The tomb of Isa Khan Tarkhan II at Makli Necropolis, near Thatta, is one of the few two-storey stone mausoleums on the site. The ruler died in 1651, and the building that carries his name has walkways on both levels, large arched entrances and a stone dome that may be among the first true domes built in stone in the region. If you only have time for a few monuments among Makli's thousands of tombs, this is the one to make sure you find.
This short guide explains what makes it different, what to look at when you get there, and how to fit it into a day. For the wider site, see our Makli Necropolis guide.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Where | Makli Necropolis, Thatta, Sindh |
| Who | Isa Khan Tarkhan II, a Tarkhan ruler, died 1651 |
| Built | Sources give the mid-seventeenth century; a local story says in his lifetime |
| Material | Carved stone (sandstone) |
| Notable for | Two storeys, stone dome, carved balconies and columns |
| Time needed | 20 to 30 minutes |
Who was Isa Khan Tarkhan II?
The Tarkhans were a dynasty that ruled Sindh from Thatta after the Arghuns, before it passed to the Mughals. The name is easy to confuse, because two rulers are called Isa Khan Tarkhan and both are buried at Makli. The first, who founded the dynasty and came to power in 1554, died in 1565 and lies in a large enclosure with carved walls and arched panels. The second is the one with the two-storey tomb, and the Pakistan government's heritage listing dates his monument to 1651.
Because names and dates are spelled and written differently in different sources, expect to see "Mirza Isa Khan the Younger" or "Isa Khan Tarkhan-II" on signs and guidebooks. They refer to the same tomb.
What makes it stand out
Most Makli tombs are single-storey structures, either square with a dome or open enclosures with carved walls. This one is different in several ways.
- Two levels. The building has walkways on both storeys, supported by square columns with capitals in the local Tarkhan style. Cupolas and balconies give it an almost domestic scale, more like a small palace than a grave.
- A stone dome. Its large dome is described in the official listing as possibly among the first true domes built in stone.
- Arched entrances. Large arched openings face outward, and the tomb stands on a raised plinth in its own enclosure with entry on all four sides.
- Dense carving. The whole structure is heavily ornamented, and it is worth walking around it slowly to see the change in patterns from one face to the next.
Makli as a whole shows Muslim, Hindu, Persian, Mughal and Gujarati influences, and this tomb belongs firmly to that mixed tradition rather than to any one of them.
The legend of the craftsmen
A story told at Makli, and repeated in Wikipedia's article on the site, says that Isa Khan had the tomb built during his lifetime, and that when it was finished he ordered the craftsmen's hands to be cut off so they could not build a rival. There is no evidence for it that we could find, and it is best treated as a story that guides tell rather than as history. It is still worth knowing because you will probably hear it on site.
How to find it and what to do there
Makli covers about 10 square kilometres,, so agree the route with a guide or driver, or ask the caretakers. Sources give varying opening hours for the site, one quoting 8 am to 7 pm in summer and 9 am to 6 pm in winter, so confirm locally on the day. Entry for Pakistanis is generally reported as free, though rules for foreign visitors have been quoted differently; carry cash for any fees and tips.
Tips for the visit:
- Go in the morning or late afternoon. The stone is at its best in low light, and there is almost no shade.
- Bring water and a hat. The site is open ground.
- Climb carefully. Steps and edges are worn, and some areas are fenced or off-limits. Follow the caretaker's instructions.
- Look closely, do not touch the carving. Rubbing and climbing on ornament speeds up damage.
Our Makli photography guide has ideas on light and angles. If you are coming for the day from Karachi, our Thatta day trip guide and guide to places to visit in Thatta show where this fits. See also the destinations page for the wider Sindh picture.
Is it worth the walk?
Yes, if you are already at Makli. It is the easiest tomb on the site for a non-specialist to enjoy, because it looks like a building rather than a grave. It is less suited to anyone who expects interpretation panels or a visitor centre: information on site is limited, so read up beforehand.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Isa Khan Tarkhan II tomb built?
Sources date it to 1651, the year the ruler died, though a local story says it was built in his lifetime.
Why is Isa Khan Tarkhan's tomb famous?
It is a two-storey stone mausoleum with walkways, balconies and a large stone dome, which is unusual among Makli's monuments.
Where is the Isa Khan Tarkhan tomb?
Inside Makli Necropolis, near Thatta in Sindh, on the National Highway from Karachi and Hyderabad.
Is there an entry fee?
Reports vary for the site as a whole. Bring cash, and pay what is posted at the gate.
Are there two Isa Khan tombs at Makli?
Yes. Isa Khan Tarkhan I, who died in 1565, and Isa Khan Tarkhan II, who died in 1651, are both buried at Makli.
