Qutb Shahi Tombs

Qutb Shahi Tombs

Hyderabad, India

Rating: 8/10
Best time to visit: All-Day days
Recommended time to spend: 2 hr
Activities to do:
  • Explore-the-tombs
  • Learn-about-history
  • Take-photos
  • Walk-around-the-gardens
Known for:
architecturehistoryphotography
Description:

The Qutb Shahi Tombs are located in Hyderabad, India. The tombs are situated about a kilometre from Golconda Fort on the eastern side. The tombs form a complex and are located amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The complex contains the tombs of seven Qutub Shahi rulers of the kingdom of Golconda. The tombs are made of grey granite with intricately carved stonework. The domes are capped by a pinnacle which is covered with green and blue tiles. The tombs are surrounded by gardens and fountains. The complex is a popular tourist destination and is a must-see for anyone visiting Hyderabad.

History:

The Qutb Shahi Tombs are the tombs of the seven Qutub Shahi rulers of Golconda. The tombs were built over a period of nearly 200 years, starting with the tomb of Sultan Quli Qutb ul Mulk, the founder of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, in 1543. The last tomb to be built was that of Abul Hasan Tana Shah in 1672. The tombs are a blend of Persian, Pathan and Hindu architectural styles. The tombs are made of grey granite and are adorned with intricate carvings. The domes are capped by a pinnacle which is covered with green and blue tiles. The tombs are surrounded by gardens and fountains. After the conquest of Golconda by Aurangzeb in 1687, the tombs were neglected for nearly two centuries. In the early 19th century, the tombs were restored by the Nizams of Hyderabad. The tombs are now a protected monument and are maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.