Tourist places in and around Agra
Agra Fort
The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra Fort in 1565, AD. although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shah Jehan. The forbidding exteriors of this fort hide an inner paradise. There are a number of exquisite buildings like Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl; Diwan-I- Am, Diwan-I-Khaas, Musamman Burj - where Shah Jehan died in 1666 AD. Jahangir's Palace; Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal.Open : Sunrise to sunset.
Built by Emperor Akbar on the west bank of the river Yamuna and beautified with palaces and gardens by Jehangir, Agra Fort today dominates the centre of the city. The crescent-shaped fort with its 20-metre high, 2.4-km outer walls contains a maze of buildings that form a small city within a city. One can enter the fort only through the Amar Singh Gate. The public access is limited to the southern part of the fort which includes nearly all the buildings of tourist interest. The Diwan-i-Aam (hall of public audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience) were built by Shahjahan for receiving audiences. Jehangir's palace built by Akbar was the largest private residence in the fort. Close to Diwan-i-Khas, stands an octagonal tower known as Musamman Burj. It was here that Shahjahan breathed his last after seven years of imprisonment. Other places to see within the fort include the Khas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal (the mirror palace) and the Anguri Bagh (the Grape Garden).
Within a radius of 3 kilometres, on the banks of the river Yamuna, stands the crescent-shaped Agra Fort. Designed and built by Akbar in 1565 A.D, the fort is surrounded by a 70 feet high wall. It is home to the beautiful Pearl Mosque and numerous palaces including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas and Diwan-i-Am. With four gates, the Fort is enclosed by a double barricaded wall of red sand stone. The Jahangir Mahal is reached through an impressive gateway and its inner courtyard consists of beautiful halls, profuse carvings on stone, exquisitely carved heavy brackets, piers and cross beams.
Agra for most of the time in its medieval history alternated with Delhi as the capital of mighty Mughal Empire. As the city remained for long the capital of Mughal Empire, one can find marvels of this great empire strewn all around the city. Mughals built some of the most enduring and grandest monuments in the world and many of these monuments found their place in Agra. For most of the time Agra alternated with Delhi as the capital of the Mughal Empire. The most famous of these great monuments is undoubtedly Taj Mahal.
Construction of the massive Agra Fort built of red sandstone on the bank of the Yamuna River began by Emperor Akbar in 1565, though additions were made until the rule of his grandson, Shahjahan.
The Agra Fort*** was built by Akbar over 10 years 1564 on the site of the earlier Rajout and Lodi structures. The fort and palaces symbolized Akbar's consolidation of Mughal power in India; until then he had had no base worthy of an emperor.
The entrance isthrough the Amar Singh Gate, the outer defence wall and gate probably added by Shahjahan. The walls bear the marks of English cannon balls, and the drawbridge mechanism is still in place.
In Mughal times, the public entrance was through the Delhi Gate on the west of the fort. From there one passed through a bazaar like that in the Delhi Red Fort, coming out at the Diwani- I- Am. To see things in the right order, walk straight ahead as far as you can go. The Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) was built by Shahjahan after completion of the Taj Mahal and is reputed to be the largest mosque in the world lined totally in white marble. For a variety of reasons you car unlikely to see any more than the red sandstone exterior.
On the left as you leave the Moti Masjid is the purdah bazaarb where women merchants could sell to the ladies of the court. This is overlooked by the empress' marble balcony and the Nagina Masjid.
The Diwan- I- Am, of red sandstone covered with white shell pulp and coated with finest lime giving marble effect, dates from the reign of Shahjahan. His throne was set in the inlaid alcove, flanked by jail (lattice) screens for the ladies, and his wazir occupied the marble dais in front. A sivler rail maked out the space for high- ranking officials. Unlike the Delhi Red Fort the square in front of the Diwan- I- Am is more or less intact. JR Colvin, whose tomb stands in front of the Diwan- I- Am, was governer of the province and died while the fort was under siege in 1857.
The triple arched peacock throne studded withvalueble gems is said to once add to the magnificience of this Mughal court. It was later plundered and taken to Iran by Nadir Shah. This was the assembly hall of public auduence where Mughal emperors held their court for the discharge of justice.
Behind the Diwani- I- Am is the Machchi Bhavan (Fish Palace). The Jats took the marble tanks and waterways in which goldfish swam. In one corner is the triple- domed Nagina Masjid, the ladies' mosque. Akbar brought the large gates between this garden and the purdah bazaar as a trophy from Chittaurgarh. The black marble throne on the terrace belonged to Prince Salim, later Jejangir.
The Diwan- I- khas is again the work of Shahjahan, built in 1635. This white marble pavilion with early inlay work was the emperor's meeting place with ministers and foreign ambassadors. Behind here is the Mina Masjid, probably the smallest mosque in the world, having space for only 18 worshippers, and probably closed as well.
Steps lead down to the private palace. The Musamman Burj or the octagonal tower, where Shah Jahan its creator, with glimpses of Taj in his eyes and the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal in his mind, breathed his last. Here he spent many long years of bereavement. This delightful, though rather battered, suite of rooms later became Shahjahan's prison and was where he died in 1666. The Khas Mahal was a private palce divided from the rest of the zenana by a marble partition. The central pavilion (which may have been the pattern for the Diwan- I- khas in Delhi's Red Fort) was a reception room where the emperor could meet his daughters and the other women of the court. A small section of the ceiling was restored a hundred years ago. The tow gold- roofed pavilions are popularly believed to have been the homes of Jahanara and Roshanara, Shanjahan's two daughters. Niches in the wall were for the ladies jewellery, the access too small for a main's hand.
In front of the Khas Mahal- the Anguri Bagh (Grape Garden) had stone pergolas for vines. The Shish Mahal (Mirror Palace) was a beautifully inlaid Turkish bath, and other underground rooms provided a cool retreat from Agra's searing summer heat. Shahjahan's private apartments are nearby, but the murals have been destroyed and they are of little interest. Return to the main path and walk round to the front of the Jehangiri Mahal.
