Exploring Old City

Hello Friends and Family!

We’ve been absent from the blog for a few days because we’ve been SO busy. On Saturday we finished up our time at the two schools in Hyderabad where we were teaching with Voice 4 Girls. The week of service learning pushed our group and inspired a huge amount of growth. The task they were handed was no small feat and these young people rose to the challenge. The local students were sad to see the group go and in Saturday evening reflections, many of our group remarked that they were sad to be leaving and wished they could spend more time with their classes.

On Sunday we celebrated the completion of service with a tour of the part of Hyderabad known as Old City. We started the day at the Qutb Shahi Tombs which were built by various kings of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Next we moved on to the nearby Golconda Fort, an iconic spot in Hyderabad history. After a long trek to the top of the hill, we got an incredible 360 degree view of the whole city.

After Golconda Fort, we moved on to the hustle and bustle of Old city where we ate lunch at the famous Hotel Shadab. There, we ate Hyderabad’s famous dish, Dum Biryani. Many regions in India have their own way of preparing this mixed rice dish but Hyderabad’s is especially treasured.

After lunch, the action didn’t stop as we headed over to Chowmahallah Palace, which was home to the Nizam’s during their rule of the city. Chowmahallah itself means four palaces, all of which feature beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture.

After wandering around the lush palace grounds, we worked our way to the symbol of Hyderabad – Charminar. While the structure itself holds historic and religious significance, it’s also known for the busy market that surrounds it, which this group of girls got a proper taste of.

For a brief reprieve we slipped into a nearby movie theater to catch a showing of The Extraordinary Journey of the Fakir before heading to the train station to catch an overnight train to Hampi.

Our time together is quickly coming to a close but we are savoring every second. Check in soon to hear about our travels in Karnataka!