11 Food Tour Cities in India Foodies Will Love

5. Hyderabad — Biryani and Nizami dining

Hyderabad is synonymous with biryani, and guided food tours let you taste regional variations while learning about Nizami culinary traditions. Walks around Charminar and nearby markets include stops for fragrant biryani layered with meat and saffron, haleem during the Ramadan season, and Irani chai at old cafés. Tours emphasize the slow-cooking of layered rice and meat, and some offer brief kitchen visits where cooks explain the dum technique. For practical planning, note that haleem is seasonal—many trips highlight it as a must-try when available. Guides also point to vegetarian Hyderabadi dishes, street-side kebabs, and sweet shops that finalize meals. Comfortable walking shoes help in the market sections, and carrying a small water bottle is useful in warmer months. Verified tour operators often show ports of call on TripAdvisor, which helps choose a reputable guide. If you love rice-forward dishes and aromatic spices, Hyderabad gives a focused, delicious education.