Safdarjung’s Tomb is a stunning architectural masterpiece nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of New Delhi, India. Built in the 18th century, this imposing mausoleum stands as a testament to the grandeur and opulence of the Mughal era.

With its intricate design, majestic domes, and serene garden setting, Safdarjung’s Tomb beckons you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of India.

This blog takes you through the stories and significance behind this iconic monument, offering insights into its architectural marvels and the legacy of the remarkable figure it commemorates.

Entry Fee and Visiting Time

The entry fee for visiting Safdarjung’s Tomb is Rs. 20 for adults of Indian and SAARC countries origin. For international tourists from other countries, the entry fee is Rs. 250. Entry is free for children below 15 years.

You can book your tickets at the ticket counter of Safdarjung’s Tomb, or you can book them online on the ASI website.

Safdarjung’s Tomb is open to visitors from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days of the week.

Additional Information for Tourists

Here are some useful and additional information for tourists visiting Humayun’s Tomb:

• During weekends and peak season, it is best to book your ticket online to avoid wasting time in long queues.
• There will be a lot of walking in sunny paths with no shade. Carry an umbrella, wear a hat, use sunglasses, and apply sunscreen for sun protection.
• Best to visit in the colder months between October to March. I visited in early April and the heat was unbearable.

History

The Safdarjung Tomb was built from 1753 to 1754 with the support of Nawab Shujaud Daula.

It was constructed in memory of Safdarjung, who was the Viceroy of Awadh during the time of Mughal Emperor Mohammed Shah. Safdarjung was originally from Persia, which is present-day Iran.

He came to India in 1722 and became the Subadar Nawab of Oudh, governing the Awadh state from March 19, 1739, until his death. During his tenure, Emperor Nasir-ud Din Muhammad Shah honored him with the title ‘Safdarjung’.

In 1748, Ahmad Shah Bahadur became the new Mughal emperor, and Safdarjung moved to Delhi, where he was appointed as the Prime Minister of Hindustan.

However, during this time, the Mughal Empire’s power declined, mainly confined to North India. Despite this decline, Safdarjung consolidated power, overshadowing the emperor’s authority.

Safdarjung’s rule faced controversies due to allegations of cruelty and abuse of power.

Emperor Mohammed Shah sought help from the Marathas to remove him from Delhi in 1753. Safdarjung passed away in 1754 in Sultanpur, near Faizabad.

After his death, his son Nawab Shujaud Daula sought permission from Emperor Ahmad Shah Bahadur to build a tomb in Delhi to honor his father.

The tomb was designed by an Abyssinian architect and supervised by Bilal Muhammad Khan. It was constructed at a cost of three lacs of rupees. The mausoleum showcases exquisite Mughal architecture, reflecting the opulence of the era.

Adjacent to the tomb lies a historic battleground where a decisive battle took place in 1386, resulting in Mohammed Tughlaq’s defeat.

Thus, the Safdarjung Tomb not only commemorates a significant historical figure but also reflects India’s rich cultural heritage shaped by tumultuous events.

Interesting Fact: In Delhi there is a famous government hospital and an airport named after “Safdarjung.”

Architecture

The Safdarjung Tomb is a remarkable architectural achievement from the Mughal era. It was carefully designed to resemble a garden tomb, much like the famous Humayun Tomb.

Its construction finished in 1754, showcasing the pinnacle of architectural excellence of that time. Interestingly, slabs from Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khanan’s tomb were reused in building this grand mausoleum.

This architectural wonder stands out for four key features: the Char Bagh layout with the mausoleum at its center, a ninefold floor plan, a five-part facade, and a large podium with a hidden staircase.

The main entrance gate, towering two stories high, is adorned with intricate designs and a beautiful purple color, welcoming you into the grand complex.

An Arabic inscription on the gate’s surface conveys a heartfelt message about departing souls finding peace.

Upon entering through the main gate, you are greeted with a breathtaking view of the central mausoleum. The tall walls, made of red and buff stones, enclose the main structure, topped by a majestic dome on a terrace.

Inside, a central chamber with eight partitions houses Safdarjung’s cenotaph, surrounded by rectangular and octagonal partitions adorned with intricate plaster decorations.

Four polygonal towers, adorned with marble panels and decorative arches, flank the main tomb, each concealing underground chambers where Safdarjung and his wife are buried.

While the tomb’s facade takes inspiration from the Taj Mahal’s grandeur, it differs in its lack of perfect symmetry.

The elongated dome, taller pishtaq, and integrated minarets at the four corners deviate from the Taj Mahal’s architectural style, giving the Safdarjung Tomb its unique appearance.

Tourist Attractions Near Safdarjung’s Tomb

There are several tourist attractions within easy reach: of Safdarjung’s Tomb. Here are some you can check out on your visit:

Lodhi Garden: Just a stone’s throw away, Lodhi Garden is a lush green oasis dotted with historic monuments dating back to the 15th century. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic amidst nature.

Sarojini Nagar Market: A bustling market known for its budget-friendly shopping, Sarojini Nagar Market is famous for trendy clothes, accessories, and home decor items. It’s a paradise for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts.

National Rail Museum: Located nearby, the National Rail Museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of Indian railways. You can explore vintage locomotives, rail coaches, and interactive exhibits.

India Gate: A short drive away, India Gate is an iconic war memorial and one of Delhi’s most prominent landmarks. It’s a popular spot for evening strolls, picnics, and paying homage to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives.

National Museum: Situated within easy reach, the National Museum is one of India’s premier museums, housing an extensive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and artworks spanning centuries of Indian history and culture.

How to Reach Safdarjung’s Tomb

To reach Safdarjung’s Tomb in Delhi, India, you have several transportation options available:

By Metro: The nearest metro station to Safdarjung’s Tomb is the Jor Bagh Metro Station, which is on the Yellow Line of the Delhi Metro.

From the metro station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the tomb, which is approximately 3 kilometers away.

By Bus: Several local buses operate in Delhi that pass through or near Safdarjung’s Tomb. You can check the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) bus routes to find one that suits your location.

By Taxi or Auto-rickshaw: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available throughout Delhi. You can hire one directly to Safdarjung’s Tomb from your location. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

By Car: If you’re traveling by car, you can use GPS navigation or follow road signs to reach Safdarjung’s Tomb. The tomb is located near the Safdarjung Airport at the T junction of Lodhi Road and Aurobindo Marg (earlier name Mehrauli Road) in New Delhi.

By Walking: If you’re in the vicinity, you can also consider walking to Safdarjung’s Tomb, especially if you’re exploring nearby attractions such as Lodhi Gardens.

Conclusion

Safdarjung’s Tomb stands as a majestic testament to the grandeur and architectural finesse of the Mughal era. Its imposing structure, adorned with intricate designs and surrounded by serene gardens, captivates visitors from around the world.