Monuments In India

Chowmahalla Palace

Chowmahalla palace is an important palaces constructed by Nizam Hyderabad.  The construction style of this palace was a mixture of different architectural manners like, Italian, European and Islamic. A considerable period was invested for construction of this palace.  Construction was started in 1868 and completed in 1880.  Chowmahalla word carries the meaning of “Four Palaces”.  This palace was dedicated to four princes of Royal family. The geographical coordinates of this palace are 17.3667° N, 78.4667° E.  Originally this building was given the name as “Chahar Mahallat”.  In this designation “Chahar” is a Persian word which carries the meaning of “Four” and “Mahallat” is an Arabic word which means “Mahal” or “Palace”. Actually Mahallat is a plural of Mahal.  This palace is situated in the mid of Hyderabad city and well linked with various highways and link roads.  Easy access from all the parts of city and state is available.

Architecture

It can be easily understand that a building which took 12 years in construction, how much beautiful and full of amenities will be.  Design of this building was prepared by Asif Jah and construction executed by the Persian architects.  Base of the building was designed in zig zag shape to provide interlocking of bricks.  Thin Lakhori bricks were used in the foundation base and the lime, Urd Pulse, Jaggery and mortar were used in joining and plastering of the building.  13” deep foundation was made and the thickness of foundation wall at the base was 9 ft which gradually reduced and on the ground level the wall thickness was maintained as 4.2 ft.  Ground floor of the palace (upto the height of 8 ft) was designed in Islamic architecture style and remaining potion till the roof is built in European style.  Next floor is again designed in European manner while dome of the Palace is designed in Islamic style of construction.  This building is a unique mixture of various styles of construction.   Various corridors and suits of this palace have been designed by Persian architects. Two courtyards have been maintained in this building and made in different style. The covered area of the building is 18000sqmt. Plinth area of the palace is spread in 14 acres.  Courtyard of the southern direction is an example of Neo-Classical design.  The provision of natural lights and artificial lights have been made in entire building using the various architectural styles as at that period, electricity was not available. Large gates and ventilation methods have been made at every place while lounge or suits attached to this courtyard.  Very artistically made building is self explanatory about kingly life style of residents of this palace.  The conference hall which was named as Durbar Hall was designed so beautifully with deep and carved domes and Chandelier stands. In this hall there was a provision made to sit highly recognized personalities during meetings with Nizam. Suits and a large corridor were also created in this courtyard including an Imam Bara is there also an example of classic construction.

Carving on roof and walls is amazing.  The portion of Durbar Hall, which is constructed under European style, is example of classic construction of that period. Except this hall, Khilwat Mubarak, Clock Tower, Roshan Bungla and Council Hall are the segments of this palace which were constructed in amazing style.

How to Reach

Chowmahalla palace is located at such a convenient location that can be accessed through all the modern means of transportation available.

By Air

Hyderabad International Airport is the nearest airport which is maximum 7 kilometers far located from this palace. From Airport, frequent means of road transports are available.  Taxies, Auto Rickshaws, and City Buses are always available.

By Rail

Hyderabad city is a large railway junction and connects the railway transportation from various parts of the country.  Major trains of Broad Gauge are connected to this station and from railway station; there are plenty of options to avail the transport to reach this palace.

By Road

Road connectivity is very good within and outside the city.  National Highway and state highways are well spread in the area and provide better network of road to reach this palace from every direction.

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