Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam

About this place

The Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam is the shrine of the 14th-century Sufi saint Shah Rukn-e-Alam in Multan, Punjab, at the north-western edge of Multan Fort. It is considered the earliest example of Tughluq architecture and one of the most impressive shrines in the Indian subcontinent. More than 100,000 pilgrims come to its annual urs, and its white dome rises above the whole city. It was built between 1320 and 1324 by Ghiyath al-Din Tughluq, before the Tughluq monuments of Delhi. He built it while governor of Dipalpur, likely meaning it as a tomb for himself before he became emperor of the Delhi Sultanate. It later became the resting place of Shah Rukn-e-Alam. From outside you see an octagonal building of red brick with sloping towers at the corners, bands of blue and white tile, and a large white dome above. Inside is a tall hall where the dome looks vast from below. This is a sacred place for many visitors, so be respectful and keep your voice down. It is about 7 km in a straight line from central Multan and easy to reach by taxi. Dress modestly, women should cover their hair, and take off your shoes. Avoid the urs days unless you are a pilgrim, as crowds are heavy.