Humayun's Tomb: A Mughal Masterpiece
Experience the splendor of Mughal architecture at Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site and precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Humayun's Tomb, located in Delhi, is a breathtaking testament to Mughal architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Constructed in the 1560s, the tomb was commissioned by Humayun's son, Emperor Akbar, and designed by Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas. It stands as the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, setting a precedent for future Mughal architectural endeavors, including the Taj Mahal. The tomb is built in the center of a square garden, divided into four main parterres by causeways (charbagh), with water channels running through the center. The high, rubble-built enclosure is entered through two lofty, double-storeyed gateways on the west and south. A baradari (pavilion) occupies the center of the eastern wall, and a hammam (bath chamber) is in the center of the northern wall. The mausoleum is made of red sandstone with white and black inlaid marble borders. The central octagonal chamber contains the cenotaph, encompassed by octagonal chambers at the diagonals and arched lobbies on the sides. Humayun's Tomb is also known as the 'dormitory of the Mughals' because it houses the graves of over 150 Mughal family members. The complex includes other contemporary 16th-century Mughal garden-tombs, such as Nila Gumbad, Isa Khan, Bu Halima, Afsarwala, and Barber's Tomb. The tomb is located near the shrine of the 14th-century Sufi Saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, making the area a dense ensemble of medieval Islamic buildings in India.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the harsh midday sun.
- Book tickets online to avoid queues, especially on weekends and during peak season.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the complex.
- Carry an umbrella, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions like Nizamuddin Dargah and Purana Qila.
A brief summary to Humayun’s Tomb
- Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, New Delhi, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, Delhi, 110013, IN
- +911124355275
- Visit website
Getting There
-
Public Transport
The nearest metro station to Humayun's Tomb is JLN Stadium on the Violet Line. From the station, you can take an auto-rickshaw or walk to the tomb, which is approximately 2 kilometers away. Auto-rickshaw fares typically range from ₹30 to ₹50. Alternatively, you can take the Yellow Line to Jor Bagh Metro Station and take an auto-rickshaw to the monument. Metro fares range from ₹10 to ₹60 depending on the distance.
-
Bus
Several Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses operate routes that pass near Humayun's Tomb. You can take bus number 447 or 966B, which stop at Delhi Public School, a short walk from the tomb. Bus fares range from ₹5 to ₹25. You can also use the One Delhi Card for payment on both buses and the Metro.
-
Taxi/Ride-share
App-based taxis like Ola and Uber are readily available in Delhi. You can hire a taxi from anywhere in the city to reach Humayun's Tomb. A short taxi ride from Nizamuddin Railway Station to Humayun's Tomb typically costs around ₹100 to ₹200. Parking is available at Humayun's Tomb. Parking charges for cars are ₹50 for 4 hours, with an additional ₹20 per hour thereafter.
