I think I should start this blog post by stating that Chowmahalla Palace is an architectural marvel. It is standing in the heart of Hyderabad. If you are in Hyderabad or if you are exploring places in the city, you should not miss out on visiting this palace. This palace stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the bygone Nizam Era in the city. This palace is popular for its cultural importance, rich history and stunning architecture. You might be an architecture enthusiast or a history buff. Otherwise, you might be a regular traveller interested in exploring places. In all these cases, this palace can satisfy your needs.
Chowmahalla Palace – An Introduction
Chowmahalla Palace is often denoted as the Palace of Four Palaces. It was once the official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad. The Nizams were the rulers of one of India’s most powerful princely states. This palace is spread over 12 acres. The complex of the palace exudes elegance with its intricate Mughal, Rajasthani and Persian architectural styles.
The name of the palace is derived from two Urdu Words “Chow” and “Mahalla”. Chow means four and Urdu and Mahalla mean neighbourhoods. So, the name of the palace itself denotes four interconnected palaces within its sprawling grounds.
When you visit Chowmahalla Palace, you will be greeted by opulent chandeliers, lush gardens, grand courtyards and intricately carved arches. It has been declared a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Site. The palace won the Asia-Pacific Heritage Award offered by UNESCO in 2010. You can gain insights into the royal legacy of Hyderabad by visiting this palace.
History of Chowmahalla Palace
You can gain a better understanding of the history of the Chowmahalla Palace by dividing the years into different categories:
From 1751 to 1769
The construction of the palace began during the rule of Nawab Salabat Jung, who was the third son of Asaf Jah I. It happened around 1751 AD.
Once Nizam Ali Khan Asaf Jah II had Aurangabad as the ruling capital. Aurangabad, as you know, is presently in Maharashtra. He decided to shift his ruling capital from Aurangabad to Hyderabad. With this intent, he added many mahals during his rule in Hyderabad in 1663.
1769-1912
The four palaces in Chowmahalla stand symmetrically opposite to each other. They stand around a huge cistern of water, thereby forming a protective enclave of historic and grandeur connection. The buildings were functional as a combination of living quarters for the royal families. Also, the halls were once used as grand halls for regular public audiences, palaces for zenanas for women and other administrative buildings.
The Nizams, who ruled this region successively expanded and renovated the Chowmahalla palace further. They introduced new structures to the palace.
Originally, the total area of the complex was 45 acres. Thereafter, it was spread into a 12-acre complex. It encompasses the new Khilwat Mubarak, and the four palaces – Tahniyat, Mehtab, Aftab and Afzal Mahals. It also encompasses a grand clock tower, heritage structures, a combination of other buildings and notably a Buggy Khaana that stores a combination of grand vehicles used by the Nizams.
1912 to Present
Attracted by Persian Architecture, HEH Mir Osman Ali Khan Asaf Jah VII commissioned the new Khilwat Mubarak in 1912. The construction was completed in 1916. Today, the Chowmahalla Palace stands as proof of the possibilities of a strong association with the past. With the firm support of Princess Esra Birgen Jah, the palace now stands as a restored cultural oasis in the main part of Hyderabad. It holds the pride of being the only palace in the state to have received the UNESCO Award of Merit in 2010. Also, it has won the honorary INTACH Heritage Award two times.
How to Reach?
Chowmahalla Palace is located in the heart of Hyderabad. It means that it is reachable by different modes of transportation with ease. Here are some details to know on how to reach this palace:
By Bus
Thankfully, Hyderabad has an extensive combination of buses operated by Telangana State Road Transport Corporation. Many buses connect important areas of the city to Chowmahalla Palace. The nearest bus stop to the palace is Charminar Bus Stand. From this bus station, the palace is located just within a 1 km reach. You can cover this distance by walking or you can hire an auto.
By Train
You can also travel by train to reach Chowmahalla Palace. You can travel by the MMTS or Hyderabad Multi-Moden Transport System. The closest railway station to the palace is Yakutpura Railway Station. It is located around two km away from the palace. You can find auto rickshaws outside of the station to take you to the palace.
If you are travelling from other cities, you can reach Hyderabad Deccan Railway Station by train. From there, the palace is located around 5 km. So, you can hire an auto to reach the palace.
By Flight
If you are travelling by flight, you can book a flight that can take you to Hyderabad Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. From this airport, the palace is located around 15 km via the NH 765 route. You can cover this distance by relying on public transportation. Buses operate from this airport to Charminar. You can get off the bus at Charminar Bus Station and walk around 1 km to reach the palace.
By Car
Hyderabad is connected well by roads to nearby towns and cities. So, you can drive from nearby cities to reach the palace. You can rely on Google Maps to show you the directions. Thankfully, the palace has ample car parking facilities. If you are travelling from other cities, National Highways 163, 65 and 44 provide easy access to Hyderabad.
Key Attractions & Things to Do
Any place can be called a tourist attraction only when it offers different places to visit and things to do. Here is what you can expect from Chowmahalla Palace:
Khilwat Mubarak
The grand durbar hall within the Chowmahalla Palace is called Khilwat Mubarak. This hall forms the central part of the palace. It is believed to be the place, where the Nizams conducted official ceremonies and held court. This hall is beautified with Belgium crystal chandeliers.
Clock Tower
The clock tower in the palace houses the historic Khilwat Clock. This clock, to your surprise, has been ticking for more than 250 years now. It stands as the symbol of the timeless legacy of the palace.
Council Hall
In this hall, you can find a collection of artefacts from the Nizams on display. This includes royal memorabilia, books and manuscripts. You can gain insights into the intellectual pursuits of the Nizams.
