4.6 / 5

Humayun Tomb

📍 Humayun's Tomb, DelhiView map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:October to March

⏰ Open Hours:6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Open all days

🎒 Things To Do:Photography, Heritage Walk, Architecture Study

💰 Budget:INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for Foreigners

🧳 Traveller Types:History Enthusiasts, Architecture Lovers, Photo Fanatics

🔖 Known For:UNESCO World Heritage Site, First Garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, An excellent example of Persian architecture

📍 Distances:4 km from Nizamuddin Railway Station, 16 km from Delhi Airport, 8 km from Connaught Place

♿ Accessibility:Wheelchair accessible

📌 Tips:Wear comfortable shoes as the area is vast and requires considerable walking. Avoid visiting during the hot summer months.

📸 Best Photo Spots:Char Bagh garden, Tomb entrance, Top view from the South side

🍽 Nearby Eateries:Khan Market and Nizamuddin for local cuisines

Have questions about Humayun Tomb?Ask the Tripoto Community ›
Humayun’s Tomb: A Masterpiece of Mughal Architecture in Delhi

Are you looking for a place to visit in Delhi that combines history, culture, and beauty? If yes, then you should definitely check out Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning monuments in the city. Humayun’s Tomb is the first garden tomb in India and the first structure to use red sandstone on a large scale. It was built in the 16th century by Haji Begum, the widow of the second Mughal emperor Humayun, as a tribute to his memory and legacy. The tomb is a marvel of Mughal architecture, with its octagonal shape, double domes, arched facades, lattice work, pietra dura floors, and attics.

In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Humayun’s Tomb, such as its history, architecture, significance, timings, entry fee, location, how to reach, nearby attractions, etc.

We will also give you some tips and tricks to make your visit more enjoyable and memorable. So read on and discover why Humayun’s Tomb is a must-visit monument in Delhi.

Humayun’s Tomb History and Significance

Humayun’s Tomb has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 16th century. It was built by Haji Begum, also known as Bega Begum or Malika-e-Jahan (Queen of the World), who was the chief consort of Humayun and the mother of Akbar. She was a Persian princess who married Humayun in 1530 and accompanied him in his exile to Iran after he lost his throne to Sher Shah Suri. She was also instrumental in restoring Humayun’s power in India with the help of the Persian king Tahmasp I.

She was a devoted wife who loved Humayun deeply and mourned his death for two years. She decided to build a magnificent tomb for him as a symbol of her love and respect. She commissioned the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas to design and construct the tomb in 1565. The construction took 14 years to complete and cost 1.5 million rupees at that time.

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The significance of Humayun’s Tomb lies in its architectural innovation and influence. It is the first garden tomb in India, which inspired many other tombs and monuments in the country, such as Taj Mahal, Safdarjung’s Tomb, etc. It is also the first structure in India to use red sandstone on a large scale, which gives it a distinctive appearance and character. The tomb is influenced by Persian, Turkish, and Indian styles of architecture and art.

It has elements such as double domes, arches, pietra dura, lattice work, etc., that reflect the fusion of these cultures. The tomb is also considered as a milestone in the development of Mughal architecture, as it marks the transition from the Timurid style of Humayun’s father Babur to the Indo-Islamic style of his son Akbar.

Humayun’s Tomb Architecture and Design

Humayun’s Tomb is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, with its octagonal shape, double domes, arched facades, lattice work, pietra dura floors, and attics. The tomb is built on a raised platform that measures 120 meters by 120 meters. The platform has four arched entrances on each side that lead to the main chamber where Humayun’s cenotaph is placed. The cenotaph is made of white marble and has inscriptions from the Quran on it. The main chamber also has several smaller chambers that contain the graves of other members of the royal family and nobility. The main chamber is covered by a double dome that rises to a height of 42 meters. The outer dome is made of white marble and has a brass finial on top. The inner dome is made of red sandstone and has an opening that allows natural light to enter the chamber.

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The tomb is surrounded by a Char Bagh that measures 300 meters by 300 meters. The garden is divided into four quadrants by two water channels that intersect at the center. The water channels have fountains and pools along them that create a soothing effect. The garden also has several pavilions, tombs, mosques, and gateways that add to its beauty and charm.

