highway exits DON T MISS The splendid architecture of Hyderabad s glory days is what brings most visitors to the r

DON T MISS The splendid architecture of Hyderabad highway exits s glory days is what brings most visitors to the region. The 16th-century Qutb Shahi produced some masterful architecture including the stunning Charminar, Golconda Fort and their final resting place at the opulent tombs. The lavish 18th-century nizam lifestyle is on display at sites such as Chowmahalla Palace, Nizam s Museum and the Falaknuma Palace, previously the residence of the sixth nizam and now a decadent hotel. Top State Festivals

Tirupathi station is well served by express trains, running to Chennai highway exits (2nd-class chair/ chair ( 62/206, three hours), Bengaluru (sleeper/3AC/2AC 168/470/628, seven hours), Hyderabad/Secunderabad (sleeper/3AC/2AC 284/764/1047, 12 hours) and Vijayawada highway exits (sleeper/3AC/2AC 198/502/674, highway exits seven hours). The reservation office (%2225850; h8am-8pm Mon-Sat, 8am-2pm Sun) is across the street.

Victoria Jubilee Museum highway exits MUSEUM (MG Rd; admission Indian/foreigner 20/100, camera 3; h10.30am-5pm Sat-Thu) The best part of this museum is the building itself, built in 1887 to honour Queen Victoria s coronation jubilee. In 1921 it hosted the Congress meeting

Indian Airlines (%2283992; Tirumala Bypass Rd; h9.30am-5.30pm), 2km from town, has daily flights to Delhi via Hyderabad. Kingfisher Red (%9849677008) plies the same route, including Bengaluru and Visakhapatnam. Book with Mitta Travels (%2225981; Prakasam Rd; h9am-7.30pm Mon-Sat, 9am-12.30pm Sun), next to Manasa Fast Foods, 2km from the train station.