aventuro Back to map A
Museums

Purani Haveli

4.4 · 637 reviews
Quiet and historical with a somber, regal stillness.
Purani Haveli, Horticultural Department and Museum, H.E.H., Nizam Colony, Redhills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500024, India
Interesting facts
1

The 240-foot-long walk-in wardrobe is recognized as one of the longest in the world.

2

The palace was originally built by the second Nizam, Mir Nizam Ali Khan, for his son.

3

It contains a collection of gold-plated models of the Nizam's state buildings.

4

The museum exhibits a 1930 Rolls Royce, a Packard, and a Jaguar used by the royal family.

5

The residence previously served as the headquarters for the Nizam's administration before he moved to King Kothi.

Overview

Purani Haveli, also known as Masarrat Mahal, served as the primary residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad before the construction of Chowmahalla Palace. The complex is distinguished by its U-shaped architectural layout and the Nizam’s Museum, which houses the personal collection of the last Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan. The museum features the world's longest wardrobe, a 240-foot-long teakwood cupboard spanning an entire wall. Displays include extensive collections of silver, gold, and crystal artifacts alongside vintage cars and royal palanquins. The palace architecture reflects a blend of European neoclassicism and traditional Deccani influence. Visitors can view various gifts presented to the seventh Nizam during his Silver Jubilee celebrations. The site remains a tangible record of the opulent lifestyle maintained by the Asaf Jahi dynasty.

Photo spot

The exterior courtyard architecture offers the most symmetrical angles of the palace's European-style facade.

Insider tips

Focus your time on the wardrobe gallery as it is the highlight of the museum.

Visit on a weekday to avoid the heavier foot traffic of weekend tourists.

Carry a water bottle as the large complex requires significant walking.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to photograph the displays if signage strictly prohibits it, as museum staff enforce these rules closely.

Good to know

Closed every Friday.

Etiquette

Dress modestly as a sign of respect for a historical site; remove shoes before entering specific display galleries if requested by staff.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Winter months (November to February) to avoid the intense heat of the Telangana summer.
Address
Purani Haveli, Horticultural Department and Museum, H.E.H., Nizam Colony, Redhills, Hyderabad, Telangana 500024, India
17.367, 78.483
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsThe 240-foot teak wardrobe, Silver Jubilee gifts, and vintage royal automobiles.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Winter months (November to February) to avoid the intense heat of the Telangana summer..

The exterior courtyard architecture offers the most symmetrical angles of the palace's European-style facade.

Close by you'll find Salar Jung Museum, Chowmahalla Palace, Makkah Masjid.