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Humayun’s Tomb Unveiled: Highlights & History of Delhi’s Mughal Masterpiece
- Jenn & Leon
- Oct 27, 2023
- 14 min read
Updated: 10 hours ago
The inspiration for the Taj Mahal, Humayun's Tomb in New Delhi, is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, and a must-see attraction in India!
With our train to Agra scheduled to leave at 2.40 pm, we decided to visit Humayun's Tomb early in the morning, along with the famous Red Fort, and then get back to our hotel for noon check-out.
Things did not go exactly according to plan, but we did make the Tomb, and it was a great experience.
We found out that Humayun's Tomb was the inspiration for the great Taj Mahal, where we were headed in the afternoon. What were the chances!
In what was to be our last stop in New Delhi, Humayun's Tomb turned out to be a real gem.
Not just the main attraction, there is also Isa Khan's Tomb and Mosque, and the wonderful gardens surrounding and connecting everything on the site.
Gardens, which also happen to be the first ever tomb gardens on the Indian sub-continent!
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Our Humayun's Tomb Highlights
Before we get to the tomb, we first have to mention that Jackson had a pretty rough night of it before coming here.
Much of the night was spent in the bathroom; he had caught (or eaten) something, causing severe stomach and intestinal pain.
Even more challenging because of a lack of public bathrooms, he came with us to the tomb wearily.
To be fair to him, he pulled on through and tried to make the most of it.
We had planned to head to the famous Red Fort in Delhi afterwards, figuring we had enough time before check-out from our hotel.
We had arrived at Humayun's Tomb for 9 am, but given the condition of Jackson, we did not stay long, and we went back to the hotel to try and catch some rest before the train ride to Agra.
The entrance to the grounds has a small ticket office area where you can only pay cash for admission.
We did feel it was a tad expensive at 600 rupees each, but having said that, it is not bad considering how much this site no doubt needs for maintenance. It is big!
There is also a very small charge for cameras, 50 rupees, although there is no enforcement of this (so you can easily hide them in your bag). A bit of a sneaky money-grab there so do not be fooled!
Upon entering the tomb, you will be given a small token, which you will have to hand back on the way out. Try not to lose this!
The main entrance is a direct path through well-manicured lawns, heading straight to the grand tomb.
This was a walled tomb, so you will see that throughout the site if you cast your gaze outwards.
It certainly adds to the history and allure, especially given how well-maintained they are.
Initially, we were a tad confused as the first thing you will see is Isa Khan's tomb, which branches off to the right.
At first, we thought this was Humayun's Tomb itself, not realizing that this was just the first stop on the way.
Fortunately, we investigated further and found the other tomb; we could have just as easily thought this was it and left after!
Luckily, we had seen photos and knew there was more to it.
So let's take a closer look at Isa Khan's tomb before we get to the star of the show!
Isa Khan's Tomb, New Delhi, India
Isa Khan's Tomb is a 16th-century mausoleum located in the Humayun's Tomb complex, built in 1547-48 for Isa Khan Niazi.
He was a nobleman in the court of Sher Shah Suri, and his tomb is considered one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture.
The tomb is octagonal and built mainly of red sandstone. It is decorated with intricate carvings, lattice screens, and glazed tiles.
The tomb is surrounded by a sunken garden, which was a popular architectural feature of the Lodi period.
Isa Khan's Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi.
It is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, and it offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of India.
The tomb is also known as the "Asylum of Paradise" because of an inscription on its entrance.
The sunken garden at Isa Khan's Tomb is one of the oldest in India, and it is thought to have inspired the gardens at the Taj Mahal and Akbar's Tomb.
We did not know this until we made it on site, having had a nice chat with one of the workers there (which you can check out in our YouTube video).
Given we were heading to the home of the Taj later, it was a pretty cool surprise!
This tomb is indeed really peaceful and is certainly worth checking out if you have the time.
It was an unexpected addition to the trip, and comes as part of the admission price to Humayun's Tomb with no additional cost.
Humayun's Tomb
After we figured out where to go, we made our way to the main tomb of Humayun.
It is a short five-minute walk from Isa Khan's tomb, nicely covered by trees for shade and surrounded by lush gardens.
The entrance to the tomb has to be one of the most imposing and attractive entrances we have seen in India, with some beautiful stonework assisted by a tall arch and clay-colored blocks on the corners.
Couldn't resist that Instagram shot walking through it!
Humayun's Tomb is beautiful, and the inspiration for the Taj can certainly be seen here.
Missing just the minarets, the shape itself is very similar, although there is that clay-colored theme here as opposed to white marble.
The surrounding gardens are nice, and there are multiple channels for water, coming in from each direction, converging into what we assume is a fountain at the center point.
Unfortunately, there was no water, but for a few workers who seemed to be cleaning out the fountain pit.
It would have been nice to see this operational, as we are sure it would have added even more serenity and beauty to this place.
It did not seem like there was access inside Humayun's Tomb like there is with the Taj Mahal.
You can go up to the second level; however, quite a climb on some big steps.
