In the heart of Hyderabad, a few lanes away from the iconic Charminar lies the Nizam Museum within the grand Purani Haveli. This landmark holds special significance for the ruling dynasty, where many Nizams were born and resided. The museum is a tribute to the historical events that shaped Hyderabad state during the reign of Osman Ali Khan, the seventh Nizam, and his father. Please continue reading to learn about the captivating history preserved within the Nizam Museum.
About Nizam Museum
Image Credit: Adbh266 for Wikimedia Commons
The Nizam Museum, located in the Old Haveli in Hyderabad, India, was once the palace of Nawab Mir Nizam Ali Khan, the second Nizam of Hyderabad. This museum primarily showcases mementoes and gifts presented to the last Nizam during the Silver Jubilee celebrations in 1936. The main building of the museum resembles 18th-century European palaces and houses the wardrobe of the sixth Nizam, the largest of its kind at 176 feet long. The Nizam Museum proudly displays an impressive array of vintage cars, such as the 1930 Rolls Royce, Packard, and Mark V Jaguar. It further features a remarkable display of jewellery, including the Jacob Diamond, one of the largest diamonds in the world. A section is dedicated to old photographs documenting the lives and times of the Nizams and the city of Hyderabad during their rule.
Additionally, an array of arms and weapons used by the Nizam and his soldiers is displayed, providing insights into the region’s military history. You can also view the significant collection of historical manuscripts and documents, some of which are centuries old.
Must Read: Offbeat Places In Hyderabad
Nizam Museum History
Image Credit: Randhirreddy for Wikimedia Commons
The tale of the Nizam Museum is incredibly intriguing. It begins with Khwaja Abid, the grandfather of Asaf Jah I, founder of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, who arrived in India from Farghana in the 17th century. Coming from a Turkish family of intellectuals, he served the Mughal emperors as a high-ranking administrator. His descendants continued this tradition, serving as administrators and military officers. Despite near blindness in his later years, Khwaja Abid maintained exceptionally clean and orderly army camps. In the Deccan, his grandson Asaf Jah established an independent state, though the Mughal emperor’s name remained on the coinage for years. Asaf Jah’s eldest son became the Mughal Prime Minister, and Asaf Jah himself returned to Delhi to help during Nadir Shah’s invasion, stopping a massacre.
After Asaf Jah I’s death, his fourth son, Nizam Ali Khan, became Asaf Jah II and ruled the Deccan through wars and alliances with the Marathas, French, British, and southern rulers. The dynasty, known as the Asaf Jahi dynasty, saw each Nizam assume the title Asaf Jah. The last ruling Nizam, H.E.H Mir Osman Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VII, established the trust that founded the Nizam’s Museum, also known as the Silver Jubilee Museum or Purani Haveli Museum in Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
Timings And Entrance Fees
The Nizam Museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Fridays and certain holidays. You will have to pay an entrance fee to access the museum.
Adults: ₹100
Children: ₹15 (discounted admission available)
Additional charges for cameras:
- Mobile/Still Camera: ₹150
- Video Camera: ₹500
To make the most of your visit, arrive at least half an hour before closing time. While the museum is open year-round, the ideal time to explore Hyderabad and the museum is during the cooler, drier season from late October to mid-March.
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Top Places To Visit Near Nizam Museum
Some well-known landmarks and attractions near the Nizam Museum are:
1. Explore The Iconic Charminar
Image Credit: Ravi Dwivedi for Wikimedia Commons
Charminar, one of India’s most recognisable monuments, is an ancient mosque built over 400 years ago by the Qutb Shahi dynasty. This construction followed a plague that led to the shift of their empire from Golconda to the new city of Hyderabad. The location is historically significant as it stands at the intersection of bustling markets, serving as a central hub for trade and commerce during the Qutb Shahi era.
Charminar (char: four, minar: pillars) gets its name from its four towering minarets, symbolising the four pillars of Islam. You can admire the intricate and beautiful carvings on the minarets, capture photos of the domes with pigeons perched atop, and ascend to the top of a minaret for a panoramic view of the city.
Location: Charminar Road, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad
Travel Time: 8 minutes
2. See The Timeless Haven In Mecca Masjid
Image Credit: Suraj Garg for Wikimedia Commons
The Mecca Masjid, the second-largest mosque in India, has witnessed some of the most critical moments in history. It accommodates 10,000 men during major Muslim festivals and is among the oldest buildings in Hyderabad. Besides being a significant pilgrimage site, the Mecca Masjid also houses the tombs of the Asaf Jahan rulers and the Nizams.
