Chowmahalla Palace

The official residence of the Nizams, Hyderabad's rulers. The complex consists of four palaces connected by a shared area, vividly showing the luxury in which the dynasty lived: enormous halls with crystal chandeliers, marble columns, Persian carpets, weapons collections, furniture, and porcelain.

The main hall, with dozens of chandeliers and soaring arches, is still used for official ceremonies and looks like a perfectly preserved piece of another era.

Outside, the palace is literally surrounded by an endless bazaar: shops sell Hyderabad pearls, spices, sweets, and fabrics. You feel the immediate transition from royal quiet to the noisy life of the old city.

The residence of the Nizams