FAQs
Question
Is there a gift registry?
Answer
We understand that traveling to India is a significant financial commitment. For this reason, we will not be setting up a gift registry. We cannot wait to celebrate our wedding with the people we love and care about.
Question
Where can I buy Indian Clothing in Hyderabad?
Answer
Time Permitting : 1. South India Shopping Mall - Ameerpet 2. Taruni - Ameerpet 3. Neerus - Ameerpet 4. Mebaz - Banajara Hills 5. Vara Maha Lakshmi Silks - Jubilee Hills 6. Mugdha Sarees - Jubilee Hills However, here are some websites to order clothes online and save time! I would recommend doing this so you can ensure you are happy with the fit and style and not have to rush before the wedding. 1. https://www.rajwadi.com/ 2. https://g3fashion.com/en-us/sale
Question
What is the local language spoken in Hyderabad? Will I face language barriers?
Answer
The primary language spoken in Hyderabad is Telugu. However, Hindi and English are widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Google translate can be a very handy sidekick!
Question
Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of?
Answer
It is customary to greet people with "Namaste" (joining your palms together) and to remove your footwear before entering religious places or someone's home. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and during the wedding ceremonies.
Question
Can I use my phone and Wi-Fi in Hyderabad?
Answer
You’ll be able to stay connected without breaking the bank! Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, and if you’re planning on staying for a while, you can get an e-SIM, which is HIGHLY recommended. It’s easy to get data and stay in touch with your family. An e-sim Mridula has used before in india: https://www.airalo.com/ There are several e-sim companies out there!
Question
How do I pay for things?
Answer
If you have a credit card that works internationally like the ones here, thats a good start : https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/credit-cards/international-travel?msockid=3b1ac2f2a8d56a002dbfd4e9a9126ba5 PhonePe, PayTM, and Google Pay (India version) dominate daily payments in Hyderabad, but they require an Indian bank account, which foreign tourists usually don’t have. If you hear these as requested forms of payments, don't panic! Below are some tips to navigate that: 1. Carry ₹7K–14K INR cash for street-level transactions. ($100 -200 USD). Carry small denominations, e.g. 100-500 INR notes so you can pay exact or close to the exact amounts. 2. Use credit/debit cards for hotels, restaurants, malls. 3. Uber, Ola (ride-hailing), Swiggy/Zomato (food delivery), hotel apps (Booking.com, Agoda, etc.) all allow foreign credit cards directly in-app.
Question
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Answer
There will be tons of people bombarding you and trying to take you to the hotel. Stay calm and decline. 1. Get your e-sim activated before you arrive to Hyderabad so you can connect to the airport wifi easily. They send a wifi code to your phone # which is impossible to get access to unless you have network. 2. Uber or Ola (Recommended for Most Tourists) Both apps work at Hyderabad Airport -pickup is at the designated ride-hailing zone (well-marked). Cost to Jubilee Hills: ₹800–1,200 INR ($10–15 USD) depending on time of day and car type. Tip: Sometimes drivers call before pickup. You can message in English through the app if you don’t speak Telugu/Hindi. 3. Airport Taxi (Meru, Sky Cabs, etc.) - Available at the official Taxi Counter inside arrivals. Slightly more expensive than Uber/Ola: expect ₹1,200–1,600 INR ($15–20 USD). This will be a great option in case you are having connectivity issues with the app. 4. Hotel Pick Ups/ Prepaid Transfers - check with your hotel if they provide any shuttles to and from the airport.
Question
Other things to keep in mind
Answer
1. While street food can be delicious, they are not always the most hygienic. Please avoid street food and go to a nice restaurant with good reviews to avoid food poisoning. 2. Always buy bottled water and do not get ice in anything. 3. Pharmacies are all over the place and easy to access in case anything does happen during the stay. 4. Hyderabad is known for Biryani, Onion Samosas and Irani Chai. You MUST try them when in Hyderabad.