Hyderabad - General Overview

Neighbourhoods & Areas

Hyderabad’s rental market has grown steadily over the last decade, driven largely by its booming IT and business ecosystem. With major technology hubs such as HITEC City, Gachibowli, Nanakramguda, and the Financial District, demand for quality housing—particularly in western Hyderabad— has increased significantly.

While central Hyderabad features older neighbourhoods and heritage-style buildings, western Hyderabad offers modern gated communities, high-rise apartments, and villa developments that are preferred by expatriates and corporate professionals. Although public transport options include metro rail, buses, and auto rickshaws, expats generally prefer personal vehicles or chauffeur-driven cabs due to comfort and convenience.

Preferred residential areas include Gachibowli, HITEC City, Kondapur, Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, Madhapur, Manikonda, Puppalaguda, Kokapet, Narsingi . These localities offer superior infrastructure, proximity to IT hubs, international schools, hospitals, and modern lifestyle amenities.

Housing Options

Temporary Accommodation

Hyderabad offers a wide range of premium hotels and serviced residences for short-term stays, especially in the IT corridor and central areas. Advance booking is recommended during peak business seasons, major conferences, and festival periods such as Dussehra and Diwali.

Popular options include ITC Kohenur, Trident Hyderabad, Taj Krishna, Hyatt Hyderabad Gachibowli, The Westin Hyderabad Mindspace, and Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre.

Long Term Accommodation

Long-term housing options in Hyderabad include independent houses, villas, and high-rise apartments. Gated communities—particularly in Gachibowli, Nanakramguda, Kokapet, and Kondapur—offer enhanced security, power backup, clubhouse facilities, swimming pools, gyms, landscaped gardens, and in-house maintenance services.

Independent houses, mainly found in Jubilee Hills, Banjara Hills, and Begumpet, provide more space and privacy but may require private security and additional maintenance arrangements.

Villa communities are commonly located in Narsingi, Kokapet, Tellapur, and parts of Gachibowli, offering premium living with community-level amenities.

Community Profile

Breakdown of available properties:

• Houses: ~20% (Furnished ~22%, Unfurnished ~78%)
• Apartments: ~80% (Furnished ~25%, Unfurnished ~75%)

Houses

Availability: Moderate.
Types: Detached (~35%), Semi-detached (~65%).
Style: Spacious 3–5 bedroom bungalows with balconies, garden areas, and large living spaces.
Average Age: 10–15 years.
New Construction (<5 years): ~15%, mostly in newly developed suburbs.

Apartments

Availability: Excellent (Mid-rise ~45%, High-rise ~55%).
Style: Typically 2–4 bedroom apartments with attached bathrooms, modular kitchens, open living areas, and balconies.
Average Age: 3–10 years.
New Construction (<5 years): ~30%, especially near the Financial District, Kokapet, and Tellapur.

Hyderabad’s apartment market is among the fastest-growing in India due to rapid IT expansion, strong infrastructure development, and excellent airport connectivity.

It is advisable to visit shortlisted neighbourhoods at different times of the day to assess traffic conditions, noise levels, parking availability, and commute times.

Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments in Hyderabad are commonly found in HITEC City, Gachibowli, Madhapur, Kondapur, Manikonda, and Banjara Hills. These are broadly categorized as:

A. Professionally Managed Serviced Apartments
• Located in prime business districts.
• Offer housekeeping, security, laundry, Wi-Fi, and kitchen facilities.
• Suitable for expatriates, corporate travellers, and relocating families.

B. Stand-Alone Serviced Apartments
• Common in Madhapur, Kondapur, and Manikonda.
• Quality and services vary based on the operator.
• Careful inspection is recommended before finalizing.

C. Guest Houses
• Generally used by corporates for short-term staff stays.
• Shared facilities and inconsistent standards.
• Not recommended for expatriates or families.

Rental Deposit

Hyderabad typically follows a security deposit of 2 to 5 months’ rent, depending on the locality and type of property. Premium apartments and villas may require higher deposits due to maintenance and amenities.

Things to Consider Before Signing a Lease

Convenience

• Proximity to IT hubs and workplaces
• Access to international schools
• Nearby malls, supermarkets, and daily conveniences
• Traffic congestion and commute times
• Hospitals and emergency services

Environment

• Gated vs. independent living
• Safety and security
• Road quality and noise levels
• Green surroundings and community lifestyle

Budget

Confirm whether the quoted rent includes maintenance charges. Utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet are generally paid separately by the tenant. Parking and clubhouse fees may also apply.

