What is the best time to visit the Nizamuddin Dargah?

Late afternoon is ideal. If you wish to experience the famous Qawwali sessions, Thursday evenings after the Maghrib (sunset) prayer are the traditional time, though the area becomes very crowded.

Is there an entry fee for this walking route?

The Nizamuddin Dargah and Ghalib's Tomb are free to enter. However, Humayun’s Tomb (which includes Isa Khan’s Tomb) requires a paid ticket, with prices varying for domestic and international visitors.

What should I wear for this neighborhood stroll?

Dress modestly as you will be visiting active religious sites. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Women must cover their heads when entering the Nizamuddin Dargah, so carrying a light scarf is recommended.

Is this walking tour Delhi experience suitable for children?

Yes, especially the Humayun's Tomb section which features large open gardens for children to walk around. The Basti section is very crowded, so keep a close eye on young children there.

Can I take photos during the walk?

Photography is generally allowed at all monuments. However, inside the Nizamuddin Dargah, be respectful and avoid taking photos of people praying or of the inner sanctum if signs prohibit it. Tripods usually require a permit at Humayun's Tomb.

Is the route wheelchair accessible?

Only partially. The Humayun's Tomb complex is mostly accessible with ramps to the main tomb. The Nizamuddin Basti and Dargah are located down narrow, congested lanes with steps and uneven surfaces, making them difficult for wheelchairs.

What are the nearest metro stations to the start and end points?

The nearest station for the start of the walk is JLN Stadium on the Violet Line. For the end point at Humayun’s Tomb, JLN Stadium remains the closest, though Sarai Kale Khan-Nizamuddin (Pink Line) is also nearby.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a world where the mystical chants of Sufi saints meet the architectural precision of the Mughal Empire. This self-guided walking route through Delhi’s Nizamuddin district offers a profound journey through 700 years of living history. You will begin in the heart of Nizamuddin Basti, a medieval settlement that remains one of the city's most spiritually vibrant neighborhoods. The air here is often thick with the scent of rose petals and incense, echoing the devotion that has centered around the shrine of Saint Nizamuddin Aulia for centuries. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of Delhi’s layered past, transitioning from narrow, bustling alleys to the expansive, symmetrical beauty of Persian-inspired gardens. As you explore independently, you will encounter the resting places of legendary poets and powerful nobles. The route highlights the evolution of Indo-Islamic architecture, showcasing how the heavy stone structures of the Lodi era transformed into the delicate marble and red sandstone masterpieces of the Mughals. You will see the Chausath Khambha, a serene marble pavilion, and the tomb of Mirza Ghalib, the Shakespeare of the Urdu language. The grand finale of this walking tour Delhi experience is the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb. Often cited as the primary inspiration for the Taj Mahal, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterclass in the Charbagh garden layout, representing a terrestrial paradise. Whether you are a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, this walking route provides a deep dive into the soul of old Delhi. By following this audio walk, you can discover the hidden stories behind these monuments at your own pace, away from the constraints of a rigid schedule. From the turquoise tiles of Sabz Burj to the octagonal elegance of Isa Khan’s Tomb, every stop reveals a different facet of the city's artistic and cultural heritage.

Highlights

Experience the spiritual atmosphere of the 14th-century Nizamuddin Dargah

View the intricate white marble architecture of Chausath Khambha

Pay respects at the tomb of the legendary Urdu poet Mirza Ghalib

Admire the newly restored Persian-style blue tiles of Sabz Burj

Explore the unique octagonal garden tomb of the noble Isa Khan

Witness the grandeur of Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Tour Stops (6)

Dargah Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia

Welcome to the spiritual heart of Delhi. This shrine is dedicated to the 14th-century Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Aulia, who preached a message of love and humanity that transcended religious boundaries. As you walk through the narrow entry lanes, notice the vendors selling 'chaddars' (ceremonial cloths) and rose petals. The atmosphere here is a living tradition; for over 700 years, devotees have gathered here. If you visit on a Thursday evening, you might hear the soul-stirring Qawwali music, a form of Sufi devotional singing. Remember to remove your shoes and cover your head as a sign of respect before entering the inner courtyard.

Chausath Khambha

A short walk from the Dargah brings you to Chausath Khambha, which translates to '64 Pillars.' This 17th-century tomb is unique because it is built entirely of white marble and resembles a pavilion rather than a traditional tomb. It was built by Mirza Aziz Koka, a high-ranking noble in Emperor Akbar's court. The structure is celebrated for its architectural geometry; the 64 pillars support 25 square bays, each topped with a dome. The serene, monochromatic beauty of the marble provides a stark and peaceful contrast to the vibrant chaos of the surrounding Basti.

Mazar-e-Mirza Asad Ullah Khan Ghalib Tomb

Adjacent to Chausath Khambha lies the final resting place of Mirza Ghalib, arguably the most famous poet of the Mughal era. Ghalib lived through the decline of the Mughal Empire and the rise of British rule, and his poetry captures the melancholy and beauty of that era. His tomb is housed within a small, elegant marble enclosure. Literature lovers from across the world come here to pay homage to the man who gave Urdu poetry its modern soul. Take a moment to appreciate the inscription of his verses, which continue to be quoted in homes and films across South Asia today.

Sabz Burj

As you exit the narrow lanes of the Basti toward the main road, you will see the striking Sabz Burj. This 'Green Tower' is actually one of Delhi’s earliest Mughal-era tombs. Despite its name, the dome is now famous for its brilliant blue Persian tiles, which were meticulously restored to their original 16th-century glory. It sits at a busy traffic intersection, serving as a colorful gateway to the Humayun’s Tomb complex. The structure reflects the strong Timurid architectural influence brought from Central Asia, characterized by its high drum and vibrant ceramic tile work.

Isa Khan's Tomb, Delhi

Located just inside the entrance of the Humayun’s Tomb complex, Isa Khan’s Tomb predates the main attraction by about 20 years. Built in 1547, it is the tomb of a noble in the court of Sher Shah Suri. This structure is a prime example of the Lodi-style octagonal tomb. Notice the sunken garden surrounding it—this is actually one of the oldest surviving sunken garden designs in India. The use of grey quartzite and red sandstone, decorated with colorful tiles, marks the transition point between Sultanate architecture and the upcoming Mughal grandeur.

Humayun’s Tomb

You are now standing before the first grand garden-tomb of the Indian subcontinent. Built in the 1560s for the second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, this monument was commissioned by his senior widow, Bega Begum. It introduced the 'Charbagh'—a four-part Persian garden symbolizing paradise. The symmetry, the use of the double dome, and the high arched alcoves (pishtaqs) were revolutionary for the time. As you walk around the red sandstone platforms, you can see why this building served as the architectural blueprint for the Taj Mahal, built nearly a century later. It is not just a tomb, but a dynastic necropolis housing over 150 Mughal family members.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full self-guided walk typically takes between 2 to 3 hours. This includes roughly 45 minutes to explore the Nizamuddin Basti and Dargah, and about 60 to 90 minutes for the Humayun’s Tomb complex and gardens.