Introduction

Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. Located near the crossing of Mathura Road and Lodhi Road in New Delhi, this magnificent garden tomb was built in 1565, nine years after the death of Humayun, the second Mughal Emperor, by his widow Bega Begam. Inside the walled enclosure are garden squares with walkways, water channels and a mausoleum with a double dome in the centre. As you explore, you will stumble on many ornate graves of Mughal kings.

Humayun’s Tomb is often considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal owing to the stylistic similarity of its structures, although the former is built of red sandstone instead of white marble, and erected by a bereaved wife for her husband, not the other way round. Climb up the steep stone staircase to the second level, on the south side of which is the entrance to the main crypt where Humayun is buried. Explore ‘Arab Ki Sarai’, a walled enclosure south of the main pathway, built by Humayun’s widow for 300 Arab merchants she is said to have brought from her pilgrimage to Mecca. You will see Afsarwala Tomb and Masjid, built by a nobleman in Emperor Akbar’s court. Continue westwards into a gateway to the Garden of Bu Halima, and appreciate its two very ornamental chhattris (umbrella like structures), though not much remains of the garden today.

Stroll to the southwest end of Bu Halima’s garden to the octagonal tomb of Isa Khan, a nobleman in the court of Humayun’s enemy, King Sher Shah Suri. Interestingly, in this garden tomb build in 1547-48, are found some of the basic architectural elements which later were perfected to excellence in Humayun’s Tomb. Before strolling out, do visit the South Gate, the original royal entrance from where you can enjoy a wide-angled view of the mausoleum. Among the array of royal tombs sits a barber’s tomb in the southeast corner made of red and grey sandstone, also built in the same style as the Emperor’s. It is believed that he was Humayun’s favorite barber.

You are very close, at a walking distance of the Nizamuddin railway station which is a central terminal with many direct trains to the south and other parts up north. India Gate and the Connaught Place market are in the neighborhood, a brief auto-rickshaw ride away. Plan your day in such a way that you are left with some time to shop and eat after local sightseeing.

Special Attributes

Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India. This complex is almost a prototype for the most famous Mughal structure, the Taj Mahal.

Nuisance

Beggars, touts, pick pockets and hawkers

Dressing restrictions

Dress appropriately, avoid wearing short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

Interstate bus, train, metro-rail, taxi or auto-rickshaw

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers, especially history and architecture lovers

Exposure

Exploring the monument involves a lot of walking; on the pathway, up and down the steep staircase and around the tombs. You will sometimes be in the sun and sometimes in shade, so carry along your sunshades, sunblock cream, and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

June, July, August

Facilities

Humayun's Tomb is a great place for a long walk. If you visit early in the day, you will come across people taking yoga lessons.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Try visiting the historical site early in the day when the sun is not high up in the sky. You will enjoy your walk and sightseeing better that way.

Type of site

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun's Tomb is the mausoleum of the second Mughal Emperor.