Despite its name, the Jahangiri Mahal was probably built by Akbar. It is interesting in that its design predates the development of a purely Mughal style. The entrance is angled to slow down any assault and leads into a large courtard. Note the elaborate stone cutting, especially the chajja bracjets. The roof of the hall on the left is supported by serpent- shaped beams, and some of the wall painting survives in the room straight ahead. The huge stone basin on the lawn in front was apparently a wedding present from Jehangir to nur Jahan.
All that remains of the Akbari Mahal, further south, are some rooms along the wall of the fort. The rest of the palace surrounded a large central courtyard, but now there are only now hedges to indicate the walls. Near here are some of the magazines and ammunition hoists installed by the British. A long gun ramp leads from here up onto the ramparts which student s of military architecture will find very interesting.
Few visitors pay much attention to the exterior of the Red Fort, which is a shame, especially as it set the pattern for its successor in Delhi in having a façade of dressed stone on its exterior walls. Flanking the River Yamuna is an outer defence wall, and a moat completed the defences on the other three sides. The gardens around are pleasant, and the gate defences repay some study. This was a much more serious fort than the Delhi one. Folow the wall up to the Delhi Gate, where military buffs will find a tiny piece of history, and on to the Jama Masjid.
This mighty Mughal citadel overlooking river Yamuna was built in red sandstone by akbar between 1565 and 1573. Several additions were made to this architectural wonder by Jehangir and shah Jahan. The fort has four gates and is enclosed by a double barricaded wall of red sandstone. Some of the excellent buildings within the ramparts of the fort are - Moti Masjid - a white marble mosque, Diwan-e-am, diwan-e-Khaas, Musamman Burj - where shahjahan died in 1666, Jahangir's palace, khaas Mahal and shish mahal etc.
Emperor Akbar started constructing this massive fort on the banks of rier Yamuna in 1565. Additions were made to it by his grandson Shah Jahan. The huge walls of the fort stretch for 2.5 km and are surrounded by a 10 m wide moat. Our of the three gates, only Amar Singh gate is open from sunrise to sunset. The forbidding exteriors of this fort hide an inner paradise. There are number of exquisite buildings like- Diwan-e-Am- This hall of public hearing is the palace where the Emperor heard the petitions of the public and met the officials.
Diwan-e-khas- This was the hall of private audience.
Octagonal Tower - It was here that Shah Jahan spent last seven years of this life imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb.
Moti Masjie - Made out of white marble, it is one of the ancient mosques situated in Agra.
Sheesh Mahal - It is a creation of myriad glass pieces and central fountain.
Jajangiri Mahal - It was built by Akbar as women's quarters.
Jehangir Palace - This was built by Akbar for his favorite son Jehangir to provide him with the comfort and luxury inside.
Mina Masjid - It is enclosed on all the four sides by high walls. The marble mosque has three small arches in its façade, which are plain and unadorned.
Machhi Bhawan - Opposite to the Diwan-E-Khas is the machhi bhawan, the fish enclosure.
Anguri Bagh - These 85 square geometric gardens lie to the left of the fort.
Jehangir Mahal
It is an excellent blend of the Hindu and Mughal Architecture. The palace has a hall which is called Jodhabai's dressing room. Jodhabai was Jehangir's Hindu mother. Later the palace was used, by Jehangir's queen, Nur Jahan, the light of the world.Schisti's Tomb
The Gateway buildings leads to the Friday mosque or the Jami Masjid. It is believed to be a copy of the main mosque at Mecca. Nearby is the small white marble tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti. It is ornamented with latticed screens and serpentine brackets. Shahjahan added exquiatie piete dura work later as a mark of resp[ect for the saint. The tomb was built over the exact spot where the holy man sat in meditation during his lifetime. Even, today, childess couples come to the tomb to seek the blessings of Sheikh Salim Chisti.Taj Mahal
Described as the most extravagant monument eve built for love, it was constructed by the Mughal emperor, Shahjahan as a memorial to his queen, Mumtaz Mahal, made out of white marble which took 22 years to complete (1630-1652 AD). Ustad Ahamad Lahori, a Persian architect, is said to be the main designer and planner of this magnificent memorial. The main focus of the Taj Mahal is the white marble tomb that stands on a square plinth. The main chamber houses the cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz.The architectural splendour of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is vivid reminder of the opulence of the legendary Mughal empire, of which Agra was the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries. While its significance as a political center ended with the transfer of the capital to Delhi in 1634 by Shah Jahan, its architectural wealth has secured its place on the international map. A pleasant town with a comparatively slow pace, Agra is known for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are descendants of those who worked under the Mughals. The city is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery and leather shoes.
The Taj Mahal is India's most fascinating and beautiful masterpiece. Set amidst landscaped gardens on the banks of the river Yamuna, this great edifice was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631. Such was Shah Jahan's passion to obtain ultimate perfection that 20,000 people worked night and day for 22 years to achieve it.
After his death, Shah Jahan was placed to rest next to his beloved queen in the same mausoleum. The Taj is enthralling in the quietness of early morning, cloaked in mists, and as the colour changes from soft yellow to pearly cream and dazzling white, it is well worth a visit at different times. A visual delight for viewers over the ages, the monument looks its best on clear full moon nights. It looks its spectacular best in the full moon nights of October, when the skies are clear and the Taj is bathed in moonlight. However, it is a delight even in the radiance of dawn and the orange glow of sunset.
This eternal legacy continues to enchant every person who visits the monument. Graceful curves of marble domes and elegant minarets glow by the light of the moon, pearl-like. Inside, the elaborate inlay work, forming floral patterns like pressed flowers on marble, and large expanses of pure marble leave one astonished.
Edward Lear, the limerick man, wrote, descriptions of this wonderfully lovely place are simply silly, as no words can describe it at all." He's right, so we' ll just give you the facts and let you see for yourself.
The quiet Shahjahan Gardens almost link the Red Fort and the Taj Mahal, a pleasant and relaxing walk. The conservatory in the gardens is worth a visit, and every now and then the domes of the Taj peek enticingly through the trees. Outside the gardens is a rose garden and, over the road, an unusual thatched cottage. Strolling through these gardens is the perfect approach to the Taj Mahal.
