Mughul Era Locations in Delhi

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Mughuls have ruled Delhi for two hundred years. The influence of Mughul culture can be predominantly felt through out the city. The old dilapidated Mughul forts, museums, gardens, mosques, bring alive the memories of Mughul era.

A tour to Delhi essentially includes atleast a couple of Mughul locations. Mughul buildings and forts exhibit a unique architecture with emphasis on intricate carvings and beautiful designs. Some of the prominent Mughul Era landmarks that you must visit in Delhi are Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Humayun Ka Makbara, and so on.

Here is a brief description of a few Mughul era landmarks in Delhi:

Jama Masjid

Built by Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid is a splendid piece of Mughul architecture. The mosque was built in 1656 AD and is one of the best known and largest mosues in India. The mosque is huge enough to accommodate 25,000 devotees at a time. Built out of red sandstone and marble the mosque stands with aplomb in the crowded area of old Delhi.

The original name of Jama Masjid is Masji-I Jahan Numa, meaning the mosque with commanding view of the world. The mosque is built on a slightly elevated platform and is approachable by climbing stairs. Weekly congregation is held in the mosque every Friday which is attended by Muslims from all over Delhi.

Jama Masjid is a good example of architectural expertise.

Humayun's Tomb

Humayun's Tomb is located in the Nizzamuddin area of East Delhi. Although known by the name of Humayun Ka Makbara, the area is a big complex that has other tombs as well.

Humayun's tomb was made by his wife Haji Begum in mid 16th Century. The main makbara is made in octagonal shape and is surrounded by beautiful gardens with fountains and water channels flowing in between. Humayun Ka Makbara is built in typically Iranian style of structure.

It's a must see because it is one of the oldest mughul structures and rare of its kind. The great monument of Taj Mahal has been designed on the lines of Humayun Ka Makbara.

Red Fort

Red Fort or Lal Quila was the fort of Shah Jahan when he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. Built in red sandstone this fort stands at the bank of river Yamuna in Chandni Chowk area of Delhi. At present the Chandni Chowk area is a busy commercial street of Delhi. In the bygone era of the Mughuls this was used to be the Meena Bazaar, a bustling colorful market, favorite of Mughul Queens.

Red Fort is a very historical monument. It reminds the visitors of how Mughul rulers used to carry their day to day duties towards the state. The stately chambers indicate the grandeur of Shah Jahan the great emperor.

At present Lal Quila is used by the Prime Minister to address the nation and hoist the flag of India on Independence Day.

Qutub Minar

Started by Qutub-u-din Aibek and finished by Illtutumish, this is still the tallest structure in Delhi. Built by the king to offer prayer, Qutub Minar is 2.75 meters high stone structure that is an architectural marvel of Mughuls.

Qutub-u-din Aibak's tomb also exists inside the premises of Qutub Minar. The bird's eye view of the city looks magnificent from the top of the tower.

The above discussed are only few Mughul structures that are landmarks of the bygone era. There also exist several other tombs, forts, and mosques that are splendid in themselves.