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Museums #30 in Hyderabad

The Nizam's Museum

4.2 · 4,824 reviews
Quiet, historical, and reflective of a bygone era of immense opulence.
The Nizam's Museum, Purani Haveli Rd, Purani Haveli, Darulshifa, Hyderabad, Telangana 500024, India
Interesting facts
1

The museum houses the world's longest wardrobe, a two-level teakwood structure spanning 170 feet in length.

2

The collection includes gold-plated wooden thrones used during the 1937 silver jubilee celebrations.

3

Among the exhibits is a gold-model replica of the Jubilee Hall, the site where the Nizam was weighed against gold coins.

4

The museum displays a massive, hand-painted panoramic painting of the Nizam's state procession.

5

Several artifacts, such as the silver perfume containers and jewel-encrusted cutlery, highlight the extreme wealth of the 20th-century Hyderabad court.

Overview

The Nizam's Museum is housed within the Purani Haveli, the former official residence of the Nizams of Hyderabad. The collection primarily centers on the gifts, mementos, and personal artifacts presented to the last Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, during his silver jubilee celebrations. It features an extensive display of royal wardrobes, including a 170-foot-long walk-in wardrobe, which is considered one of the largest in the world. Visitors can view a collection of vintage cars, including a 1930 Rolls Royce, a Packard, and a Jaguar Mark V. The museum showcases diverse items ranging from silver and gold tiffin boxes to diamond-studded daggers and gold-plated models of the Nizam’s palaces. It documents the transition of Hyderabad from a princely state to a modern city through the personal history of its rulers. The building itself reflects the architectural evolution of the Asaf Jahi dynasty, blending European and Indian influences. It provides a unique look at the opulence of the world's richest man during the early 20th century.

Photo spot

The exterior facade of the Purani Haveli provides the best scale for photography, while the ornate central courtyard is a highlight for structural shots.

Insider tips

Prioritize seeing the wardrobe early, as it is the most popular exhibit and can become crowded.

Check the museum's official website before visiting to confirm it is not closed for private events or maintenance.

Carry a bottle of water, as the expansive nature of the Purani Haveli complex requires significant walking.

What to avoid

Avoid visiting during the peak heat of summer afternoons, as the interiors of the historic palace buildings can become quite warm.

Good to know

Closed on Fridays.

Etiquette

Maintain a respectful tone and refrain from touching artifacts; photography policies vary by exhibit, so look for signage.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Winter months are preferred for the most comfortable walking experience through the unconditioned historic buildings.
Address
The Nizam's Museum, Purani Haveli Rd, Purani Haveli, Darulshifa, Hyderabad, Telangana 500024, India
17.366, 78.483
Get directions
Details
Key exhibits170-foot walk-in wardrobe, 1930 Rolls Royce, gold-plated miniature palace models.

Frequently asked

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

The best time to visit is Winter months are preferred for the most comfortable walking experience through the unconditioned historic buildings..

The exterior facade of the Purani Haveli provides the best scale for photography, while the ornate central courtyard is a highlight for structural shots.

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