QUTUB SHAHI TOMBS

Qutb Shahi Tomb is one of the most iconic Islamic sites that hold the prominence of being the oldest monuments in Hyderabad. With a magnificent blend of Indian and Persian architectural styles, these tombs are revered as one of the most important historical sites in India. These tombs were laid as a solemn reminder of the glory and grandeur of Golconda and great kings who were buried over here.

They are also said to form a golden triangle with Golconda Fort and Taramati Baradari. They stand at the center of Ibrahim Bagh that consists of planted pathways and ponds. There are around thirty tombs in the enclosure besides some beautiful open-air tombs that vary in size. The largest of all of these tombs is the Mohammed Quli Qutub Shahi tomb.

Qutb Shahi Tombs is a group of beautiful mosques that were built during the rule of Qutb Shahi Dynasty. These tombs are built on a raised platform and have a splendid dome-shaped structure. The best thing is that all the domes over here are unique, with fine details and intricate design. The beauty of this place is so appealing that people often forget that they’re in a royal graveyard once they’re over here.

A small temple and two mosques are also located on the premises of these tombs, where people come to pray and seek the blessings of God. These tombs are surrounded by landscaped gardens where people often come for a picnic. Every dome, arch, and gallery of these tombs speak of its architectural excellence.

How To Reach

The distance between Qutb Shahi Tombs from Hyderabad Airport is 28 km and would not take more than 40 minutes to cover. This distance can be covered by hiring a cab from outside the airport. There are auto-rickshaws available right outside, too, but they are prone to charge you twice the actual amount.

Apart from that, the most popular mode of commutation is through online cabs, which will directly drop you at your destination.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Qutb Shahi Tombs is in winter, from November to February. During summers the temperatures gradually increases over here and it ranges between 21-40 degrees Celcius. You should avoid visiting this tomb during summer as the temperature is extremely humid and hot during this season.

The humidity during summer rises up to 93% which makes the weather very hot and sweltering.

Other Essential Information

-Location: Qutub Shahi Tombs, Hyderabad, Telangana 500008

-Timings: 9:30 AM-6:30 PM

- Price: Rs 5.0 per person for children/ Rs 10.0 per person for adults

History of Qutb Shahi Tombs

Qutb Shahi Tombs was constructed by Sultan Qali Qutb Mulk in 1542 AD. It honors the Qutb Shahi family dynasty, flaunting their grandeur through its medieval architecture. These tombs withheld utmost veneration during the Qutb Shahi reign but were forgotten until the reign of Sir Salar Jung III, who restored the veneration at the beginning of the 19th century. 

The first one to be glorified through thus tombs was the Sultan Wali Qutb Mulk, after which his son, Jamsheed’s tomb was constructed. Interestingly, Jamesheed Shah Qutb’s tomb is the only tomb at Qutb Shahi, which has no inscriptions over it. 

Then was constructed Sultan Quli Qutb Shah’s tomb in 1580 AD, and is known to be slightly larger than Qali Qutb Mulk’s tomb. The last tomb constructed here belongs to Abul Hasan Qutb Shah, which he began building for himself. Besides, Sultan Quli Qutb Shah’s tomb lies the tomb of his daughter Fadma Khanum, which is the only tomb without a dome.

The Architecture of Qutb Shahi Tombs

The tombs of the Qutb Shah Dynasty have been built with black asphalt, latticed architecture, and Urdu inscriptions of the various queens and kings buried there. The Indo-Islamic architectural style of the tombs composes of the royal relics and symbols that the family represented

The tomb at the entrance, that of Sultan Qali Qutb Mulk has the most astonishing architecture to marvel at. It is a two storey structure surmounted with a dome and intricate architectural patterns. There are dainty arches built on each storey complimenting the structure.

The tombs are a fusion of Pathan, Persian and Indian styles, surmounted by magnificent domes and decorated with high minarets in corners. The balustrades in balconies are carved with pineapple designs, while the entrance is grand and artistic. 

The gateway into the insides is adorned with paintings from the 16th century, thus conserving culture and artwork of that time. The high ceiling is ornate and sculpted with lotus flowers, petals, and other detailed patterns. At the entrance, there is a museum capturing the biography of Qutb Shahi Dynasty, their antics, and artifacts, thus preserving long lost traditions.

Places to Eat near Qutb Shahi Tombs

There are various places to eat near Qutb Shahi Tombs with a repertoire of exotic delicacies and multiple cuisines awaiting your arrival:

1. Green Bawarchi restaurant

For those who do not get tired of trying the mild and spicy mix of Hyderabadi biryani, Green Bawarchi Restaurant serves chicken and mutton biryani with raita that steals people’s hearts!

-Location: 302 Kamalapuri Colony, Near Chowrasta, Kalyan Nagar, Hyderabad 500038, India

-Distance from Qutb Shahi Tombs: 1.3 km

2. Anupama Restaurant

The interiors of this restaurant are truly splendid and spectacular. Anupama restaurant serves veg and nonveg dishes alike, coupled with some exotic sweet dishes of Hyderabad.

-Location: Colony Road, Indira Nagar, Hyderabad 500036, India

-Distance from Qutb Shahi Tombs: 1.6 km

3. New Himalaya Fast Food Center

New Himalaya Fast Food Center is a street-side place selling Chinese dishes like Manchurian and chowmein. They also have Maggi on their menu.

-Location: Sriram Nagar, Opposite SD Point Hotel, Yousufguda, Hyderabad, India

-Distance from Qutb Shahi Tombs: 1.7 km

4. Cuppa Bistro

Cuppa Bistro is known for its coffee and side snacks. Apart from that, they also serve full-fledged meals for those craving Hyderabadi cuisines.

-Location: 136 Road No 4, Hyderabad 500033, India

-Distance from Qutb Shahi Tombs: 1.7 km

Tips to follow at Qutb Shahi Tombs

When visiting or upon your visit to the Qutb Shahi Tombs, there are certain things that you should keep in mind to respect the culture and not inadvertently offend those around you:

1. The tombs are inscribed with dainty patterns and at times, precious stones. Do not try to write anything on the walls, or pluck the stones out.

2. There is no restaurant or café within the periphery of the tombs, and it would take you at least 90 minutes to observe the surroundings and relate to history. Thus, carry light snacks with you or have a heavy meal before visiting the tomb.

3. Do not litter the surroundings, as this is a site of cultural prominence. Since there are no dustbins in the vicinity, carry a bag in which you can collect your wrappers.

4. There are no guides available to give you a tour of the historical culture of the place, so do read up about the tombs online or in books.

5. There is a museum situated at the entrance for those interested in diving deep into the culture of the Qutb Shah Dynasty.