Humayun Tomb, Delhi

The history left its mark in form of humayun tomb in Delhi. It is one of the historical monuments of Delhi which attracts the traveller's attention. It is humayun tomb commissioned by his wife hameeda beghum in 1562 CE. Bega Begum also known as Haji Begum, the Persian wife of Humayun, supervised the construction of a tomb for husband. Humayun's Tomb was the first building to be constructed during the reign of Akbar. This Mausoleum was constructed with the help of persion architect Mirza Ghiyuath on bank of Yamuna river. The tomb then acted as landmark in stablishing some of the essential norms for later Mughal mausoleums in India. Humayun's Tomb was the first garden tomb made in India.

This tomb had got garden divided into 36 squared by grid of water channels and path. The square garden is surrounded by a high rubble wall divided initially into four large squares separated by causeways and channels, each square divided again into smaller squares by pathways creating a char bagh. The laying down of the gardens in the Persian style was introduced by Babur and continued till the period of Shah Jahan.

At the first instance to the Humayun's tomb, you will come across an archway, which is a part of a garden that belonged to a Mughal noble. The garden is no more in existence but this archway forms an enclosure to the Humayun's tomb. As you move further, you will come across another doorway on the right. This place was used as a resting bay where people used to take some time off the tedious journey. This is called "Arab Serai". The structure was built by Hamida Banu Begum to accommodate more than 200 Arabs she brought with her from Mecca.

Visiting Humayun's tomb is a wonderful experience where you get to see the Mughal architecture and the history of Mughal India. Humayun's tomb is preceded by a tomb with blue dome. The dome has been made with Persian tiles which became very popular since Mughals came to India. You would find clear view of jama masjid and qutub minar. A bird's eye view from the roof would show you many ruined tombs and ancient structures belonging to various nobles.