The Mughal Cemetery

Humanyu’s Tomb, New Delhi

Brief History: While we all get amazed by the beauty of the Taj Mahal and proudly recognize it a token of love of an emperor, there lies a place in heart of New Delhi which represents the sentiments of an empress but in a much lighter tone. Humany’s Tomb was commissioned by his first wife Bega Begaum nine years after his death at the cost of Rs. 1.5 million at that time.

However, after his death, Humayun's body was first buried in his palace in Purana Quila at Delhi. It was later taken to Punjab due to the fear that other kings might damage the tomb. It was later ensured by Akbar himself that his father’s tomb is completed and the body is finally shifted to Humany’s Tomb as it stands today. It is amazing to note the history of the tomb. After the decline of the Mughal empire, the garden around the tomb was used to grow vegetables!! Even at the time of independence it was used as a major refugee camp with thousands of people living in the garden and the tomb itself which lead to further degradation of the monument. Unfortunately it remained one of the least visited places and for quiet sometime it didn’t even appear in any list of tourist places by the government due to its condition. 

The tomb was declared world heritage by UNESCO in 1993 which marked the change in fortune of this monument. The Aga Khan Trust in collaboration with Archaeological Survey of India took the work of restoration of the place with a detailed research and excavation process. The restoration has been a long and continuous process.

The tomb is not only the final adobe for Humanyu but there are over 100 gravestones and multiple small tombs in the premises including tomb of Isha khan an Afgan noble in Sher Shah Suri’s court.

How to reach: The tomb is located opposite Dargah Nizammudin. The nearest metro station is JLN.

Timings and charges: Its open on all days and last entry is around 6 PM. The entry fee for Indians is Rs. 10. No still photography charges. This means that unless you are with a crew for shooting film, all the other cameras are eligible for free entry including DSLRs.