Hyderabad: Six heritage buildings from different parts of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad have received recognition at the INTACH Heritage Awards for the year 2026.

Taking pride of place amongst the awardees is the Navigation Training School located in Begumpet. The award is in appreciation of the significant contribution the school has made to military aviation training since its establishment in 1946, but was later relocated to Air Force Station Begumpet.

Navigation Training School, Begumpet.

Another awardee in the list is the Osmania University Chemistry Building, which dates back to 1917 when it came into existence during the regime of Mir Osman Ali Khan. Now, the building boasts of being one of the oldest departments of the university.

Osmania University’s Chemistry Building

Under the category of religious structures, the Sri Puri Jagannath Temple, located in General Bazar, has been included in the list. Built in 1986 by the renowned philanthropist Ramgopal Malani, the building showcases Rajasthani architecture.

The CSI Wesley Church near Secunderabad’s clock tower was honored for its neo-Gothic design and over a century-old legacy. Built in 1916, the church stands as a reminder of the city’s colonial-era architectural influence.

CSI Wesley Church in Secunderabad

The Institute of Engineers (India) Telangana State Centre in Khairatabad also featured in the list. Established in 1938, the institution has played a key role in promoting engineering education, with its building constructed on land donated by Dewan Bahadur Aravamuddu Iyengar.

The Institute of Engineers (India) Telangana State Centre in Khairatabad

Completing the list is the College of Defence Management House, a structure dating back to 1885. Currently serving as the Commandant’s residence, it was recognized for its Deccan-style architecture and association with defense training.

College of Defence Management House

The awards reflect the diverse heritage fabric of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, showcasing structures that span over a century of history and continue to remain integral to the cities’ identity.

CSI Wesley Church

CSI Wesley Church, located in Perth, Australia, is a historic Methodist church built in the late 19th century. It was designed by architect J. H. Grainger and completed in 1870, serving as a prominent place of worship for the Wesleyan Methodist community. The church, known for its Gothic Revival architecture, now operates as a heritage-listed site and continues to host religious services and community events.

Navigation Training School

The Navigation Training School, often associated with maritime or aviation history, is an institution dedicated to teaching the principles and practices of navigation, including celestial and electronic methods. Historically, such schools emerged during periods of global exploration or military expansion, such as the 19th-century age of sail or World War II, to meet the demand for skilled navigators. These schools have since evolved, but remain crucial for training professionals in safe and accurate route planning across seas and skies.

Osmania University Chemistry Building

The Osmania University Chemistry Building, located in Hyderabad, India, is a historic structure known for its distinctive Osmanian architecture, blending Indo-Saracenic and Gothic styles. Completed in the early 20th century as part of the university’s original campus established in 1918 under the rule of the Nizam of Hyderabad, it has served as a key center for chemical education and research for over a century. The building stands as a testament to the region’s rich educational heritage and architectural legacy.

Sri Puri Jagannath Temple

The Sri Puri Jagannath Temple, located in Puri, Odisha, India, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu. Built in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, it is famous for its annual Rath Yatra (chariot festival), where the deities are paraded on massive chariots. The temple is a major pilgrimage site and a key example of Kalinga architecture.

Institute of Engineers (India) Telangana State Centre

The Institute of Engineers (India) Telangana State Centre is a prominent professional body located in Hyderabad, dedicated to advancing engineering and technology in the region. Established as a state-level center of the national Institution of Engineers (India), which was founded in 1920, it serves as a hub for engineers to exchange knowledge and foster innovation. The center plays a key role in organizing seminars, workshops, and continuing education programs, contributing to the professional development of engineers in Telangana.

College of Defence Management House

The College of Defence Management House is a historic building located in Secunderabad, India, originally constructed in the 19th century as a residence for British military officers. It later became part of the College of Defence Management, an institution established in 1970 to train senior Indian Armed Forces officers in management and strategic leadership. Today, the site stands as a blend of colonial architecture and modern military education, reflecting India’s evolving defense heritage.