An important edifice near the famous monument, Charminar is Mecca Masjid. It is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Hyderabad. It took nearly 80 years to see the completion of this mosque. Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah was responsible for most of the construction.

The mosque is one among the heritage attractions in Hyderabad. The other three are Laad Bazaar, Charminar, and Chowmahalla Palace. The place can hold up to 10,000 people at a time and this majestic frontage of the building is a breathtaking sight to behold. The interior of this enormous structure is a testament to the regal quality of the Quli Dynasty’s rulers. Now, those who follow Islam are only allowed to visit the mosque.

Major Attractions

• Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the fifth Qutub Shahi Sultan of Hyderabad was responsible for the beautiful construction of Mecca Masjid.
• More than 8,000 had strived for 77 years to complete the massive structure of Mecca Masjid and Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah himself had laid down the first stone.
• Under Aurangzeb, the Mughal emperor, this edifice saw numerous renovation and repairs and was completely constructed.
• The massive architecture complementing the design, the enthralling pond, and the beautiful water fountain has a history of their own.
• It is commonly believed that those who sit by the benches near the pond will revisit it at least once in the same life.
• The crystal chandeliers are of Belgium and they decorate the roof of the Mecca Masjid.
• The arched balconies, octagonal columns, the pathway to the tombs of Asaf Jahi Dynasty, and the ancient relic of Prophet Mohammad are major attractions here.

Activities to do

Best Time to Visit

Summers in Hyderabad are hot and humid. They start from May and go till July. Between August and September, rainfall is at a moderate level and heavy downpour are possible too. From November to February, Winter makes it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. And so, to cover all activities to the maximum extent, Hyderabad should be visited from October to March. Winters usually stay below 25 degrees Celsius and can get below 12 degrees Celsius too.

Ways to Reach

 By Air -  Rajiv Gandhi International Airport is 22 km away from the main city and from there it is close to 5 km from all the routes available to reach Mecca Masjid near Charminar.

 By Road - Jubilee Bus station in Secunderabad connects most of the South Indian cities with Hyderabad. MGBS in Hyderabad is one of the largest Bus Stations in the World. NH 44 connects Hyderabad with major cities of South India.

 By Rail - Kachiguda, Hyderabad, and Secunderabad Railway stations connect the place with South India and North India.