Indo Islamic Heritage
How to Reach: The Khanqah is located approximately 1.5 km from the Qutub Minar Metro Station, making it easily accessible by metro. The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. For those traveling by train, the closest major railway station is Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station. The nearest bus stop is Andheriya Mod, from where local transportation options are available to reach the site.
Hijron ka Khanqah, also known as the Khanqah of the Hijras, is a significant historical monument dating back to the 15th century Lodi period. Located in Mehrauli, South Delhi, this unique structure functions as both a mosque and a Sufi khanqah (convent). It became particularly associated with the hijra (eunuch) community in the early 20th century, when members from the Turkman Gate area of Old Delhi took over its management. Since then, the hijra community has preserved and maintained the site. The complex houses several tombs of hijras, including the notable grave of Miyan Saheb, a revered figure within the community. The khanqah holds both historical and cultural importance, as it merges medieval Indo-Persian Islamic architecture with the rich social legacy of the hijra community in India. The architecture features an arch-shaped main entrance with a battlement-style parapet and two mini domes crowned with Islamic religious finials. A flight of steps leads to the eunuchs’ graveyard, while the west-facing wall features a beautifully decorated mihrab surrounded by smaller niches. The building is constructed using random rubble masonry, sandstone, and cement. Religious festivals like Eid are celebrated here, and the tradition of langar (free food distribution) is observed on such occasions, reflecting the inclusive and charitable spirit of Sufi practices. Notably, for the past 34 years, a Hindu man named Sri has also played a significant role in caretaking, symbolizing the interfaith harmony associated with the site.
Year of Built: 14th - 15th Century
Address: Ward 6, Main market street, Mehrauli
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: South Delhi
Pincode: 110030
Longitude: 77.1782°
Latitude: 28.5175°