Purani Haveli, Hyderabad

Purani Haveli, located in Hyderabad, India, is a historic palace complex that once served as the official residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad. The mansion was built for Sikandar Jah, Asaf Jah III (1803–1829) by his father Ali Khan Bahadur, Asaf Jah II. The architecture of the haveli is a mixture of Indo-European and Persian styles. It has intricately carved wooden ceilings, ornate stucco work and other architectural elements that reflect the grandeur and opulence of the Nizam's era. Today a part of the old haveli has been converted into the Nizam Museum. The museum displays the personal belongings, artefacts, jewellery, clothes and other properties of the Nizams of Hyderabad. It gives visitors a glimpse of the lavish lifestyle and rich cultural heritage of the Nizams.

The Old Havelis epitomize European architecture beautifully synthesized with Islamic motifs and forms, including the delightful Mirror House or Aaina Khana and the Chinese House or Chinese Khana. The mansion is in a "U" shape, with two rectangular wings running parallel to each other and the residential palace located perpendicular to the centre. The main building resembles 18th century European palaces. A unique feature of this palace is the world's longest wardrobe, built in two levels with a hand-operated wooden lift. It occupies the entire length of a rectangular wing of the palace.

• Most of the haveli (palace) has been converted into a school and some part is used as the Nizam's museum.
• This is one of the oldest constructions among the museums of Hyderabad, people also use this place for playing.
• There are many toys and building models and forts made entirely of gold.
• Entry into the premises is allowed only when one is visiting the museum, for which entry fee is separate.
• It is a must visit place for history buffs and architecture lovers, though it does not have the grandeur of Chowmohalla and Falaknuma, it is still worth a visit.

📅 Last update: 2024-03-08 || ✍ Author: Sandhya Chauhan

Meet Sandhya, exploring India with curiosity and wonder. She shares info and tips in simple language, inviting you to join the journey. She is graduated in tourism and writes about the places of India.