It is more disappointed. Chowmahalla palace is 100 times better than purani haveli. They say that world's largest wardrobe is here but there is only wardrobe no clothes in it and the building is not good. Renovation required
It's the palace of the erstwhile ruler of Hyderabad the Nizams.. it's a beautiful building which houses a school and a museum... I'm a pupil of this school and i had the best time of my life here. The museum is a must watch as it has a lot of things used by the 7th Nizam of Hyderabad and also the world's biggest wardrobe.
Originally the Masarrat Mahal, it is now a primary school + museum. The museum displays the jewels during the Nizams' time. It's open till 5pm. One of the lesser known and visited palaces in the Old City. Definitely visit for the architecture - has some unique influences!
Purani Haveli, also known as Masarrat Mahal Palace, is a hidden gem nestled in Hyderabad, Telangana. Originally the official residence of the Nizam, this grand Haveli, also called Haveli Kadeem, meaning 'old mansion,' holds a significant slice of Hyderabad’s history. Constructed for Sikander Jah, Asaf Jah III, by his father Asaf Jah II, the architecture tells the tale of 18th-century European influence. It was initially acquired by the second Nizam, Mir Nizam Ali Khan, in 1717, from Rukunudhaulah of the Momin dynasty. The palace complex has unique features, including the Ayina Khana (Mirror House) and Chini Khana (Chinese Glass House). The U-shaped Haveli has two parallel oblong wings, with a residential palace that sits perpendicularly at the center, creating a timeless design reminiscent of European palaces. The most extraordinary element is the world’s longest wardrobe, spanning an entire wing, built on two levels and equipped with a hand-cranked wooden elevator—a fascinating feature that reflects the opulence of the era. Notably, the sixth and seventh Nizams were born here and spent a part of their lives within its walls. Today, the Haveli houses the South Zone Deputy Commissioner of Police and Task Force offices. Although much of the palace has been converted into a school with restricted access, visitors can still explore the museum area for a nominal ticket fee, with an additional charge for photography. Inside, four chambers are open to the public, mostly displaying gifts once presented to the Nizam. The fourth room, which holds the Nizam's wardrobe, is a marvel to behold. The entire visit can comfortably be completed in 30 to 45 minutes, offering a captivating peek into the life and legacy of Hyderabad’s royalty. A visit to Purani Haveli is a must for history lovers, as it weaves together Hyderabad’s regal past with a touch of architectural grandeur.
A hidden gem in Purani Haveli area - if time permits a must visit besides Salar Jung Museum. Post some robbery few years back, this museum doesn't have on display Nizam's famous jewelery. One needs around 1 hour to visit this place depending on one's love for art and artefacts and request for a guide who can quickly explain you various items on display. BE CAREFUL OF ONE ITEM - There is a picture of H E H Nizam VII with the then PM of India Mr Lal Bahadur Sastri with a caption claiming the Nizam gave 5,000 kgs of gold to National Defense Fund in 1965 post war. There are media reports clarifying that the Nizam only subscribed to 425 of gold bonds and did not give 5,000 kgs of gold.