Roshan Bangla
This Bangla part of the Chowmahalla Palace has been named after Roshan Begum, who is the mother of the 6th Nizam. You can find a combination of modern and traditional architecture in this Bangla. This was one of the living quarters of the Nizams.
Courtyards and Gardens
Chowmahalla Palace is known not only for its spacious courtyards but also for its lush gardens. The pathways and fountains improve the aesthetic appeal of the palace. For this reason, this palace is ideal for photography.
Car Museum
The museum houses a vintage collection of cars. Yes, you can find different cars including Rolls Royce that were used by the Nizams. From this museum, you can gain a glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle of the royal family.
When these attractions are within the complex of the Chowmahalla Palace, you can visit other places near the palace as well. Here are a few attractions with their distance from the palace:
- Charminar – 11-minute walk from Chowmahalla Palace
- Mecca Masjid – 12-minutes walk
- Laas Bazaar – 11-minute walk
- Tahniyat Mahal – 10-minute walk
- Mahtab Mahal – 10-Minute walk
- Modi Pearls – 12-minute walk
- Chor Market – 10-minute walk
- Salar Jung Museum – 1.8 km from Chowmahalla Palace
- Nehru Zoological Park – 2.3 km
- Sudha Cars Museum – 1.9 km
- ISKCON Temple – 3.4 km
Best Time and Season to Visit
The ideal time to visit Chowmahalla Palace is during the winter months. These months fall between October and March. The climate during this season will be pleasant, thereby making it comfortable for you to explore the palace and its nearby attractions.
Summer Between April and June
Hyderabad is known for its scorching summers. The temperatures during this season can reach up to 40 Degree Celsius. Due to excessive heat, it can be hard to explore places during this season.
Monsoon Between July and September
During winter you can escape from the scorching heat. However, during the monsoon season, the climate cannot be predicted in Hyderabad. Nevertheless, the lush greenery of the palace gardens during this season will be a visual treat.
Winter Between October and March
Winter is the best season to visit Chowmahalla Palace. The weather, as mentioned earlier, will be pleasant and cool. So, you can explore places comfortably.
Duration to See the Palace
You can explore Chowmahalla Palace within two to three hours. Within this duration, you can explore the key attractions. Also, you can admire the intricate architecture of the palace. If you are a photography buff or history enthusiast, you might be interested in allocating extra time to soak in every detail.
The palace remains open to the public from Saturday to Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Best Restaurants & Cafes Around Chowmahalla Palace
- Nimrah Cafe and Bakery
- Pista House Shalibanda
- Taj Bakers Inn Restaurant
- Hotel Rumaan Restaurant
- Farasha Cafe And Bakery
- The Golkonda Melange
- Hotel Armaan Restaurant
- Rizwan Bakery
- Chocolate Atelier
- Aishwariya Restaurant
Where to Stay? Best Resorts
- Hotel Tara International
- Hotel Rajdhani
- Hotel Hans Residency
- Triveni Boarding & Lodging
- New Haridwar Hotel
- New Gandhi Bhawan Hotel
- Tarak Inn Hotel
Entry Fee & Ticket Prices
For Indian nationals, the entry fee to the palace is ₹100 per person. For foreigners, the entry fee is ₹400 per person. For children below 10 years, entry to the palace is allowed with a ticket worth ₹40. For photography, mobile photography is alone permitted and Rs.50 is charged for the same. Photoshoot within the palace complex is not permitted. The ticket counter will close at 5 pm every day.
FAQ
1. Can I Visit Chowmahalla Palace on Fridays?
No, the palace remains closed on Fridays. So, plan your visit on other days between Saturdays and Thursdays.
2. Is There an Ample Car Parking Facility Within the Chowmahalla Palace?
Yes, you can drive to the palace with confidence. There is ample car parking facility both for cars and two-wheelers in Chowmahalla Palace.
3. Can I Buy Anything Special from Chowmahalla Palace?
Chowmahalla Palace has a crafts shop. From this shop, you can buy souvenirs. Many people visiting the palace make sure to buy souvenirs.
4. Is Videography Permitted Inside the Palace?
No, videography is strictly prohibited within the palace complex. Only mobile camera is permitted inside the palace. So, do not carry videography equipment.
5. Can I Carry Food into the Chowmahalla Palace?
No, outside food is not allowed into the Chowmahalla Palace. You can find restaurants near the palace. So, make sure to finish your dining before you enter the palace. You can spend around two to three hours within the palace. You can have your food after coming out of the palace. You can also find a small canteen within the palace complex.
Conclusion
Chowmahalla Palace is not just a monument. I should say that it is a journey through architectural, cultural and historical brilliance. Its serene ambience, rich heritage and grandeur make it one of the cherished landmarks in Hyderabad. Regardless of whether you are an architecture lover or a history buff, you will love this palace. You can expect a spellbound experience.
Make sure to plan your visit to this huge palace. Immerse yourself in the royal splendour of the Nizams. From its awe-inspiring architecture to its tranquil gardens, the palace offers an unforgettable experience that will stay in your memory for many years to come.
Do not forget to check out my other posts on Hyderabad
Waterfalls Near Hyderabad – Top 12 Breathtaking Getaways Within 500 Km
25 Famous Restaurants in Hyderabad – Get A Satisfying Experience
All You Need to Know About Shilparamam
Places to Visit Near Hyderabad – 50 Fascinating Tourist Places Near Me
The Ultimate 5-Day Hyderabad Itinerary: A Friendly Guide to Unforgettable Experiences