
Humayun's Tomb
Step into history and explore the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb, a breathtaking architectural masterpiece in the heart of Delhi. Built in 1558 by Empress Bega Begum in memory of her husband, Emperor Humayun, this stunning mausoleum is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers alike. Designed by Persian architects Mirak Mirza Ghiyas and his son Sayyid Muhammad, the tomb is India’s first-ever garden tomb and a precursor to the grand Taj Mahal.
Located in Nizamuddin East, near the historic Purana Qila (Old Fort), Humayun’s Tomb is famous for its striking red sandstone structure, elegant domes, and intricate Persian and Mughal design elements. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the tomb has undergone extensive restoration, bringing back its former glory.
As you walk through the complex, you’ll find several smaller monuments along the pathway, including the Isa Khan Niazi Tomb, which predates Humayun’s by two decades. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone looking to soak in Delhi’s rich past, Humayun’s Tomb offers a mesmerizing journey through time
Humayun’s Tomb isn’t just a stunning architectural marvel—it’s also the final resting place of some of the most significant figures in Mughal history. Inside the grand mausoleum, you’ll find the tomb of Empress Bega Begum (Hajji Begum), who commissioned this magnificent structure, along with Dara Shikoh, the great-great-grandson of Humayun and son of Emperor Shah Jahan. The site also houses the graves of several later Mughal emperors, including Jahandar Shah, Farrukhsiyar, Rafi Ul-Darjat, Rafi Ud-Daulat, Muhammad Kam Bakhsh, and Alamgir II.
Beyond being a royal burial ground, Humayun’s Tomb was a game-changer in Mughal architecture. Inspired by the Persian Charbagh garden layout, it was the first of its kind in India, setting the stage for future Mughal masterpieces—including the iconic Taj Mahal. Its design drew inspiration from Gur-e-Amir, the tomb of Timur in Samarkand, reflecting the dynasty’s deep Central Asian roots.
The tomb’s location along the Yamuna River was chosen for its proximity to the revered Nizamuddin Dargah, the shrine of the Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya, whom many Mughal rulers held in high regard. Centuries later, in 1857, during the Indian Rebellion, the last Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, sought refuge here before his eventual capture and exile to Rangoon.
Nearby, you’ll also find the Tombs of the Battashewala Complex, a lesser-known but historically rich site located just across a small road from Humayun’s Tomb. These tombs add yet another layer to the area's deep historical significance, making it a must-visit for history lovers and explorers alike.