Charminar

Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, in 1591, commissioned the construction of Hyderabad's most iconic landmark and symbol, the Charminar. This grand edifice was erected to commemorate the founding of Hyderabad and to mark the end of epidemics caused by water shortages in Golconda. Rising to an impressive height of 56 meters, the Charminar boasts a colossal four-column structure, each adorned with minarets, giving it its name, which means 'four minarets'. Positioned at the heart of Hyderabad's bustling main bazaar area, the Charminar has become an integral part of the city's identity. Visitors have the opportunity to ascend to the first floor of the Charminar, from where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding district. However, the second floor, which houses Hyderabad's oldest mosque, and the upper columns are not accessible to the public

Mecca Masjid

The Mecca Masjid, one of the world's largest mosques with the capacity to accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers simultaneously, commenced its construction during the reign of Sultan Quli Qutub Shah in 1614. It was later completed by Aurangzeb in 1693. Situated on the southwest side of Charminar, this majestic mosque was constructed using locally sourced granite, spanning an impressive 225 feet in length, 180 feet in width, and reaching a height of 75 feet. The Mecca Masjid derives its name from Mecca's Grand Mosque, serving as a magnificent architectural model. The bricks employed in its construction are said to have been transported directly from Mecca, infusing it with a sense of sanctity and connection to the holy city. It is believed that a revered relic associated with the Prophet is preserved within this mosque.

MOULA ALI DARGAH

Located on the outskirts of Hyderabad, this Sufi shrine, known as a dargah, sits atop a rugged hill. It is believed that this dargah houses an impression of Ali, the son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad. According to local folklore, one of Sultan Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah's courtiers, Yakoob, had a dream of Ali's palm impression and subsequently discovered a similar imprint on one of the rocks in the vicinity. Soon thereafter, a shrine was constructed around this sacred rock. To reach the dargah, visitors must ascend approximately 500 steps, culminating in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the picturesque countryside.

JAGANNATH TEMPLE

Nestled near Banjara Hills, this temple serves as a faithful replica of the original Jagannath Temple located in Puri, Odisha. Despite being a relatively recent addition, having been constructed in 2009, it has swiftly earned recognition as an architectural marvel in Hyderabad. Covering an expanse of 3000 square yards, the temple's construction utilized red sandstone, lending it a distinctive and vibrant appearance. Its most prominent feature is the towering shikharam, soaring to a height of 70 feet and dominating the temple's central architecture. The temple's walls are adorned with meticulously crafted carvings, the handiwork of over 60 skilled sculptors. The temple is at its zenith of festive exuberance during the Jagannath Yatra, a vibrant celebration that draws thousands of devotees who partake in the rituals associated with the sacred chariot procession. Within the temple complex, one can also find dedicated shrines to various deities, including Shiva, Ganesha, Hanuman, and the navagrahas, adding to the spiritual ambiance of this revered place.