The garden is designed to represent the paradise as described in the Quran. The tomb and the garden are enclosed by a high wall that has four gates on each side. The main gate is on the south side and is decorated with marble and red sandstone. The gate also has a small chamber on top that serves as a museum and a library.

Also check out: Humayun's Tomb: Pride of the Mughals

Humayun’s Tomb Timings and Entry Fee

Humayun’s Tomb is open to the public every day from sunrise to sunset. The timings may vary depending on the season and the weather conditions. The entry fee for Indian visitors is 40 rupees and for foreign visitors is 600 rupees. The entry fee for children below 15 years of age is free.

The entry fee also includes access to the museum and the library inside the main gate. The photography fee is 25 rupees and the video filming fee is 300 rupees. The tickets can be purchased at the ticket counter near the main gate or online through the official website of ASI (Archaeological Survey of India).

Humayun’s Tomb Location and How to Reach

Humayun’s Tomb is located in Nizamuddin East, a residential area in south Delhi. The address of the tomb is Mathura Road, Opposite Dargah Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Delhi 110013. The tomb is easily accessible by different modes of transport such as air, rail, bus, metro, taxi, auto rickshaw, etc. Here are some of the ways to reach Humayun’s Tomb from different landmarks in Delhi:

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From Indira Gandhi International Airport:

The distance from the airport to the tomb is about 20 kilometers and it takes about 40 minutes to reach by car or taxi. The fare ranges from 400 to 500 rupees depending on the traffic and the type of vehicle. Alternatively, one can take the Airport Express Metro from Terminal 3 to New Delhi Railway Station and then take a taxi or an auto rickshaw to the tomb. The metro fare is 60 rupees and the taxi or auto rickshaw fare is about 100 rupees.

From New Delhi Railway Station:

The distance from the railway station to the tomb is about 8 kilometers and it takes about 20 minutes to reach by car or taxi. The fare ranges from 100 to 150 rupees depending on the traffic and the type of vehicle. Alternatively, one can take the Yellow Line Metro from New Delhi Metro Station to JLN Stadium Metro Station and then take a taxi or an auto rickshaw to the tomb. The metro fare is 20 rupees and the taxi or auto rickshaw fare is about 50 rupees.

From ISBT Kashmere Gate:

The distance from the bus stand to the tomb is about 12 kilometers and it takes about 30 minutes to reach by car or taxi. The fare ranges from 150 to 200 rupees depending on the traffic and the type of vehicle. Alternatively, one can take the Red Line Metro from Kashmere Gate Metro Station to Rajiv Chowk Metro Station and then change to the Yellow Line Metro to JLN Stadium Metro Station and then take a taxi or an auto rickshaw to the tomb. The metro fare is 30 rupees and the taxi or auto rickshaw fare is about 50 rupees.

From India Gate:

The distance from India Gate to the tomb is about 5 kilometers and it takes about 15 minutes to reach by car or taxi. The fare ranges from 50 to 100 rupees depending on the traffic and the type of vehicle. Alternatively, one can take a bus or an auto rickshaw from India Gate to Nizamuddin Bridge and then walk for about 10 minutes to reach the tomb. The bus fare is 10 rupees and the auto rickshaw fare is about 30 rupees.

You may also like to read: Majestic Humayun's Tomb: the inspiration behind iconic Taj Mahal

Nearby Attractions

Humayun’s Tomb is not only a monument but also a gateway to explore other attractions in Delhi that are nearby or within a short distance. Some of these attractions are:

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Nizamuddin Dargah:

This is a shrine of the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, who was a contemporary of Humayun and Akbar. The dargah is a place of worship and devotion for Muslims as well as people of other faiths. It is also a place of music and poetry, where qawwali singers perform every evening. The dargah is located just opposite Humayun’s Tomb and can be reached by walking for about 5 minutes.

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Purana Qila:

This is an old fort that was built by Humayun before he lost his throne to Sher Shah Suri. It was later renovated by Sher Shah Suri and his son Islam Shah Suri. The fort has three gates, namely Bara Darwaza Humayun Darwaza, and Talaqi Darwaza. The fort also has a mosque, a stepwell, a museum, and a lake. The fort is a witness to many historical events and battles, such as the First Battle of Panipat, the Revolt of 1857, etc. The fort is located about 2 kilometers from Humayun’s Tomb and can be reached by car, taxi, bus, or auto rickshaw.