History. The story of the Taj Mahal is like a Bollywood epic. Prince Khurram fell for Mumtaz Mahal, the beautiful daughter of his father Jehangir's prime minister. He was mady by his father to marry a Persian princess for reasons of state, but bided his time. Five years passed before he could marry his true love. Then in 1629, only three years after Khurram's accession as the emperor Shahjahan, Mumtaz died bearing their 14th child. In his grief Shahjahan raised over her grave the most famous building in the world.
Design and building. The architect of the Taj Mahal is not known, there being no historical evidence for the various names bandied about. The inspiration presumably came from Shahjahan himself. Usted Ahmed Lahori, who built the Red Fort in Delhi, was certainly involved and, in a project of this size, the rest was probably down to teamwork.
Looking at earlier Mughal tombs it can be seen that there are no new elements at the Taj Mahal. The general shape is very like Humayun's tomb, marble cladding appeared on the tomb of Itimad- ud- Daula, and even the minarets were tried out on the gate of Akbar's tomb. The genius lay in the way they were combined.
Construction began in 1631 and took 22 years. The sandstone came from Fatehpur Sikri, the marble from Jaipur, and semi- precious stones from a wide area. Craftsmen traveled great distances, and 20,000 people toiled to complete the tomb. And they were all paid a fair wage, no slave labour was used.
It is not easy to approach the most highly acclaimed building in the world for the first time. You need a clear mind; walking through the Shahjahan Gardens helps. Don't be like the wretched tourists who march straight up the central path to the shrine. Use the gardens to take your time, sit down if you like, and view calmly.
A teardrop on the face of time. The taj is the most accomplished work of art to which nothing further could have been beed added. Shahjahan's own description of the Taj Mahal is appropriate to a building that inspires awe and arouses strong emotions. The biggest surprise is the sheer size. The white marble plinth is 5.5m high, and the finial on top of the doem 70 m above that. The minarets are 41 m high. Inside the great height and subdued light produce a cathedral- like aura. Your chances of enjoying it in silence are slight. Despite the apparent height the dome above is only half as high as the outer one, there being a large void between the two.
As in all these tombs the occupants are buried, in accordance with Muslim law, seven feet underground. The actual graves are in a vault. Once lined with gold. This has been closed in recent years for security reasons. On the higher level there is a replica of each tombstone so that no- one shall walk over the graves. The superbly inlaid marble screen round the upper tombstones replaces a gold one which Aurangzeb had to liquidate to fund his military campaigns. Mumtaz Mahal's tombstone is in the centre of the building, while Shahjahan's is offset and actually overlaps part of the floor design. This suggests that Shahjahan did not intend to have himself buried here. Old reports say that he planned a black marble counterpart for himself across the river, the two to belinked by a bridge. Alarmed at the further depletion of his inheritance Aurangzeb locked up his father in the Red Fort and, seven years later (in 1666), buried him in the Taj beside his beloved mumtaz.
Although the detailing on the tomb is superb, it is the overall effect that really counts, and it si extraordinary how such a huge building seems almost to float. The apperance varies with the light, so be prepared to make several visits. For four days either side of the full moon the Taj is open until midnight (security permitting), and this is a sight not to be misses.
To the west of the Taj Mahal is a red sandstone mosque for the use of the emperor and his court. Matching it on the other side of the terrace is its jawab, or mirror, whote sole function is symmetry. The Taj Mahal is meant to be seen balanced between these two buildings, impossible today because of unplanned tree growth. A small. Interesting museum occupies the west wall pavilion.
Te environs. Everyone is too exicted to notice the main gate on the way in, so have a good look as you leave; this is a superb piece of work in its own right. Several other tombs and mosques are dotted round the Taj Mahal. The roof of the Fatehpuri Masjid, beside the Taj Restaurant, provides a good view. In the lane outside the east wall is another small mosque, perhaps older than the Taj Mahal, with a quiet garden. The urban area to the south, now known as Taj Ganj, was formerly Mumtazabad and the greatest international market in northern India.
Taj, the icon of India was built by emperor shah Jahan for his beloved wife Arjumand Bano Begum, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1630. This sheer poetry in marble considered by many as the ‘eight wonder of the medieval world; is indeed the most extravagant monument ever made for love. Rabindranath Tagore called it a ‘teardrop glistening on the cheek of time'. A garden laid by Raja Man Singh of ambar, on the banks the river Yamuna was chosen as the site for building the Taj. Its construction started in 1632 and about 20,000 workers toiled for seventeen years to complete the enchanting mausoleum. This image of Islamic garden of paradise is said to have costed nearly 41 million rupees and 500kgs.of gold. A township for the workers was built near the site and was named after the deceased empress - ‘Mumtazabad', now known as Taj Ganj. Unlike other tombs, the Taj is set on one side of the well laid out gardens measuring 300 * 300 metres, in the form of a quadrangular charbagh style, with its square measuring lawns separated by pathways, watercourses emanating from the central raised square pool and rows of fountains. It is set on a 6 metres high marble plinth with four minarets at each corner of the plinth, rising to a height of 41.6 metres and crowned by a chhatri. The minarets are deliberately angled at 88 degress ourwards, so that during any clalmity like, an earthquake, the minarets would fall away from the tomb. The plinth is set on a sandstone platform and is flanked by two identical structures at the far end. The structure to the left is a mosque and its jawab or echo on the other side.
The central bulbous dome of the Taj rising to a height of 44.41 metres rests on an extraordinarily high drum, with four chhatris on the corners. Within the mausoleum is a lofty octagonal central hall and four smaller octagonal halls around ir. Just below the dome, in the centre of the main hall is the cenotaph of Mumtaz Mahal and to its left is the cenotaph of shah Jahan. An ornately carved marble screen inscribed with verses from the holy Koran surrounds the cenotaphs. Both tombs are exquisitely inlaid with semi precious stones. The real tombs lie in the crypt below the central hall and are not for public viewing. The splendid acoustics of the structure are also noteworthy. The Taj is worth more than a single visit as its sublime beauty varies with seasons and of different time of the day. At sunrise the marble acquires a delicate pinkish touch, while in the afternoon it glows in majestic white and in the evenings the colour turns to a soft pearly grey. On full moon nights the glory of the majestic structure is at its best under the soft and subbued moonlight.
Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world. Built entirely of white marble it has been described as a ‘Poem in Marble'. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description.
Today, it stands in all its majesty to gently tell us about Shan Jahan's immortal story of love. Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his clear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal.
The construction of the Taj started in 1631 and was completed in 1653. The construction documents show that its master architect was Ustad Isa Khan, the renowned Islamic architect of his time. Asmany as 20,000 gifted workers from India andCentral Asia were brought to produce the exquisite marble screens and pietra dura-marble screens and pietra dura-marble with inlay work to bring about this'labor of love'. Expert craftsmen from Delhi, Kannauj, Lahore, and Multan were employed. In addition, many renowned craftsmen from Baghdad, Shiraz and Bukhara worked on many specialized tasks.
This Taj stands on a raised, square platform with its four comers truncated, forming an unequal octagon. Its striking central dome is surrounded by smaller domes and its arches are embellished with scriptures from the Holy Quran. Inside finely cut marble screens inlaid with some 43 different types of precious stones shield the two subterranean vaults housing the tombs of Murntaz Mahal & Shah Jahan that lie side by side, as Shah Jahan was finally buried here beside his beloved wife.
Taj Mahal Sheer poetry in marble. Majesty and magnificence, unrivalled. The Taj Mahal, the one and only one of its kind across the world. The monumental labour of love of a great ruler for his beloved queen. The ultimate realisation of Emperor Shah Jehan's dream. From 1631 A.D., it took 22 years in the making. An estimated 20,000 people worked to complete the enchanting mausoleum, on the banks of the Yamuna. For a breathtaking beautiful view of the Taj Mahal, see it by moonlight.
Open : 6 days a week (Closed on Fridays), Sunrise - 7:30 pm.
Gardens
Ram Bagh ----------- The Mughal love for nature can be seen at Agra in the form of Ram Bagh, one of the earliest gardens, laid by the Mughal ruler Babur, in 1528 AD. It is said to have been the resting-place of his body before it was taken away for a final burial in Kabul. It is 2 to 3 KM further north of the Chini Ka rauza on the riverside. Is open from sunrise to sunset. Mehtab Bagh: Situated on the left bank of River Yamuna opposite Taj Mahal, it is basically a garden to be visited especially at Night. Central to the garden was an octagonal pool that held the reflection of the Taj Mahal on a clear moonlit night, thus originating the name.Three kilometres upstream from Itmad-ud-daulah's tomb lies Ram Bagh, one of the earliest Mughal Gardens in the country. The garden was laid out by Emperor Babar, and it is believed that he was buried here temporarily before being permanently interred at Kabul in Afghanistan.
Laid out in 1528 by Babur, this is one of the first Mughal gardens. It is said that Babur was temporarily buried here before being permanently interred at Kabul in Afghanistan. The Ram Bagh is 2 to 3 km further north of the Chini Ka Rauza on the riverside and is open from sunrise to sunset.
The garden was laid down in 1526, by Babur and is one of the earliest Mughal gardens in the country. The mortal remains of Babur were first buried here before permanently interred at Kabul in Afghanistan.
Laid out in 1528 by Babar, this is the earliest Mughal garden. It is said that Babar was temporarily buried here before being permanently interred at Kabul in Afghanistan.
One of the earliest Mughal gardens, it was laid out by Emperor Babar - the founder of the Mughal dynasty. It is said that Babar was temporarily buried here before being permanently interred at Kabul in Afghanistan.
Open : Sunrise to sunset.
Mehtab Bagh or the "moon lit garden"
It was built by shah Jahan on the left bank of Yamuna opposite to the Taj. The Horticulture wing of Archaeological Survey of India have developed a Mughal garden of charbagh pattern, as revealed from the excavations here. A fine view of the Taj can be enjoyed from here.Akbar's Mausoleum
The sandstone-and-marble tomb of Akbar lies in the middle of a garden at sikandra, 4 km from Agra. Akbar inaugurated the construction himself and created a synthesis of Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Jai & Christian motifs and styles, his son, Jehangir, completed the mausoleum. It features three storey minarets at each corner and is built of red sandstone inlaid with white marble abstract patterns.Sikandra takes its name from Sikander Lodi, the Sultan of Delhi during 1488-1517. He built the Baradi Palace in the mausoleum garden.
Itmad-ud-daulah's Tomb
To the north of the fort, on the opposite bank of the Yamuna lies the tomb of Itmad-ud-daulah, built in memory of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, Jehangir's wazir. Also known as the 'baby Taj', it was the first Mughal structure totally built from marble and first to make extensive use of pietra dura. The place is the least visited of Agra's three great monuments.Ghiasud-Din-Beg's tomb was built by his daughter Nur Jahan between 1622-1628 A.D. This white marble structure of the pre-Taj era is often considered equal if not better to the great one itself. Chini-ka-Rauza - Reputed to be an Afzal Khan creation, a high official in the court of Shahjahan, Chini Ka Rauza is decorated by glazed tiles on the facade. It depicts the strong Persian influence on Mughal architecture.
This tomb belongs to the father of Nur Jahan, Ghias-ud-Din Beg. This white marble tomb was built by Nur Jahan between 1622 and 1628. The delicate marble latticework in the passages allows the light to enter the interiors. A similar tomb was built by Nur Jahan for Jahangirin Lahore. This tomb was the first complete Mughal structure made of marble.
This exquisite marble tomb set on the opposite bank of the Yamuna from the Taj was built during 1622-1628, by Bur Jahan /in memory of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. It is the Mughal mounument made of marble nd the first to use ‘Pietra Dura', the inlay work on marble - so characteristic of the Taj - was first used.
