Purani Haveli, Hyderabad

Purani Haveli is one of the important palace complexes linked with the Asaf Jahi rulers, offering visitors a closer look at the domestic and ceremonial world of the Nizams. Its name means “old mansion,” a reminder of its long history and its role as an earlier royal residence. The palace is especially associated with the sixth Nizam, Mahbub Ali Khan, and later became known for housing the Nizam’s Museum, which preserves objects connected with court life, administration, travel, and personal luxury.

The complex has a broad layout with long courtyards, arched corridors, wooden balconies, and European-influenced palace details mixed with local building traditions. A major highlight is Mahbub Ali Khan’s vast wooden wardrobe, built along an entire wing and fitted with a rare hand-cranked elevator. Mahbub Ali Khan was known for his vast wardrobe and for giving away garments after wearing them.

Inside the museum, visitors can see ceremonial gifts, photographs, silver objects, caskets, textiles, weapons, and decorative items connected with the Nizams. Notable exhibits include vintage vehicles, royal objects, a jeweled gold tiffin box, a silver map of India, and a gold Charminar model. Parts of the complex now also support education through the Mukarram Jah Technical Institute.