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India Gate:

This is a war memorial that was built in the 20th century to honor the Indian soldiers who died in World War I and the Afghan Wars. The gate is a 42-meter high arch that has the names of more than 13,000 soldiers inscribed on it. The gate also has an eternal flame that burns in memory of the unknown soldiers. The gate is a popular tourist attraction and a picnic spot, especially in the evenings when it is illuminated with lights. The gate is located about 5 kilometers from Humayun’s Tomb and can be reached by car, taxi, bus, or auto rickshaw.

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National Zoological Park:

This is a zoo that was established in 1959 and covers an area of 176 acres. The zoo has more than 1,300 animals of different species, such as tigers, lions, elephants, rhinos, bears, deer, monkeys, birds, reptiles, etc. The zoo also has a library, a museum, a cafeteria, and a souvenir shop. The zoo is a great place to visit for families and children who love animals and nature. The zoo is located about 3 kilometers from Humayun’s Tomb and can be reached by car, taxi, bus, or auto rickshaw.

Humayun’s Tomb is a monument that you should not miss when you are in Delhi. It is a place where you can admire the beauty and grandeur of Mughal architecture, learn about the history and culture of the Mughal dynasty, enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the Char Bagh garden, and explore other attractions nearby.

Humayun’s Tomb is a place that will leave you spellbound and amazed by its charm and elegance. So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Humayun’s Tomb today. You will not regret it.

