Historically, the capital of Andhra Pradesh, known as Hyderabad was the most significant city in southern India. This fact is clearly depicted in the city's fine architecture. Examples include constructions such as: Charminar Building; the Mecca Masjid and the Golconda Fort.
Hyderabad was established in the 1400s and became the center for the “prestigious” diamond trade. The city is where the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond originated, now stored and displayed at the Tower of London .
Nowadays, pearls have become the city's main draw along with jewelry, spices, sweet smelling perfumes and exotic antiques. All of the preceding items may be found “for sale” at the colorful and “bustling” “Lad Bazaar”.
In the south of Andhra Pradesh is the city of Tirupati. The Venkateshvara Temple is located within the perimeter of Tirupati and is considered the most prosperous temple in India. The temple actually attracts more pilgrims than the Vatican, Jerusalem or Mecca. Travel farther to the west, and the spiritual leader, Sai Baba “pulls” a devoted following to: Puttaparthy's Prasanthi Niyalam ashram.
In cities, such as Tirupati, visitors have the opportunity to experience, first hand, the atmosphere of pilgrimage.
In conclusion, sightseeing of interesting and elaborate architecture as well as the observation of pilgrimage is part of the experience when one makes Andhra Pradesh a travel destination.
