Chasing golden skies: Hyderabad photographers find art in sunrise and sunset

For many Hyderabad based photographers and hobbyists, capturing the sky is a daily commitment that transcends the seasons. While the April heat has most of the city seeking shade, these enthusiasts continue to time their days around the fringes of dawn and dusk. Whether it is navigating the silent boulders of Khajaguda or scouting reflections across Gandipet, the pursuit of the golden hour remains a constant. Hyderabad Times caught up with the residents who wait for these shifts in the horizon to find out what keeps them chasing the light year-round.

‘The transitions before 6 am & after 6:30 pm provide the best colours of the day’

A Hyderabad-based street and travel photographer, Sardar Jasmeet Singh often heads out on photo walks to capture the city’s skies. “I’ve been into photography for the past five years, and sunrise and sunset are moments I never miss. No matter how busy I am, I make time to step out. Lower Tank Bund is one of my favourite spots for sunsets, while places like Qutub Shahi Tombs are great for sunrise colours, and Golconda offers a wide panoramic view of the city, which makes it perfect for capturing the changing light during golden hour. In summer, the skies feel much clearer, which makes the colours sharper and more striking.The best colours usually come just after sunset, around 6:30 pm, and just before sunrise, around 5:45-6:00 am.”

‘The city’s outskirts offer a more intimate sunset experience’

“Places like Khajaguda Hills, Ameenpur Lake and even some outskirts near Shamirpet offer that perfect mix of greenery, water and peace. The sunsets in these places feel more personal, and the changing colours really stand out when there’s less crowd around. I sometimes go solo, and other times with friends or on bike rides, but for me, it’s always about that calm vibe,” says Naveen Kumar Kasturi, city-based travel blogger.

‘All it takes is time, patience & a quiet spot’

“Having been in Hyderabad for nearly a decade, I’ve explored quite a few sunrise and sunset spots. Khajaguda Hills is great for peaceful mornings, while Gandipet Lake is my go-to for sunsets — you can just sit by the water with a coffee and unwind. I usually go with my close friends or my brother, and for us, it’s less about photography and more about the experience,” says content creator Nivedita Roy, adding, “Sometimes we just drive down when the weather is nice, find a quiet spot and spend time there. I feel Hyderabad has many such open spaces — you just have to be patient and explore a bit.”

‘Hyderabad is filled with calm, quiet spots to unwind’

Dhana Sree Karanam, an HR manager, says she loves places like Malkam Cheruvu for sunsets and Golconda Fort for sunrise. “Especially when the reflection hits the water, it feels very calming. Sometimes I go with friends, but there are days when I just go alone to clear my head; those walks really help. I feel Hyderabad offers a unique mix of serene outdoor spaces and a fast-paced city life — from quiet lakes and hilltops to busy IT hubs and that balance is what makes it special.”

Golden hour guide: Where to go & when

Best sunrise spots:

• Khajaguda Hills
• Moula Ali Hill
• Durgam Cheruvu viewpoint
• Osman Sagar (Gandipet)

Best sunset spots:

• Golconda Fort
• Qutub Shahi Tombs
• Necklace Road
• Tank Bund

Best time to visit:

• Sunrise: 5:30 am – 7:00 am
• Sunset: 5:45 pm – 6:45 pm

(varies seasonally)

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