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About

Quli Khan’s Tomb, relegated to a pristine, forgotten comer of Mehrauli Archaeological Park, is one of the most stunning tombs in the entire city of Delhi. Quli Khan was a foster-brother to the emperor, Akbar and also a general in his army. The tomb stands in a larger, extensively landscaped and multi layered complex which is a part of the Archaeological Park.

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History

The tomb was built in the  17th century and stands at the edge of the Lai Kot, within the Archaeological Park. It is not known who built the tomb- it could have been commissioned by Quli Khan himself or emperor Akbar (provided Quli died before Akbar’s demise in AD 1605) or his successor Jahangir (ruled AD 1605-28), or even by his mother Maham Anga who possessed great power & command on account of being a second-mother to the emperor. In early 1840s, the tomb was converted into a residence with landscaped gardens, terraces, and guesthouses by Thomas Metcalfe. This weekend retreat was named as Dilkusha (Delighter of the Heart; 1835-53). Within this building certain 19th century features can be seen, such as a small pool, fireplace, etc.

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Historic Name: Quli Khan’s Tomb
Ownership: Public. State Department Of Archaeology/DDA
Function: Tomb, weekend retreat and Stable for Horses
Status: Protected
 

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