Open : Sunrise to sunset. Entry Fee Rs. 10.50
Sikandra (10 km)
In the centre of a peaceful garden at Sikandra, 4 km north-west of Agra, lies the sandstone and marble tomb of Akbar. The mausoleum represents Akbar's philosophy and secular outlook blending Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and Christian motifs and styles.Sikandra, 10 km north west of Agra, is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar. The Tomb of Akbar shows an interesting fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture reflecting the spirit of the Mughal Emperor. Akbar began the construction of his own garden mausoleum during his lifetime, a red sandstone structure in a Char-Bagh, meaning 4-square ceremonial garden.
Surrounded by the peaceful gardens at Sikandra, 4 km north-west of Agra, lies the sandstone and marble tomb of Akbar. The mausoleum represents Akbar's philosophy and secular outlook blending Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and Christian motifs and styles.
Other important monuments in Agra include Rambagh, and Dayal Bagh. The headquarters of Radhaswami sect.
Six miles north of Agra, is a glorious introduction to the city of Mughal wonders, Sikandra. The site of Akbar's mausoleum, Sikandra began during Akbar's reign and was completed by his son, Jehangir in 1613 AD. It reflects the fusion of Hindu and Muslim art and architecture which characterised the era. The tomb is situated in the centre of a large garden and four identical red sandstone gates lead to the tomb complex. The building, with three- storey minarets at each corner, is built of red sandstone, with white marble polygonal patterns inlaid. Sikandra is named after Sikandra Lodi, the Delhi ruler who was in power from 1488 to 1517.
Sikander is the Indian term of Alexander, and Sikandra the site of a city founded by Sikander Lodi, one of the last sultans of Delhi before the Mughal take- over. Situated about 12 kms from Agra, Sikandara is famous for the tomb of Akbar***. This, like the great Mughal Emperor's personality, is gorgeous, magnificient and unique in style. Akbar was responsible for the general design himself, and it is conjectured that he borrowed the form of a Buddhist structure (like the Panch Mahal at Fatehpur Sikri) to symbolise his ecumenism. Jehangir finished the job, and it is to him that we owe thatwhite marble top storey and, more importantly, the main gate with its four minarets.
Akbar was buried in a solid gold coffin, but that was looted by the Jats in 1761 and his remains scattered. The white marble cenotaph on the top level is engraved with the 99 names of God. Legend has it that the Koh- i- Noor diamond once occupied the small marble pillar near the cenotaph.
Take some time to look around the gardens, the waterworks, and the pavilions which bisect the walls. And watch out for the monkeys.
Just to the east outside the main gate is a small beautifully decorated building. Worth a quick look, it is not obvious whether it was a house or a tomb. A little furtheralong the main road is Maryam's Tomb. This baradari, or pavilion, was built in 1495 by Sikander Lodi and became the tomb of Mriam uz Zamani in the following century. Despite the popular belief that she was a Chritian, this wifeof Akbar was actually a Hindu.
This beautiful tomb of Akbar is a fine blend of Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture, representing his philosophy and secular outlook of the great emperor. It was completed in 1613 and is still very well preserved.
Mariyam's tomb
The exauisitely carved red sandstone tomb was built in 1611 in memory of Akbar's goan-Christian wife-Mariyam.This unique tomb in red sandstone was built in 1611 A.D. in memory of Emperor Akbar's Goan-Christian wife - Mariyam. The tomb has some exceptional carvings.
Open : Sunrise to sunset.
Jamka Masjid
This unique mosque was built in 1648, by shah Jahan's daughter, Jehanara Begum commemorating sheikh salim chishti and his grandson Island khan.Palace of Jodhabai
North-east of the mosque is the ticket office and entrance to the old city. The first building inside the gate is a palace, commonly but wrongly ascribed to Jodhabai, Jehangir's Hindu mother and daughter of the Maharaja of Amber. The architecture is a blend of style with Hindu columns and Muslim cupolas. The Hawa Mahal (Palace of winds) is a projecting room whose walls are made entirely of stone lattice work.The Buland Darwaza
The Buland Darwaza or ‘the gate of victory,' was built by Akbar in 1601 in commemoration of this victory over Khandesh and Ahmednagarin southern India. Marble and sanstone have been freely used in the construction of this structure. Various other buildings situated here are all worth a visit not only for their historical importance, but also for the fine architectural work of the Mughal period.Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal literally the Palace of Winds was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, it is shaped like a mukut, or ccrown, which adorns the Lord's head. It has over 900 niches.In the not-too-distant past, ladies of the court found it convenient to watch the activities on the streets below without being observed themselves.
City Palace
This former royal residence is an imposing blend of traditional Rajasthani and Mughal architecture and the craftsmanship. It is the most important landmark of Jaipur, with it's numerous outbuildings, courtyards, impressive gateways and temples. Occupying ine-seventh of the walled city area, the palace house the seven storeyed Chandra Mahal, Mubarak Mahal, the Dwan-i-am and Diwan-i-khas.Govind Devji Temple
To the north of Chandra Mahal in the midst of the sprawling Jai Niwas Gardns is the spireless temple of Lord Krishna. The idol was brought from Vrindavan and installed here by sawai Jai Singh.Jantar Mantar
Built by Emperor Sawai Jai Singh, this observatory at Jaipur is the largest and best preserved. It is equipped with astronomical instruments - carved out of stone, that continue to give accurate information to this day. Its most notable instrument is the Sun Dial.Albert Hall Museum
Opened in 1887 AD, this museum is situated in the middle of the Ram Niwas Garden, it is a very well-maintained and impressive building displaying a rich collection of paintings, carpets, ivory, stone and metal sculpture and other objects.Jal Mahal
A picturesque palace amidst the Man Sagar Lake. It was built for royal duck shooting parties.Kanak Vrindavan A newly restored temple. The landscaped Gardens have made this a popular picnic spot.
