Humayuns Tomb Delhi

Humayun’s Tomb: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Located in the heart of Delhi, India, Humayun’s Tomb is a majestic monument that showcases the rich cultural heritage and architectural excellence of the Mughal Empire. This stunning tomb complex is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Delhi, and this guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit.

History of Humayun’s Tomb

Humayun’s Tomb was built in 1565-1572 by Haji Begum, the widow of Mughal Emperor Humayun. The tomb is dedicated to the memory of Humayun, who died in 1556 after falling from his library stairs. The construction of the tomb took around seven years and was completed at a cost of approximately 1.5 million rupees.

The tomb complex was designed by Persian architects Mirak Mirza Ghiyath and Ustad Ahmad Maamar, and it is believed to be one of the first gardens-tombs on the Indian subcontinent. The monument showcases a perfect blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles, which were characteristic of the Mughal Empire.

Architecture and Design

Humayun’s Tomb is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture, with a unique blend of red sandstone and white marble. The main tomb is built on a raised platform, surrounded by a beautiful Char Bagh garden, divided into four quadrants by walkways and water channels.

The central chamber of the tomb houses the graves of Humayun and his wife Haji Begum, along with several other members of the royal family. The chamber is adorned with intricate marble inlays and ornate calligraphy.

The monument’s architecture is characterized by:

  • Double Dome: The main dome is surrounded by a smaller, outer dome, which creates an optical illusion of a single, larger dome.
  • Arches and Domes: The tomb complex features several arches and domes, showcasing the Mughal Empire’s expertise in using these architectural elements to create a sense of grandeur and beauty.
  • Intricate Marble Inlays: The monument is adorned with intricate marble inlays, featuring floral patterns, geometric shapes, and Arabic calligraphy.

Things to Do and See

Humayun’s Tomb offers a range of activities and attractions for tourists:

Explore the Main Tomb

  • Visit the central chamber to see the graves of Humayun and his wife Haji Begum.
  • Admire the intricate marble inlays, ornate calligraphy, and stunning architecture.

Wander Through the Char Bagh Garden

  • Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful garden, divided into four quadrants by walkways and water channels.
  • Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers.

Visit the surrounding monuments

  • Nai-ka-Gumbad: A small tomb built for an unknown noble, featuring intricate marble work and ornate decorations.
  • Barber’s Tomb: A simple yet elegant tomb built for Humayun’s barber.
  • ** Isa Khan’s Tomb:** A beautiful tomb built for a noble named Isa Khan, featuring intricate marble inlays and ornate calligraphy.

Attend the Sound and Light Show

  • Every evening, the monument comes alive with a stunning sound and light show that recreates the history of the Mughal Empire.
  • The show is narrated by Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan and features a range of special effects, music, and lighting.

Tips and Essentials

Best Time to Visit

  • The best time to visit Humayun’s Tomb is during the winter months (October to February), when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
  • Avoid visiting during peak summer months (April to June), as the temperature can be extremely hot.

Ticketing and Entry Fees

  • Indian citizens: ₹50 per person
  • Foreign nationals: ₹600 per person
  • Free entry for children below 15 years of age

Dress Code

  • Visitors are requested to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees.
  • Avoid wearing revealing or tight clothing that may be deemed inappropriate.

Photography

  • Non-commercial photography is allowed, but visitors are requested to avoid taking pictures inside the main tomb chamber.
  • Commercial photography requires prior permission from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Accessibility

  • The monument complex is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators connecting different levels.
  • Wheelchairs are available for rent at the ticket counter.

Getting There

Humayun’s Tomb is located in Nizamuddin East, Delhi, and can be easily reached by:

Metro

  • Take the Violet Line (Line 6) to JLN Stadium Station, from where you can take a short auto-rickshaw ride or walk to the monument.

Bus

  • Take bus number 403, 404, or 405 from Connaught Place or other major bus terminals in Delhi.
  • Get down at the Humayun’s Tomb stop and walk to the monument.

Taxi/Cab

  • Hire a taxi or cab from your hotel or any major location in Delhi.
  • Show the driver the address: Mathura Road, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi - 110013.

Accommodation and Dining

Humayun’s Tomb is surrounded by several accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular options include:

Budget

  • Nizamuddin Guest House: A simple yet comfortable guesthouse offering clean rooms at an affordable price.
  • Saket Bed and Breakfast: A cozy B&B offering home-cooked meals and a warm atmosphere.

Mid-range

  • The Suryaa Hotel: A 3-star hotel offering comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and a range of amenities.
  • Hotel Oberoi: A 4-star hotel featuring luxurious rooms, multiple dining options, and a fitness center.

Luxury

  • The Imperial Hotel: A 5-star hotel offering opulent rooms, fine dining restaurants, and a range of luxury amenities.
  • The Leela Palace New Delhi: A luxurious palace hotel featuring stunning rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, and world-class service.

For dining options, you can try:

Street Food

  • Nizamuddin’s Famous Kebabs: Try the famous kebabs at this small street food stall near the monument.
  • Mathura Road Food Stalls: Explore the range of street food stalls offering everything from chaat to kebabs.

Mid-range Restaurants

  • Lodi - The Garden Restaurant: A popular restaurant offering a range of Indian and international cuisine in a beautiful garden setting.
  • The Project at Hauz Khas: A trendy restaurant featuring a range of global cuisines, craft beer, and live music.

Safety and Precautions

Security

  • Humayun’s Tomb has strict security measures in place, including metal detectors, bag checks, and CCTV cameras.
  • Visitors are requested to cooperate with security personnel and follow all instructions.

Health and Hygiene

  • Visitors are requested to maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness within the monument complex.
  • Avoid touching or handling the monument’s surfaces, as they may be fragile or sensitive.

Conclusion

Humayun’s Tomb is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Delhi. This stunning monument showcases the rich cultural heritage and architectural excellence of the Mughal Empire, offering a range of activities, attractions, and experiences that will leave you spellbound. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to plan your visit and make the most of your time at Humayun’s Tomb.