Humayun Tomb Reviews

This grandiose Delhi monument is actually inspired by one of the seven wonders of World, Taj Mahal. Built in 1570, Humayun’s Tomb is a burial chamber of the great Mughal King, Humayun. Set amid the beautiful garden, Humayun’s tomb was the beginning of changed Mughal architecture in India. With the overwhelming appreciation of this artistic monument, the Mughal rulers build such tombs all across the country. • Location: Nizamuddin East, New Delhi • Opening Hours: Sunrise to sunset • How to Reach- Buses or Delhi Metro are frequently available Source Known for its magnificent architecture, Jantar Mantar is another famous monument of Delhi which has gathered endless tourists across the world. Jantar Mantar is considered one of the most interesting Indian masterpieces. It was built in1712 A.D.by Maharaja Jai Singh II of Rajasthan. The complexity of its structure and maze-like constructions has made it a glorious attraction of India. • Location: Sansad Marg, Connaught Place, • Opening Hours: 6 am to 6 pm • How to Reach- Buses or Delhi Metro are frequently available6. Jama Masjid Source The Jama Masjid in Delhi is one of the biggest Mosques in India. The religious sentiments and the architectural splendor draw a lot of tourists to this place and made it a historical monument of Delhi. The Mosque is surrounded by three huge gates, four towers and two 40m high minarets constructed of strips of red stone and white marble. • Location: Opposite Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi • Opening Hours: Sunrise to Sunset. Closed during prayer hours from 12.15 p.m. to 1.45 p.m • How to Reach- Buses or Delhi Metro are frequently available7. Old Fort or Purana Kila Source Stood sturdy for long 5000 years, Old Fort or Purana kila is one among the oldest Delhi monuments. Purana Kila was built in 1538-45 by the ruler Sher Shah Suri. It is popular for its massive structure with three grand gateways namely Talaqi Darwaza, Bara Darwaza and Humayun Darwaza. The ambiance, the still lake, lush green beautiful lawns created to attract visitors has made it on top of the list of monuments in Delhi. • Location: Mathura Rd, New Delhi • Opening Hours: 7 am to 5 pm • How to Reach- Buses or Delhi Metro are frequently available8. Lodi Tomb Source Build inside the beautiful Lodi Garden, Lodi Tomb is one of the most famous monuments of Delhi which defines the majestic art of Mughal architecture. It is the memorial tomb for the great leader and king, Sikander Lodi. Lodi Garden is also popular as garden of tombs. Apart from the wonderful Lodi tomb, one can also behold Muhammad Shah tomb, Shish Gumbad, and Bara Gumbad. • Location: Lodi Road, not far from Humayun's Tomb. • Opening Hours: 6 am to 8 p.m Monday • How to Reach- Buses or Delhi Metro are frequently available9. Swaminarayan Akshardham Source Akshardham is an enormously build tomb-like structure with the bright white colored coating, is an incredible masterwork to witness in Delhi. It was built by a spiritual association, Swaminarayan Sanstha to showcase the tale of Swaminarayan. This huge and famed attractions is dedicated to exhibiting the stories and karma of Swaminarayan and to glorify the beauty of Indian culture. Witness some amazing sculptures, well-maintained garden, golden statues and so on at Akshardham. • Location: N. H. 24 | Near Noida Mor, New Delhi. • Opening Hours: 9.30 a.m to 6.30 p.m  How to Reach- Buses or Delhi Metro are frequently available10. Lotus Temple Source Lotus Temple is one of the most eminent Delhi monuments, known for its beautiful flower-like structure. The best of Lotus Templecan be seen after the sunset when it is lit up with colored lights. Designed with crystal white marble, the lotus temple is associated with the Bahai Faith, which believes in the unity and harmony of all people irrespective of religions. The serene pond area and quiet garden encircling the temple is an attraction point of Lotus temple. • Location: Near Nehru Place, south New Delhi • How to Reach- Buses or Delhi Metro are frequently available • Opening Hours: 9.00 a.m. to 7pm
India,the country with divine temples,splendid monuments,glittering culture,worth a million heritage,mouth watering cuisines,magnetic tongue and eternal nature.In short a country must visit.It is like a dream come true for me to explore this exotic and fáscinating land. The sky was clear and blue was the colour when I went to explore the sovereignty of the Mughal Emperor “ Humayun Tomb” .This masterpiece of Mughal era is located near the crossing of Mathura road and lodhi road ,New Delhi.Jawhar lal Nehru is the nearest metro station to reach this wonderful place. When I saw the tomb,the gigantic structure literally gave me ‘goose bumps’ .The tomb not only verbalize about the unmatched creativity of the Mughals but it is a symbol of love and affection as the mausoleum was built by the Humayun’s begum “Hamida Banu Begam after his death in 1565 AD. The Mausoleum is amalgam of Persian and Indian style of architecture and was engineered by” Mirak Mirza Ghyath” who was not only the master mind of Humayun’s Tomb but designed many structure across the country. “Humayun ka Makbara ( Humayun’s tomb) is the first building to use Persian concept of double dome as well as the first tomb of its kind surrounded by garden constructed to the end of time in Indian subcontinent. The Tomb stand in the centre of the beautifully styled ” Char Bagh” (as the whole garden is divided into four parts) connected with water channels, having its main entrance from the south and other from the west side as well.This was the first time when red sand stone was used in such a grand scale for its construction. Apart from Humayun the complex is the final resting place of his wife Hamida Bahu Begum,Shah Jahan’s son and many other prominent Mughals. What called the symbol of love “The Taj Mahal” was inspired from the Humayun’s Tomb The tall Ashoka trees which embellishes the beautiful garden with their willowy outgrowth compliment the structure and clash with the magnificent complex to deadlock visitors attention. While exploring this mammoth complex I got drained and I sat down into the lavish garden which was superbly maintained and it was venerating the tomb,made me spell bound. But I could hardly stop my self from clicking the pics of such a mesmerizing views of the complex.
