Located about 10 kilometers from Charminar, the well-known Paigah Tombs are popular tourist sites in Hyderabad. The tombs are unique in their design and architecture. The latticework, arched alcoves, and exquisite designs are fine examples of extraordinary architecture.
History of Paigah Tombs
The History of Paigah Tombs dates back to the 18th century. During the reign of the second Nizam between 1760 and 1803, Abdul Fateh Khan Tegh Jung, who was rendering services to the Nizam, founded the Paigah nobility. With the marriage of Fakhr-ud-din Khan with the daughter of the second Nizam, the relation between the Nizams and the Paigah nobility strengthened. With the passage of time, the Paigah nobility was considered second to the Nizams of Hyderabad.
After the death of Tegh Jung in 1786, he was buried at the entrance of what today stands as the Paigah Tombs complex.
Architecture of Paigah Tombs
The tombs are laid over almost 40 acres of land. The mausoleums showcase extraordinary artwork, especially the intricate inlaid mosaic work. The architectural features of the tombs are extraordinary and unique to the Paigah Tombs.
The mausoleums are enclosed in designed marble facades. The Paigah Tombs are undoubtedly the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture, including characteristics of the Asaf Jah and Rajputani styles.
Some outstanding tombs are the tomb of Amir-e-Kabir, Sir Asman Jah, and Begum Khurshid Jah.
Paigah Tombs Timings:- 10 am to 5 pm, daily
Paigah Tombs Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach Paigah Tombs
By flight, the nearest airport to Paigah Tombs is Rajiv Gandhi Airport, 21 km away. Unfortunately, there are no buses that ply the area near the tombs. Thus, you must take a private taxi or cab directly to Paigah Tombs.
Best Time to Visit Paigah Tombs
November to February is the best time to visit Paigah Tombs due to the pleasant weather. However, if you wish to visit during summer, keep drinking water as it is extremely hot. Every Friday, the tomb remains closed during the afternoon as the locals visit the mosque near the tomb to offer prayers.
Interesting Facts about Paigah Tombs
- Paigah Family were the most known members of Nizam’s Armed forces.
- Asman Jah and Begum Khurshid Jah attract the maximum number of visitors among all the tombs.
- The tombs were once decorated with precious and semi-precious stones, which changed their color with the seasons.
- This is the resting place for all the members of the Paigah family and has more than 100 tombs.
- The walls of Paigah Tombs are designed by drawing vases, serpents, drums, and fruits, which were said to be royal in the Paigah family.
- These tombs are spread over 35-40 acres, although the tombs of the Paigahs who married the daughters of the Nizams are confined to an area of 2 acres.
- Another fact is that the members of the Paigah family liked luxury and palaces. Thus, they constructed the Falaknuma Palace, the most luxurious hotel in Hyderabad till date.
Things to Remember While Visiting Paigah Tombs
Paigah Tombs have a historical significance, and thus, you should keep these tips in mind:
- Entry to the tombs is free.
- There is limited parking space near the tombs.
- Paigah Tombs is closed on Fridays.
- Exploring all the tombs will require 1-2 hours.
- If you visit Paigah Tombs in the afternoon, wear socks, as the authorities do not allow footwear on the elevated platform of the tombs.
- Paigah Tombs are difficult to find as they are situated in the interiors of Santosh Nagar. Therefore, it is advisable to ask the locals.
