.png)
Humayun's Tomb Highlights, History and HI-FIVES in New Delhi
Updated: Mar 5
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 to 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!
Thank you for stopping by, and a warm welcome to our India series here on Jenn & Leon Travel Blog.
We had always wanted to visit this country, officially the 7th oldest in the world, and not only was the time finally upon us, but it came with our good friends and fellow YouTubers Jackson and Marjo.
Travel Resources & Offers
Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links.
At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. Our Affiliate policy.
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 spent in the bathroom; he had definitely 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 really 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 after 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 admittance.
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 literally 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!
⪢ Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing
To ensure peace of mind while traveling or living abroad, we recommend getting health insurance. SafetyWing's Essential plan covers travel and medical emergencies with options for adventure sports and electronics theft.
Their Complete plan offers comprehensive health coverage with routine healthcare, mental health support, and maternity, anywhere in the world, including in your home country, on top of all Essential benefits.
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 really 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 the 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 does give 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 single file towards Humayun's Tomb. We could not believe it!
Everyone was saying hello (or namaste), running up to us with hi-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 hi-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 most amount 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 influenced 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 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 time of writing (March 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 Get Your Guide.
No matter where your travels take you, Get Your Guide offers the best way to connect with your destination. Book your tickets here.
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
By Bus
By Auto-Rickshaw
By Taxi
⪢ 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
● Website: delhitourism.gov.in/humayun_tomb
⪢ Hotels Near Humayun's Tomb
Here are some top providers offering hotels close to Humayun's Tomb:
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 do like and subscribe! Your support truly is invaluable to us and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world!
Our Humayun's Tomb Experience Rating
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!
Up Next: Taking the train from Delhi to Agra in India as Foreigners - All You Need to Know
In what was our first train ride as foreigners in India, we take 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.
Easily Find Hotels in Delhi and Beyond
Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from a variety of reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Book Trains, Planes, Buses & Ferries in Advance with 12Go
Closer Lives has partnered with 12Go, a leading online travel booking platform for Southeast Asia and Europe, to offer a seamless booking experience for your transportation needs.
Through booking.closerlives.com, you can easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for trains, buses, ferries, and even flights within your desired journey.
12Go's user-friendly interface makes navigating options a breeze, ensuring you find the perfect travel solution for your trip.
Your Interactive Map of Northern India
Check out all of the places we visited in India courtesy of this interactive map from Wanderlog. Tap any of the numbers for more information including directions, our blog posts, links to reviews and much more.
Wanderlog is a free travel planning app for iOS and Android devices that allows users to create trip itineraries, organize flights, hotel and car reservations, view places to visit on a map, and collaborate with friends.
FREE Asia Travel Guides
Save time on research; we have taken care of that for you!
Enjoy access to our Travel Guides for FREE, including our latest blog posts and videos, visa information, culture and customs, top hotels, must-see destinations, transportation, health and safety and even handy interactive maps. No sign-up required.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)