Chowmahalla Palace in Hyderabad is a magnificent palace that was once the residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad. It is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Hyderabad. Visitors can explore the palace and its beautiful grounds, learn about the Nizams and their way of life, and marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate details of the palace.

To visit Chowmahalla Palace, visitors need to know the entry fee, timings, and entry ticket cost. The palace is open from Saturday to Thursday, from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, and closed on Fridays. The entry fee for Indian citizens is Rs. 100 for adults and Rs. 40 for children below 10 years old, while foreigners need to pay Rs. 400 per person. Photography charges are Rs. 50 for mobile cameras, and Rs. 100 for video cameras. Visitors should note that tripods are not allowed.

Chowmahalla Palace is a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Nizams of Hyderabad. With its stunning architecture, beautiful grounds, and rich history, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hyderabad. Visitors can enjoy exploring the palace, learning about the Nizams, and taking in the beauty and grandeur of this magnificent landmark.

History

Chowmahalla Palace, meaning “Four Palaces”, was the official residence of the Nizams while they were ruling Hyderabad. The Palace was built over several generations and was completed in the mid-19th century. The construction of the Palace was mainly completed between 1857 to 1869 during the rule of the fifth Nizam, Afzar-ud-Daulah, Asaf Jav V. However, its building is mostly credited to Nizam Salabat Jang in 1790.

The Palace originally covered 45 acres which extended from the Laad Bazaar on the north to the Aspan Chowk Road on the south. The Palace was designed in a unique style that blended Persian, Mughal, and European architectural styles. The Palace was also known for its beautiful gardens and fountains.

The Palace was the center of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, which ruled Hyderabad State from 1724 to 1948. The Asaf Jahi family was one of the richest and most powerful families in India during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Nizams of Hyderabad were known for their wealth, lavish lifestyle, and patronage of the arts.

The Palace was also the site of many important political and social events during the Nizam’s rule. The Palace was used to host important guests, including British officials and Indian princes. The Palace was also used for coronations and other important ceremonies.

Today, the Palace is a popular tourist attraction in Hyderabad. The Palace has been restored and is open to the public. Visitors can see the beautiful architecture, gardens, and fountains. The Palace also has a museum that displays artifacts and other items from the Nizam’s era.

Architecture

Chowmahalla Palace is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that showcases the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. The palace is a perfect blend of Persian, Rajasthani, and European styles. The palace is divided into four palaces, namely Aftab Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal, Afzal Mahal, and Mahtab Mahal. Each palace has its unique charm and grandeur.

Palaces

Aftab Mahal is the first palace that visitors encounter upon entering the palace complex. It has a beautiful courtyard with a grass lawn and a water fountain. The palace has a clock tower and a council hall that are worth visiting. Tahniyat Mahal is the second palace, which is known for its intricate carvings and exquisite design. Afzal Mahal is the third palace and is the largest of all the palaces. It has a beautiful garden and a southern courtyard. Mahtab Mahal is the fourth palace, which has a northern courtyard.

Courtyards

The palace has two courtyards, the southern courtyard, and the northern courtyard. The southern courtyard is the largest of the two and has a beautiful garden with a grass lawn and a water fountain. The northern courtyard is smaller but equally beautiful. It has a raised platform that was used by the Nizams to address their subjects.

Design

The palace is known for its intricate design and exquisite architecture. The palace has a blend of Persian, Rajasthani, and European styles. The palace has beautiful carvings, intricate designs, and ornate wooden ceilings that are worth admiring.

Gardens

The palace has beautiful gardens that are well-maintained and lush green. The gardens have grass lawns, water fountains, and beautiful flowers. The gardens are a perfect place to relax and unwind.

Clock Tower and Council Hall

The palace has a clock tower and a council hall that are worth visiting. The clock tower is a beautiful structure that has a clock that is still in working condition. The council hall is a beautiful hall that was used by the Nizams to hold their court.

