Read More on Charminar
History
When Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth king of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, moved his capital from Golconda to Hyderabad, he erected Charminar. According to historians, Quli Qutub Shahi was compelled to relocate his capital due to a lack of water and disease. If his people's suffering came to an end, he promised to create a monument. The Charminar was created to honour the city's decision to eradicate the epidemic. It is called Charminar because it is supported by four minarets on four sides, probably to commemorate Islam's first four caliphs. The old city of Hyderabad was planned around Charminar as its focal point.
Some tales claim that Quli Qutub Shahi saw his loving bride, Baghmati, at this location. Charminar was erected as a sign of his unending love for his wife. There's also a rumour that claims there's a hidden tunnel beneath the Charminar that connects it to the Golkonda Fort. It was built to provide the royal family with a safe haven in the event of an emergency.
Architecture
Charminar is built in the shape of a perfect square, inspired by the Shiya Tazias, with each side measuring 20 metres in length. It has four magnificent arches that open into four streets and face a central point. At each corner, a 56-meter-tall minaret with a double balcony stands. Each minaret features a dome on top and a base with petal-like patterns. To get to the upper floor, you must climb 149 stairs. Granite, mortar, marble, and limestone make up the building. At the western end of the open roof, there is a mosque. The balconies of Charminar provide a bird's eye view of the city. Devout persons could pray in a quiet and serene manner.
Charminar's building is a stunning example of Indo-Islamic architecture influenced by Persian influences. The monument's arches and domes show the influence of Islamic architecture, while its minarets show the influence of Persian architecture. The influence of Hindu architecture may be seen in the balconies and outer walls, which are adorned with beautiful stucco floral ornamentations on the ceiling. The region surrounding the Charminar is likewise known by that name, and it is home to the city's most famous market.
Activities
- Mughal cuisine has left a heritage of delights in Hyderabad. You would enjoy a variety of delectable foods created using traditional methods. Hyderabadi Biryani is one of the city's most well-known dishes.
- Because the monument is located in the heart of the Laad Bazaar, you may want to go souvenir shopping for your friends and family. There are pearls, lacquer bangles, Bidri antiquities, soorma, and many other items in the market that you can pack into your luggage and take home with you.
- The Charminar lies in the centre of the city, and all of the city's famous landmarks are within walking distance. As a result, it is strongly recommended that you visit all of them, including Golconda Fort and Mecca Masjid.
- Hyderabad, the Nizams' capital, is densely packed with historic mosques and temples. You should absolutely pay your respects to the almighty there. If that is not your preference, you must visit them to see their magnificent architecture, such as Sri Ranganatha Swamy Temple, Shri Jagannath Temple, Hyderabad, and others.
Tips for visiting
- Make a point of climbing the stairs in the minarets for a breathtaking perspective of the old city.
- Before you go, make a list of what you want to buy at the local market, which is overflowing with traditional products worth bringing home.
- Taste the local flavour of the city by eating the local street food being served in the market. A must-try is Irani Chai.
- The city of Nizams is bursting at the seams with traditional Mughal recipes. You should take advantage of this opportunity and gorge yourself on all of them. The Hyderabadi Biryani is a must-try!
- Because the area will be clogged with tourists and locals, make sure you park your car in the designated parking space.
Best time to visit
The months of October to March are the city's winter months. The average temperature in the city is 13 degrees Celsius, but it can go as high as 28 degrees Celsius. This enhances the overall experience and makes it unforgettable.
Summer is defined as the period from March through mid-June. During these months, this seaside city experiences high temperatures and oppressive humidity. The average temperature is expected to be 25 degrees Celsius, with maximum temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius.
Nearby Atractions
- Mecca Masjid
- Laad Bazaar
- Malwala Palace
- Chowmahalla Palace
- Madina Market
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Charminar Market: This market is famous for shopping at a very unbelievable price.
- Kasat Market: This market provides you with varieties of bangles at a reasonable price.
- Patel Market: this is a clothing market where you can get the best of fabrics at a very cheap rate.
- Bird Market: With a low fee and a wide range of birds, this is a great spot for bird watchers and collectors.
Nearby Hotels
- New Gandhi Bhavan Hotel
- Hotel Hyderabad Continental
- Sri Supraja Pride
- Dolphin Hotel
- Hotel Bhavani lodge
Interesting Facts About Charminar
- On Google, the monument is the most researched historical site.
- Lindt chocolatier Adelbert Boucher constructed a model of Charminar using 50 kg of chocolate in September 2010.
- The reason for the big Charminar's construction is still a mystery.
- The monument was used as a starting point for planning the city's future development in ancient times.
- It's thought to have a secret tunnel beneath it that was built as an escape route for the royal family during times of crisis.
- The Sultan is supposed to have built the monument on the same spot where he first spotted his future wife.
- The monument holds the city of Hyderabad's oldest mosque.