Things To Do
in Cheriāl

Close-up images of artisans painting narrative scrolls, mixing natural dyes, and stretching cloth — the most distinctive cultural subject in town. Always ask permission before photographing people at work.

Colorful produce stalls, roadside tea stalls, and everyday commerce provide candid street photography opportunities full of local character.

Small temples with carved details, prayer rituals and festival processions (if visiting during a festival) offer vibrant cultural shots; observe local rules about photography.

Agricultural landscapes glow during golden hours — excellent for wide-angle and landscape photography of rural Telangana.

A tangy chutney made from sorrel leaves — a Telangana specialty. Often served with rice and curd; found at local homes and traditional restaurants.

Must-Try!

Tamarind-flavored rice (also called tamarind rice), a tangy, spiced rice dish common as a snack or meal — widely available at eateries and markets.

A savory millet or rice flour pancake with spices and peanuts, typical of Telangana breakfasts and found in local roadside stalls.

Although Hyderabadi biryani originates in the state capital, many restaurants in the region serve rice-and-meat biryani — try it at local mid-range restaurants.

Small daily market selling fresh vegetables, local snacks, and chai; best for trying mirchi bajji (chili fritters), samosas and seasonal fruits.

Scattered around town, these are great for morning masala chai, biscuits, and chatting with locals about where to find the best home-cooked meals.

Remove shoes and dress modestly at temples. Follow any gender-specific rules at shrines and observe silence during rituals.

Use the right hand for giving and receiving items and for eating; using the left can be considered rude in many contexts.

Always ask before photographing people or private workspaces; a small gift or small purchase can be a courteous gesture when photographing artisans closely.

A respectful 'Namaskaram' or folded-hands greeting (namaste) is appreciated. Address elders first and show deference to local hosts.

Tipping is modest: round up fares for tuk-tuks and taxis, leave 5–10% in nicer restaurants when service is good, and offer a small tip to guides or workshop hosts. In small rural shops and family eateries tipping is not expected but appreciated.

Cash (Indian rupees) is dominant in Cheriāl, especially for markets and small vendors. Mobile payments and UPI are widespread in Telangana, and some businesses accept QR-based payments; credit cards are less commonly accepted in small shops, so carry cash for local purchases.

The main international and domestic gateway for the region. From Hyderabad it is a few hours’ drive to Cheriāl; buses, private taxis or rental cars connect the two.

Warangal has smaller air facilities/airstrips and good rail connections (Kazipet/Warangal stations). Commercial flight options are limited, so Hyderabad remains the primary airport for most travelers.

The majority of residents are Telugu-speaking and follow Hindu customs and festivals, forming the social and cultural fabric of the town.

Hereditary craft families maintain the Cheriyal painting tradition and play a visible role in local cultural life.

Small Muslim communities and other groups live in the region, contributing to cultural and culinary diversity.

Many residents are engaged in agriculture and related livelihoods, with seasonal work patterns shaping local rhythms.

The most popular sport — played informally in fields and formally at local clubs and school grounds.

A traditional contact sport with regional popularity; local teams and school contests are common.

Vegetarian food is widely available; many restaurants offer vegetable-heavy thalis and dosas. Make it clear you want no ghee or meat stock if you strictly avoid animal products.

Vegan options exist (rice, lentils, vegetable curries), but clarify about ghee, curd and butter. Street food may use dairy; ask vendors directly.

Rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free; avoid wheat-based items like some rotis and snacks. Confirm frying oil cross-contamination if severe gluten sensitivity is a concern.

If you require halal meat, check with restaurant staff (many small eateries may not label meat). Vegetarian choices are plentiful if halal options are limited.