Taj Falaknuma Palace

The name of Taj Falaknuma Palace means Mirror of Sky, which is fittingly symbolic for its purpose as the royal residence of a distinguished dynasty. Construction of the palace began in 1884, commissioned by Hyderabad's Prime Minister, Nawab Sir Viqar-ul-Umra, and designed by British architect William Ward Marret. Taking inspiration from royal residences from around the world, Falaknuma Palace was built to reflect the splendor of Italian marble palazzos, the opulence of French and British banquet halls, and the heritage of India's Mughal emperors. Nizam Sir Mir Mahboob Ali Khan Siddiqi visited his uncle, Nawab Viqar, and immediately fell in love with the palace's grandeur. Thus, the Prime Minister was encouraged to offer his palace to his nephew, who gladly purchased it from him.

As soon as he moved in, the Nizam welcomed important guests and personages to his palace, including King George V and Queen Mary of the British Empire. However, the palace became neglected after the abolition of royal titles. Its revival was started by Princess Esra Birgen, wife of Nizam Mir Barkat Ali Khan Siddiqi Mukarram Jah and mother of Nizam Azmet Jah. She led the restorations back in 2000, which were finished in 2010. Following that, she leased their royal residence to the Taj Hotels Group, who now operate it as the Taj Falaknuma Palace.

Falaknuma Palace was designed by the English architect William Ward Marrett, who made use of familiar architectural conventions found all over Europe. For the structure and façade, he made use of Italian marble and combined native Mughal architecture with Neo-Classical and Victorian styles, which were popular during that era. Embellishments include stained-glass windows, carved balustrades, and ornate staircases. The palace also features ceilings covered in intricate frescoes and gilded reliefs, creating a Romanesque ambiance.

Interior spaces are represented by a sense of the grandiose, such as the flamboyant Durbar Hall, the royal library with a carved walnut roof modeled after Windsor Castle, and a ballroom featuring a restored and functional pipe organ. Treasures from the royal family's collection also form part of the decor, including the furniture, works of art, manuscripts, and souvenirs from the dynasty's travels. The 101 Dining Room's grand table is unique in the world, featuring a length of 108 feet (33 meters) and a capacity of 101 diners.

In contrast, the palace's guest rooms and suites take a more moderate approach. Instead of overwhelming opulence, they are equipped for comfort and coziness, eschewing ostentatious antiques for less audacious paintings. Included with the renovations of the palace were the addition of accessibility features. Designated accommodations have been equipped with wheelchair-friendly bathrooms, as well as visual aid signs for the vision-impaired.

Celeste

A fanciful yet lavish Italian cafe featuring flavors from around the world. Featuring architecture and decor reminiscent of the Renaissance, diners will be enchanted not just by the exquisite dishes, but also by the ambiance.

Dress code: Smart casual
Opening hours: 12:30 pm - 2:45 pm (Lunch); 7 pm to 10:45 pm (Dinner)

Adaa

Discover the native cuisine that the Nizams of Hyderabad feasted on for generations. Faithfully recreated by master chefs from age-old recipes, Adaa offers delicious, historical dishes prepared in the royal kitchens and served to your table.

Dress code: Smart casual
Opening hours: 12:30 pm - 2:45 pm (Lunch); 7 pm to 10:45 pm (Dinner)

Gol Bungalow

A grand pavilion terrace where the Nizams admired their domain, the Gol Bungalow provides a unique and memorable dining experience. Royal family recipes are brought back to life, preserving their heritage while giving them modern touches with the use of new utensils, culinary techniques, and seasonings.

Dress code: Smart casual
Opening hours: 7 pm to 10:45 pm

Hookah Bar

A refined evening retreat with an impeccable ambiance, the Hookah Bar offers cozy spaces and corners where you can unwind and socialize while indulging in your favorite drinks. The billiards table, in particular, is a premier antique crafted by the famous Burroughes & Watts. Apart from the selection of local and international labels, the bar also has signature mixes that are worth trying.

