Sher Mandal, Delhi

About Sher Mandal

Sher Mandal is a 16th-century historical building within the Purana Qila Fort in Delhi, India. Designed with a blend of Timurid and Safavid architecture, it is the only surviving palace structure within the fort and has become a tourist attraction. It is a beautiful looking two storied and octagonal building with an Islamic dome on top. It was built by Sher Shah Suri in 1541 as a place of entertainment, which was later used by the Mughal Emperor Humayun as his library. Humayun had a keen interest in astronomy and literature, and often used the tower to study celestial phenomena and for his scholarly pursuits. Sher Mandal is also known for a tragic incident that happened here. In 1556, Humayun fell down the stairs while descending the tower to watch the sunset. The fall resulted in serious injuries and Humayun died a few days later due to the injuries. The upper floor of Sher Mandal is restricted for visitors.

Architecture of Sher Mandal

The Sher Mandal is a two-storied octagonal tower, with a simple yet elegant design. It is constructed using red sandstone and contains intricate decorative elements including ornate stone carvings and Islamic geometric patterns. The tower has a distinctive Mughal architectural style, which was characterized by a synthesis of Persian, Indian and Central Asian influences. There is only one staircase connecting the upper floor to the terrace. There is a strip of black slate between the two floors.

Interesting facts about Sher Mandal

• The Sher Mandal symbolizes the contribution to architecture, education and intellectual pursuits during the early rule of the Mughal dynasty in India.
• Sher Mandal reflects the typical Mughal architectural style, which includes Persian, Indian and Central Asian influences.
• Inside are the remains of decorative plaster-work and traces of stone-shelving where, possibly, the emperor's books were kept.
• It is a beautiful looking two storied and octagonal building with an Islamic dome on top. Its original work highlights Humayun's interest in astronomy and scholarly pursuits.

How to reach Sher Mandal

By Metro:- The nearest metro station to Sher Mandal is Pragati Maidan Metro Station which is 23 minutes walking distance.

By Air:- Taxi is the most convenient but expensive mode of transport to reach Sher Mandal from Indira Gandhi International Airport. They are available right outside the airport.

By Bus:- Nearest bus stand to Sher Mandal is National Stadium which is 10 minutes walking distance.

By Train:- The nearest railway station to Sher Mandal is Pragati Maidan which is 27 minutes walk.

Nearby famous places

• India Gate 3 kms away
• National Zoological Park (Delhi Zoo) 3 kms away
• Humayun's Tomb 5 kms away
• Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah 5 kms away
• Safdarjung's Tomb 6 kms away
• Lotus Temple 7 kms away
• Rajpath and Rashtrapati Bhavan 7 kms away
• Connaught Place 7 kms away
• Jama Masjid 8 kms away