Shish Gumbad is a square Lodhi-era tomb in Delhi’s Lodhi Gardens, near Bara Gumbad. Its name means “glazed dome,” recalling the blue tiles that once covered parts of its exterior. Look for the carved stonework, plaster floral designs on the ceiling and the mihrab in the western wall, which served as a prayer niche. Several graves lie inside, but their occupants are unidentified; the suggestion that one may be Sultan Bahlul Lodi remains uncertain. The surrounding garden makes it easy to add the tomb to a longer walk.
A Lodhi-era tomb
Shish Gumbad stands within Lodhi Gardens, close to Bara Gumbad. It is a square tomb associated with the Lodhi dynasty, thought to have been built between 1489 and 1517. The exact date and purpose are not settled, and the people buried inside have not been identified.
One possible identification links a grave to Sultan Bahlul Lodi, founder of the dynasty, but this remains speculation. The monument may have held the remains of members of an important family or court figures; the available evidence does not establish who they were.
Tiles, plasterwork and the prayer niche
The name Shish Gumbad means “glazed dome” and refers to the blue glazed tiles that once decorated the exterior. The structure has a square plan and a double-storey external appearance. Inside, look for floral designs worked into the plaster ceiling and the mihrab, a niche indicating the direction of prayer, in the western wall. That wall served as a mosque.
Several graves occupy the interior. The original tilework and decorative details give the tomb its distinctive character, though the identity of those buried here remains unknown.
Adding it to a Lodhi Gardens walk
Shish Gumbad is one of several historic structures within Lodhi Gardens. Its position near Bara Gumbad makes it straightforward to include both monuments in the same visit. The gardens provide a setting for a longer walk between the tombs, and early morning or late afternoon is suggested for a quieter visit.
A guide can help explain the monument’s uncertain history and architectural details. Take time inside to look at the ceiling and the western wall, then continue through the gardens to see the other structures.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Shish Gumbad?
It is in Lodhi Gardens in Delhi, near Bara Gumbad.
Who is buried in Shish Gumbad?
The graves inside have not been identified. One may belong to Sultan Bahlul Lodi, but that identification is uncertain.
When was Shish Gumbad built?
It is thought to date from between 1489 and 1517, though the exact date is not established.
What does Shish Gumbad mean?
The name means “glazed dome” and refers to blue glazed tiles that once decorated the tomb’s exterior.
