Just as the history of India involves many different cultures, Hyderabad’s architecture shows a blend of styles. Purani Haveli is a perfect example of this. Built as a palace in the 1500s, the horseshoe-shaped complex was refurbished in the 1700s and elements of European architecture were added. Today, Purani Haveli features a palace, a museum and a school. Visit to see displays of classic cars, exquisite antiques and the world’s longest wardrobe.
Browse clothing owned by the Nizam family, who first occupied Purani Haveli during the 1700s. The lavish ruling family built a wardrobe now famous for its tremendous size. It’s length is 73 metres (240 feet) and it’s height is equivalent to two stories. The hall it sits in is equally impressive at a length of 305 metres (1,000 feet). Once you’ve explored the wardrobe, check out the hand-cranked wooden elevator, which is India’s oldest wooden and manually operated lift.
Mosaic floors line the building so be sure to cast your eyes to the ground occasionally as you walk around. Make your way to the Indian-style courtyard. The contrast between this area and the European-style exterior is dramatic.
Explore the extravagant artefacts and Nizam family heirlooms in the museum. Items made from silver and gold abound, including models of Hyderabad’s iconic buildings. Find a 1930s Rolls Royce among the vintage automobiles. It’s one of the most valuable objects in the palace.
Purani Haveli is open every day except Friday. Opening hours are from morning until late afternoon. Pay a small fee to enter, plus an extra fee if you’d like to take photographs once inside.
The palace lies south of the Musi River. The Purani Haveli and Mir Alam Mandi bus stops lie near the entrance. Arrive by train to the station that’s a 10-minute walk to the east. While here, visit the nearby Salar Jung Museum, a national museum with an extensive collection of art.
