The history of this city can be traced through the tombs of its emperors, courtesans, noblemen and saints from the times of the Qutub Shahi and Asaf Jahi dynasties at Golconda Fort. Founded in the 16th century by Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah the city became the capital of the larger state of the Asaf Jahi Nizams who ruled for two centuries till India’s independence. The tombs are reflective of the times of six generations of rulers of the past
The places covered on the tour will include (from) Qutb Shahi Tombs, Paigah Tombs, Mah Laqa Bai's Tomb, Sufi Shrines, and the tombs at the former British Residency.
Located in Ibrahim Bagh the Qutub Shahi Tomb complex is the last resting place of various kings of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. The Paigah Tombs, monuments to the noblemen of the time date back to late 18th century. They are notable for their fine architectural lines which follow the Indo-Saracenic code. Adorned in pristine white marble they feature intricately designed interiors and beautiful jali work.
Two Qutub Shahi-era tombs are to be found at Roshan-ud-dowla village of Balapur belonging to Sufi saints Bhale Shah and Bhole Shah. Architecturally moulded in the Qutub Shah-i style they are in a dilapidated state. The saint's area said to have preferred to be buried in proximity to their spiritual mentor, Hazrat Sharfuddin Soharwardi who lived at Balapur and whose dargah is at Pahadi Shareef. The saint made his appearance in this area in 1190 and was instrumental in propagating Sufism here.
Mah Laqa Bai was Bai Chanda, an 18th-century poet and courtesan at the Nizam’s court. She was rose to be quite powerful and was an influential advisor to Mir Nizam ‘Ali Khan, the Nizam of Hyderabad between 1762 and 1803.
Wander through parts of the city where old, magnificent tombs jostle for space with modern, gleaming structures. On this Detour, you will hear stories of love, intrigue and conspiracy that outlived the famed names on their tombs. You can do this as a half-day or as a full-day tour