Checklist

• Building age and construction quality
• Layout, ventilation, and natural light
• Water supply reliability
• Internet and fiber connectivity
• Power backup and lift availability
• Parking and security arrangements
• Checks for seepage or dampness

Lease Clause Considerations

• Diplomatic clause (important for expatriates)
• Notice period and lock-in terms
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Painting and pest control before move-in
• Security deposit refund terms

Market Practice and Lease Terms

1. Typical lease period: 11 months
2. Security deposit: 2–5 months’ rent
3. Rent payment: Monthly in advance
4. Brokerage: One month’s rent (standard)
5. Lock-in period: Negotiable
6. Lease registration: Optional for 11-month agreements

Furniture Leasing

Furniture and appliance leasing is widely available through local vendors and online rental companies. Options include full furnishing packages, modular kitchens, appliance-only rentals, and flexible short-term or long-term plans. Availability is generally better in IT corridor areas due to higher demand.

Prevention and Immunisation

Health Risks

Common health risks in Hyderabad include dengue fever, malaria, chikungunya, typhoid, hepatitis A & B, cholera, diarrhoeal diseases, and seasonal influenza. During the monsoon season, mosquito-borne illnesses increase, particularly in low-lying or waterlogged areas.

Air quality in Hyderabad can fluctuate due to traffic congestion and industrial activity, which may impact individuals with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions.

It is strongly advised to ensure that all routine vaccinations are up-to-date before arrival, especially for families and long-term residents.

Recommended Vaccinations for India

• Ensure routine immunisations such as influenza, chickenpox (varicella), polio, MMR, and DPT are current for all age groups.
• Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travellers above 1 year of age. Administer at least 2 weeks before travel, with a booster after 6–12 months.
• Typhoid: Available as oral capsules (4 doses, age 6+) or a single injectable dose (age 2+).
• Polio: Adults without a booster should receive one inactivated polio dose; children must be fully immunised.
• Hepatitis B: Recommended for long-term visitors, individuals with close community contact, or those likely to require medical care. Given as a standard 3-dose series (0, 1, 6 months) or an accelerated schedule if needed.

Medical Emergency Checklist

In a medical emergency, knowing the nearest hospital is essential. Hyderabad’s traffic and expanding urban layout can sometimes delay emergency response times.

Many expatriates prefer using private taxis or ride-hailing services such as Uber or Ola for faster transport to hospitals, unless the patient is immobile.

Always carry personal identification such as your passport, visa, or Residential Permit (RP). Private hospitals may require advance payment at the time of admission.

Expatriate-Preferred Hospitals in Hyderabad

• Apollo Hospitals – Jubilee Hills
• Yashoda Hospitals – Malakpet & Secunderabad
• KIMS Hospitals – Kondapur
• Care Hospitals – Banjara Hills & Lakdi-ka-pul
• Continental Hospitals – Gachibowli
• Asian Institute of Gastroenterology – Banjara Hills
• MaxCure Hospitals – Ameerpet
• Rainbow Children’s Hospital – Banjara Hills

Medical Facilities

Hyderabad offers high-quality private healthcare with modern facilities, advanced diagnostics, and English-speaking doctors across most hospitals and clinics.

The city has a strong network of general practitioners, specialists, and multi-specialty hospitals. Private healthcare is generally preferred for faster access and more personalised care.

Prescription Medications & Pharmacies

Most medications are easily available over the counter in Hyderabad. If you are on regular or long-term medication, inform your doctor to avoid harmful drug interactions.

It is advisable to keep copies of prescriptions, particularly for chronic medications or controlled drugs.

Some 24-Hour Pharmacies in Hyderabad

• Apollo Pharmacy – Jubilee Hills & HITEC City
• Medicover Pharmacy – Gachibowli
• Yashoda Hospital Pharmacy
• Care Hospital Pharmacy – Banjara Hills
• Rainbow Hospital Pharmacy

Emergency & Ambulance Services

Telangana State Emergency Ambulance: 108

Many private hospitals also provide dedicated paid ambulance services for faster response.

Security Tips

• Use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps (Uber, Ola) instead of unverified local transport.
• Prefer gated communities with 24/7 security; independent houses should employ trained security personnel.
• Be alert to petty theft such as mobile or bag snatching in crowded areas.
• Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night.
• Carry minimal cash and keep valuables secured at home.
• Avoid keeping wallets in back pockets; use secure compartments.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples, mosques, or churches.
• Keep photocopies or digital copies of important documents such as passport, visa, and ID.
• Exercise caution while crossing roads, as traffic rules may not always be strictly enforced.

