Barakhamba Tomb, Delhi

The Barakhamba Tomb, also known as the 12-Pillar Tomb, is a historical monument located in the city of Delhi, India. This heritage monument, also called Kushak Lal, was constructed by Balban, a ruler of the Slave dynasty, between 1266–1286, during the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud Shah of Delhi. This red sandstone structure had prominent chhatris which have been demolished. The tomb has twelve pillars and three arched doorways on each face. The verandah (passageway) surrounding the central hall has four domed apartments at each corner. The structure is located in an open park and is easily visible and accessible to the public.

The design of the Barakhamba tomb is based on a typical architectural pattern prevalent in the Lodi era. The central chamber of the mausoleum is surrounded by arched doors on all the eight sides. The main dome is supported by twelve pillars, which also form cells around the base of the structure. Within these cells are smaller domed structures. The tomb has been constructed using red sandstone and white marble, which were commonly used building materials in Mughal architecture.

• It is an example of Indo-Islamic architecture and is believed to have been built during the Lodhi dynasty in the 15th century.
• The Barakhamba Monument is one of the 46 historical structures selected by the ASI for restoration purpose.
• There is a beautiful garden all around and there are spacious lawns with nice paths.
• The monument has been recently renovated and is in excellent condition, completely occupied by homeless people. The entrance is accessible and level with the sidewalk or footpath and there is no admission ticket.

📅 Last update: 2023-10-09 || ✍ Author: Sandhya Chauhan

Meet Sandhya, exploring India with curiosity and wonder. She shares info and tips in simple language, inviting you to join the journey. She is graduated in tourism and writes about the places of India.