Nahargarh Fort (Tiger Fort)
It lies North West of City Palace and Provides some stunning views of the city down below both during daytime and at night. A royal retreat for the Maharanis, it was also used as a personal treasury for many years. Durg, a cafeteria managed by the RTDC, is located in one of the marry courtyards of this fort.Jaigarh Fort (near Amer)
Also know as the Fort a Victory, Jaigarh is a rugged fort built in 1726 by Sawai Jai Singh. It was the royal Treasury for several years. The world's largest cannon on wheel is to be found here.Amer Fort
Amer Fort is a fascinating blend of hindu and muslim architecture. Built in the 16th century by Raja man Singh, it sprawls on the hillside. Built in red sandstone and white marble the palace complex has some very interesting apartments -Jai Mandir, Sheesh Mahal. Sukh Niwas, etc.Jagat Shiromani Temple
The beautifully carved Jagat Shiromani Temple houses the idol of Lord Krishna and is popularly associated with the celebrated saint-poetess Mira Bai.Panch Mahal
Panch Mahal is pillared and is a five storey structure which can be iruly architectural marvel. It was Akbar's personal citadel for pleasure and relaxation. Each storey is smaller than the other. The buildings resemble a Buddhist temple. It tapers from the ground floor with 84 columns to its domed top supported by only four columns.The open five storyed columnar structure used as a pleasure pavilion by akbar is set in the corner amidst the female zone of the palace. If affords a fine view of the palaces below and noted for the stone cut-work walls. Ankh-Michauli, a fine hall is said to be the place where the emperor played hide and seek with royal ladies. Other interesting sites are Diwan-I-Am or Hall of Public Audience; Diwan-I-Khas or the Hall of Private Audiences, an astoishing chamber dominated by a massive carved pillar; Pachisi court, with a gigntic game board on which the game pachisi was played using slave girls; Private Living Quartered around a pool; Mariam's palace; Jodhabai's palace; Hawa Mahal; Jama Masjid etc.
Radhasoami Samadhi, Dayaslbagh
At Dayal Bagh, the headquarters of Radhaswami sect, there is a beautiful white marble temple coming up. The temple has been under construction for almost 100 years now. On a trip to the temple, you can view the pietra dura marble inlay work in process.A must visit complex which is under construction since past 100 years as it is believed that construction work should never end here so as to make it a living monument. Just 15 kms. from Agra, Dayal Bagh (Soamibagh) is a majestic building, 110 feet in height, built of pure white marble. It houses the Samadhi of the founder of Radha Swami faith, 'Swamiji Maharaj'.
The magnificent marble shrine of soamiji Maharaj, the founder of Radhasoami sect lies 2kms. north of Agra. Its construction started way back in 1904 and is still nowwhere near completion, as the builders want to create a mounment to rival the Taj in size and grandeur. It is surrounded by sprawling lawns and is one of the main attractions of Agra.
Jama Masjid
Built in 1648 AD, in memory of Sheikh Salim Chisthi and his grandson Islam Khan by Jehanara Begum, Shahjahan's daughter, the masjid has a wonderful assimilation of Iranian architecture. The building with its rectangular open forecourt, has no minarets but its sandstone domes have a striking marble patterning.Jehanara Begum, daughter of Jehangir, built Jama Masjid in the memory of legendary Sufi saint Salim Chisthi and his grandson Islam Khan.
The Jama Masjid*** is the most important building of Fatehpur Sikri and is often called the glory of Fatehpur Sikri. This is one of the finest and largest mosques in the sub- continent. Its south gate, the Buland Darwaza, was not part of the original design, having been finished in 1575, some three years after the mosque as a whole. It commemorates one of Akbar's campaigns in Gujarat and also symbolises the confidence of a man who finally felt secure in his own realm.
The Buland Darwaza is huge (54 m high) and this posed great difficulties for the architect. Imagine how dull a rectangular structure with just the entrance in the centre would have looked; that is the reason for the chamfered sides, the subsidiary arches and, above all, the detailing on the main face. Take away those three panels of buff sandstone above the arch, or the white border of the red sandstone spandrels, or the rosettes, and you substantially degrade the appearance of the whole. The panels of script are verses from the Koran, superbly drawn by one of Shaikh Salim's disciples. Beside the steps is a deep well which fillagers dive into the entertain visitors.
Many horsehoes are nailed to the gates, perhaps pleas for Shaikh Salim's help with sick animals. On either side of the inner arch are inscriptions, the one on the right recording a visit by Akbar in 1601 after his conquest of the Deccan. The other reads Isa (Jesus), on whom is peace, said: The world is a bridge, pass over it, but build no house upon it. He who hopes for an hour may hope for eternity. The world endures but an hour, spend it in devotion. The rest is unseen. The attendants may let you climb the gateway for a view of the city and especially of the walls to the south.
The Jama Masjid itself was begun in 1567, and construction took five years. The courtyard is considerably larger than that of the Jama Masjid in Delhi. The prayer hall consists of three domed chambers with Hindu- pillared corridors decorated by tile inlay and painting.
After his death in 1572, Sheikh Salim was buried close to his favourite place of meditation, a common practice in Sufism. The beautiful dargah, or tomb, originally constructed in redsand stone but was altered in the time of Jehangir by adding the outer screens and the marble paving of the dais. The marble cladding of the dome and the pavement in front date from the latter part of the 19th century.
The structure of the tomb chamber is of red sandstone, covered with lime and painted all over with flowers. Above the inner door are the 99 names of God, and the Prophet and the four caliphs. The tomb itself is covered by an ebony canopy supported on four pillars, all covered by a mosaic of mother- of- pearl. The white marble screens are very delicate and probably the finest to be seen in India. The marble tracery extends even to the infill of the serpentine chajja brackets.
Belief in Sheikh Salim's power to help childless couples lives on. Each thread on the screens of the inner chamber represents a prayer for a child. At least as many Hindu women (in saris) as Muslim (tight trouser suits) visit the tomb and they all offer the same prasad, an offering of flowers and sweets, as in a Hindu temple. Some of the silk scarves have been brought from Mecca; others are the plain white ones traditional to Tibetan Buddhism. In fact, practice here is a fusion of Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist beliefs. Visitors even make a point of walking around the tomb clockwise, as they would at a Buddist memorial stupa.