Dress code: Smart casual
Opening hours: 7 pm to 10:30 pm

As a grand royal residence, Taj Falaknuma Palace is a magnificent choice for celebrating your wedding day. From carefully maintained gardens to dazzling banquet halls, you'll easily find a suitable venue for the wonderful ceremony and reception you've always dreamt of. The Taj brand's exclusive services will ensure that your wedding will be the finest ever, made possible by their special packages and trusted partners.

Ballroom - Durbar Hall

An opulent royal audience hall designed and decorated in the style of French chateaux. Dance and celebrate on solid parquet floors, while illuminated by the bright crystal chandeliers.
Capacity: 150 guests

Coronation Hall

Built in 1906 to commemorate King Edward VII's accession to the British throne, this stunning expansion to the palace features decor that embodies Hyderabad's heritage, from carved sandalwood and rosewood doors to art depicting religious events from various cultures.
Capacity: 60 guests

101 Dining Hall

Named for its unique and impressive dining table, which accommodates 101 diners. While the hall is small for ceremonies, its massive table is perfect for serving a large reception.
Capacity: 90 guests

Jade Room & Jade Terrace

An important venue where the Nizam conducted many of his affairs. Aesthetics such as Belgian chandeliers and intricate woodwork adorn this location, creating a refined and luxurious atmosphere.
Capacity: 60 guests

Main Lawn

The choice venue for monumental celebrations and ceremonies, the Main Lawn features 3,716 sqm (39,999 sqft) of space. Make the most of this location with the special packages for meal menus and entertainment that are on offer.
Capacity: 1200 guests

Pool Lawns

A highly customizable outdoor space, where you can scale up or scale down your celebrations. The Taj's dedicated event managers will be happy to assist in planning and preparing, as well as arranging for decor and entertainment.
Capacity: 500 guests

Rajasthani Gardens

A set of stately gardens adorned with Rajput architecture, including jharokha balconies overlooking Hyderabad. Liven up the celebrations by arranging for live performances and musical accompaniment.
Capacity: 150 guests

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Hyderabad is an amazing city, filled with heritage structures that are centuries old, as well as cultures and traditions dating back even further. Since you'll be visiting this wonderful land of the Nizams, be sure to take advantage of the experiences Taj Falaknuma Palace offers.

Catch live performances of local modern artists, as well as those by traditional musicians, singers, and dancers. If you're a foodie who loves to bring home new recipes, the hotel also arranges cooking classes led by chefs from the royal kitchen. If you'd love to know more about Falaknuma Palace, a heritage walk can be prepared, where you can explore the halls and hear the many stories about the Nizam and the royal family. The hotel also hosts art events such as galleries and exhibits of Hyderabad's creative minds.

For days you'd rather relax, be sure to book a session at the J Wellness Circle, the signature spa of the hotel. Here, you can treat yourself to treatments and massages, make use of amenities like hot tubs and steam baths, or even join yoga and meditation sessions.

The palace also joins in for seasonal celebrations, often hosting special events in line with yearly festivities, including Holi, Diwali, and Christmas.

For exploring Hyderabad, the concierge can assist in arranging visits to museums and other major landmarks. Two must-see places are conveniently nearby: Chowmahalla Palace, Charminar. Chowmalla Palace served as the administrative palace of the Asaf Jahi Dynasty, where the Nizam met with his ministers and delegates, and managed the city. Charminar, which is also close to Chowmalla, is a special monument built by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in 1591. Should you prefer a fun and educational destination for families, drop by the Nehru Zoological Park instead. The historic zoo is home to a vast variety of native and foreign wildlife, including Asiatic lions, Indian rhinos, and Bengal tigers.

Other Celebrations

Aside from weddings, Taj Falaknuma Palace will also be happy to arrange corporate functions, company retreats, and private parties. Outdoor venues such as the Main Lawn, Pool Lawn, and Rajasthani Gardens are best suited for conferences and activities that involve hundreds of guests. In contrast to that are seminar or boardroom gatherings, which are better served in Ballroom - Durbar Hall or Coronation Hall.

As for couples looking for a romantic evening, the palace can prepare private dinners at bespoke, intimate venues such as the Gol Bungalow, the Jade Terrace, or the Rajasthani Gardens.