Secunderabad

Secunderabad is a suburban city in Telangana and is famously known as the twin city of Hyderabad. While both the cities are interchangeably known as twin cities, they are starkly different from each other. Hyderabad’s history is heavily influenced by the Nizam rulers and the Mughal Empire in the 1700s, Secunderabad developed much later under the British Rule in the 1900s.

The two twin cities flank either side of one of India’s largest man-made lakes, The Hussain Sagar Lake. While both cities are colloquially known as Hyderabad, Secunderabad has a more laid back vibe due to its suburban areas and fewer bureaucratic agencies. Away from the crowds and businesses of Hyderabad, Secunderabad is a prominent centre for India’s defence and army force.

While the city has more residential localities, Secunderabad is also famous for its diverse set of religious sites. The Ujjaini Mahakali Temple is a famous pilgrimage site for Hindus. This colourful temple is believed to be very powerful where prayers and wishes of devotees come true. You can also visit the beautiful St. Mary’s Basilica early in the morning as there is hardly anyone around and one can sit for hours praying and meditating.

Secunderabad is a major centre for another one of India’s structural wings, the Indian Railways. Visitors entering Hyderabad by train generally have to pass through the Secunderabad Railway Station, which is one of the oldest and largest inter-city railway stations in the state of Telangana.

Getting around Secunderabad is very convenient as there is frequent availability of the local buses (TSRTC) and it is well connected with autos and taxis.