Police

Police Emergency Number: 100

Women Helpline: 1091

Child Helpline: 1098

Television

Cable and Satellite Services

When you move into your residence in Hyderabad, local cable network personnel usually visit or can be contacted easily to set up a new cable connection. A one-time nominal installation fee is applicable.

Installation generally takes 2–3 days. Thereafter, a monthly subscription fee is payable in cash or online, and your cable operator will issue a receipt for each payment.

Cable services typically offer a wide range of popular national and international channels including Star, Sony, ESPN, HBO, National Geographic, Discovery , along with regional channels in Telugu, Urdu, and Hindi.

For a complete and updated channel list, it is advisable to check directly with your local cable operator.

Alternatively, Direct-To-Home (DTH) satellite television services are widely available across Hyderabad. Popular providers include:

• Tata Play
• Dish TV
• Airtel Digital TV
• DD Free Dish

DTH services require a one-time setup fee covering the dish antenna, receiver, and initial subscription package. Installation typically takes 2–5 working days, depending on technician availability.

DTH providers offer standard and HD channels in multiple languages. Channel packs can be customised according to preferences, and authorised dealers are available through local electronics stores and online platforms such as Sulekha.

Radio

Hyderabad has a variety of FM and AM radio stations broadcasting free of charge. Any standard radio receiver can be used to tune in to news, music, and talk shows without a subscription.

Popular FM stations in Hyderabad include:

• Radio Mirchi
• Red FM
• BIG FM
• Radio City
• All India Radio (AIR FM)

These stations broadcast music, entertainment programs, traffic updates, and local news throughout the day.

Newspapers

Hyderabad offers a wide selection of daily newspapers in Telugu, Urdu, and English.

Popular Telugu dailies include:

• Eenadu
• Sakshi
• Andhra Jyothi

Popular English dailies include:

• The Times of India
• The Hindu
• Deccan Chronicle
• Business Standard

Newspapers can be subscribed to through local distributors, purchased from neighbourhood stalls, or accessed via online and e-paper editions.

Post Office Services

Post offices are conveniently located throughout Hyderabad, typically close to residential areas, and provide a wide range of domestic and international postal services.

Key Post Office:

General Post Office (GPO), Hyderabad
Near Tank Bund, Hyderabad – 500001
Contact: 040-2340 0156

Postal services available include:

• General letters and parcels
• Speed Post (time-bound express delivery)
• Express Parcel Post
• Registered Post
• Business Post and Logistics Post
• Money Orders and international money transfers
• E-Post services
• Postal Life Insurance
• Philately (stamp collection)

For premium postal services such as Speed Post and EMS with online tracking, the Hyderabad GPO offers value-added facilities. Visit your nearest post office for exact rates, service availability, and working hours.

Public Transportation in Hyderabad

Hyderabad offers a comprehensive mix of public and private transportation options suitable for residents, professionals, and expatriates. The city is well connected through app-based cabs, auto rickshaws, buses, and a modern metro rail network.

For expatriates and business travellers, app-based ride-hailing services such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido are widely preferred due to reliability, GPS tracking, and cashless payment options.

Cabs / Ride-Hailing Services

Ola and Uber operate extensively across Hyderabad and offer multiple vehicle categories ranging from economy to premium options. Rapido is commonly used for short-distance bike rides, especially in congested areas.

Navigation apps like Google Maps are highly effective in Hyderabad for identifying optimal routes and estimating travel time.

Safety Tips

• Always verify the vehicle number before boarding
• Share trip details with a trusted contact when travelling late
• Check belongings before exiting the cab
• Tipping is optional and not mandatory

Auto Rickshaws

Metered auto rickshaws are easily available throughout Hyderabad and are convenient for short-distance travel.

Passengers should insist on using the meter and avoid paying more than the indicated fare. Many auto rickshaws operate on CNG, making them a relatively eco-friendly option.

Buses

Public bus services in Hyderabad are primarily operated by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) .

TSRTC runs hundreds of routes connecting central Hyderabad with suburbs, IT corridors, and nearby towns. Private operators complement these services, particularly on high-demand routes.

Bus fares are affordable, typically starting from ₹5–₹10 depending on distance. While peak-hour congestion can occur, buses remain a cost-effective commuting option.

Metro

The Hyderabad Metro, operational since 2017, is one of the largest metro rail networks in India.

• Miyapur – LB Nagar
• JBS Parade Ground – Nagole
• Ameerpet – Secunderabad

The metro network spans over 72 km with 58 stations and handles an average daily ridership of approximately 500,000 passengers.

