The capital city, Delhi presents a vast canvas of historic monuments, museums, art and culture, celebrations of various fairs and festivals, colorful markets, haute couture, scenic locations and the list does goes on and on. This vibrant city contributes a lion’s share on the rich heritage of India.

You have not even thought that there would be a structure pretty similar to the magnificent Taj Mahal. Humayun’s Tomb is an example to it. The whole white element is missing of course. Tucked away in the corner of the Nizamuddin area in Delhi, it is the tomb of the emperor Humayun. This can be rightly termed as the precursor of the Taj with slightly different proportions. But the overall effect is very imposing especially the combination of marble and red sandstones. In contrast to the Taj Mahal, this tomb was made by the Begum for his beloved husband. Your Delhi visit will remain incomplete without visiting this beautiful tomb.

The elements of symmetry, eye of detail, perspective, beautiful jaali openings, stone lattice work and beautiful designs depicts the Mughal architecture at its best. Humayun’s Tomb has inspired several major architectural innovations and of course the Taj Mahal which was constructed much later. This structure is a well-developed specimen of the double-domed elevations with kiosks on grand scale. Laid itself in the center of a garden, it is the first garden tomb in Delhi. The garden popularly known as the Char Bagh is divided into four parts with pools joined by the channels. The main entrance to the tomb is on the south with other on the west. A bath and a pavilion are located on the eastern and northern walls. And the mausoleum itself stands on a high, wide and terraced platform with small arched cell on both the sides.

The restoration of this heritage site helped in getting the original grandeur and added value in maintaining the lush green garden. With over two thousands trees and plants including mango, lemon, neem, hibiscus etc., it offers a picturesque landscape. The restoration project also ensured that water flows naturally through the channels and the pools. The long dormant fountains have also come alive. It now offers a perfect aura of the tomb garden and is visited by large number of people. It is a favorite place to hang out during the summer evenings for the locales of Delhi and serves as an important tourist destination for the domestic and foreign visitors. Important part of the heritage of Delhi in particular and India in general, Humayun’s Tomb is a great place to visit.