Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad

One of the finest palaces existing in the historically rich city of Hyderabad, Falaknuma Palace is situated in Falaknuma, 5 kilometers from Charminar. It was built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Ulmara, the then Prime Minister of Hyderabad.

An Italian architect planned this palace and its foundation was laid in 1884. The entire process of construction took 9 years. Mainly comprising Italian marble, Falaknuma Palace occupies a total floor area of 9,39,712 square meters. It was purchased by Nizam VI in 1897 and functioned as a royal guest house.

Falaknuma Palace contains a vast collection of rare treasures compiled by the Nizam comprising paintings, statues, furniture, manuscripts and books. The Jade collection of the Falaknuma Palace is opined to be unique.

The state reception room possesses an eye catching ceiling, tastefully adorned by frescoes and gilded relief.

The ballroom contains a two-ton manually operated organ, possibly the only one of its kind in the world. Besides, there are 220 richly decorated rooms and 22 vast halls.

The famed table in the dining hall of Falaknuma Palace accommodates 100 guests at one go. The carved rosewood chairs have green leather upholstery. The tableware is made of gold and crystal.

The balustrade of the marble stairway to the upper floor has carved balustrades flaunting marble figures interspersed with candelabra. The landing walls showcase quality oil paintings of the Asaf Jahi family and notable dignitaries forming a historical picture gallery. This enhances the majesty of the staircase.

Falaknuma Palace is a distinguished landmark in Hyderabad.

Last Updated on 9/28/2011