The city of Hyderabad shares a great association with the dynasties which had ruled the region. In particular, the Nizams of Hyderabad, have left a lasting legacy in the region, as they were in control of Hyderabad State till 1948. Some of their treasures and exclusive collections, are housed in heritage buildings and museums.

One such attraction of Hyderabad is the Nizam's Museum or H.E.H Nizam's Museum, a museum located in Purani Haveli, a grand palace of the erstwhile Nizams,in Hyderabad. The second Nizam took possession of this site in the year 1750, which has now become a popular tourist attraction of Hyderabad city in the form of a museum. Itdepicts a pictorial history of theAsaf Jahi dynasty, which had ruled the erstwhile Hyderabad state for more than two centuries.

The museum showcases the gifts received by the last Nizam of Hyderabad state, Mir Osman Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VII on his silver jubilee celebrations in the year 1936, where his achievements were highlighted.This museum is a repository of important souvenirs, gifts and mementos which were presented by dignitaries. It includes several silver models of many landmark buildings in Hyderabad, and citations in Urduabout H.E.H. Mir Osman Ali Khan.The seventh nizam passed away in the year 1967. The opening of the new museum in the year 2000 in the month of February coincided with his 33rd death anniversary.

Some of the Highlights of the Museum

This museum features the wardrobe of the sixth nizam, a 150-year-old manually operated lift, and 200-year-old proclamation drums. There are other great attractions too, for the visitors, like:

• A golden throne used to mark the silver jubilee celebrations of the last Nizam
• A gold tiffin box inlaid with diamonds
• Miniature replica of the Jubilee Hall
• Glass inlay painting of Mir Osman Ali Khan.
• A wooden writing box studded with pearls
• Diamond and gold-studded daggers,
• Caskets, and silver ittardans (perfume containers) gifted by the ruler of palvancha.
• Diamond studded Silver coffee cups
• Silver filigree elephant with mahout
• A 1930 Rolls Royce, Packard and a Jaguar Mark V are among the rare vintage cars which are on display here.

When to visit

Visitors can plan a trip to the Nizam's Museum on all days of the week, except Fridays and public holidays. The entry timing is from 10.00 A.M. to 5.00 P.M.

How to Reach

The museum is located close to Charminar, which is 2 km away. It is well-accessible by road transport.

Other Attractions Close by

• Charminar
• Laad Bazaar
• Mecca Masjid
• Chowmohalla Palace
• Salarjung Museum