Pearls are a major draw in Hyderabad, but do be careful: There are a lot of fakes out there. Kedarnathji Motiwale (near Bata, Pathergatti; tel. 040/5571-2345 or 040/2456-6667; www.kedarnathji.com) has been supplying pearls and jewelry since 1908; Meena Jewellers (Babukhan Estate; tel. 040/2323-1073 or -7170) is also recommended, particularly if you're after exotic-looking pieces typical of Indian bridal wear. Catering to the wealthy is Krishna Pearls & Jewellers (www.krishnapearls.com), with branches in several of the upmarket hotels, including Taj Krishna (tel. 040/2339-5015), Taj Residency (tel. 040/5556-4822), and the ITC Kakatiya Sheraton & Towers (tel. 040/2340-0811 or 040/5556-4844). Besides high-quality Hyderabadi pearls, these jewelers also design and manufacture gold jewelry and various traditional handicrafts.
For high-quality traditional Indian garments, visit Kalanjali, a Hyderabadi institution, with four floors of air-conditioned shopping under one roof (opposite Public Gardens, 5-10-194 Hill Fort Rd., Saifabad; tel. 040/2323-1147 or 040/2329-7196/7). And to absorb the scents and colors of one of India's most evocative bazaars, spend some time in Laad Bazaar near Charminar.