Art and Chandeliers

The palace has beautiful art and chandeliers that are worth admiring. The palace has beautiful Belgian crystal chandeliers that are a sight to behold. The palace also has beautiful carvings and paintings that are worth admiring.

Furniture

The palace has beautiful furniture that is well-preserved and maintained. The furniture is ornate and has intricate carvings that are worth admiring. The furniture is a perfect example of the craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.

Location and Address

Chowmahalla Palace is located in the heart of Hyderabad, Telangana, India. The palace is situated near Charminar and Mecca Masjid, making it a popular tourist destination. The address of Chowmahalla Palace is Khilwat, 20-4-236, Motigalli, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002, India.

Visitors can easily reach the palace by taking the Aspan Chowk Road or the Old Hyderabad Road. The palace is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and taxis.

Chowmahalla Palace is a magnificent palace that was once the official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad. The palace is spread across 12 acres and consists of four palaces, namely Afzal Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal, Mahtab Mahal, and Aftab Mahal. The palace is known for its stunning architecture and intricate designs.

Overall, Chowmahalla Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Hyderabad. The palace’s location, near the iconic Charminar and Mecca Masjid, makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

Entry Details

Timings

Chowmahalla Palace is open to the public from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day except for Fridays and national holidays. Visitors are advised to plan their visit accordingly and arrive at the palace well before closing time to ensure they have enough time to explore the palace.

Entry Fee

The entry fee for Chowmahalla Palace is Rs. 80 per person for Indian visitors and Rs. 200 for foreign tourists. Children under the age of 12 are charged Rs. 10. Visitors can purchase tickets at the ticket counter, which closes at 5:00 PM. It is important to note that visitors are not allowed to enter the palace after 4:00 PM.

Camera and Videography

Visitors are not allowed to take photographs or shoot videos inside the palace premises. Still, cameras and video cameras are strictly prohibited. Visitors are requested to cooperate with the management and refrain from violating these rules.

During the Ramzan month, the palace is open for night viewing, and visitors can enjoy the palace’s beauty in the evening hours. However, the entry fee and timings may vary during this period, and visitors are advised to check the official website or contact the palace’s management for the latest information.

In summary, visitors to Chowmahalla Palace can enjoy its beauty and grandeur by following the entry details mentioned above. The palace management expects visitors to cooperate and follow the rules to ensure a pleasant and memorable experience for everyone.

Transportation

Chowmahalla Palace is located in the heart of Hyderabad, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Visitors can choose from buses, autos, taxis, or even trains to reach the palace. The nearest train depot is Secunderabad, which is about 11 km away from the palace.

Visitors can also take buses from different parts of the city to reach the palace. The palace is well-connected by bus routes, and visitors can easily find buses to reach the palace. Autos and taxis are also readily available in Hyderabad, and visitors can use these modes of transportation to reach the palace.

For those coming from Gachibowli-Hi-tech town, the best way to reach the palace is by taking a taxi or an auto. The journey takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions.

Visitors should note that the palace is located in a busy area, and parking can be a challenge. It is advisable to take public transportation to avoid parking issues.

Overall, visitors can choose from various modes of transportation to reach Chowmahalla Palace, and it is easily accessible from different parts of Hyderabad.

Nearby Attractions

Chowmahalla Palace is located in the heart of Hyderabad and is surrounded by several other tourist attractions that visitors can explore during their visit. Here are some of the nearby attractions:

Laad Bazaar

Laad Bazaar, also known as Chudi Bazaar, is a popular shopping destination among locals and tourists alike. It is located just a kilometer away from Chowmahalla Palace and is famous for its bangles, pearls, and traditional Hyderabadi attire. Visitors can also find a variety of souvenirs and handicrafts here.

Mecca Masjid

Mecca Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India, is located about 1.5 kilometers away from Chowmahalla Palace. It was built during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, and its construction was completed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Visitors can admire the mosque’s stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance.

