Curious about Chowmahalla Palace timings? This iconic Hyderabad landmark, once home to the wealthy Nizams of the Deccan, isn’t just a palace—it’s a symbol of royal opulence. History lovers, travelers, and wedding planners flock here to explore its grand halls and intricate architecture, making it a must-visit glimpse into India’s regal past.
Chowmahalla Palace (literally “Four Palaces”) is a stunning complex that reflects Persian, Indo-Saracenic, and European architectural styles. Once the official residence and durbar (court) of the Nizams of Hyderabad, this 45-acre estate now stands as a UNESCO Asia Pacific Award-winning heritage site, drawing thousands of visitors annually.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything about Chowmahalla Palace Hyderabad—from its intricate architecture and royal interiors to visitor information, ticket prices, timings, and even what makes it one of India’s most sought-after wedding venues.
Quick Stats: Chowmahalla Palace at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Chowmahalla Palace (Four Palaces) |
| Location | Khilwat, Old City, Hyderabad, Telangana |
| Distance from Charminar | 2 km (approximately) |
| Built By | Nizams of Hyderabad (Asaf Jahi Dynasty) |
| Construction Period | 1750 – 1869 (over 119 years) |
| Commissioned By | Nizam Salabat Jung |
| Total Area | 45 acres (approx.) |
| Visitor Area | 12 acres (approx.) |
| Architectural Style | Persian, Indo-Saracenic, European Neoclassical |
| UNESCO Recognition | Asia Pacific Merit Award (2010) |
| Number of Palaces | 4 (Afzal, Mahtab, Tahniyat, Aftab Mahal) |
| Main Attraction | Khilwat Mubarak (Grand Durbar Hall) |
| Chandeliers | 19 Belgian crystal chandeliers |
| Clock Tower Age | Nearly 200 years (still operational) |
| Current Owner | Nizam’s family (Chowmahalla Palace Trust) |
| VISITOR INFORMATION | |
| Opening Days | Saturday to Thursday |
| Closed On | Fridays |
| Timings | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM) |
| Indian Adult Entry | ₹80 per person |
| Foreign Tourist Entry | ₹200 per person |
| Children (under 10) | ₹20 per person |
| Student Entry | ₹60 (with valid ID) |
| Still Camera Fee | ₹50 extra |
| Video Camera Fee | ₹500 extra |
| Average Visit Duration | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | 10-11 AM or 3-4 PM |
| Best Season | October – February |
| Nearest Metro Station | Charminar (Green Line) – 1.5 km |
| Parking Available | Yes (₹20-50) |
| WEDDING & EVENTS | |
| Available for Events | Yes (weddings, private functions) |
| Capacity | Up to 1,500 guests (courtyards) |
| Estimated Wedding Cost | ₹15 lakhs – ₹50 lakhs+ |
| Advance Booking | 6-12 months recommended |
| NOTABLE FEATURES | |
| Collections | Vintage cars, weapons, royal wardrobe, manuscripts |
| Photography Spots | Durbar Hall, Four Palaces facade, fountains |
| Nearby Attractions | Charminar (2km), Laad Bazaar (1.5km), Makkah Masjid (2km) |
| Social Media | Highly Instagrammable 📸 |
Last Updated: September 30, 2025
Disclaimer: All details regarding timings, ticket prices, wedding costs, and palace features are based on publicly available information and verified sources as of September 2025. Prices, policies, and accessibility may change without notice. Visitors are advised to contact the palace administration directly or check their official channels for the most current information before planning their visit.
The Royal Legacy: Who Built Chowmahalla Palace?
Ownership & Historical Significance
Chowmahalla Palace was constructed by the Nizams of Hyderabad, specifically commissioned by Nizam Salabat Jung in the 18th century, with major construction completed between 1750 and 1869. The palace complex served as the official residence of the Asaf Jahi dynasty for over 200 years.
The name “Chowmahalla” is derived from Persian, meaning “four palaces,” referring to the four distinct palaces within the complex. Interestingly, the design was inspired by the Shah’s palace in Tehran, reflecting the Persian roots of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.
