Sher Mandal — Attraction in New Delhi

The Sher Mandal is located in the Purana Kila or the Old Fort and derives its name from Sher Shah Suri who was the only Muslim ruler in India who did not splurge his money for personal pleasure and indulgence in the form of lavish buildings and tombs like the Mughals did. Sher Shah was known for his construction of structures that were meant for the consumption of the general public like the renovation of the grand trunk road that runs from Dhaka in Bangladesh to Lahore in Pakistan and extended it up to Kabul in Afganistan. The grand trunk road was originally created in the era of Ashok the Great who ruled around 600 BCE. The other creations of Sher Shah include free lodges called Sarai or Dharamshala for travelers, irrigation canals, water reservoirs, embankments, and colleges. In contrast, the Mughals indulged in plunder or entertainment and wasted most of the time in family feuds for the succession of the throne. I visited the Sher Mandal last month and the ticket for the Old Fort included the entry for this structure that was meant to be a library. Sher Shah twice defeated Humayun who was the son of Babar, the founder of the Mughal Empire. Humayun escaped to Persia and got help from the local ruler and returned to defeat Sher Shah to reestablish the Mughal Emperor. Being a Mughal he obviously had no interest in reading or learning so Humayun converted the library to a recreation center meant for carnal pleasures. One day he fell from the stairs of the Sher Mandal under an overdose of opium and died. Besides Sher Shah Suri the only other ruler of Delhi who created structures that were not meant for pleasure or self-entertainment was Firoz Shah Kotla whose fort is also located only 4 kilometers away in the hustle and bustle of Old Delhi. Firoz Shah Kotla was a Tughlak and his fort too was looted by the greatest of the Mughals Shahjahan to build his own city called Shahjahanabad around the Red Fort of Delhi. Shahjahan also built the Taj Mahal, a tomb for himself and his wife. ♿ Accessibility Features: No=Ramp access. Yes=A wheelchair-accessible Entrance. Yes=A wheelchair-accessible Restroom/Toilet. Yes=A wheelchair-accessible Seating. Yes=A...

Sher Mandal is a beautiful, historic building in Delhi that is a popular tourist destination. The building is a two-story octagonal tower located inside the Purana Qila complex, and is an excellent place to visit.

The building is believed to have been built by Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan ruler who briefly overthrew the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. The tower served as a library and observatory, and its unique design, with its octagonal shape and large windows, is a testament to the skill and creativity of the architects who designed it.

Visitors to Sher Mandal can explore the building's interior, which features several rooms and staircases. The building's walls are adorned with intricate carvings and designs, providing insight into the artistic and architectural traditions of the Mughal and Sur dynasties. The tower also offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area, making it a great place to enjoy the sights and sounds of Delhi.

Sher Mandal is an important building in the history of Delhi, and it played an important role in the development of astronomy and mathematics in India. The library here contains a collection of important texts and manuscripts on these subjects, which is a testament to its historical significance.

In conclusion, visiting Sher Mandal is a must-do for anyone interested in Delhi's history and culture. The building's unique architecture, beautiful carvings and designs, and rich historical significance make it a popular tourist destination for both locals and tourists. The tower offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area, providing an excellent opportunity to take in the sights and sounds of Delhi. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful and tranquil escape, Sher Mandal is an excellent destination that you don't...

A must-visit gem within Purana Qila! Sher Mandal, an octagonal two-storied structure, captivates with its red sandstone and white marble detailing. Built by Sher Shah Suri as a pleasure pavilion, its architecture beautifully reflects the early Mughal style, with intricate jali work and a domed chhatri on top. The blend of Hindu and Islamic design elements is truly a sight to behold. ​The building's history is fascinating, spanning the rule of two prominent dynasties. Initially constructed by the Suri dynasty, it was later used by Emperor Humayun after he recaptured Delhi. This shift from one ruler to another makes the structure a living testament to the tumultuous history of the period. Its purpose also transitioned, from a recreational spot to a personal library for the emperor. ​However, the Sher Mandal is perhaps most remembered for the tragic event that took place here. Emperor Humayun, known for his love of learning and astronomy, used the upper floor as his library. One evening in January 1556, while descending the stairs to answer the call to prayer, he slipped and fell, sustaining fatal injuries. He died three days later. ​This place is more than just a historical ruin; it's a poignant reminder of a great emperor's unfortunate end. Walking up the narrow, steep stairs, you can't help but feel a sense of solemnity. This review is a great way to learn more about the structure's past, and I highly recommend visiting this beautiful and historically significant...