The magnificent architecture was initiated by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth Qutb Shahi Sultan of Hyderabad, who laid the first stone in 1614. Approximately 8,000 workers laboured tirelessly for 77 years to complete this splendid structure. The mosque was finally completed under the reign of Aurangzeb, who had overthrown the Qutb Shahi dynasty.
Location: Charminar Road, Char Kaman, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad
Travel Time: 9 minutes
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3. Discover Peace At ISKCON Temple
Image Credit: AmanAgrahari01 for Wikimedia Commons
ISKCON is renowned for being one of the country’s most beautiful, active, spiritual, and religious centres. One such temple, ISKCON Hyderabad, is located in the Nampally region. The main deity of the ISKCON Hyderabad temple is Lord Krishna. The temple also features idols of Sri Gaura-Nitai, Sri Jagannatha Baladeva-Subhadra, and Sri Radha Madana-Mohana.
The magnificent architecture comprises various halts along the steps leading to different temple parts. Shops and beautiful fountains along the sides enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine. The temple conducts Pujas and Aartis daily, with special programs organised on Sundays.
Location: Sri Sri Radha Gopinath Mandir Saint Johns Road, Regimental Bazaar, Shivaji Nagar, Secunderabad, Telangana, Hyderabad
Travel Time: 33 minutes
How To Reach
Image Credit: Алексей Задонский for Wikipedia
The Nizam Museum is accessible by various modes of transportation. It is a quick 9-minute walk from Malakpet metro station, an 11-minute from Malakpet railway station, and just 1 minute away from Chadoki Masjid bus stop.
The prime location ensures that exploring the rich history and artefacts of the Nizam Museum is both easy and enjoyable. Here is an overview of transport facilities available in multiple areas of Hyderabad.
Koti To Nizam Museum
Distance: 3.2 km
Taxi: 15 minutes, ₹50
- Bus: 20 minutes, ₹10 (Bus numbers: 8A, 9M, 9A, 3)
Secunderabad Terminal To Nizam Museum
Distance: 10 km
Taxi: 45 minutes, ₹150
Bus: 60 minutes, ₹15 (Bus numbers: 2, 2Z, 8A, 4)
BHEL-Kukatpally To Nizam Museum
Distance: 18 km
Taxi: 60 minutes, ₹220
Bus: 80 minutes, ₹20 (Bus numbers: 218D, 9YF, 187D/L, 8A)
Further Read: Museums In Telangana
Do not miss out on exploring the history of the Nizams and their legacy when you plan your trip to Hyderabad. The Purani Haveli, home to the museum, is a testament to architectural brilliance with its intricate carvings, ornate ceilings, and majestic courtyards. Beyond the artefacts, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events highlighting Hyderabad’s rich history and artistic traditions. You can explore the personal belongings of the Nizam Museum, including their furniture, accessories, and various items that provide insight into their daily lives.
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Cover Image credit : By Bernard Gagnon for Wikipedia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nizam Museum
Who is the owner of the Nizam Museum?
Mir Osman Ali Khan, the seventh and final Nizam of Hyderabad, was also the founder of the Trust responsible for establishing the Nizam Museum.
Where is the Hyderabad Nizam family now?
Nizam Mir Muhammad Azmet Ali Khan, Asaf Jah IX, also known as Azmet Jah (or Azmat Jah), was born on July 23, 1960. He has claimed the title of Nizam of Hyderabad and Berar since January 20, 2023. While he does live in Hyderabad, the government of India has not officially recognised such titles in 1971.
Why was Nizam so rich?
The Nizam’s main source of income was the Golconda mines, which he owned exclusively. These mines were the only source of diamonds at that time.
Who was the richest man in Nizam of Hyderabad?
Taking the throne at just 25 years old in 1911, Osman Ali Khan ruled Hyderabad until he eventually agreed to join India. He was known as one of the richest people globally, with his wealth amounting to 2% of the United States GDP.
How much gold did Nizam donate to India?
The Nizam donated 5,000 kilos of gold to the Indian Army when Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri visited Hyderabad and requested his contribution to the National Defence Fund.
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