Safdarjung Tomb - The Last Grand Mughal Mausoleum in Delhi

Delhi, DelhiMONUMENT

Explore the last grand garden tomb of the Mughal era, known for its elegant architecture and peaceful Charbagh garden setting in Delhi.

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Info

MONUMENT

Info

1-2 hours

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Safdarjung Tomb is a sandstone and marble mausoleum built in the late Mughal architectural style. Often described as the last significant garden tomb from the Mughal era, it stands in the center of a large square garden, known as a Charbagh. The garden is divided into four squares by wide pathways and water channels, with fountains along the central axis. The main structure is a two-storied mausoleum with a large central dome, built on a raised platform. Visitors can walk through the garden's pathways and explore the main tomb building. The mausoleum itself has an ornate central chamber containing a cenotaph, with the actual graves of Safdarjung and his wife located in an underground chamber. The atmosphere is generally more relaxed and less crowded compared to other major monuments in Delhi, allowing for a more leisurely exploration of its architecture and grounds. The corner pavilions and the grand entrance gate add to the site's symmetrical layout and visual appeal.

Why This Place is Special

• Late Mughal-era garden tomb architecture
• Its central dome and high terrace
• Symmetrical Charbagh (four-part) garden layout
• Intricate marble and sandstone inlay work
• Being a less crowded alternative to other major Delhi monuments
• The grand two-storied gateway
• Ornate corner pavilions or 'chattris'

Ideal For

History enthusiastsPhotographersCouplesSolo travelersFamiliesArchitecture lovers

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Drinking water
• Seating areas
• Information counter

Visitor Tips

• Visit in the late afternoon around 4-5 PM when the light is soft, ideal for photography.
• Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends, offering a more peaceful experience.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be walking through gardens and climbing some steps.
• Carry a water bottle, especially during warmer months, as there are no shops inside.
• The gardens are a good spot for a quiet walk
• find a bench and enjoy the view of the mausoleum.
• Combine your visit with Lodi Garden, which is just a short auto-rickshaw ride away.
• Look closely at the main gateway building, which houses several rooms and a library.
• While less crowded, be aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting late in the evening.

Rules & Restrictions

• No large bags or backpacks allowed inside
• Do not climb on the ancient structures
• No food or drinks are permitted inside the main monument area
• No smoking or consumption of alcohol on the premises
• Professional photography and videography require prior permission from ASI

Safety Information

• Be cautious of your belongings, especially in the parking area and near the entrance.
• The steps on the main mausoleum can be steep and uneven
• watch your step.
• Stay hydrated by carrying your own water bottle, as Delhi can get very hot.
• Avoid engaging with unsolicited guides or vendors outside the main gate.
• The gardens are large, so it's best to finish your visit before it gets dark.
• If you need assistance, contact the ASI security personnel present on site.

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Location & Address

Intersection of Safdarjung Road and Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi, Lodi Estate, Delhi, Delhi, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from October to March when Delhi's weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. This period is ideal for walking around the gardens and exploring the monument comfortably. The summer months from April to June are extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C, making daytime visits difficult. The monsoon season from July to September brings rain, but the post-rain greenery can be appealing if you don't mind the humidity. For fewer crowds, visit on a weekday morning.
Peak Crowd: November-January, weekends, and public holidays, due to pleasant weather and tourist season.
Moderate Crowd: February-March, October, and weekday afternoons.
Low Crowd: April-June due to extreme summer heat, and July-September during the monsoon season.

How to Reach

Air

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the nearest airport, located about 13 km away. It takes around 30-45 minutes to reach by taxi or cab.

Train

New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) is about 8 km away, and Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station (NZM) is about 6 km away. Both are well-connected to all parts of India, and you can get taxis or auto-rickshaws from there.

Road

The tomb is located on the main intersection of Safdarjung Road and Aurobindo Marg, making it easily accessible by road. It's well-connected by Delhi's bus network and can be reached by car, taxi, or auto-rickshaw from any part of the city.

Local Transport

The most convenient way is via the Delhi Metro; get down at Jor Bagh station (Yellow Line). Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are available for the last-mile connectivity. DTC buses have a stop right outside the complex.