The Restoration & Current Status
After decades of neglect, Princess Esra, the first wife of the eighth Nizam, spearheaded a massive restoration project in the late 1990s. The meticulous restoration earned the palace the prestigious UNESCO Asia Pacific Merit Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2010.
Today, the palace is managed by the Chowmahalla Palace Trust and remains under the ownership of the Nizam’s family, particularly Barkat Ali Khan Mukarram Jah, the titular eighth Nizam of Hyderabad.
Location & Property Details
Where is Chowmahalla Palace Located?
Chowmahalla Palace is situated in the heart of the Old City of Hyderabad, in the Khilwat area, just southwest of the famous Charminar. The exact address is:
📍 20-4-236, Motigalli, Khilwat, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002
The palace is approximately 2 kilometers from Charminar, making it easily accessible for tourists exploring Hyderabad’s historic quarter. The surrounding neighborhood includes other significant heritage sites like the Makkah Masjid and Laad Bazaar.
Property Size & Layout
The Chowmahalla Palace complex sprawls across approximately 45 acres, though the built-up area accessible to visitors covers about 12 acres. The palace is divided into two main courtyards:
- Southern Courtyard (Chowk): Houses the four palaces (Afzal Mahal, Mahtab Mahal, Tahniyat Mahal, and Aftab Mahal) and the magnificent Khilwat Mubarak (Durbar Hall)
- Northern Courtyard: Features the administrative buildings, residential quarters, and the Long Corridor
The complex includes multiple buildings, courtyards, fountains, gardens, and a clock tower that has been operational since 1820s—still ticking after nearly 200 years! ⏰
Architectural Grandeur: A Blend of Styles
Design Philosophy & Influences
The architecture of Chowmahalla Palace represents a stunning fusion of Persian, Indo-Saracenic, Rajasthani, and European neoclassical styles. The complex showcases the Nizams’ cosmopolitan taste and their ability to blend different architectural traditions seamlessly.
Key architectural elements include:
- Persian Influence: The layout with multiple courtyards and water features reflects Persian garden design
- Indo-Saracenic Arches: Pointed arches, ornate stucco work, and intricate rosettes
- European Neoclassicism: Corinthian columns, especially prominent in the Durbar Hall
- Rajasthani Elements: Jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies) and decorative brackets
Exterior Features
The palace complex presents a magnificent facade with symmetrical buildings painted in pristine cream and white. The southern courtyard features four identical palaces arranged in a row, each with graceful arches and slender columns.
Notable exterior highlights:
🏛️ Grand Entrance Gateway: A massive portal leading into the palace complex with intricate Islamic geometric patterns
🌳 Formal Gardens: Manicured lawns with pathways lined with fountains and water channels, creating a serene ambiance
⛲ Ornamental Fountains: Multiple fountains throughout the courtyards that once created a cooling effect during Hyderabad’s scorching summers
🚗 Vintage Car Collection: The palace courtyard occasionally displays vintage cars from the Nizam’s personal collection, including Rolls-Royces and Jaguars
Inside Chowmahalla Palace: Room by Room
The Khilwat Mubarak (Durbar Hall)
The centerpiece of Chowmahalla Palace is undoubtedly the Khilwat Mubarak or Grand Durbar Hall—the ceremonial hall where the Nizams held their royal court. This magnificent space features:
- 19 Belgian crystal chandeliers that create a mesmerizing spectacle when illuminated
- Takht-e-Nishan: The raised platform where the Nizam’s throne was placed (the original is now in a museum)
- Marble platform: An elegant marble dais in pure white
- Soaring ceilings: Supported by Corinthian columns that give the hall a European palace feel
The hall’s acoustics are so precise that even a whisper from the throne could be heard throughout the room—a deliberate design element that symbolized the Nizam’s omnipresent authority.
