Humayun's Tomb Travel Guide

Travel to Humayun's Tomb - Inspiration for the Taj Mahal

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The building was finished in 1565, some nine years after the death of Emperor Humayun. His senior widow, Bega Begum, oversaw its building, bringing characteristics of her Persian homeland to bear on the design.

Inside the walled enclosure the most notable feature are the garden squares, called charbagh (‘four gardens’), where pathways or in the case here, water channels, separate the gardens into 4 quarters. These lead up to an arcaded entrance and the tomb enclosure itself.

Attractions in Humayun's Tomb

There are several graves of Mughal rulers located inside the walled enclosure.

To the south of the main pathway leading to Humayun's tomb is a picturesque gateway, which leads to a walled enclosure called Arab ki Sarai. The sarai was built by Humayun's widow for 300 Arab merchants she is said to have brought from her pilgrimage to Mecca. The Afsarwala Tomb and Masjid, built by a nobleman in Emperor Akbar's court, are within this complex.

Further west on the main pathway is the gateway to the Garden of Bu Halima. Not much is known of this lady but the gateway and two very ornamental chhatris are all that remain of the garden.

On the southwest end of Bu Halima's garden is the octagonal tomb of Isa Khan, a nobleman in the court of Sher Shah. In this garden tomb built in 1547-48, are found some of the basic architectural ingredients, which were to be developed to great excellence in Humayun's tomb. The structure follows the pattern of the Lodi tombs.

Activities in Humayun's Tomb

Allow 2 hours for a visit

Relaxing

The gardens make a great place to wander and spend an hour or so relaxing.

Getting Around

Humayun’s Tomb is usually incorporated into a wider city sightseeing tour and is best visited with a guide who can explain its history.

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