Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Shamshabad is one of India's best-designed airports. With a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights, navigation is simple.
Single Terminal — No Confusion
Unlike Delhi and Mumbai, Hyderabad has one terminal split into domestic (left wing) and international (right wing). All airlines operate from this single terminal, making connections easy.
Getting to Hyderabad City
- Metro: Airport metro connects to Hi-Tech City and other areas. Rs. 50-80. Fixed time regardless of traffic.
- Pushpak Bus (TSRTC): AC buses to Secunderabad, Ameerpet, Hi-Tech City. Rs. 200-300. Every 30 min.
- Ola/Uber: To Hi-Tech City Rs. 400-700, to Secunderabad Rs. 600-1,000
- Prepaid taxi: Rs. 700-1,200 to city center
Distance Warning
The airport is 24 km from Hi-Tech City and 30 km from Secunderabad. The ORR expressway makes the drive 40-50 minutes in normal traffic, but rush hours (8-10 AM, 5-7 PM) can push it to 75+ min.
Lounges
- Above Ground Level (AGL): Best domestic lounge in Hyderabad. Spacious, good food.
- Plaza Premium: Reliable option, available for both domestic and international.
- TFS Lounge: Good for credit card access
Food Highlights
- Paradise Biryani: Yes, the famous Hyderabadi biryani chain is at the airport! Must-try.
- Starbucks, Subway, McDonald's: Standard options available
- Irani chai: Available at the café before security
Pro Tips
- Check-in early: Morning rush (6-9 AM) can mean long security lines
- Free WiFi: 30 minutes free WiFi available airport-wide
- DigiYatra: Available at HYD — skip the ID check queue
- Parking: Rs. 60/hour, multi-level parking available 24/7
- Early morning/late night: Hyderabad traffic is light — commute is fast