5 Things not to miss around Charminar, when visiting Hyderabad.

Charminar is the monument that literally represents Hyderabad. When one goes to the city, the first place that comes in mind to visit would probably be the Charminar. This article focuses on the attractions surrounding Charminar, read top 8 places to see in Hyderabad for an overall perspective. The structure has a lot of significant importance which most of us might not know. The structure was built in 1591 AD by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shahi to celebrate the end of a deadly plague that took the city. There are 149 narrow winding steps to reach the upper floor. The stairs is narrow such that only one person can climb at a time. They are 4 such stairs at the 4 legs of the structure, only two are open – one for entry and the other for exit. The monument has four minarets, which are not accessible to the public. Apart from the Charminar there are other attractions within very close proximity. They are -

1. Chowmahalla Palace

Chowmahalla Palace was the official residence for the Nizams when they ruled Hyderabad. It is located within walking distance to Charminar. After India got independence, Nizam's empire started to fall apart. India abolished the Nizam's title - along with those of all the other princes - made them subject to new taxes and land acts, forcing them to sell most of their property. Originally the Chowmahalla estate covered 54 acres but now its merely 12 acres – lands, building, ballrooms were encroached by developers to build buildings. Chowmahalla was one of the finest royal residences in India. Now its an attraction for people to know about its rich heritage, and wealth they had. The palace also showcases a lot of vintage vehicles that were used by the Nizams.

2. Makkah Masjid

Makkah Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in Hyderabad. It is located very close to Charminar, in fact it can be seen from the upper deck of the monument. Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, commissioned bricks to be made from the soil brought from Mecca, the holiest site of Islam. The bricks were used in the construction of the central arch of the mosque. This is how the mosque gets it name. Legends also states that the construction of the mosque kept on falling and was revealed that, if a rock brought from mecca is used the structure will survive.

3. Silver vark workshops

 

Silver vark is a very thin sheet of paper made from silver, which is made by continuously hammering a piece of silver until it turns into its form. The sheet is mainly used as a coating in Indian sweets. The production process is done manually and it takes hours to get its final shape. There are lots of such workshops cum stores that can be easily found near Charminar. All you have to do is keep your ears open for the hammering sound. The production process is not to be missed.

4. Shopping alleys

Photograph by Srinivasa Prasath

There are many small shops spread across the whole area. All your Hyderabadi shopping can be done here. Everything from spices to souvenirs can be bought at this place. It clearly symbolizes the old city and gives such a feel when walking pass those alleys. 
 

5. Dine at the famous Hotel Shadab

Hotel Shadab is located exactly 1km from Charmiar and its best to reach the destination on foot, strolling through all the shops along the main road, between Charminar and Hotel Shadab. The restaurant is popular for its Hyderabadi haleem, a dish that is widely available during the holy month of Ramadan. The restaurant is known also for its other Hyderabadi delicacies. Read to know about the must try foods to have in Hyderabad.