar, close to Charminar, and you’ll find rows of shops filled with colourful glass bangles, embellished designs and traditional jewellery. The market is especially popular with visitors looking for something bright, affordable and distinctly Hyderabadi.
You can pick up bangles in different colours, patterns and styles, whether they’re for yourself or as gifts for friends and family.
8. Gongura Pickle
If you love bold, tangy flavours, bring home a jar of gongura pickle.
Made using gongura leaves, this Andhra-Telangana favourite is known for its distinctive sour and spicy flavour. It pairs particularly well with rice and traditional Indian meals.
Gongura pickle is widely available in grocery stores and speciality food shops across Hyderabad, making it an easy addition to your shopping list.
9. Pochampally Sarees
Pochampally sarees, also known as Ikat sarees, are among the most recognisable traditional textiles associated with Telangana.
The distinctive patterns are created using a resist-dyeing technique before the yarn is woven, producing the characteristic geometric designs associated with Ikat.
You can find Pochampally sarees in cotton and silk, with designs ranging from traditional patterns to more contemporary styles. If you have enough time, consider visiting Pochampally itself to learn more about the weaving process and explore products closer to their source.
10. Banjara Embroidery
For colourful textiles and handmade designs, Banjara embroidery is another interesting Hyderabad souvenir.
Traditionally associated with the Banjara community, the craft is known for vibrant colours, detailed embroidery, mirrors, beads and decorative patterns.
You can find Banjara-inspired products in the form of bags, clothing, wall hangings, cushion covers and other accessories. They make colourful gifts and add a distinctly traditional touch to your home or wardrobe.
Make Your Hyderabad Trip More Than a Sightseeing Tour
Shopping is one of the best ways to experience a city’s culture. In Hyderabad, every market tells a story, whether it’s through a strand of pearls, a colourful bangle, a handwoven saree or a jar of traditional pickle.
If you’re planning a longer Hyderabad trip, consider staying somewhere that gives you space to relax between sightseeing and shopping.
A farmstay near Hyderabad can be a refreshing alternative to a conventional hotel, especially if you’re travelling with family or friends. TheFarmStays offers a range of farmhouses and stays where you can unwind after exploring the city.
You can browse properties based on your group size, preferred amenities and budget, making it easier to turn a shopping trip into a complete Hyderabad getaway.
Plan Your Hyderabad Getaway
From pearls and bangles to Pochampally sarees, Bidriware and local food products, there are plenty of memorable things to buy in Hyderabad.
Take your time exploring the markets, compare products before making expensive purchases and don’t forget to leave some room in your luggage for your favourite finds.
Planning to stay in Hyderabad for a few days? Explore TheFarmStays to find a farmhouse or farmstay near Hyderabad and make your trip a mix of shopping, sightseeing, good food and relaxation.