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Sunset

Golden Hour at Humayun's Tomb

Time your visit for the late afternoon glow. The sun sets toward the west, casting long shadows across the Char Bagh gardens and highlighting the intricate geometry of the Mughal architecture.

Best time: 15 JanAbout 90 min

Timeline

  1. 16:30

    Anokhi

    Pick up a light snack or drink. Anokhi is a good spot to browse for souvenirs or grab something small while you have time. It is located in Khan Market and Santushti Shopping Complex, with a discount store in Nizamuddin East Market.

  2. 17:00

    Humayun's Tomb

    Enter Humayun's Tomb. The gardens are immaculately maintained in the Persian Char Bagh style. As you pass through the first gate, you will glimpse the dome of the tomb and enter a floral path leading to the second (West) gate, which now acts as the entrance. The western exposure is key for the upcoming light.

  3. 17:30

    Isa Khan's Tomb

    Find your spot near Isa Khan's Tomb. This bulbous, octagonal structure is the first major building you see on your right upon entering. Position yourself here to watch the golden light hit the red sandstone as the sun begins to dip.

  4. 17:45

    Humayun's Tomb

    Watch the sunset. The sun sets toward the WSW, bathing the complex in warm light. The contrast between the darkening sky and the illuminated white marble and red sandstone is the highlight of the visit.

  5. 18:15

    Khan-i-Khana's Tomb

    Walk to Khan-i-Khana's Tomb for a quieter view. This is a 15-minute walk from the main entrance area, but only 9 minutes from the anchor. It is a more secluded monument built in 1598, offering a peaceful end to the experience away from the main crowds.

Local tip

The site is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Arriving early enough to browse the shops in the nearby Nizamuddin East Market before entering ensures you have time to settle in before the light changes.

Check before you go

  • Humayun's Tomb is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Plan your entry to ensure you have enough time to explore the gardens before closing.
  • Anokhi is located in Khan Market and Santushti Shopping Complex, with a discount store in Nizamuddin East Market (enter gate #9). Check opening hours for these specific shops as they may vary.

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Delhi (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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