my top ten By Samia Sarfaraz

AN ENTHUSIASTIC architect by profession, Samia Sarfaraz is also the only female professional photographer based in the Sindh province of Hyderabad in Pakistan. She loves travelling and exploring. Here she shares her experience of the historical region.

“Hyderabad is a city with the magical appeal of remembrance, because its deafening present has not isolated its calm past. It is considered a small town and often called a village, but in reality it is the second largest city of Sindh. The multi-dimensional city has many top traits that cannot be overlooked, including these 10,” said Samia.

Glass bangles: The must-have fashion accessories with striking colours are the most gifted item from Hyderabad across Pakistan and overseas. They are favoured during all celebrations and represent the rich cultural traditions of the region. On a side-note, Hyderabad’s weather is an important key in the production of these amazing glass bangles.

Beautiful bakery: The Bombay Bakery has been using the same recipes across decades to delight the taste buds of their loyal patrons. Also known as The Shop In A Bunglow, it has been delivering tasty treats for 100 years. If you want to buy something from there though, you have to queue up immediately after sunrise or else you will end up empty-handed.

The Shahi Bazar: At two kilometres long, it is perhaps the longest bazaar of Asia. It is a heaven for those looking to buy affordable gifts for the whole family without burning large holes in the pockets. It is a favourite shopping area for many despite its jam-packed narrow lanes since it pretty much provides everything.

Miran Ja Qubba (Tomb of Mirs): Being an architect and photographer, this place fascinates me the most. The series of tombs belonged to the Talpur rulers of Hyderabad. Green, blue and brown floral patterns on the walls are magnificent and speak volumes of the art and architecture of that time. It’s also little creepy as many graves have been uncovered there.

Hyderabad biryani: This area is as famous for the biryani as Agra is for the Taj Mahal. You can find versatile varieties of biryani but none can beat Sharif’s biryani, which is rich in spicy flavours and a perfect balance of colours. For us living here, it’s a must pretty much every weekend.

Hasrat Mohani library: This magnificent well-lit library has royal architecture with vast lawns and high ceilings. It gives you the feel of the British era and of course has a vast collection of books. This is a perfect combination for me because I am a book lover and adore architecture.

The Mukhi House: With all the taste of royalty and magnificent architecture, this house built in the 19th century is more like a palace. The long and spacious marble verandas and fresco paintings on walls are divine. The palace has been almost fully-restored and is open for visitors to witness its elegance. The dominant building from the past standing tall in a new world always gives you goose bumps.

Sindh Museum: The famous tourist holds a marvellous historical collection of Sindhi culture and the Indus Valley civilisation. You won’t regret exploring here and won’t want to leave.

Rani Bhag: The queen’s park is a significant family recreational area. The huge lawns partitioned with tall palm trees gives a very refreshing environment. It has symmetrical arched long corridors and an iconic four minarets symbolising the great architecture.

Tea stations: An offer of tea is never rejected here in Hyderabad. There are a massive number of places serving the favoured beverage, including tea hotels. There are socialising hubs and especially great at night with the calm cool breeze. Who doesn’t enjoy a good cup of tea with friends?