Charminar is an iconic monument that towers above Hyderabad’s central intersection. It was built to commemorate the end of the plague in the city four centuries ago. The monument is one of Hyderabad’s best-known and most-visited attractions.
Based around a mosque that rests in one corner, the structure features the minarets and domes typical of Islamic architecture. Practicing Muslims can attend prayer at the mosque on Fridays. Non-Muslims can explore the building and then browse the markets throughout the area, which overflow with food, jewellery and bargaining shoppers.
Charminar’s name means Four Towers, due to the four 29-metre (95-foot) minarets that shoot up from the monument’s four corners. Study the magnificent features of this granite, limestone and marble monument. Four grand arches, balconies and domes are spread across the square structure, which fills a roundabout at the centre of the city. Markets stand on one side of the building, while a pond lies on the other. Come at night to photograph the monument’s minarets and domes illuminated in vivid yellow, green and blue light.
Climb up 149 steps to reach the top of Charminar’s four floors. From here, look out over the city. You can access the mosque from the roof. Muslims can come on Friday, when there are 45 extra spaces at the weekly prayer.
Look for handicrafts, traditional food and other souvenirs at the Laad Bazaar and Pather Gatti markets at the bottom of Charminar. Jewellery is common as are kites, especially around the time of the January Sakranti festival, which celebrates the start of spring. Buy traditional Indian fare at a food stall. Haleem, a heavy lentil stew, and biryani, a spicy rice dish, are traditional Hyderabad dishes.
Head south of the Musi River to reach Charminar. Bus lines serve the monument directly. If you are arriving by train, get off at the Yakutpura Railway stop and walk 1.6 kilometres (1 mile) west. The area around Charminar also features the incredible Chowmahalla Palace, a 10-minute walk away.
