Must-visit historical places in Hyderabad

Take a historical journey through the alluring alleyways of Hyderabad, passing grand forts that formerly protected kingdoms and elaborate mansions that radiate luxury. As we unearth the most important historical gems of this thriving city, learn about the architectural wonders and cultural riches that continue to inspire astonishment and adoration.

 

How to reach Hyderabad?

By air: The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, located 24 km south of the city’s centre, has good connections to both domestic and foreign locations and facilitates aerial connectivity to Hyderabad.

By rail: The Secunderabad Junction, the Hyderabad Deccan Nampally Station and the Kacheguda Railway Station are the three main railway stations in Hyderabad. A robust rail network connects these stations to many locations around the nation.

By road: With a well-established network of state and national roads, Hyderabad has great transportation connections. From nearby cities and states, you can catch a bus, cab, or vehicle to get to Hyderabad.

 

Best historical places in Hyderabad

 

Mecca Masjid

Source: Pinterest (Astrolika.com) 

 

Address: Charminar Rd, Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002

Timing: 4:00 AM – 9:30 PM

Fees (approx): N/A

This majestic mosque, which is located close to the famous Charminar, is open to guests from all religions. Be ready to see a mesmerising glimpse of doves taking flight over the serene pond as you approach this architectural wonder, providing a sense of peace to the environment. 

The Mecca Masjid, which dates to the 17th century, is one of the biggest and oldest mosques in the city. It took nearly 80 years to finish, a tribute to the unrelenting commitment, and it reflects the majesty of the Qutub Shahi Dynasty, who expertly created this building with granite stones and bricks carved from Mecca’s holy soil. 

While women are humbly requested to cover themselves from head to toe, males are required to wear full trousers and any other top wear. Only male Islam followers are allowed to enter the main structure, but everyone is welcome to wander the courtyard and the royal family members’ graves to take in the history and culture that penetrates every crevice.

 

Golkonda Fort

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Address: Makki Darwaza, Golconda Fort, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008

Timing: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM 

Fees (approx): Rs 25/- per head + Rs. 80 – 120 for light and sound show

The Golkonda Fort, a timeless masterpiece that weaves Hyderabad’s history and architectural splendour, invites you to enter its enthralling realm. Start a short, enjoyable walk that will take you on a 30-minute ascent to the top of the fort and reward you with a stunning panorama of the city below. Discover parts of the remains where even a quiet whisper might travel more than a kilometre. 

Visitors advise hiring a guide who can recount the fascinating history of the fort from the 14th to the 17th century in order to comprehend the value of each area of the fort.

From 7 PM to 8 Pm and 8:15 PM to 9 PM, enjoy the captivating sound and light performance, which elegantly narrates the fort’s rich history, its kind rulers, and their significant effect on music, literature, and everyday life.

 

Chowmahalla Palace

Source: Pinterest (Flickr)

 

Address: Moti Galli Rd, Khilwat, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002

Timing: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM ( Closed on Fridays )

Fees (approx): Rs 100/- per head

This majestic palace offers in-depth insights into the way of life of the Nawabs, as well as the fascinating history of Hyderabad. There is plenty of parking available as you approach this architectural wonder, guaranteeing a hassle-free visit. Snacks are available in a pleasing cafeteria to quench your appetite as you explore. 

Although the palace is wheelchair accessible, some tourists may find it difficult to access specific areas since they involve ascending steps. However, the palace’s well-kept environment and calm mood provide a calming ambience without a rush, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience fully.

The palace, which used to house Hyderabad’s royal family, is home to the beautiful Clock Tower, which is embellished with a massive clock and loud bells, adding to the palace’s appeal and attraction. The intersection of history, art, and architectural genius at Chowmahalla Palace is certainly a treasure trove. History buffs and art lovers alike are drawn to it by its intriguing exhibitions and imperial magnificence. 

 

Qutub Shahi Tombs

Source: Pinterest (Flickr) 

 

Address: Qutub Shahi Tombs, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008

Timing: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM

Fees (approx): Rs 10/- per head + parking and photography charges

The Qutub Shahi Tombs are an amazing example of Indo-Islamic architecture located in Hyderabad’s serene Ibrahim Bagh, close to the famous Golconda Fort. The seven famous monarchs of the Qutub Shahi dynasty have their everlasting resting places on this sacred land, their legacies inscribed inside the heart of these majestic monuments. Every tomb has a sombre coffin in the middle of it that softly conceals the crypt containing the valued remains of the glorious kings.

The beautiful domes, which were formerly covered in colourful blue and green tiles, now convey a sense of timeless grandeur, where just a few antiques remain to narrate tales of former glory. Small canteens selling delicious treats and vendors of cucumbers, kulfis, and popcorn may be found within the hallowed grounds, bringing a touch of delicious enjoyment to your visit. Here, history, architecture, and tranquillity come together to welcome you to explore the kings’ tales and fall in love with this historical marvel’s everlasting allure.

 

Charminar

Source: Pinterest (Dindigul Renghaholidaysandtourism) 

 

Address: Charminar Rd, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002

Timing: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM 

Fees (approx): Rs 20/- to 30/- per head

Charminar, a historic monument in Hyderabad and the state symbol of Telangana, has stood for more than 425 years with a mosque atop. Each of the four sides of this square building’s massive arches faces a key location in the streets below. Its ageless beauty is enhanced by the wonderfully sculpted minarets that are capped with bulbous domes. The base of the domes are decorated with petal-like patterns that add to their ethereal appeal. The vibrant marketplaces of Charminar and its status as a top tourist destination add to the city’s charm. Bags can be kept outside in the clock room as they are not permitted inside.

 

FAQ

best historical sites Hyderabad, Mecca Masjid, Golconda Fort, Chowmahalla Palace, Qutub Shahi Tombs, Charminar

How can I reach Hyderabad?

You can reach Hyderabad by air through Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, by train via Secunderabad Junction, Hyderabad Deccan Nampally Station, or Kacheguda Railway Station, or by road using state and national roads.

What are the best historical sites to visit in Hyderabad?

Some of the best historical sites to visit in Hyderabad are Mecca Masjid, Golconda Fort, Chowmahalla Palace, Qutub Shahi Tombs, Charminar, etc.

Is there an entry fee for Golconda Fort?

Yes, there is an entry fee of Rs. 25 per head for Golkonda Fort. Additionally, there is a charge of Rs. 80 to Rs. 120 for the light and sound show.

Are there any restrictions on clothing while visiting the historical sites?

At religious sites like Mecca Masjid, it is advisable to dress modestly.

Is photography allowed inside the historical sites?

Yes, most of these historical locations allow photography. However, there can be certain places where photography is prohibited, and there might be extra fees associated with photographing at other locations.

 

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]