The Jamaat Khana (known as the Tomb of Islam Khan) was a monastery for Sheikh Salim's disciples. It was open to all the sects of Islam, and later also to Hindu yogis and Parsi and Jesuit priests. The various tombs belong to Shaikh Hajji Husain, who controlled the Jamaat Khana, the sons and sons- in- law of Shaikh Salim, and of Islam Khan, a descendent of the Shaikh, who is buried under a wooden canopy.
Behind the Dargah and the Jamaat Khana is the north cloister, which became the zenana rauza, or women's tomb. This was originally a meeting place for the sama, a trance- inducing music and dance performance of the kind which gave rise to the expression ‘whirlin dervish'. Return now to the Buland Darwaza to pick up your shoes and exit by the Badshahi Darwaza (Royal Gate); this is the entrance used by Akbar on the way from his palace for prayers.
Jama Masjid, the sacred section of the Fatehpur Sikri. Built in 1572 AD, this is one of the largest mosques of India. It is also known as Darrgah Mosque. It draws upon both Persian & Hindu design and is said to be a copy of the mosque at Mecca.
This building, with a rectangular open forecourt was constructed in 1648 AD by Shah Jehan's daughter, Jehanara Begum in memory of the famous Sheikh Salim Chishti and his grandson Islam Khan. Of particular importance is its wonderful assimilation of Iranian architecture.
Radha Saomi Samadhi, Dayalbagh
The headquarters of the Radha Saomi sect. On the sprawling lawns here, is a beautiful marble temple under construction for almost 100 years now. Open : 8.am to 7 pm. (Entry free upto 15 years age and free for all on Fridays). These monuments are open to visitors everyday throughout the year)Mathura
Built by Emperor Akbar on the west bank of the river Yamuna and beautified with palaces and gardens by Jehangir, Agra Fort today dominates the centre of the city.The crescent-shaped fort with its 20-metre high, 2.4-km outer walls contains a maze of buildings that form a small city within a city.One can enter the fort only through the Amar Singh Gate. The public access is limited to the southern part of the fort which includes nearly all the buildings of tourist interest. The Diwan-i-Aam (hall of public audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience) were built by Shahjahan for receiving audiences. Jehangir's palace built by Akbar was the largest private residence in the fort. Close to Diwan-i-Khas, stands an octagonal tower known as Musamman Burj. It was here that Shahjahan breathed his last after seven years of imprisonment. Other places to see within the fort include the Khas Mahal, Sheesh Mahal (the mirror palace) and the Anguri Bagh (the Grape Garden).
An ancient city which dates back to 1500 BC. Mathura is credited to be the birthplace of Lord Krishna, making it a sanctified land, a popular destination for pilgrims.
Mathura, on the banks of the River Yamuna, is celebrated as the birthplace of Krishna. The groves and ghats of nearby Vrindavan with its thousands of shrines and temples still echo with stories and songs that recount the exploits of this charming god, Lord Krishna.
Govardhan Hill
According to the legends, Lord Krishna lifted this small hillock to save the villagers from torrential rain caused by God Indra. The hillock is located 25 km away from Mathura.Vrindavan
Not far away from Mathura lies Vrindavan (10 km). Most of the childhood of Lord Krishna was spent here. There are scores of temples, memorial stones, shrines, and hermitages of saints and follower's of Krishna. Some of the important spots to visit in Vrindavan are Govind Dev Temple and Rangaji Temple.Just 10 km away from Mathura in Uttar Pradesh, the nucleus of Brajbhoomi, is located north-west of Agra.
Gokul
Gokul, according to Hindu pythons, was the place where Lord Krishna was raised secretly. Gokul is located around 16 km south of Mathura and again a small place full of temples. Some of the important places to visit are Chaurasi Khamba, Utkhal, and Brahmand Ghat.Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake) 23 km
A scenic lake, located within the Surdas Reserved Forest. The Sur Sarovar is a tranquil spot, ideal for a relaxed outing. A wide variety of fish and water-birds add to the lake's natural charm and beauty.Fatehpur Sikri(39km)
Fatehpur Sikri was the imperial city of the Mughal dynasty between 1571 and 1584. Built by the Mughal emperor Akbar, this royal city is one of a kind. The architectural grandeur of this deserted city cannot be described in words and one can only experience the aura of its magnificent edifices by seeing them.The royal city at Fatehpur Sikri, situated 26 miles west of Agra, was also built by Akbar. The buildings at Fatehpur Sikri are a blend of both Islamic and Hindu elements in their architectural style and one of the buildings even reflects the new faith founded by Akbar, Din-e-Ilahi. Fatehpur Sikri is now a World Heritage site. The Panch Mahal or Palace of Five Storeys, and the Buland Darwaza, a massive entrance to the complex, feature among the finest specimens of Mughal architecture.
This magnificent fortified ghost city was the capital of the Mughal; emperor, Akbar between 1571 and 1585. The downfall of this once magnificent capital of the Mughals started with the rise of the Jats when Emperor Aurangazeb left this places never to return again. The credit for presserving the ancient monuments situated here goes to Lord Curzon. Since then, these protected monuments and the environs of the city have been well maintained by the Archaelogical Survey of India. The city is rectangular in shape with nine huge gates-Delhi Darwaza, Lal Darwaza, Agra Gate, Suraj and Chandra Darwaza, Tehra Gate and Ajmeri Darwaza.
Fatehpur Sikri is the best preserved and most impressive of India's ghost towns. After making do for 40 years with hand- me- downs, this was the firtst purpose- built Mughal capital of India, a symbol that they intended to stay rather than return to their Central Asian roots like so many previous invaders.
Emperor akbar visited the small village of sikri in 1568, to seek blessings for a son from the renowned mystic, sheikh salim chisti. He became the father of a son, as foretold by the sufi saint and shifted his capital to sikri to honour the saint and named it as Farehpur sikri. The construction of the new capital city began atop a rocky ridge in 1569 and was completed in 1575. An artificial lake was dug our and construction of magnificent Jama Masjid marked the beginning of the new city. This first planned city in Indo-Islamic style was built around Jama Masjid. The palace courts were laid out paralled to the cardinally aligned mosque and the sequential order of thepalaces were emphasised by change in level. Due to the shortage of water and unrest in north-west, Akbar had to abandon the city after sixteen years. The remains of this ‘ghost' city are still in a perfect state of preservation.
