Hyderabad is generally a safe city to visit, with low to moderate crime rates, but as with any major city, tourists should be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Safety conditions change. Always check your government's current travel advisory for Hyderabad before traveling.
Quick Facts
Overall Safety Assessment
Hyderabad is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage, and it is generally considered safe for tourists. The city has a low rate of violent crime, and most crimes reported are petty in nature, such as pickpocketing or street scams. However, as with any major city, tourists should be aware of their surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night. The city has a dedicated tourist police force, which is available to assist visitors in case of any issues.
Despite the overall safety of the city, there are some areas that tourists should avoid, especially at night. The city's old town, known as the "walled city," can be quite crowded and narrow, and it's easy to get lost or caught up in a scam. Additionally, some areas of the city are known to have higher crime rates, such as the outskirts of the city or areas with high concentrations of street vendors. However, these areas are generally not frequented by tourists, and most visitors to the city can avoid them altogether.
Safety By Area
| Area/Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Charminar | Moderate | Crowded area, beware of pickpocketing and scams |
| Hussain Sagar Lake | Safe | Popular tourist spot, well-lit and patrolled |
| Hitech City | Safe | Modern area with good security and low crime rate |
| Old City | Moderate | Narrow streets, beware of getting lost or caught up in a scam |
| Secunderabad | Safe | Well-lit and patrolled, low crime rate |
| Kondapur | Moderate | Some reports of petty crime, beware of pickpocketing |
| Dilsukhnagar | Moderate | Crowded area, beware of scams and pickpocketing |
| Tolichowki | Moderate | Some reports of crime, avoid walking alone at night |
Common Risks & Scams
- Be cautious of overcharging by taxi drivers or auto-rickshaws, and always use a metered fare.
- Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas, such as the Charminar or Hussain Sagar Lake.
- Avoid eating from street vendors, as the food may not be hygienic and can cause health issues.
- Be cautious of scams targeting tourists, such as the "gemstone scam" or the "tour guide scam".
- Be aware of traffic in the city, as it can be chaotic and unpredictable.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and use credit cards or debit cards instead.
- Be cautious of unlicensed tour operators, and always research and book with reputable companies.
Health & Medical
- Vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Malaria vaccinations are recommended for travel to Hyderabad.
- Water Safety: Tap water is not safe to drink, and bottled water is recommended.
- Medical Facilities: Hyderabad has a number of good quality hospitals and medical facilities, including the Apollo Hospital and the Maxcure Hospital.
- Pharmacy Access: Pharmacies are widely available in the city, and many are open 24 hours.
Practical Safety Tips
- Always carry a map or use a GPS device to navigate the city.
- Avoid traveling alone at night, and use a reputable taxi or auto-rickshaw service.
- Keep valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or mosques.
- Learn some basic Telugu phrases, such as "hello" (namaskaram) and "thank you" (dhanyavadalu).
- Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen, as the city can be hot and humid.
- Be prepared for power outages, and carry a portable charger for your phone or other devices.
- Respect the local traffic rules, and use pedestrian crossings and traffic signals.
For Solo & Women Travelers
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas.
- Dress modestly, and avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or mosques.
- Use a reputable taxi or auto-rickshaw service, and always check the meter before starting your journey.
- Carry a phone with a local SIM card, and keep the numbers of your embassy and local authorities handy.