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Chowmahalla Palace: A Nizam's Opulent Residence

Explore the regal history and architectural grandeur of the Nizams at Hyderabad's Chowmahalla Palace, a cultural landmark.

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Experience the grandeur of the Nizams at Chowmahalla Palace, Hyderabad's 18th-century palace. Admire its unique blend of architectural styles, explore the courtyards, and delve into the history of the Asaf Jahi dynasty. The palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Hyderabad's former rulers.

A brief summary to Chowmahalla Palace

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and explore the palace at a relaxed pace.
  • Photography is allowed, but check for restrictions in certain areas like the Quran section.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the palace, its gardens and museum.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Charminar, Laad Bazaar and Makkah Masjid.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Nampally/Hyderabad MMTS station, take an auto-rickshaw to Chowmahalla Palace. Alternatively, numerous buses connect to Nampally at regular intervals. From the Charminar Bus Station, the palace is approximately a 1 km walk or a short auto-rickshaw ride away. Bus fares within the city typically range from ₹10 to ₹25.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (Ola/Uber) are readily available throughout Hyderabad. A taxi ride from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport to Chowmahalla Palace (approximately 22 km) typically costs between ₹400 and ₹600. From Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station (Nampally Station) to the palace, expect to pay between ₹80 and ₹150.

  • Parking

    Ample parking space is available for private vehicles within the Chowmahalla Palace complex. Parking charges are approximately ₹50 to ₹100 for cars. Be aware that parking availability may be limited during peak tourist season or special events.

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Discover more about Chowmahalla Palace

Chowmahalla Palace, or Chowmahallat, stands as a testament to the splendor of Hyderabad's Nizam era. Meaning 'Four Palaces,' this 18th-century complex was once the official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Construction began in 1750 by Nizam Salabat Jung and concluded in 1869 during the reign of Afzal ad-Dawlah, Asaf Jah V. The palace showcases a unique synthesis of Indo-Saracenic, Mughal, Persian, European, and Rajasthani architectural styles. Originally spanning 45 acres, the palace now encompasses 12 acres. It comprises two courtyards, grand halls, gardens, and fountains. The southern courtyard, the oldest section, features four palaces: Afzal Mahal, Mahtab Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal, and Aftab Mahal, built in the neo-classical style. The northern courtyard houses the Bara Imam, which once served as the administrative wing, and the Shishe-Alat. The heart of the palace is Khilwat Mubarak, the Durbar Hall, where the Nizams held court and conducted religious ceremonies. The hall features a marble platform for the royal seat and nineteen Belgian crystal chandeliers. The palace also displays vintage cars, including a 1912 Rolls Royce Silver Ghost, and a collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and photographs. The Clock Tower, with its Khilwat Clock ticking for over 251 years, adds to the palace's charm. Restored in 2005, Chowmahalla Palace received UNESCO's Asia-Pacific Merit Award in 2010 for cultural heritage conservation. Today, it is a museum showcasing the Nizams' lifestyle and Hyderabad's rich history.

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