The Annapoorna Residency is that miracle in Paradise (Paradise, Secunderabad, that is). It's organised, clean, and downright tranquil in a nonparadisical neighbourhood of honking autorickshows, rushing people and screaming mopeds. Enter its cool lobby, or its surprisingly chic ve… Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Some might find the Athithi's South Indian design smorgasbord over the top. The colonnaded hallways, the golden swings in the rooftop restaurant, the unusual antique furniture in suites. Not us. We were charmed, impressed - nay, smitten. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Just across from Secunderabad's most famous biryani joint, the Ambassador aspires to class. There are many ways in which it does this, but the best might be the gargantuan landscape photos mounted in each floor lobby. Either that or the miniature white-picket fences - real ones -… Full Lonely Planet Review ›

It's a little overpriced, but this puppy has character. With its 1966 retro facade curving along a whole city block, it cuts a dramatic, kitschy, grubby - but nonetheless charming - figure across the busy commercial centre of Lakdi-ka-pul. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Rooms here don't win the prize for best personality, but they're new and neat and have subtle touches like top sheets and soothing blue bathroom tiles. The hotel does win the prize for best restaurant setting in a cheapie: on the 5th-floor roof terrace, overlooking Nampally's man… Full Lonely Planet Review ›

There's a reason that the Jaya is always full: it's the best deal in town. Capacious, sunny rooms have arched balconies with good views, stained-glass lamps and scrubbed bathrooms. It's centrally located, too. But there definitely won't be a room for you if you don't book ahead. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Hotel Minerva knows it's got a good thing going and doesn't try to overdo it. Its tranquil spot among tamarind trees, just off Himayatnagar's busy shopping street, is set off by alfresco hallway lounges, understated decor and the sage use of negative spaces. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Don't judge a book by its cover. The rooms here aren't as nice as you'd expect from the airy and well-decorated lobby. But we like the Rajmata for its location near Nampally station and because it's staffed with tough, hardworking women. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

We're always seeing women guests here, which makes us happy. It's truly a 'family' budget hotel - ie women travellers will encounter fewer uncomfortable stares here than at most cheapies. Set back from Nampally Station Rd, it's also quiet, clean, bright and almost tasteful. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Sri Brindavan is a favourite of curious gents in wife-beaters (vest-tops) who look like they should be doing something else. But put that aside for now. The place is great value and (unwittingly) has some sense of style - think Indian railway station meets old Hollywood. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Two words: roof garden. Pull up a plastic chair near the geraniums, order a cup of chai (it's not a fully fledged restaurant, alas) and watch what the neighbours are doing on their rooftops. The Nand feels like it's part of a neighbourhood even though it's just 500m (0.3mi)from K… Full Lonely Planet Review ›

This rambling 1924 heritage building has a magnificent exterior, plants peppered about, and some exceedingly charming rooms. Each is different: the better ones have boudoirs, crystal-knobbed cabinets and wood-beam ceilings. All are peaceful. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Room doors here have a million layers of glossy white paint and fire engine-red trim. Inside, the light is good, white walls are spic-and-span and sheets are tucked in tight. Taj Mahal Hotel (we'll call it Number 2 in the TMH dynasty) is all about brightness and efficiency. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Hyderabad's first Taj Mahal Hotel - there are now several - has the feel of a front porch on some grandparents' old house in the country. And many of the guys manning reception look like the grandpa on that front porch. The vibe is old school, with charm. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

The Himayatnagar Taj is the best value of Hyderabad's many Taj Mahal Hotels. Despite its unfortunate location in front of an overpass on Himayatnagar Rd, it's a peaceful, sunny, stylish place where the staff are warm and welcoming and the hallway floors look like Jaipuri marble. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

The Golkonda aspires to high fashion. It mostly succeeds, only missing the mark in spots (eg the blue neon light under bathroom sinks). It's in the midst of an overhaul and so is still growing into its fabulous new self. Once it does, it'll be a knockout. Full Lonely Planet Review ›

Indian families mill about the Yatri Nivas compound, which is set back from the road among lots of trees strung with lights. Meanwhile, back at the room, your remote control, soap, coconut oil and towel are in an obedient pile on your bed. Full Lonely Planet Review ›