The Four Palaces (Chowmahalla)
The four palaces in the southern courtyard each served specific functions:
1. Afzal Mahal: Now houses a display of royal manuscripts, firmans (decrees), and historical documents
2. Mahtab Mahal: Converted into a museum showcasing rare photographs of the Nizams, their European education, and royal ceremonies
3. Tahniyat Mahal: Features an exhibition of royal wardrobe items, including elaborately embroidered sherwanis, turbans with jeweled ornaments, and ceremonial swords
4. Aftab Mahal: Displays the Nizam’s collection of weapons, daggers with diamond-encrusted hilts, and armor
Bara Dari (Council Hall)
The Bara Dari is an elegant hall with 12 doors (hence the name) featuring a unique wooden roof supported by ornate pillars. This space functioned as a council hall where the Nizam met with ministers and advisors. The hall now displays:
- Royal portraits of the Nizams
- Vintage furniture including Belgian crystal furniture sets
- Rare hunting trophies and memorabilia
Residential Quarters & Private Chambers
While the private residential areas aren’t fully open to the public, visitors can glimpse sections of the long corridor (approximately 200 meters) that connected various wings of the palace. These quarters once housed the royal family and contained private dining rooms, bedchambers, and zenana (women’s quarters).
The Clock Tower & Courtyard
The clock tower, located in the northern courtyard, has been operational for nearly 200 years and is maintained in perfect working condition—a testament to 19th-century craftsmanship. The surrounding courtyard features:
- Geometric gardens with seasonal flowers
- Historic wells that once supplied water to the entire palace
- Stables that housed the Nizam’s prized Arabian horses (now converted to exhibition spaces)
Special Features That Define Chowmahalla Palace
💎 The Royal Collection
Chowmahalla Palace houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts that offer a window into the Nizam’s luxurious lifestyle:
- Vintage automobiles: Including a 1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom and several Jaguars
- Belgian crystal and decorative arts: Chandeliers, furniture, and ornamental pieces
- Manuscripts and rare books: Including Quranic texts with gold leaf illumination
- Royal wardrobe: Displaying the finest silks, brocades, and hand-embroidered garments
- Weapons arsenal: Swords, daggers, muskets, and ceremonial armor with precious stone inlays
🎭 The Photography Collection
One of the most fascinating aspects of the palace is its extensive photography collection documenting the Nizams’ lives. These rare photographs show:
- The Nizams with British royalty and dignitaries
- Palace ceremonies and celebrations
- Daily life of the royal family
- Architectural evolution of the palace complex
These images provide invaluable historical documentation of Hyderabad during the 19th and 20th centuries.
💒 A Wedding Venue Like No Other
Chowmahalla Palace has become one of India’s most prestigious heritage wedding venues. The palace offers multiple event spaces including:
- The grand courtyards accommodating up to 1,500 guests
- The Durbar Hall for intimate ceremonies
- The gardens for outdoor events
The Chowmahalla Palace wedding cost varies significantly based on the scale, season, and specific areas used, typically ranging from ₹15 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs or more for multi-day celebrations. These costs generally include venue rental, basic infrastructure, and security but exclude catering, decor, and entertainment.
Many high-profile weddings, including those of business families and celebrities, have chosen this regal setting for its unmatched grandeur and historical significance.
Visitor Information: Planning Your Visit
Chowmahalla Palace Timings
The palace is open to visitors six days a week:
🕐 Opening Hours:
- Saturday to Thursday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
- Friday: Closed for weekly maintenance
- National Holidays: Usually open, but it’s advisable to check in advance
The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting enhances the palace’s architectural beauty, and the courtyards are less crowded.
Chowmahalla Palace Tickets
💰 Entry Fees:
- Indian Nationals: ₹80 per person
- Foreign Tourists: ₹200 per person
- Children (under 10 years): ₹20
- Students (with valid ID): ₹60
- Still Camera: ₹50 extra
- Video Camera: ₹500 extra
Note: These ticket prices are subject to change. It’s recommended to verify current rates before visiting.
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. The palace doesn’t currently offer online booking, so visitors must buy tickets on-site. Average visit duration is 1.5 to 2 hours for a comprehensive tour.
