Capital- Hyderabad
Population- 64 million
Area- 276,754 sq. kms
Language-Telugu

Popularly called the 'Gateway to the South', the state has many characteristics common to North-India, especially the Muslim culture. The influence of the Muslim dynasty including that of Aurangzeb, on the architecture, food and language is colossal. Buildings have arches and domes and Mughalai delicacies like the biryani and kababs have evolved to be the cuisine; and Urdu is as commonly used as the Dravidian Telugu.

The land is a contrast of striking rock formations, lakes and low hills. In the deltas of the Krishna and the godavari rivers lie India’s goldmine of rice. Valuable teak grows in the hills, beset with wildlife. Golconda’s visible barrenness has given way to some of the world's magical diamonds, including the legendary Kohinoor. The state is endowed with skilled craftsmen, creating a wide variety of handicrafts. Kuchipudi dance form, gives the traditional glimpse of the country.