Punjagutta literally means a palm impression on a hillock. A visitor offers his prayers to what is believed to be an imprint of the palm of Hazrat Ali on top of the hillock.
Nestled on a hilltop between precariously balancing rocks and a tamarind tree this shrine is said to be almost as old as the city itself. While the ashoorkhana was built during the Qutb Shahi rule, the mosque was a recent addition. From the top one can see a few weather crafted rocks that fortuitously survived the rampant modernization in the bustling centre.
It is quite awe-inspiring to imagine how the palm-impression was formed. The palm impression also has another impression at a distance of 2 feet to suggest that of a knee. A little away from the palm and knee impression is yet another impression to suggest that of the hoof of a horse.
While it was astonishing to discover something of historic value amidst this mini corporate jungle – what was more surprising was the fact that there until I reached the foot of the place not a soul knew about the Punjagutta Pahad. The encroachments do not make the experience pleasurable and it is equally disconcerting to know that neither this gem nor the rocks have been listed under the archaeological monuments.
If the rocks around would talk, I wonder if anyone would take heed.
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Hyderabad 
History is so fascinating and I like how there are still some folks out there who rever the past like they should. We are today, where we came from.
That palm does look a little large compared to today’s man. If that is true, and it could very well be, Ali must have been a man of stature. Physically I meant.
I included the man’s palm just for a comparison. I was actually puzzled as to how the impression was formed – I mean it must be miracle for any of us to leave an impression on these rocks!
Legend has it that a general from the ruling Qutb Shahi dynasty had a dream that Hazrat Ali offered prayers on a hill. When he came here he found the impression of the palm and knee. I heard a similar tale about the Moulali Dargah too – now I am not sure which is true or if both are true?
This is an amazing find. how did you get to know about this. I think there are so many other things lost just like this in Hyderabad…
A friend told me about this place! I am sure there are many places like this in the city!
Wow. Never know why it was called so. Thanks much!!!
*knew
It is very nice to see all the places in your blog, it is much informative,
if you can please also mention the map and location where exactly these pictures are taken i would be thankful to you, I am Hyderabadi and want to explore Hyderabad