The Kingdom of Diamonds Tour
Description
The Kingdom of Diamonds tour goes beyond the conventional understanding of the Golkonda Fort (which is not a fort at all) and the Qutb Shahi tombs (which transcend our ideas of a necropolis). We explore the two destinations together - one a city of the living, and the other a city of the dead, each adding meaning and completeness to the other in the rich and prosperous world of the Qutb Shahi rulers. We place the kingdom in its local and global context to bring about an understanding of how it was a crossroads of trade between the East and the West, and we connect the material remains we see today to specific events and stories that happened in the well-documented past.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Golkonda was the capital city of the Qutb Shahi kingdom, which ruled this area in the 16th and 17th centuries. Explore life in the kingdom that was famed the world over for its diamonds. Walk through the stone bazaars which once buzzed with trade and commerce, being the world's source for diamonds, as well as a crossroads for trade between Arabia, China, Europe and the different parts of India. Find out how the strong fortifications helped make this city a center of trade. Stand in the 'killbox' and experience what it would have been like to attack the fort - which has never been taken in a military action! Climb up to the top and stand in the Diamond Keep - the cool and breezy house called home by arguably the richest kings of their time.
The Qutb Shahi tombs are one of the best-preserved necropolises in the world and give us a peek into the lives and deaths of the Qutb Shahi rulers. Explore the lives of the kings and their families, and find out the price of becoming a king in the 16th century. Marvel at the story of a woman who was more powerful than all the kings of Golkonda. The complex also has the most complete and best-preserved example of a Persian-style hamam (a public bath) from that era in India. Learn about the architecture of the tombs, and their economic and political role in strengthening the power of the kings. And finally, as you wander through these monuments to the power and might of the kings, figure out if they were mere men, or did they ascend to the position of something bigger!
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
If you opt for a pickup, we will pick you up at your hotel or the airport or any other location you are at. We will coordinate the pickup with you directly.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(3)
Navin is so passionate and knowledgeable about Hyderbad’s history and culture, which really shines through the tours. Learning about Golconda’s architecture and history made me appreciate the ruins amongst which I was walking and really brought the past to life. 10/10 recommend! Thank you so much
It was so much fun sharing Hyderabad with you! Hope to have you back on one of our experiences soon :)
Hyderabad walking tour with Navin is a must thing to do when in Hyderabad ! With this immense knowledge in the subject and of the by lanes of the city we as a family of 4 which included by term kids were mesmerised with the tour We visited Golconda fort , char minar , choodi bazzar , tombs and understood the history and could appreciate the architectural marvels with help of Navin ! Both my kids were al praises for his walks , the way he conducted them and also his patience ! He exactly knew when to halt , stop , give a breather , not to forgot the umpteen places he took pics with us so that we go back with best memories ! The biscuit chai breaks were lovely ! He also guided us to good eateries which is a must for any vacation ! Hyderabad ka taste mazedaar ban gaya with Navin’s interesting walks ! A must do for any one who comes to Hyderabad !
Thank you for all the kind words, Shonali! I enjoyed sharing my city with you and look forward to hosting you again :)
My husband and I did a private tour of the Golconda fort and Qutb Shahi tombs. It was an interesting experience and we enjoyed learning about the Qutb Shahi dynasty. Navin is a knowledgeable and engaging tour guide.
Thank you Alka! I enjoyed sharing my city with the both of you and I hope to see you back on our other tours as well :)
