HYDERABAD is a friendly Historic place and commuting is hassle-free. Check out this handy guide on what to expect when you are here.

AUTORIKSHAWS : One of the reasonable way to get around. Mostly available, accommodating and honest. The odd opportunist is to be expected. Plenty of autos in Central Bangalore. Getting one in a residential area late at night is difficult. Do not pay over the meter unless you want to tip. After 10 pm, autos generally charge 50% over the meter(Described as Half return far since they have to come back empty ) They may charge extra to go to remote areas.

When invited for dinner, do not hesitate to ask your host to drop you back or arrange a ride. HYDERABADIS usually go out of their way keeping with the tradition of hospitality. If a taxi is too expensive, hire an auto for the round trip - fix price in advance and tell the auto driver clearly what time you will expect to return. Restaurants will help you get an auto.

PRIVATE TAXIES :  Check under ‘Car Rentals’.

BUSES                   :  Avoidable (except for residents)

TIPPING : This is indicative advice : In restaurants and hotels, tips are pooled and shared by all working staff. Be generous - most service people run their lives on tips more than salaries. When in doubt, 10% will do nicely. Remember we are not a rich city and anything of gratuity is appreciated.


Fancy RESTAURANTS 10% , Not so fancy restaurants & pubs- 10% (max: Rs. 100/-); Cafes - Rs. 10/-. AUTORICKSHAWS: All small change (plus Rs. 2/- if the driver was nice). HOTEL STAFF: Depends on how happy you are.

DRIVERS : Rs. 20/- for lunch and dinner each, plus a gratuity depending on how you much you liked the driving.   Attendants  : Rs.5/-.

Tip more if you can afford it. ( It won’t go unrewarded. )

BARGAINING : When buying in bulk, ask for a discount - shopkeepers do oblige. Otherwise, fixed price is (sadly) the convention.

RETURNS/EXCHANGES : HYDERABADI shop owners are very understanding and courteous. But remember to keep your purchase bills safe.


PHONES : Carry a lot of coins for pay phones. Or look for the "ISD/STD" signs. Pay per computer printout. The GPO (General post office) and CTO (phones) on Abids road are efficient and open from 10.00 - 19.00 Mon - Sat and till 13.30 on Sun.

DRESS : Informal. Skimpily dressed women (no matter how normal by western standards) will be stared at. Wear jeans or skirts and you won’t feel uncomfortable. Suits for business meetings.Though most of the hyderabadis do not mind presenting themselves in traditional dresses too. It adds to the relaxed atmosphere. 

ETIQUETTE : HYDERABADIS are informal. But in some homes you must take off your shoes before entering. A pile of shoes at the front door is a good indication. No footwear in most places of worship. This is indicative of the hygienic practice to prevent dirt or mud from entering homes)

INVITATIONS : It is fashionable to be late in HYderabad. If you are invited at 8pm, it’s expected that you won’t arrive until 9pm. or more .
Wine and drinks are traditionally not encouraged unless and otherwise if planned. Dinner also signals the end of the party. So, it isn’t impolite to eat and run.

EATING OUT : Bars close at 11pm (last orders 10:30 pm). Some restaurants stay open till midnight.Especially the popular Irani hotels and restaurants serving the famous HYDERABADI BIRYANI and other sumptous moghalai mouth watering dishes. Eating out after pub closing , is best in a 24-hour coffeeshop in the bigger hotels.

HEALTH : Drink mineral water or aerated drinks. Toilet paper may not always be available so do Carry a roll ( If you do not prefer water, that is )

BEGGARS : Instead of giving them money, give them edibles, like cookies or bananas.

CRIME :   HYDERABAD  is relatively safe. The police confirm that organised crime is minuscule since there is efficient police patrol in the dark and late hours especially. Still, be careful. Don’t flash wads of notes. If in doubt, check routes in advance. Leave valuables/ passports in the hotel safe ... or with someone who is trustworthy safe.