Chaurasi Gumbad

Chaurasi Gumbad is located in the Jalaun district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It's named after the 84 domes that are arranged in a rectangular shape on top of a platform. (84 is CHAURASI in the Hindi language.)

It is believed to have been built in the 15th century during the reign of the Sharqi dynasty, who ruled the region of Jaunpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh. It is located in the small town of Orai, near the banks of the Betwa River.

Originally a mausoleum, it was built as the resting place for a local Sufi saint. Over the years, it has been used for a variety of purposes. During the 18th century, it was converted into a military garrison. Later, during the British Raj, it was used as a granary.

One of the most interesting features of Chaurasi Gumbad is the intricate stonework and carvings that adorn the exterior of the monument. The columns and arches are decorated with intricate designs and patterns, featuring floral motifs, geometrical shapes, and calligraphy.

The domes of Chaurasi Gumbad are arranged in a rectangular shape, with 21 domes on each of the longer sides and 21 on each of the shorter sides. The domes are supported by columns and arches, creating a stunning architectural effect. The interior of the monument is relatively simple, with a large central chamber surrounded by smaller chambers.

In a walled courtyard, Chaurasi Gumbad has 84 domes and is a square nine-dome structure with two graves under the central dome. This gumbad is most likely from the late 15th or early 16th century. One of the Lodi sultans' tombs is thought to be housed in this Islamic structure. It has 84 arched doors. The entire structure is made of stone blocks and is divided into square spaces like a chessboard by eight lines of pillars that are connected by arches and have a flat roof on top. The structure has a 60-foot-tall dome. It is along NH 25 in the direction of Orai, which is west of old Kalpi. Kalpi was referred to as Kalpriya Nagari in earlier times. As time elapsed the name of the city was truncated to Kalpi. The city of Kalpriyanagari, in ancient India, had a sun temple that was as big as a football field or bigger. It was in fourth century that Ruler Vasudeva established Kalpi.

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve and restore the tomb. The local authorities have undertaken several initiatives to clean the monument and improve the surrounding area.