Chowmahalla Palace Guide
Chowmahalla Palace: A Glimpse into Nizam's Grandeur Guide
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the opulence of the Nizams at Chowmahalla Palace, a magnificent palace complex in Hyderabad. This historical landmark offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and legacy of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, who ruled Hyderabad for over two centuries. Prepare to be awestruck by the intricate architecture, sprawling courtyards, and exquisite artifacts that adorn this royal residence. Chowmahalla Palace, meaning "four palaces," was the seat of the Nizams of Hyderabad. Construction began in the late 18th century by Nizam Salabat Jung and was completed over several years by subsequent rulers. The palace served as the official residence and ceremonial center for the Nizams, witnessing countless royal events, celebrations, and diplomatic gatherings. The palace complex is divided into two main courtyards: the Southern Courtyard, which houses the Khilwat Mubarak (Durbar Hall), and the Northern Courtyard, which contains the Bara Imam, a long corridor with rooms on either side. Visitors can explore the various halls and courtyards, marveling at the intricate stucco work, ornate chandeliers, and antique furniture. The Khilwat Mubarak, the heart of the palace, is a must-see, showcasing the Nizam's throne and other royal regalia. The palace also houses a museum displaying a collection of vintage cars, including Rolls Royces and Bentleys, once owned by the Nizams. While visiting, be sure to sample Hyderabadi cuisine at nearby restaurants. The area is known for its rich biryanis, flavorful curries, and delectable sweets like Qubani ka Meetha.
Transportation
The closest metro station is Charminar Metro Station on the Green Line. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the palace. Several buses also stop near Charminar, from where you can walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride to Chowmahalla Palace. Bus numbers include 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 262, 263, 264, 265, 266, 267, 268, 269, 270, 271, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 282, 283, 284, 285, 286, 287, 288, 289, 290, 291, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297, 298, 299, 300.
Opening Hours
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Ticket Price
INR 200 for Indians, INR 500 for Foreign Nationals