Photo: Nandanupadhyay / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
📍 Rohtas, South Bihar, Bihar
The magnificent mausoleum of Sher Shah Suri, the great 16th-century emperor who founded the Sur dynasty and built the Grand Trunk Road. This grand domed tomb of red sandstone stands dramatically on a stone plinth in the middle of an artificial lake, regarded as one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture in eastern India.
The Tomb of Sher Shah Suri at Sasaram is the final resting place of Sher Shah Suri (Farid Khan), who defeated Humayun, ruled North India from 1540 to 1545 and is remembered for administrative and infrastructural reforms, including the Grand Trunk Road.
Completed around 1545, the tomb is an octagonal, domed structure of red sandstone standing on a stepped plinth at the centre of a large square tank. The building rises in tiers, crowned by a great dome, and reflects beautifully in the surrounding water. It is a nationally protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India, often compared favourably with the tombs of Delhi.
October to March, when the weather is pleasant for exploring the monument and lakeside.
Hindu Temples One of the revered Shakti Peethas dedicated to Maa Tara (a form of Durga/Shakti), nestled in a natural cave of the Kaimur hills near Sasaram. According to tradition, the right eye of Goddess Sati fell here. The tranquil hillside setting, with springs and rock outcrops, makes it both a sacred and scenic destination that fills with pilgrims during Navratri.
Nature & Waterfalls A tall, dramatic waterfall in the Kaimur Range near Sasaram whose plunge throws up so much spray that it looks like rising smoke — hence the name 'Dhua' (smoke) Kund. It is a popular ecotourism and picnic spot best seen in the monsoon. Trekking, camping and birdwatching are possible in the surrounding forest.
Nature & Waterfalls A scenic seasonal waterfall in the Kaimur Range near Sasaram, where water cascades over rocky steps into a deep natural pool. A popular monsoon picnic spot surrounded by forest, it lies close to its twin, Dhua Kund. The lush setting and cool spray make it a favourite weekend escape for the Rohtas region.
Forts & Palaces A vast, sprawling hill fort perched high on the Kaimur plateau above the Son river, spread over several kilometres. Rich in Hindu and later Mughalera history, it holds palaces, temples, mosques and gateways amid dense forest. Reaching it involves a steep trek, rewarding visitors with dramatic ruins and sweeping valley views.