That puts you just beneath the entrance, as close as you can get to the distinctive dome which stands tall over the site.
It is really pretty, even more so up close. The architecture and design are flawless, and this structure gives so much more than just a photo opportunity.
It is peaceful and calm, traditional and cultural.
It holds so much heritage and value, and it is in places like these that you can learn and immerse yourself in the great culture of one of the world's oldest countries.
After making our way back from the tomb, we were encountered by one of the biggest trains of schoolchildren we have ever seen!
There could have easily been a thousand, all walking in a single file towards Humayun's Tomb. We could not believe it!
Everyone was saying hello (or namaste), running up to us with high-fives, giggling and laughing.
It was almost surreal; the second moment we had felt like celebrities after our India Gate shenanigans. Jenn tried her best to give as many high-fives as possible!
Even after we eventually made it to the exit, there were still coachloads of kids being dropped off.
This must have been the largest number of kids we had ever seen in one place. They honestly just kept on coming!
Thankfully, we made it to the tomb when we did, being able to enjoy the peace, but also the lack of people there. It was practically empty!
It seemed that everything just worked out perfectly.
With that, we went back to the hotel for some rest before the train, very much hoping that our travels to Agra (And the Taj Mahal) would work out just as well.
Read on for more on the history of Humayun's Tomb, some interesting facts about it, how to get there, plus opening and ticket information.
The History of Humayun's Tomb
The construction of Humayun's Tomb was commissioned by Haji Begum, the widow of the Mughal Emperor Humayun.
Humayun, the second Mughal emperor, died in 1556, and his tomb was built to honor his memory.
The construction began in 1565 and was completed in 1572. It was designed by the Persian architect Mirak Mirza Ghiyas.
Humayun's Tomb is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and is one of the earliest examples of this style.
The tomb's design is inspired by Persian and Islamic architecture, and it is often seen as a precursor to the more famous Taj Mahal.
The tomb is situated within a vast garden complex, which was designed in the Persian Charbagh (fourfold garden) style.
The garden is divided into 36 squares by a grid of water channels and pathways, creating a serene and symmetrical environment.
Over the centuries, Humayun's Tomb suffered from neglect and decay.
In the 20th century, it underwent extensive restoration efforts, thanks to the work of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India.
The restoration work aimed to preserve and revitalize the monument, ensuring its continued existence as a historical and architectural gem.
In 1993, Humayun's Tomb was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with other historic monuments in the area, collectively known as the "Humayun's Tomb Complex."
This recognition has helped in the conservation and protection of the site.
Humayun's Tomb holds cultural and historical significance not only as a Mughal monument but also for its role in influencing later Mughal architecture, particularly the design of the Taj Mahal.
It symbolizes the rich heritage of the Mughal Empire and its contributions to India's architectural and cultural history.
Some Humayun's Tomb Facts
⪢ Taj Mahal Influence
Humayun's Tomb is often regarded as the precursor to the world-famous Taj Mahal.
Its architectural design, including the use of white marble, symmetry, and the Persian Charbagh garden layout, served as an inspiration for the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra by Emperor Shah Jahan, Humayun's great-great-grandson.
⪢ First Garden Tomb in the Indian Subcontinent
Humayun's Tomb is considered the first garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent.
The garden, designed in the Persian Charbagh style, was a departure from previous architectural traditions in the region and set a precedent for future Mughal garden-tomb complexes.
⪢ Double-Dome Architectural Innovation
The tomb's architectural innovation includes the use of a double dome.
This feature, with a smaller dome placed above the main one, enhances the aesthetics of the structure and significantly influences Mughal architecture.
⪢ Restored by the Aga Khan Trust
The restoration of Humayun's Tomb in the 20th century was a significant project carried out by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India.
The restoration efforts were aimed at preserving the monument and its surrounding garden, and they have been highly successful in bringing back its original grandeur.
⪢ Resting Place of Several Mughal Royalty
Besides Emperor Humayun, the tomb complex houses the graves of several other members of the Mughal royal family, including Empress Bega Begum (Haji Begum), who commissioned the tomb, as well as other princes and family members.
The complex contains numerous cenotaphs representing various family members.
⪢ A Popular Attraction
Humayun's Tomb has averaged over 600,000 visitors every year for well over a decade.
In 2018, before Covid, it attracted nearly 1 million people, and that growth looks set to resume now that the pandemic is over.
Read on for details on how to get there, opening times and ticket prices, our experience rating, and our YouTube video!
Humayun's Tomb Entrance Fee & Opening Times
⪢ Entry Fee
● Indian Citizens: 40₹
● Foreign Visitors: 600₹
● Children up to 14 years: Free
● Filming / Camera Charge: 25₹
Prices are correct at the time of writing (July 2025).
Please check the official website below for the most up-to-date information.
All prices are in Indian Rupees. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday, 6 am to 6 pm.
India Travel Tip: Consider Taking a Tour
One of the most popular ways to explore India is by guided tour.
