Charminar: The Go-To Tourist Destination of Hyderabad (2024)
Hyderabad and Charminar are almost synonymous. If you go on a Hyderabad vacation and don’t go to visit Charminar, it is really a shame. It is undeniably one of the most prominent tourist places in Hyderabad. It is rightly given the name ‘Arc de Triomphe of the East’ and ‘Mosque of the four minarets’. With the huge amount of attention that Charminar gets from travellers from all over the world, it has surely become one iconic monument for the whole country. Literally, Charminar is an Urdu word which means four turrets (char – four, minar – turret). Those of you who don’t know about this unique monument of Hyderabad, have arrived at just the right place because in this article, we will provide you with all the necessary information that you need to know if you are planning to visit Hyderabad.
As you can guess by the name itself, Charminar has four exquisitely carved pillars, one on each side. Standing calmly amidst the hustle bustle of Laad Bazaar of the Old city of Hyderabad, this impressive structure is a representation of the historical background of the city. Now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the monument was constructed by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah of the Shah Dynasty in the year 1591.
Since its establishment, Charminar has been captivating the hearts of thousands of visitors with its architectural beauty and religious as well as historical significance. Want to know more about it? If yes, then continue reading!
History of Charminar
Built in the year 1591 by Sultan Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, Charminar is a square shaped structure with four pillars and intricate carvings. It is believed that this monument was built by the Sultan in the honour of his wife, Bhagmati. However, still the actual reason behind the construction of the monument is not clear and there are many rumours around its existence. There is another common belief, according to which Charminar was built to acknowledge the elimination of the plague which had captured the entire city during that era. The belief says that the Sultan has prayed for the end of this plague due to which his people were suffering and hence, when the plague ended, he built Charminar as a tribute to Allah. Some beliefs also say that the four pillars of Charminar are dedicated to the first four caliphs of Islam. Another belief says that the monument was built in the memory of Prophet Muhammed’s son who lost his life at the battle of Karbala because Charminar is designed in the shape of Shiya Tazias. Some people also believe that it was at the location of Charminar that the Sultan saw his wife Bhagmati for the first time. The construction of Charminar began in 1589 and was completed in two years. The cost was around Rs. 9 lakhs that estimated to around 2 lakh huns or gold coins in that era. 
Places To Visit Near Charminar
When you have to explore an entirely new city, it is quite obvious that you can’t reserve a whole day for just one tourist attraction. With Charminar, you won’t have to face any such problem because many popular tourist places in Hyderabad lie in close proximity to this historical monument. Some of them are:
- Mecca Masjid: Also known as Makkah Masjid, the structure of the mosque is beautiful and resembles the architectural style of Qutub Shah Dynasty. Since it is located quite close to Charminar, those interested can easily combine their visit to Charminar with this ancient mosque.
Image Source - Laad Bazaar: Also known as Choodi Bazaar, this is one historical and grand market. This market is not just ideal for shopaholics but also for photographers because of its peculiar scenic views. Dedicated especially for glass and lacquer bangles, this grand market dates back to the time of Nizams and Qutub Shahis.
Image Source
Some other prominent tourist places in Hyderabad that you can visit from Charminar include Chow Mohalla Palace, Kali Kaman, Shahali Banda and Patthar Gatti.
Entry Fee for Charminar
If you are an Indian citizen, then the entry fee for you is actually pretty minimal and affordable by almost everyone. Indian tourists have to pay a meagre entry cost of Rs. 5 per person for visiting Charminar, while tourists belonging to other countries have to pay Rs. 100 per person as their entry fee.
Opening Hours of Charminar
This historical monument is open for visitors from 9.30 AM till 5.30 PM. You would also be pleased to know that since it is open on all days of the week, you don’t have to reserve any special day for visiting Charminar.
Best Time To Visit Charminar
Although this magnanimous historical monument is open throughout the year, you can actually visit it any time but still the best time to visit Charminar is believed to lie in the months from October to March as during this time the weather is pleasant enough for sightseeing. Also, if possible, try to visit Charminar during evening time, if you wish to see it in its full glory. The lightning of the structure as well as the sparkle of Laad Bazaar which is located closely is just a purely mesmerising site to see. 
How to Reach Charminar?
As you know Charminar is considered as the landmark monument of Hyderabad and hence almost every tourist that comes to the city goes to visit Charminar at least once during their stay. Reaching Charminar is extremely easy even for the first-time visitors. You can easily reach Charminar via an auto rickshaw or by a taxi. If you are comfortable to travel by buses, then there are several TSRTC buses that operate from major bus stands and railways stations of the city taking you to Charminar. The approximate distance between Charminar and Hyderabad bus stand is just 5 km. 
Now that you know all about Charminar, make sure to include it in your Hyderabad vacation itinerary. You will surely love the architectural marvel and the several prominent tourist places in Hyderabad lying closely will take care of your entertainment too.
