Things to Do at Humayun's Tomb
Complete Guide to Humayun's Tomb in New Delhi
About Humayun's Tomb
This remarkable destination stands as an example of Humayuns Tomb's rich cultural heritage, featuring architectural elements and historical significance that attract thousands of visitors annually seeking authentic local experiences. Entry fees typically range from $8-25 USD equivalent, with guided tours available for an additional $10-15 that provide insider knowledge about hidden details and local legends not found in standard guidebooks. The site showcases distinctive design elements including hand-crafted stonework, traditional building techniques, and decorative features that have been carefully preserved through generations, creating photo opportunities that capture both historical grandeur and artistic craftsmanship. Plan to arrive during early morning hours (8:00-10:00 AM) or late afternoon when golden light enhances architectural details and temperatures remain comfortable for extended exploration, wearing sturdy walking shoes as many historical sites feature uneven surfaces and stone pathways that can become slippery during rainy conditions.
What to See & Do
The Main Tomb Chamber
A massive octagonal chamber beneath the double dome, with the cenotaph of Emperor Humayun at the center (the actual grave is in the basement, per Islamic tradition). The interior is surprisingly simple compared to the elaborate exterior. Over 150 Mughal royals are buried in side chambers along the corridors. The acoustics amplify whispers eerily
Persian Charbagh Gardens
Four quadrant gardens divided by water channels and raised walkways - the prototype for all Mughal garden tombs including the Taj Mahal. The channels are fed by a central pool. The symmetry is best appreciated from the elevated platform of the main tomb looking outward. Recently restored, the gardens are lush and well-maintained
Isa Khan's Tomb
An octagonal garden tomb from 1547 - two decades older than the main tomb and in some ways more beautiful. The carved stone screens (jali) on the exterior are extraordinarily intricate. The walled garden has mature neem trees and a peaceful atmosphere. Most visitors rush past to the main tomb. Don't - this is one of Delhi's finest Mughal structures
Arab Sarai
The ruins of a guesthouse built for 300 Arab craftsmen who came to construct the main tomb. A massive arched gateway leads into a walled compound with fragments of rooms and a mosque. The scale suggests the construction workforce was enormous. Usually empty. The gateway arch frames a dramatic view back toward the main tomb
Sunset from the Platform
The raised sandstone platform surrounding the main tomb offers elevated views across the gardens to the Delhi skyline. Sunset turns the red sandstone deep amber and the white marble dome catches the last light. The best spot is the southeast corner, where you can frame the dome against the sunset. Bring a telephoto lens for detail shots of the dome's lotus finial
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Open daily from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though times vary seasonally)
Tickets & Pricing
₹40 for Indian citizens, ₹600 for foreign tourists. You can buy tickets at the entrance - no advance booking needed, though you might find online options through official tourism sites
Best Time to Visit
October to March offers the most comfortable weather, but early morning or late afternoon visits year-round give you the best light and fewer crowds
Suggested Duration
Plan for 2-3 hours if you want to explore properly - you could rush through in an hour, but you'd be missing the point
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
This 14th-century Sufi shrine is a 10-minute walk away and offers a completely different but equally moving spiritual experience - the qawwali sessions on Thursday evenings are particularly special
Another Mughal tomb that's often overlooked but worth seeing for its unique architecture - it's literally across the road and gives you more context for the period
This beautifully restored heritage park connects to Humayun's Tomb and houses several other Mughal monuments - it's perfect if you want to extend your historical wandering
About 20 minutes away by car, this colonial-era memorial and ceremonial boulevard offers a stark architectural contrast to the Mughal monuments