Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, As the name suggests, this is where the Mughal Emperor Humayun was laid to rest, and it’s a feast for the eyes in every way. The tomb was commissioned by Humayun’s chief consort Empress Bega Begum in 1569-70 and is the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent. It’s a classic example of Mughal architecture with Persian influences, and it’s no wonder it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
The tomb’s architectural genius is something you simply can’t miss. It’s located in the Nizamuddin East area of Delhi, and the ornate Mughal Garden that surrounds it is breathtaking. During the winter months, the beauty of this mausoleum is only enhanced, and you’ll find yourself transported to another era altogether. The tomb is made from red sandstone and white marble, with intricate jaalis, door frames, and chhajjas that are typical of Indian-Islamic architecture.
The Char Bagh is another highlight of the site. It’s a Persian-style garden with a geometric layout and divided into 4 square walkways, giving it the name, Char Bagh. The four squares are further subdivided into smaller pathways, creating 36 squares. The central water system flows beneath the ground, feeding the mini fountains without appearing at the surface. The garden is enclosed within rubble walls on three sides, while the fourth opening serves as an inlet to the River Yamuna (although the river no longer flows here). It’s a spectacular sight to cheer, and you’ll feel like royalty as you stroll through these beautiful gardens.
If that’s not enough to keep you entertained, there are plenty of other monuments to explore too! For example, there’s the tomb and mosque of Isa Khan, who was an Afghan noble in Sher Shah Suri’s court. He actually fought against the Mughals, but his tomb is still a spectacular sight to see. Then there’s Bu Halima’s tomb and garden, which is believed to be a later addition to the site. Afsarwala tomb and mosque, Arab Sarai, Nila Gumbad, Chillah Nizamuddin Aulia, and Humayun’s Barber’s tomb are all worth a visit too!
One of the most interesting things about Humayun’s Tomb is its history. After the emperor’s death in 1556, his body was initially buried in Delhi’s Purana Qila. But his chief consort was so distraught that she vowed to create the most resplendent mausoleum in the empire. The construction began in 1565 and completed in 1572 AD, costing a whopping 1.5 million rupees at the time. During India’s partition, Humayun’s Tomb served as an asylum for Muslims migrating to Pakistan, but unfortunately, it was subjected to vandalism during this time. Thankfully, the Archaeological Survey of India restored the site to its former glory, so you can still enjoy its splendor today!
So what are you waiting for? If you’re looking for a historical site that’s both beautiful and fascinating, head to Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi!