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The Mughal dynasty has proven to be a significant part of Indian history. Not only in history, but they’ve also contributed a lot in shaping our culture and infrastructure. They’ve added diversity to the Indian culture by introducing us to their colorful and vibrant way of life. Mughals have given us a new cuisine and some delicious delicacies, different forms of art, music, and dance. The most important element they’ve brought is the beautiful monuments built in their time. They’re like feathers in the crown of India’s heritage. Mughals have built numerous monuments in almost all parts of India; some were built for expressing love towards their lovers, some have a religious significance, and some monuments are tombs that were built in the memory of a deceased emperor. Also, the best hotels in Sasaram are just a click away.
We’ve all heard of the famous Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which is also a tomb of Mumtaaz Mahal built by Shah Jahan. Humanyun’s Tomb is another example of a beautiful tomb. The Sher Shah Suri Tomb is yet another beautiful monument. As the name suggests, it is the Mughal emperor Sher Shah Suri’s tomb. Alkl those looking to visit the place need to book the best hotel in Sasaram for a memorable experience.
Sher Shah Suri was the founder of the Suri Empire in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent. He took control of the Mughal Empire in 1538. Sher Shah’s empire extended from Bengal to the Indus, excluding Kashmir.
Sher Shah was a benevolent ruler and one of the greatest administrators in Indian history. His contributions have been noted down in history as revolutionary. He is well known for fostering trade and commerce, improving roads and developing infrastructure in those times. During his seven-year rule from 1538 to 1545, he set up new economic and military administration. He set up a strong army and recruited soldiers directly. He made the dispensation of justice much fairer. His strategies were later idealized by Mughal Emperors like Akbar. The tomb built in his honour is one of Sasaram’s tourist places visited frequently by people.
The tomb of Sher Shah Suri is situated in Sasaram in Rohtas district of Bihar state in India. It is located on the Grand Trunk Road, which was built by him. It is an exquisite mausoleum that was built in memory of Emperor Sher Shah Suri, a Pathan from Bihar. Emperor Sher Shah Suri was a significant part of history as he had defeated the Mughal Empire and founded the Suri Empire in northern India in the 16th century. Apart from the historical significance, Sher Shah Suri has changed the architectural pattern in India as his monuments were unique for his time. He was also credited for the introduction of the postal service, and the current system of currency used in India. Book a hotel in Sasaram to visit this place this summer.
Sher Shah Suri was killed on 22 May 1545 during the blockade of Kalinjar fort in Bundelkhand against the Rajputs of Mahoba. When all of Sher Shah Suri’s tactics to conquer the fort had failed, he ordered the walls of the fort to be blown up with gunpowder. But he got seriously injured due to the explosion of a mine, and so he passed away. The construction of the tomb had started when Sher Shah Suri was alive and continued in the reign of his son Islam Shah. Since his demise was so sudden and unforeseen, his son had to complete the construction of the uncompleted tomb. The construction was finally completed three months after his death. Sources say the tomb was built between 1540 and 1545. An inscription dates the completion date as 16th August 1545.
Sher Shah Suri’s tomb is a majestic example of ancient architecture. It has elements of Indo-Islamic architecture which include large open courtyards, high domes, and pillars; it has hints of Afghan architecture as well. This beautiful structure is a three-storied high mausoleum (approximately one hundred and twenty-two feet). It stands proudly in the middle of an artificial square-shaped lake. It is locally referred to as “The Second Taj Mahal” because of its subtle similarities with the globally famous monument. Interestingly, Sher Shah Suri’s tomb is thirteen feet higher than the height of the Taj Mahal in Agra. Sasaram’s tourist places are a symbol of the region’s rich history.
The mausoleum is partly finished with stone and mostly made up of red sandstone. Standing on a square stone plinth on the lake, it is surrounded by domed kiosks, elaborate chhatris at each of its corners, and spacious corridors. Furthermore, there are stepped moorings and stone banks on all sides of the plinth which connects to the mainland through a wide bridge. The main central structure is octagonal and is topped by a dome twenty-two meters in span. Sasaram’s tourist places are packed with surprises when it comes to gaining insights about historical figures.
The interior of the walls and the dome are carved with inscriptions from the Quran. They are decorated with beautiful and elegant floral designs. Large windows on the top portion of the wall provide adequate ventilation and lighting to the interiors of the tomb. Within the tomb chambers, there are twenty-five graves, one of them being Sher Shah Suri’s. Sher Shah Suri’s grave is surrounded by twenty-four of his nationals. Aslam Shah, who was the son of Sher Shah Suri, also has his tomb placed close to his father’s.
Outside, one can see a beautiful walkway that links the tomb with the guardroom. The verandah is covered by 24 small domes, and each of these domes is supported by arches. Each corner of the verandah supports a cupola.
The exterior of the tomb was originally glazed and painted with red, white, blue, and gold. One can only imagine how beautiful the tomb must’ve looked in its prime. Traces of these colors can still be seen on the parapets and ramparts. The surrounded ornamental domed kiosks by the tomb were once covered with colored glazed tile work. It was designed by a renowned architect named Mir Muhammad Aliwal Khan. Book a hotel in Sasaram to enjoy a trip down memory lane.
Sher Shah Suri’s Tomb is open every day of the week. Entry is allowed from 10:00 in the morning to 5:00 in the evening. Book a hotel in Sasaram to visit this place and gain a slice of history.
The ticket price for visiting Sher Shah Suri Tomb is very cheap and affordable for all. The ticket is priced at Rs 5 per person for Indians, Rs 100 per person for foreigners, and free of cost for children less than fifteen years of age.
The temperature of Sasaram in summers rises to a maximum temperature of 38 °C and the minimum temperature being 28 °C. In winters, the maximum temperature is 20 °C and the minimum is 18 °C. The Winter season would be a pleasant time to visit this mausoleum. If one is visiting the tomb in the summers, the best time to visit is in the morning and evening to avoid the scorching heat. In winter, it is advisable to visit the tomb at noon as it won’t be cold at that hour. Hotels in Sasaram are easy to find and equipped with the best facilities.
You can travel to Sasaram to visit Sher Shah Suri Tomb by train or by road. The Sasaram railway station is just 0.8 kilometers away from Sher Shah Suri Tomb. You can arrive at Gaya, Bihar by flight and drive down to Sher Shah Suri Tomb by car or taxi. The distance is approximately one hundred thirty-two kilometers which is approximately a three-hour drive.
Apart from the majestic Sher Shah Suri Tomb, there are some other attractions nearby if one is interested to explore more. Some of them are listed below:
It is a temple dedicated to Maa Durga or Maa Tara in Sasaram. It is 4.9 kilometers away from Sher Shah Suri Tomb. This temple is one of the fifty-two Shakti Peethas. This small temple offers a divine experience along with serenity and peace. You can simply sit there for hours and feel positive energy surrounding you. Book a hotel in Sasaram today to visit this temple.
It is a temple dedicated to Sai Baba in Sasaram. It is 2.6 kilometers away from the Sher Shah Suri Tomb. The Sai Baba Mandir witnesses numerous devotees visiting it each year.
This 17th-century attraction is dedicated to Hasan Khan Sur, the father of Sher Shah Suri. It has a charming architectural design. People say that a tunnel connects the tomb to the Mausoleum of Sher Shah Suri. One of the best places to visit in Sasaram, this place is a delight for all visitors.
We can never say no to nature. You can visit Tons Falls for a booster dose of serenity and natural beauty. Pack a lunch and enjoy a family picnic by the falls or go for a dip in the cool waters. Tons Falls will delight you to the core. This is one of the best places to visit in Sasaram
This beautiful place serves as a famous picnic spot for the locals. The Dhua Kund is a small yet locally popular palace. Its surroundings are just as charming.
A trip to Sasaram can indeed be a highly spiritual one. Yet, you can add a pinch of historical wonder with the magnificent Sher Shah Suri Tomb. Plan a trip and let us know about your experience!
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April 15, 2024 
