Chowmahalla Palace

Chowmahalla Palace was known as The Palace of Nizams of Hyderabad.

The construction of this palace started in 1790 by Nizam Salabat Jung. It is believed that this palace is a replica of Shah of Iran's palace in Tehran. The architecture of this palace is a synthesis of Rajasthani, European, Persian and Indo-Sarcenic (Indo-Gothic or Mughal-Gothic) styles. 

Interesting facts

1) In Persian-Arabic, Chowmahalla Palace means "four palaces"

2) This palace was the official residence of the nizams in Hyderabad while they ruled their state.

3) Originally the palace covered 45 acres but only 14 remained today.

4) The Khilwat Clock has been ticking away for the past 250 years.

Khilwat Clock

The Khilwat Mubarak is the heart of Chowmahalla Palace. The Nizams held their durbar (court of Indian ruler) and other symbolic and religious ceremonies here. The chandeliers are of Belgian crystal. 

This palace is an interesting museum piece. The ground are huge to walk around. Unfortunately, many parts are left abandoned. I am happy that they are still trying to upkeep this place for historical purposes and for tourists to visit and learn more about Hyderabad.