Chowmahalla Palace

Chowmahalla Palace, seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty

Built over 200 years ago, the magnificent Chowmahalla Palace was the seat of the Asaf Jahi dynasty and the official residence of the Nizam.

The complex, modeled after the Shah’s Palace in Teheran, consists of four beautiful palaces (Mehtab Mahal, Afzal Mahal, Aftab Mahal and Tahniyat Mahal). It was completed during the reign of Nizam Afzar-ud-Dawla Bahadur.

Mehtab Mahal

Mehtab Mahal is home to the splendid Darbar Hall and a series of rooms recreated with furniture, photographs and art to capture the grand lifestyle the Nizams.

Mehtab Mahal

The Darbar Hall was used by the Nizams to hold their court and important ceremonies.

Darbar Hall

The Takht-e-Nishan (Royal Seat) is placed on a marble platform at one end of the magnificent pillared hall.

Takht-e-Nishan

The 19 Belgian crystal chandeliers add to the splendor of this regal hall.

Belgian Chandeliers

The upper floor has now been converted into a mini museum housing crafts, furniture, and arms.

Hall of Crafts

Howdahs (Elephant Seats)

Fancy looking chair – not very apt for having a conversation

Khilwat Clock Tower

This mechanical clock has been ticking away for the last 250 years. It is maintained and wound every week by a family of traditional clock repairers (Mohammed Khasim). The family owns a shop in the nearby Lad Bazaar, which is now managed by Khasim’s son Mohammed Hussain.

Khilwat Clock Tower

Aftab Mahal

Aftab Mahal on the eastern side of the central water pool has been converted into an exhibition space to provide glimpses of the Zenana (Women Quarters).

Aftab Mahal