Charminar, an Islamic architecture monument on the banks of the Musi River, is a monument and mosque built in the 15th century by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah of the Qutb Shahi dynasty at Hyderabad in the Telangana state of India. It is one of the most recognized structures in India. The Hindi word ‘Char Minar’ means ‘Four Towers’ in English.
Charminar is believed to have been built to commemorate the eradication of the plague, which spread massively during that period in Hyderabad. Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah prayed at the place where Char Minar stands now. He earlier shifted his capital from Golconda to Hyderabad.
The Charminar is a square structure with each side measuring 20 meters in length, with four grand arches, each facing a fundamental point that opens into four streets. The southwestern Minaret was struck by lightning and was damaged fully. The damaged portion was rebuilt.
The mosque is at the western end of the roof. Four clocks were added on the four sides in the late 18th century.
Charminar and surrounding roads are famous for jewelry stores selling Hyderabad pearl-decorated ladies’ bangles, earrings, chains, etc. Traditional foods are also available here. There used to be around 15000 shops at Charminar, in its heydays.
How Do I Go to Charminar?
Charminar is located in the heart of Hyderabad city. Roads connect the city to the rest of India.
Hyderabad railway station is a major station in India, and Secunderabad railway station is the twin station of Hyderabad.
Hyderabad International Airport is on the outskirts of the city.
Tourist Places in and around Hyderabad
- Chowmahalla Palace
- Salar Jung Museum
- Birla Mandir
- Hussain Sagar Lake (known as the ‘Heart of the World’)
- Ramoji Film City
- Golconda Fort (11 kilometers from the city)
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