Skip the line for the Taj Mahal, tour cities like Mumbai and Delhi, or enjoy the wonderful sights in Udaipur and Jaipur.
Check out a host of different options with GetYourGuide.
No matter where your travels take you, GetYourGuide offers the best way to connect with your destination.
How to Get to Humayun's Tomb
Humayun's Tomb is located in the southeastern part of Delhi, near the center of the city.
Here's how you can get there from the central part of Delhi, such as Connaught Place:
By Metro
● Nearest Metro Station: The nearest metro station to Humayun's Tomb is "JLN Stadium Metro Station," which is on the Violet Line of the Delhi Metro.
● From Connaught Place: You can reach JLN Stadium Metro Station from Connaught Place by taking the Violet Line.
The nearest interchange station to Connaught Place is "Rajiv Chowk Metro Station" (also known as Connaught Place Metro Station), which connects to the Violet Line.
Board a train going towards "Badarpur" on the Violet Line and alight at "JLN Stadium Metro Station."
● From JLN Stadium Metro Station: After getting off at JLN Stadium Metro Station, you can hire a local auto-rickshaw or take a short cab ride to Humayun's Tomb, which is approximately 2-3 kilometers away.
It's a convenient way to reach the monument.
By Bus
Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses run through various parts of the city.
You can check for a bus that has a route passing through India Gate or nearby locations.
The area is well-connected by buses, although it is difficult to identify bus stops on the roads, so do bear that in mind.
By Auto-Rickshaw
You can also hire an auto-rickshaw to take you to Humayun's Tomb, and you will find one pretty much wherever you look on the road!
Simply tell the driver to take you to the tomb, and they will know the way. Be sure to confirm the fare first.
By Taxi
You can book a taxi through ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola, or find a taxi at various taxi booths throughout the city.
Alternatively, you can hire a traditional taxi from the street. We had an Uber pick us up outside to get back to our hotel.
⪢ Contact Information for Humayun's Tomb
● Address: Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia Dargah, Mathura Rd, Nizamuddin, Nizamuddin East, New Delhi, Delhi 110013, India
● Phone: +91 11 2435 5275
Where to Stay in New Delhi
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse New Delhi hotel deals below to find great rates from top providers in the city.
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Watch Our Visit to Humayun's Tomb on YouTube
See even more highlights from this must-see location in New Delhi over on our YouTube Channel!
In this video, we take you on a full tour of the Isa Khan's Garden Tomb, along with the tomb of Humayun, of course!
If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like and subscribe!
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Our Experience Rating:
Humayun's Tomb
Much of our excursions in Asia have been at temples, so to see a tomb, especially on the same day we were heading to the incredible Taj Mahal, we were super happy.
With all of the noise and chaotic traffic in Delhi, it was also really cool to be able to come into the Tomb gardens and experience quiet and calm. It was peaceful.
Until, of course, the schoolkids on the way out! What a moment that was.
Both tombs (Humayun & Isa Khan) are absolutely beautiful in their own right.
While the Taj may be the one that gets the worldwide acclaim, it is easy to see why Humayun's was the inspiration.
This is a classic piece of Indian history that is not to be missed!
FAQ – Humayun’s Tomb Delhi Highlights & History
What is Humayun’s Tomb?
Humayun’s Tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun, built in the 16th century.
It is a stunning example of Mughal architecture and a precursor to the Taj Mahal.
Where is Humayun’s Tomb located?
It’s located in South Delhi, close to the Nizamuddin area, easily accessible by metro and other public transport.
What are the main architectural highlights of Humayun’s Tomb?
The tomb features Persian-style gardens (charbagh), intricate red sandstone and white marble work, and a central dome surrounded by smaller domes and ornamental pavilions.
When was Humayun’s Tomb built?
Construction began in 1565 under the supervision of Queen Haji Begum, Humayun’s widow, and was completed around 1572.
What is the historical significance of Humayun’s Tomb?
It is the first garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent and influenced the design of later Mughal monuments, including the Taj Mahal.
Are visitors allowed inside the tomb?
Yes, visitors can explore the tomb’s interior, including the main chamber and surrounding gardens.
What are the opening hours and entry fees?
The site is open from 6 am to 6 pm daily. The entry fee is approximately 600 INR for foreign tourists and lower for Indian nationals.
Is photography allowed at Humayun’s Tomb?
Photography is allowed throughout the complex, but you must avoid using tripods or professional equipment without permission.
Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours are offered onsite, and many tour operators include Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi sightseeing packages.
How much time should I allocate for a visit?
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the tomb, gardens, and nearby monuments like Isa Khan’s Tomb.
Up Next: Taking the train from Delhi to Agra in India as a Foreigner
In what was our first train ride as foreigners in India, we took the Vande Bharat Express First Class AC Chair Car directly to Agra from Delhi.
In this post, we will show you what the train was like, how we got tickets, what to do at both stations, and other things you may need to know.
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Humayun's Tomb was probably our favorite outing in Delhi. Interesting history, great architecture, clean, tidy and well-maintained, All the things! A really nice excape too, from the chaos of the city around it.