SHEIKH CHILLI'S TOMB (MAUSOLEE OF THE SHIKH CHILLI)

This imposing mausoleum is that of the Sufi saint Aabd ul-Razak, better known as Sheikh Shehli (pronounced Chilli). The vast structure also includes a madrasa (Koranic school), a mosque and Mughal gardens. Sheikh Chilli was reportedly the spiritual tutor of Mughal Prince Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Emperor Shahjahan.

The tomb. This ^{seventeenth-century} tomb, octagonal in shape, stands on a huge terrace overlooking the madrasa. The base is made of polished sandstone while the pear-shaped dome that dominates it is made of white marble. Access to the cenotaph is through the small doorway on the south side. As always in these tombs, the tomb is placed in a chamber in the basement, which is connected to the madrasa by a narrow gallery. The complex includes another tomb, which is believed to be that of the holy man's wife.

The madrasa. The madrasa overlooks a square courtyard laid out as a Mughal garden. Four flowerbeds surround a central pool. Each facade of the madrasa is pierced by nine arches.

The mosque. Built in red sandstone, its roof rests on pillars decorated with bas-reliefs with floral motifs. The Qibla, in the center of the western wall, the direction of Mecca, is framed by two niches in which are inscribed verses of the Koran.

The Mughal gardens. Surrounding the complex, these pleasant gardens are very popular with the locals. One can see the ruins of an ancient caravanserai, a kind of inn for merchants and travelers.