Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah

Located in the historic Nizamuddin West area, the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah is the mausoleum of one of the world's most revered Sufi saints, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya (1238–1325 AD). For over 700 years, this sacred site has served as a beacon of peace, drawing millions of pilgrims and travelers from all faiths, cultures, and corners of the globe.

---

History & Significance

The Dargah was originally commissioned by Sultan Muhammad bin Tughluq shortly after the saint's passing. Over centuries, it has been adorned and expanded by various rulers, including the Mughals. It is the center of the Chishti Order of Sufism, which emphasizes universal love, humanity, and devotion to God through music and poetry.

The complex is a historic necropolis, housing the tombs of several legendary figures:

• Amir Khusro: The "Father of Qawwali" and the saint’s most beloved disciple.
• Jahanara Begum: The daughter of Emperor Shah Jahan.
• Mirza Ghalib: The iconic Urdu poet (located just outside the main complex).

---

What to Expect

1. Soul-Stirring Qawwali

The Dargah is world-famous for its Qawwali sessions—devotional Sufi music performed in the open courtyard. The rhythmic clapping and haunting melodies are believed to be a bridge between the human soul and the Divine.

• When to catch it: Every Thursday evening (post-Maghrib prayers) is the most iconic time, though sessions often happen daily at sunset.

2. Architectural Splendor

The main shrine features a stunning white marble dome with a golden finial, surrounded by intricate jaalis (lattice screens). Devotees tie red and yellow threads on these screens while making silent prayers (mannats), a tradition that creates a beautiful, colorful tapestry of hope.

3. The Sacred Baoli

Tucked behind the shrine is a 14th-century stepwell (Baoli). Legend says the saint blessed the water during a dispute with Sultan Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, and today, many believe the water possesses healing properties.

---

🕒 Visitor Essentials (2026)

Feature	Details
Opening Hours	5:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Daily)
Qawwali Timings	Thursdays: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM & 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Entry Fee	Free
Nearest Metro	JLN Stadium (Violet Line) – 1.5 km away
Key Festival	Sufi Basant (January 23, 2026)

---

Important Rules & Etiquette

• Dress Modestly: Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
• Head Covering: It is mandatory for both men and women to cover their heads inside the shrine area. (Carry a scarf or buy one from the local stalls).
• Footwear: Shoes must be removed at the designated counters before entering the main courtyard.
• Photography: While mobile photography is generally allowed in the courtyard, it is strictly prohibited inside the inner sanctum of the saint's tomb.

---

Explore the Basti

The lanes leading to the Dargah are a sensory explosion. Follow the scent of roasting meat and incense to find:

• Itr Shops: Traditional alcohol-free perfumes.
• Mughlai Delicacies: Famous for Boti Kebabs, Nihari, and Shahi Tukda.
• Rose Petal Stalls: Pick up a basket of fresh roses and a chadar (ceremonial cloth) to offer at the shrine.