Koti

Koti, located about 5.1 kilometers away from Chowmahalla Palace, is a bustling commercial area that is home to several educational institutions, shopping centers, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the area’s vibrant streets and indulge in some retail therapy.

Overall, Chowmahalla Palace’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for visitors looking to explore Hyderabad’s rich cultural heritage.

Food and Cuisine

Chowmahalla Palace is not only a magnificent architectural wonder but also a place where visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious food and drinks. The palace has a few restaurants and cafes that offer a range of local and international cuisine.

One of the most popular dishes served in the palace is the Mutton Haleem, a stew made with pounded wheat, lentils, and meat. Visitors can also try the Qurbani ka Meetha, a sweet dish made with dried fruits, nuts, and milk. For those with a sweet tooth, Agra Sweets is a must-visit place in the palace that offers a range of Indian sweets.

The palace also serves a variety of savory dishes such as Keema, a minced meat dish, and Kichidi, a rice and lentil dish. Visitors can also try the famous Hyderabadi Biryani, a rice dish cooked with meat, spices, and saffron. Naan, a type of bread, is a popular accompaniment to these dishes.

For those looking for a hearty breakfast, Nihaari, a slow-cooked meat stew, is a popular dish. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of Asian Chai, a spiced tea, at the Edifice Rumaan cafe.

Apart from these, visitors can also try some of the popular street food in Hyderabad such as Bhel-Kukatpally, a savory snack made with puffed rice, and visit the famous Pista House for their delicious Irani chai and Osmania biscuits.

Overall, Chowmahalla Palace offers a gastronomic experience that visitors should not miss.

Museum and Collections

Chowmahalla Palace is not just a palace but also a museum that houses a vast collection of artifacts and antiques. The museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Hyderabad and the Nizams who ruled the region.

The collection includes rare coins, currency notes, vintage cars, and even a Rolls Royce that was used by the Nizams. Visitors can also see a Remington Urdu character-at-a-time printer, which was used to print official documents during the Nizam’s reign.

Apart from these, several galleries within the palace display a wide range of collections like chandeliers, carvings, and weaponry. The palace also has beautiful nurseries that are home to a variety of plants and flowers.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate workmanship and craftsmanship of the artifacts on display, which are a testament to the rich cultural and historical legacy of Hyderabad. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, and culture.

Overall, the museum and collections at Chowmahalla Palace provide a fascinating insight into the rich cultural heritage of Hyderabad and the Nizams who ruled the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the nearby places to Chowmahalla Palace?

Chowmahalla Palace is located in the old city of Hyderabad, and there are several other popular tourist attractions nearby. The Charminar, Mecca Masjid, and Laad Bazaar are all within a 2 km radius of the palace. The Salar Jung Museum, Golconda Fort, and Qutub Shahi Tombs are also popular tourist attractions that are located within a 10 km radius of the palace.

What is the cost of an entry ticket for Chowmahalla Palace?

The entry fee for Chowmahalla Palace is Rs. 80 per person for Indian visitors and Rs. 200 for foreign tourists. Children below the age of 12 are charged Rs. 10 for entry. The entry fee for still cameras is Rs. 50.

What is the distance between Chowmahalla Palace and Charminar?

Chowmahalla Palace is located approximately 1 km away from Charminar. The nearest metro station to the palace is Charminar metro station, which is located at a distance of 1 km.

Is it allowed to take food inside Chowmahalla Palace?

No, outside food is not allowed inside Chowmahalla Palace. However, there is a cafeteria inside the palace premises where visitors can purchase food and beverages.

Are phones allowed inside Chowmahalla Palace?

Yes, visitors are allowed to carry their phones inside Chowmahalla Palace. However, photography is not allowed inside certain areas of the palace, and visitors are advised to check with the staff before taking photographs.

Is Chowmahalla Palace worth visiting?

Chowmahalla Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. The palace is a great example of the Nizami style of architecture and is home to several interesting exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can spend several hours exploring the palace and its grounds and learning about the history of Hyderabad and the Nizams.