Shahpeer Sahab ki Dargah, Meerut

The Dargah of Shahpir Sahib is a famous Mughal-era mausoleum in Meerut. It was built in 1628 by Empress Nur Jahan in honor of the Sufi saint Hazrat Shahpir. Shahpir is believed to have been a guru and advisor to Emperor Jahangir. Constructed of red sandstone, the building features intricate carvings. It is distinctive for its unfinished form and lack of a roof. This feature has intrigued both historians and visitors. The Archaeological Survey of India has recognized it as a National Heritage Monument. It attracts devotees and heritage tourists. It is located in a small heritage site in the Suraj Kund area of ​​Meerut.

The dargah is an example of Mughal-era Indo-Islamic architecture, built by locals in the late 17th century. The use of red sandstone and marble in the main tomb chamber reflects Mughal construction techniques, while lime mortar and traditional masonry strengthen the structure. The layout is consistent from side to side, centered around the saint's tomb, with ornamental domes and minarets providing vertical emphasis. The decorative design includes calligraphic inscriptions and floral patterns, reflecting the Mughal aesthetic of harmony and beauty. The combination of verandas and courtyards demonstrates both seasonal adaptations and spiritual processions.

• Main tomb chamber with marble dome
• Entrance gateway with arched portal
• Peripheral courtyards for congregational gatherings
• Small subsidiary tombs of disciples
• Ornamental minarets and domed kiosks
• Gardens with water channels

• The dargah’s dome features intricate Mughal-era marble inlay work.
• It is believed that the structure went into plan within 24 hours of Shahpir's death.
• It is one of the oldest tombs (450 years old) and has been around even before the construction of the Taj Mahal.
• Despite this tomb having an open roof, the rain water does not reach the main tomb.
• Archaeological studies reveal restoration traces dating back to the 18th century.
• There are two different theories on why the structure is incomplete. One of them is that Jahangir left for the war in Kashmir where he breathed his last. and, the fall of another Nur Jahan with the saint, thereby ordering the construction to stop.

📅 Last update: 2026-01-26 || ✍ 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.