Like the cactus flower that for a moment adorns the desert, so was the town of Fatehpur Sikri, having a brief span of glory. It was abandoned only after 15 years of its construction, due to scarcity of water in the town. This magnificent town was once the capital of Mughal Empire. Here, the beautiful marble tomb of Shelkh Salim Chisthi attracts thousands of people who seek blessing of the reverend saint.
An epic in red sandstone. A city of yesteryears, today lost in the mists of time. Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar during 1564 A.D. A sonless Akbar had gone to Sikri to seek blessings of a muslim saint Sheikh Salim Chishti. When his son was finally born, he in gratitude constructed his capital city and named it Fatehpur Sikri. Later, due to shortage of water and unrest in the north-west, Akbar had to abandon this city. The beautiful marble tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti attracts thousands who seek blessings of the revered saint. Other renowned places are Diwan-I-Am, diwan-I-Khaas, Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, Jodha Bai's Palace and Birbal Bhavan.
Open: Sunrise to sunset. Entry fee Rs. 0.50.
Histroy
In 1568, despite consolidating the Mughal empire, Akbar was a worried man because he had no male heir. Then, a Sufi holy man based at Sikri predicted he would have three sons. Taking no chances, Akbar sent his pregnant queen to stay with the holy man, and the following year Prince Salim, later Jehangir, was born. On the strength of this Akbar decided to build a new capital there, and a city was rapidly constructed in the traditional red sandstone.Ensconced in his own creation, Akbar could indulge the beliefs which made him a truly great man. For a start he removed all the penalties earlier Muslim rulers had applied to Hindus, and gave them equal opportunity at his court. He took much interest on other religions and philosophies, and welcomed all priests and holy men; it was only the bigoted, notably his own mullahs, who really annoyed him. Everntually he synthesised his own eclectic religion, Din- I- llahi (Divine Faith), with himself as spiritual leader. Someof his close followers converted, but thr grip of prthodoxy, whether Muslim or Hindu, prevented any mass conversions. Thus Fatehpur Sikri was Akbar's spritual mind translated into stone.
Only 16 years after its completion, Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned. The reason usually give is failure of the water supply, but political pressures played a larger part. The only major threat to the Mughal empire came from Afghanistan, and Akbar needed to be in Lahore to contain that.
Fatehpur Sikri's isolation has proved its best protection, but it must be borne in mind that the town is not at all as it was built. Few of the hundreds of buildings outside the palace have survived, and others have been altered by later users.
Chini Ka Rauza
Reputed to be an Afzal Khan creation, a high official in the court of Shahjahan, Chini Ka Rauza is decorated by glazed tiles on the façade. If depicts the Persian influence on Mughal architecture.This was constructed by Afzal Khan - a high official in the court of Shah Jehan. Decorated by glazed tiles on the façade, the structure clearly depicts the Persian influence in architecture.
Open : Sunrise to sunset.
Ferozabad
For those interested in glass products, a visit to Ferozabad becomes necessary. Situated about 44 km away from Agra, this industrial city is famous for its glassware. You can buy products such as glass bangles and chandeliers in abundance here.An important handicrafts and industrial center renowned for glassware, especially glass bangles.
Gwalior
The city of Agra is famous world over for the Taj Mahal and millions of tourists from all over the world come here every year to savor the different moods of this magnificent edifice. As Agra was the seat of the great Mughal rulers for many years, it also has a number of historical monuments in and around the city, dating back to the 16th and 17th century.Jaipur
Among all the states of erstwhile princely India, Rajputana is undoubtedly the one with the most martial record - warring factions locked in deadly warfare, thousands of royal ladies consigning themselves to flames preferring death to dishonor. In this land, towering forts were built as much for ostentation as for intimidating the enemy. The city of Jaipur is the prime example of the culture and traditions of this region.Jaipur was founded in 1727 AD by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh and designed by the architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya. Jaipu, is popularly known as the Pink City because of the Pink colour used at the time of making, to create an impression of red sandstone buildings of Mughal cities. Also, the city was repainted pink in 1876 during the visit of Prince of Wales.
Bharatpur
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary 54 km or Keoladeo Ghana National Park -- Also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, India's most renowned water bird sanctuary lying in the neighboring state of Rajasthan, is the winter home of the rare Siberian Crane. Approachable from Agra by road, a variety of accommodation is available, within and outside the National Park. (Season - October to February) The Keoladeo Ghana National Park or-as many people prefer to call it-the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary lies between two of India's most historic cities, Agra and Jaipur. This north Indian sanctuary is situated in the country's northwestern state of Rajasthan, about 190 km from the national capital of Delhi.Aligarh (83 km)
Situated at a distance of 86 km from Agra, Aligarh is famous for being the home to the Aligarh Muslim University. The university was founded by Sir Syad Ahmad Khan in the 19th century. The city is also known for its locks.It is famous for Aligarh Muslim University, founded by Sir Syad Ahmad Khan in the 19th century. The town is also well knownfor manufacturing excellent locks.
Bateshwar (70 km)
Bateshwar, the ‘abode of Lord shiva' set on the west bank of Yamuna, has a number of sacred shrines and bathing ghats. The first temple of Bateshwarnath was built here by Raja Badan singh of Bhadawar inh 1646. Later on, the temple of Thakur Bihari was built by Diwan Bakht singh and the Nikunja Bihari Temple by the Raja of Bhadawar. Shauripur, the ruins of an ancient town located 2 km. north of Bateshwar is said to be the birth place of Lord Neminath, the 22nd Jain tirthankar.A temple town, whose presiding deity is Lord Shiva. A huge cattle fair is organized from mid-October to mid-November. It is also a pilgrimage center for Jains.