About Chowmahalla Palace
Chowmahalla Palace is a historic royal palace in Hyderabad's Old City that served as the official residence and seat of power of the Asaf Jahi dynasty Nizams. The palace complex features two courtyards with four neoclassical palaces, a grand Durbar Hall, gardens, and fountains. It showcases a blend of Mughal, Persian, and European architectural styles and houses vintage cars and royal artifacts. The palace was restored and opened to the public in 2005.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore the Southern Courtyard with four palaces (Afzal Mahal, Mahtab Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal, and Aftab Mahal) built in neoclassical style, and the Northern Courtyard featuring the Bara Imam corridor and administrative wing. The Khilwat Mubarak Durbar Hall contains Belgian crystal chandeliers and a marble platform for the royal throne. Visitors can view vintage car collections including Rolls-Royce vehicles, historical artifacts, manuscripts, and ornate stucco work throughout the palace grounds spanning 12 acres.
Key highlights
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Khilwat Mubarak Durbar Hall with 19 Belgian crystal chandeliers
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Four neoclassical palaces in the Southern Courtyard
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Vintage car collection including Rolls-Royce vehicles
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Clock tower with working mechanical clock since 1750
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Bara Imam corridor and Shishe-Alat mirror image building
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UNESCO Asia Pacific Merit Award for cultural heritage conservation
History of Chowmahalla Palace
Construction initiated in 1750 by Nizam Salabat Jung and completed between 1857-1869 by Nizam Afzal-ud-Dawla Bahadur. Served as the seat of power of the Asaf Jahi dynasty (1720-1948) and official residence of the Nizams. The name Chowmahalla means 'four palaces' referring to the four structures in the Southern Courtyard. The palace was restored from 2000-2010 and received UNESCO Asia Pacific Merit Award in 2010.
Culture & Context
Represents the architectural brilliance and opulence of the Nizams, showcasing a synthesis of Mughal, Persian, and European architectural styles. The palace serves as a monument to Hyderabad's rich history and cultural heritage, displaying royal artifacts, manuscripts, and the lifestyle of the former rulers.