As the local adage goes- It takes three things for a city to come into being- badshah, badal aur dariya. Between the tapering remnants of Aravallis in the form of the ridge and the river Yamuna, at least nine towns have flourished in thousand years in what we presently callDelhi. Dinpanah was one of such cities founded by Emperor Humayun which sprawled across the present day Mathura road which has now buried under the multiple layers of civilization. Humayun's tombwas built by his first wife, Bega Begum and designed by a Persian architect, Mirak Mirza Ghiyas. The tomb complex, constructed in Mughal style of architecture, adorned with Jali work, archs and domes, char baghs criss crossed by canals, houses a number of other structures, as well. The most famous ones being: 1. Isa Khan ka makbara which was constructed two decades before the main tomb. There is a mosque inside the compound. 2. Bu Halima enclosure: Inside the ornate facade lies the tomb of Bu Halima about whom not much is known. It's a huge gated enclosure. 3. Arab Serai: The serai housed the Persian craftsmen who came to construct the tomb. 4. Afsarwala tomb: Where there is a ruler, there are officials. Apparently, it houses the tombs of prominent officers. It also has a mosque and a madrasa in the compound. 5. Barber's tomb: Not much is known about the christening of this tomb. 6. Main tomb: This beautiful octagonal structure has the tombs of Humayun, both his wives, his sister, Bahadur Shah I, Dara Shikoh among others. The convention is to enter a tomb from the side of the legs of the body placed inside, which is essentially southern side. It is advisable to take off your shoes before entering the mosque. One can also visit the Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya dargah which is at a stone's throw from Humayun's tomb. Also, to please your taste buds, one can visit Nizamuddin basti and get a taste of the delicacies. The other places one can go to eat are Cafe Lota in Crafts Museum on Bhairon Marg or Khan market which is also at a distance of 3-4 kms. Nearest metro station: Jorbagh, JLN stadium Timings: 6 am to 6 pm, 7 days a week Ticket: Rs 40 for an Indian Best time to visit: when the weather is pleasant
Growing up, I spent all my summers visiting my grandparents in Delhi, and each summer, my mom and I would talk about how we’d visit Humayun’s Tomb during that trip. Unfortunately, we never got around to doing it, and we mostly blamed it on the scorching summer sun. Although that excuse isn’t really valid because I lived in Delhi for three full years while in college and had plenty of time to go there. My nana (mom’s dad) always wanted to take us there too but somehow it never happened. Last month, I lost my nana to cancer. The whole family got together in Delhi for the funeral and a day after the funeral, my parents and I found ourselves at home without any plans for the day and just like that, we decided to go to Humayun’s Tomb. A part of me believes my nana made it happen and in a strange yet comforting way, I could feel his presence the entire time I was there. The Mughal era is my most favorite part of Indian history. Humayun’s Tomb, the tomb of the great Mughal Emperor Humayun, was built way back in 1572 by his widow Bega Begum, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. It’s said to be the first garden-tomb to be built in the Indian subcontinent and is the one of the first monuments to be made using the combination of red sandstone and white marble in India (and it is also said to have inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal). The tomb is set in 12 hectares of serene and beautiful gardens, and it is quite an experience to just take a stroll through them while marveling at the grandeur of Humayun’s Tomb. Having visited the place now, I can’t believe I’d never been there before. It’s amazing how such a magnificent structure is nestled in the middle of the city and transports you back in time, all while offering the most peaceful surrounding. I have a lot of great pictures from those few hours I spent at Humayun’s Tomb and thought it’d be a shame not to share them. So here goes!
Someone told me that Humayun's Tomb is a replica of Taj Mahal and when I saw it for the first time, I actually realized, it looked like Taj Mahal. This magnificent tomb will take you back to the history and you will find yourself in some different time... This tomb is the tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun and the first garden tomb of Indian subcontinent. The tomb was commissioned by his wife Bega Beghum and was designed by Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and Sayyid Muhammad, his son. This was the first structure where red sandstones were used at such large scale. This tomb is huge, beautifully built and attracts tourists from all over the world. Main Attractions inside Humayun's TombIsa Khan Niyazi's Tomb The moment you enter, on the right side, there is Isa Khan Niyazi's Tomb, which dates back to 1547. It is an octagonal tomb and is surrounded by octagonal garden. His entire family is buried here.Bu Halima’s Tomb & Garden If you are entering the main complex (from West), you will first see Bu Halima’s garden.Afsarwala Tomb IT is located in the southwest end. It belongs to a nobleman who served in the court of Akbar.Arab Sarai This structure is just next to Afsarwala mosque. It was built by Bega Begum in around 1561 CE.Nila Gumbad Due to the blue glazed tiles used in construction, it is named so. Nila Gumbad (Blue Dome) was built for Miyan Fahim who was a servant.Chillah Niamuddin Aulia This structure is present outside of the complex and is said to be the living place of Nizamuddin AuliiyaBarber’s Tomb The Nai Ka Gumbad (Barber’s Tomb) is located towards south east corner. This tomb belongs to a royal barber. How to reach Humayun's Tomb? You can reach there easily. The nearest metro station is JLN Metro Station on Violet Line. From there, you can get an auto or e-riksha, which should cost you around 30 INR to 40 INR.
Photos of Humayun Tomb
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