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| Qutub Shahi Tombs |
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History
The tombs of the seven Qutub Shahi rulers in Hyderabad are a tourist attraction of some repute and importance. Situated in the Ibrahim Bagh, Qutub Shahi Tombs lie in close proximity to the popular Golkonda Fort in Hyderabad.
The smaller tombs have single storey galleries, while the larger ones have two stories. The centre of each tomb has a sarcophagus, overlooking the original burial vault in a crypt below. Originally the domes were covered with blue and green tiles, although only a few pieces now remain.
The tombs stand on an elevated platform, with a square base surrounded by arches, the architecture is a perfect blend of Pashtun, Hindu and Persian styles and are surrounded by landscaped gardens and have carved stonework.
During ancient times, the tombs were furnished with carpets and chandeliers, with copies of the Quran placed on pedestals. The readers read the holy book at regular intervals, and the tombs of the sultan were fitted with Golden spires to distinguish them from others in the royal family.
The tombs were constructed by the Kings during their lifetime, as was the want of customs and though one of the largest tombs is that of Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah, the most expensive one is perhaps that of Hyderabad’s founder, Muhammed Quli Qutub Shah. The tomb of Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah with a height of 43 mts, is characterised by a mammoth dome, and was constructed in the year 1602.
Other tombs are those of Husain Shah Wali, a Sufi Saint also known as the builder of the Hussain Sagar, a Mortuary Bath where the washing of the bodies of the dead kings was undertaken, and the mosque of Hayat Bakshi Begum.
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Best time to visit
The best time to visit Qutub Shahi Tombs is between the months of October and February.
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Trivia
Despite the combined assault of time, weather and man these tombs have still retained their original glory.
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Timing
The tombs are open to the public from Saturday to Thursday from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm and are closed on Friday.
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Travel Tools
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