Humayun Tomb Delhi: Unraveling The Past With UNESCO Protected Site

A magnificent architectural masterpiece, the Humayun Tomb in Delhi is the reflection of the Mughal’s grandeur and splendor. Cradled in the laps of a lush green garden, the mausoleum opens the gates to a glorious time India has ever witnessed in the past. As you walk through the long corridors or stare at the high domed ceilings, you will be awestruck with its striking beauty and elegance. The final resting place of Emperor Humayun and other notable Mughal members is now under the protection of UNESCO. If you are a history buff and plan to discover the untold stories hidden in every crevice of the Muqbara, you are at the right place.

History has it that Humayun’s chief consort, Begum Bega or Haji Begam, started penning down the Emperor's life in Humayunama after his untimely death in 1556. She wanted the world to know about her dearest husband, and perhaps that's why she further commissioned the construction of a grand mausoleum in his honor. Mirak Mirza Ghiyas, a well-known Persian architect of that time, was invited to India to build the tomb. Nine years after his death, the construction of his tomb and the surrounding garden commenced in the year 1565.

After another seven years, in 1572, Humayun’s Tomb was finally completed. This mausoleum is considered as the first of its kind, with a perfect fusion of Persian and Indian architectures. Its grandeur and splendor were mind boggling, something that couldn’t be found in any other previously constructed Islamic architecture. It was centrally located in the Charbagh, a four-quadrant flower garden that represented the four rivers of the Quran. This was indeed the first time when an Islamic tomb was constructed in a flower garden, which further added to its significance in Indian history.

As per Humayun Tomb's history, in the 18th century, the flower garden surrounding the main building was converted into a vegetable garden due to negligence and lack of maintenance. Furthermore, in 1860, the entire premise was converted into an English-styled park when India was under colonial rule. It was Lord Curzon, the Indian viceroy, who commissioned the renovation of the Tomb's building and the restoration of the original flower bed garden. Later on, in 1993, it was declared as a UNESCO-protected site, thereby establishing its dominance in Indian heritage and history.

Since Humayun Tomb was built by the chief consort of the Mughal court, Begam Bega, its architecture reflects Persian culture in every sense. It proudly stands on a 7-foot high concrete podium right at the center of the Charbagh, the latter resembling a Persian flower garden. It has an average height of 47 meters, while the dome stands up to a height of 42.5 meters. Although the entire structure is constructed with red sandstone, the double dome is built with white marble, thereby creating a perfect color contrast that adds further value to the aesthetic appeal. On top of this, the Tomb's architecture is adorned with pietra dura floors, latticework, and attics.

The Tomb was originally constructed as a dynastic mausoleum, meaning that it was meant for several significant figures from the Mughal empire. That’s why you will find 124 small-sized chambers designed as vaults along the entire building. Apart from having Humayun's Tomb, the mausoleum also has tombs of other Mughals, including that of Jahandar Shah, Rafi Ud-Daulat, Muhammad Kam Bakhsh Farrukhsiyar, and Alamgir II. Also, a shrine to a famous 14th-century Sufi saint named Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya is inside the inner building complex.

Now that you know who built Humayun Tomb and a brief description of its grand architecture, you can start your exploration with the mosque and Tomb of Isa Khan. It is a domed complex that was constructed 20 years prior to the main Tomb. You can also visit the residential complex of the Persian artisans who constructed the entire mausoleum, known as Arab Sarai. There is a separate garden complex with the Tomb of Bu Halima on a raised platform. Another precious structure you should visit within the premises is the octagonal Tomb of Nila Gumbad. Nai-ka-Gumbad is a famous place inside the Charbagh that you can see as it houses the Tomb of the royal barber.

Truth be told, every corner of Delhi is well-connected with roads and metro. So, there are innumerable ways that you can opt to reach Humayun's Tomb. Amongst these, the best and cheapest travel option is certainly the metro. You can either opt for Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium station on the Violet Line and then walk or take a cab to the tomb. Or get down at Jor Bagh station on the yellow line which is approximately 5 km away. You can also opt for the AC and non-AC buses departing from ISBT, Rajiv Chowk, and Nizamuddin that will take you straight to Humayun's Tomb in just a few bucks.

To visit Humayun Tomb timings are important. The entry timings are 06:00 - 18:00, so it totally depends on you, if you want to visit the place in broad daylight or if you want to experience its beauty as the day sets in. However, if you have got some spare time, you can visit places like Lodhi Gardens and Purana Qila. Apart from this, you can also visit India Gate, located at 3.8 Km, and click photographs or enjoy a stroll along the colossal structure. For some fun activities, the National Zoological Park and Jantar Mantar will be the ideal places to visit during your trip to Humayun’s Tomb. Do not forget to visit the Khooni Darwaza, one of the surviving gates during the revolt of 1857. Red Fort is located 9.3 Km away from Humayun's Tomb and is a must-visit during your trip.

Owing to its beauty, Humayun Tomb has become a popular spot for netizens and tourists alike, which means there are a number of cafes near Humayun's Tomb, including Aye 1 Express or Aa-Bar Family Restaurant popularly known for serving mouth-watering Chinese dishes. RRK Maggie Point and Uttarakhand Dhaba are famous for their delicious and lip-smacking North Indian cuisines. For some desserts, try the mouthwatering dishes at SK Sweets or Funky Café.

Humayun’s Tomb is the first Garden Tomb that was constructed in India. Besides, its architecture represents the perfect blend of Indian and Persian styles, thereby highlighting the Mughal grandeur and regality. So, get started with your plans and book the tickets at the earliest so that you can finally fulfill that hidden inquisitive person inside you. If you are visiting the national capital for the first time or for a vacation, don’t forget to check out Bloom Hotels in Delhi and choose the perfect hotel for you depending on your location of choice and get ready for an exceptional experience.