Getting There
By Metro: The nearest metro station is Charminar Metro Station on the Green Line (approximately 1.5 km from the palace)
By Auto/Cab: Easily accessible via ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola. Simply search for “Chowmahalla Palace”
Parking: Limited parking available near the entrance for ₹20-50
What Visitors Are Saying: Chowmahalla Palace Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Top-Rated Heritage Experience
Chowmahalla Palace reviews across platforms like TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and travel blogs consistently rate it as one of Hyderabad’s must-visit attractions. Here’s what travelers love:
Positive Reviews Highlight:
✅ “Immaculately maintained heritage” – Visitors praise the meticulous restoration and upkeep of the palace complex
✅ “Photographer’s paradise” – The symmetrical architecture, ornate interiors, and dramatic lighting create stunning photo opportunities
✅ “Value for money” – Many travelers feel the entry fee is justified given the extensive collection and grandeur
✅ “Well-organized displays” – The museum sections are professionally curated with informative placards
✅ “Peaceful ambiance” – Despite being a tourist attraction, the palace maintains a serene atmosphere
Common Suggestions from Reviews:
⚠️ Better signage in English for international tourists
⚠️ More detailed audio guides or guided tours
⚠️ Enhanced facilities like more seating areas and better restrooms
⚠️ Air-conditioning in the museum sections during summer months
Expert Opinion
According to heritage conservation expert Dr. Anuradha Reddy, who was involved in the restoration:
“Chowmahalla Palace represents one of the finest examples of heritage conservation in India. The restoration project respected the original architectural elements while making the palace accessible to modern visitors. It’s a testament to how historic properties can be preserved while remaining economically sustainable.”
The Cultural Significance: Why Chowmahalla Palace Matters
A Symbol of Hyderabad’s Royal Heritage
Chowmahalla Palace isn’t just a beautiful building—it’s a cultural landmark that represents:
🏛️ The Nizam’s Era: The palace embodies the power, wealth, and cultural sophistication of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, who ruled Hyderabad State for over 200 years
🎨 Architectural Fusion: It demonstrates how different architectural traditions—Persian, Indian, and European—can harmoniously coexist
📚 Educational Resource: The palace serves as a living museum, educating visitors about Hyderabad’s history, Indo-Islamic culture, and the Deccan region’s royal heritage
🌍 International Recognition: The UNESCO award brought global attention to Hyderabad’s heritage conservation efforts
In Popular Culture & Media
The palace has been featured in:
- Numerous Bollywood and Tollywood films as a filming location
- Television documentaries about Indian royal families
- International travel publications including National Geographic Traveller
- Photography exhibitions showcasing Indo-Islamic architecture
The palace’s Instagram-worthy aesthetics have made it a favorite among influencers and content creators, with thousands of photos tagged daily on social media platforms.
Beyond the Palace: Exploring the Neighborhood
What Else to See Nearby
If you’re visiting Chowmahalla Palace, make time to explore these nearby attractions:
🕌 Charminar (2 km): Hyderabad’s iconic monument and historical centerpiece
🛍️ Laad Bazaar (1.5 km): Famous for traditional bangles, pearls, and Hyderabadi attire
🕌 Makkah Masjid (2 km): One of India’s largest mosques, adjacent to Charminar
🏰 Falaknuma Palace (4 km): Now a luxury Taj hotel, offering heritage tours and high tea
🏛️ Salar Jung Museum (3 km): One of the world’s largest one-man collections of antiques
Where to Eat
After your palace visit, try authentic Hyderabadi cuisine at:
- Shadab Restaurant: Famous for Hyderabadi biryani
- Pista House: Known for haleem and Irani chai
- Nimrah Cafe & Bakery: Iconic Osmania biscuits and chai
Photography Tips: Capturing Chowmahalla’s Beauty
Best Spots for Photos
📸 The Khilwat Mubarak: Shoot from the entrance to capture the chandeliers and symmetry
📸 Four Palaces Facade: The southern courtyard offers perfect symmetry for wide-angle shots
📸 Fountain Courtyards: Early morning or late afternoon for the best natural lighting
📸 The Long Corridor: Creates stunning perspective shots with repeating arches
Instagram-Worthy Moments
The palace’s aesthetic has made it a hotspot for:
- Pre-wedding photoshoots (requires special permission and fees)
- Fashion photography featuring traditional Indian attire
- Architectural detail shots of arches, pillars, and stucco work
- Silhouette shots against the palace backdrop during golden hour
Pro tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and get cleaner shots without people in the frame. Always ask permission before photographing staff or other visitors.
