Indo Islamic Heritage
Asman Garh Palace, located in the Malakpet area of Hyderabad, holds historical significance as a residence of the Paigahs of Hyderabad State. The name "Asman Garh" translates to "Sky Home," which reflects its elevated position atop a hillock, offering expansive views of the surrounding area. This palace has been recognized as a heritage structure by INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), underscoring its cultural and architectural value. The Paigahs were an influential aristocratic family in Hyderabad, and their palaces, like Asman Garh, reflect the opulence and grandeur of the period.
Asman Garh Palace, perched atop a hillock with commanding views of the surrounding forest, was originally designed by Sir Asman Jah, the Prime Minister of the Hyderabad State, in 1885. A member of the prestigious Paigah family, Sir Asman Jah sought to build a home "close to the sky," fulfilling his vision of a palace situated in an elevated, serene location. The palace, resembling a miniature European medieval castle, is built in the Gothic architectural style and features granite turrets, arched windows, and a multi-level terraced roof. The design draws inspiration from European castles, though it is compact and modest by comparison. The entrance is approached by symmetrical staircases leading up to a verandah supported by slender Corinthian columns, with painted arches that adorn the structure, both in the verandah and the window openings. The most striking architectural feature of the palace is its castellated battlements, which form the parapet on the roof. These features, along with its lofty location on a high plinth, give it a commanding presence. It is also believed that a tunnel exists in the basement of the building, possibly linking the palace to the Golkonda Fort, which adds an element of mystery to its history. The palace became a favored destination for the Nizam, who was so fascinated by it that he became a regular visitor. Eventually, Sir Asman Jah gifted the palace to the Nizam. Later, during a period of disuse, the palace was leased to the Birla family, who established their Archaeological Museum within its walls. After several decades, the Birla Museum moved out, and the property was acquired by St. Joseph's Education Society in 2000. The Society later added a new four-storied building in front of the villa. In addition to its unique architectural style, the palace also features a distinctive arched gateway, added by the 7th Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, in the shape of the Royal Dastar (a turban-like headgear), a symbol of the Hyderabad court and the state. Despite its modest size, Asman Garh Palace stands as an important example of Gothic architecture and a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Paigah family and the Nizam's era.
Year of Built: 19th Century
Address: Asmangarh, Bank Colony, New Malakpet, Hyderabad, Telangana
Country: India
State: Telangana
District: Hyderabad
Pincode: 500036
Longitude: 78.51566
Latitude: 17.36809