Himayun’s Tomb, New Delhi

Brief Description
This tomb, built in 1570, is of particular cultural
significance as it was the first garden-tomb on
the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several major
architectural innovations, culminating in the construction of the Taj Mahal.

The tomb lies in the middle of garden and lies on a lofty sandstone terrace, 22’ in
height. Occupying the middle of the up rear surface of this platform is the tomb
structure, 156’ side and square in plan except for certain chamfers. In elevation the
four sides are substantially alike, each face consisting of a central rectangular front
containing an Arched recess. Over hangs a marble dome rising to a height of 140’ with
a cluster of pillared kiosks having cupola roofs on each side.

Group 3: J N Somya A/1568, Manishi Aggarwal A/1574, Mayank Sharma A/1574

 PLAN

The Structure lies in the middle of four gardens or ‘Charbagh’, which was a Persian
concept. ‘Charbagh’ gardens had long been associated with ‘paradisiacal imagery’.It is
very explicit here, for the water cannels appear to vanish beneath the actual mausoleum,
yet reappear in their same straight course on the opposite side. This evokes a Quranic
Verse, which describes rivers flowing beneath gardens of paradise.

SECTION

Double domes, which were

used in early Indian
temples are also continued.
However, to attain more
height, the drum has been
introduced. Smaller
chhatries are also place
near the main dome to
build up the monumental
effect.

Group 3: J N Somya A/1568, Manishi Aggarwal A/1574, Mayank Sharma A/1574

 PLANS

Ground Floor Plan First Floor Plan

Second Floor Plan Roof Plan

Group 3: J N Somya A/1568, Manishi Aggarwal A/1574, Mayank Sharma A/1574

 Location plan

SITE

HIMAYUN’S TOMB

Group 3: J N Somya A/1568, Manishi Aggarwal A/1574, Mayank Sharma A/1574