Phase-2 expansion is underway to improve connectivity to IT hubs, airport areas, and expanding suburbs.

Airport

Name: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA)
Location: Shamshabad, approximately 25 km from the city centre

Connectivity:

• App-based taxis (Ola, Uber)
• Pre-paid taxi counters at the airport
• Private shuttle and cab services

Travel time from central Hyderabad to the airport typically ranges between 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

An Airport Metro Line is currently under construction and will provide direct rail connectivity between the city and the airport in the future.

Future Transport Planning

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC) are implementing a Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP).

The plan focuses on integrating metro rail, buses, regional rail, and last-mile connectivity solutions to reduce congestion and promote sustainable urban transport.

Special emphasis is placed on connecting key residential zones, commercial districts, and IT hubs while modernising public transport infrastructure across the city.

Expatriate Groups

Hyderabad has a growing and welcoming expatriate community, supported by several formal and informal groups that help newcomers settle into city life.

One of the most active global networks is the InterNations – Hyderabad Chapter, which hosts regular meetups, social evenings, coffee mornings, and interest-based gatherings. These events are ideal for networking, making friends, and sharing practical advice.

Another popular platform is Meetup – Expats in Hyderabad, an open group where members organize casual get-togethers such as coffee chats, movie outings, cultural walks, and informal social activities.

Online communities also play an important role. The “Hyderabad Expat Circle” on Reddit features weekly discussion threads where expatriates and locals exchange recommendations, seek companions for outings, and discuss everyday challenges of living in the city.

These communities provide a friendly environment for expatriates looking to build social connections, explore the city, and integrate smoothly into Hyderabad’s diverse culture.

Entertainment & Leisure

Hyderabad offers a rich mix of modern entertainment and cultural leisure activities. From upscale clubs and shopping malls to science museums and heritage venues, the city caters to families, professionals, and social groups alike.

Whether you enjoy spending time at social clubs, exploring shopping and dining destinations, or attending cultural performances, Hyderabad offers a well-rounded lifestyle beyond work.

Clubs & Social Centers

• Hyderabad Golf Club: A prestigious club offering golf courses, swimming pool, gym, tennis courts, and fine dining facilities.
• Secunderabad Club: One of the oldest recreational clubs in the city, known for cultural, social, and festival events.
• Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium Club & modern activity clubs: Equipped with bowling alleys, snooker tables, gyms, mini-theatres, and gaming zones for families and groups.

Shopping Malls with Entertainment

• Inorbit Mall (HITEC City): Premium shopping mall with international brands, PVR multiplex, and family-friendly spaces.
• Forum Sujana Mall: Features Cinepolis cinema, global fashion outlets, and diverse dining options.
• GVK One: Located near Jubilee Hills, combining retail shopping, restaurants, and a multi-screen PVR cinema.
• City Centre Mall: Centrally located mall with fashion stores, gaming zones, and entertainment outlets.

Science & Cultural Spaces

Hyderabad is home to several educational and cultural venues that are popular with families and students.

• Birla Planetarium & Science Museum: Interactive science exhibits, astronomy shows, and educational programs.
• Shilpakala Vedika: A prominent venue for art exhibitions, conferences, and cultural performances.

Auditoriums & Performing Arts

• Shilpakala Vedika Auditorium: Modern auditorium hosting concerts, theatre, and classical dance performances.
• L. B. Stadium & Ravindra Bharathi: Functional venues frequently used for cultural programs, music events, and public gatherings.

Community & Cultural Clubs

• The Phoenix Club: Hosts creative workshops, cultural evenings, and social meetups.
• Women’s Creative Circles: Local collectives organizing talks, workshops, and performances focused on arts, literature, and social themes.

Community & Hobby-Based Groups

Hyderabad has an active grassroots community scene, with many hobby-based groups organised through social media, Reddit, and Meetup platforms.

• Film screening clubs and cultural film societies
• Food walks and heritage walking tours
• Urban sketching and photography groups
• Book clubs, music communities, and live gig groups
• Dog-walking groups and pet enthusiast meetups

These interest-based groups provide excellent opportunities for expatriates to connect with like-minded individuals and experience the city beyond traditional tourist attractions.

Local Insights & Testimonials

“Looking for friends or a group to explore Hyderabad’s cultural and social scene? This is the perfect place to connect.”

“For film screenings and niche cultural events, groups like Hyderabad Film Club and special screenings at Prasad’s IMAX are worth checking out.”