Indo Islamic Heritage
Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport Nearest Bus Stand: Vasant Kunj Sector 8 Nearest Railway Station: Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station Nearest Metro Station: Vasant Vihar Metro Station
Sultan Ghari, built in 1231 AD, is recognized as the first Islamic mausoleum in India. Constructed by Sultan Iltumish in memory of his eldest son, Prince Nasiru'd-Din Mahmud, it is located in the Nangal Dewat forest near Vasant Kunj, Delhi. This area, once part of a Hindu temple complex from the Gurjara-Pratihara era (700–1100 CE), later became associated with the early Delhi Sultanate. The Slave Dynasty, to which Iltumish belonged, ruled from 1206 to 1290 CE and laid the foundation of the Delhi Sultanate that continued until 1526 CE. Prince Nasiru'd-Din Mahmud was appointed governor of Lakhnauti after defeating the local ruler Iwaz in 1227 AD and was given the title ‘Malik-us-Sharq’ or ‘King of the East’. Unfortunately, he ruled for only 18 months before dying, prompting his father to build this remarkable tomb. The tomb, resembling a fortress, features an unusual octagonal layout built over a cave (Ghari) and combines both overground and underground architectural elements. Constructed using Delhi sandstone and marble, it includes a walled enclosure with bastions at the corners, giving it a Persian and Oriental aesthetic. The structure represents early Islamic architecture with a trabeate or corbel arch system, typical of Indian architecture before the introduction of true arches. The tomb was later repaired by Feroz Shah Tughlaq (1351–1388 AD), who also restored nearby Chhatris (cenotaphs) believed to house the remains of Iltumish’s other sons. The site is surrounded by ruins of old mosques and khanqahs. Sultan Ghari is not only a historical site but also holds religious significance for both Hindus and Muslims from neighboring villages like Mahipalpur and Rangpuri, who revere the tomb as that of a saintly peer. Thursdays and the 17th day of the Islamic month of Ziqad are particularly significant, drawing many devotees. The 25-hectare heritage site is currently undergoing restoration under a conservation plan by the Delhi Urban Heritage Foundation and INTACH, aiming to revive its historical and spiritual glory.
Year of Built: 12th - 13th Century
Address: Garhi's Tomb Rd, Ruchi Vihar, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, Delhi 110070
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: New Delhi
Pincode: 110070
Longitude: 77 13 71
Latitude: 28 53 35