Comparing Chowmahalla to Other Palace Hotels & Heritage Sites
How Does It Stack Up?
Chowmahalla Palace vs. Falaknuma Palace:
While Falaknuma has been converted into a luxury hotel, Chowmahalla remains a pure heritage site and museum, offering a more authentic historical experience. Falaknuma is grander in scale and height (situated on a hilltop), but Chowmahalla has better-preserved interiors and a more comprehensive collection of artifacts.
Chowmahalla vs. City Palace, Jaipur:
Both are excellent examples of royal architecture, but Chowmahalla represents Indo-Islamic architecture while Jaipur’s City Palace is more Rajput-Mughal. Chowmahalla is smaller but more intimate, with better-maintained interiors.
Chowmahalla vs. Mysore Palace:
Mysore Palace is more grandiose with its Sunday illuminations, but Chowmahalla Palace offers a more personal connection to royal life with its extensive artifact collection and manageable size.
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Conclusion: A Royal Experience Worth Every Moment
Chowmahalla Palace stands as a magnificent testament to Hyderabad’s royal legacy—a place where history breathes through every archway, chandelier, and courtyard. Whether you’re a history enthusiast captivated by the Nizams’ opulent lifestyle, an architecture lover drawn to Indo-Islamic design, or simply a traveler seeking authentic heritage experiences, this palace delivers on all fronts.
The meticulous restoration, the priceless artifacts, the stunning symmetry of the four palaces, and the grandeur of the Durbar Hall create an experience that transports you back to an era of unimaginable wealth and refined taste. At a modest entry fee, it’s one of Hyderabad’s best-value attractions and absolutely deserving of a place on every traveler’s itinerary.
The palace has successfully transformed from a royal residence into a living museum that educates, inspires, and preserves an important chapter of India’s history for future generations. The recognition from UNESCO confirms what locals have always known—this is a treasure worth protecting.
FAQs About Chowmahalla Palace
Where is Chowmahalla Palace located in Hyderabad?
Chowmahalla Palace is located in the Khilwat area of Old Hyderabad, approximately 2 kilometers from Charminar. The exact address is 20-4-236, Motigalli, Khilwat, Hyderabad, Telangana 500002. It’s easily accessible by metro (Charminar Station), auto, or taxi.
How much does it cost to visit Chowmahalla Palace?
Entry tickets for Chowmahalla Palace cost ₹80 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign tourists, and ₹20 for children under 10. There are additional charges for photography: ₹50 for still cameras and ₹500 for video cameras. Student discounts are available with valid ID.
Can you book Chowmahalla Palace for weddings?
Yes, Chowmahalla Palace is available for private events including weddings. The palace offers multiple venues including the grand courtyards and gardens. Wedding costs typically range from ₹15 lakhs to ₹50 lakhs or more depending on the scale, season, and specific requirements. Advance booking of 6-12 months is recommended.
What are the best times to visit Chowmahalla Palace?
The palace is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday through Thursday (closed Fridays). The best time to visit is early morning (10-11 AM) or late afternoon (3-4 PM) when lighting is ideal for photography and crowds are thinner. Winter months (October to February) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor courtyards.
What is the history behind Chowmahalla Palace?
Chowmahalla Palace was built by the Nizams of Hyderabad between 1750 and 1869, commissioned by Nizam Salabat Jung. It served as the official residence and durbar (royal court) of the Asaf Jahi dynasty for over 200 years. The palace complex was inspired by the Shah’s palace in Tehran and represents a fusion of Persian, Indo-Saracenic, and European architectural styles.
Is photography allowed inside Chowmahalla Palace?
Yes, photography is permitted inside Chowmahalla Palace with an additional fee. Still cameras cost ₹50 extra, while video cameras require a ₹500 fee. Flash photography may be restricted in certain museum sections to preserve artifacts. Professional photoshoots and pre-wedding shoots require special permission and higher fees.