Uttar Pradesh, India

Agra Fort

Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

9/10

Best time: October-March

3 hours

Hey adventurers! Get ready to explore Agra Fort, a super cool palace in Agra! Back in the day, it was also known as 'Lal Qila' or 'Red Fort'. Imagine emperors and empresses walking through these very walls! Built by the Mughals, it's packed with amazing history and stunning architecture. Get ready for a royal adventure!

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Monument

Palace

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In Jaipur

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Top Activities in Agra Fort

1
Admire Khas Mahal
2
Capture Stunning Photographs
3
Explore Mughal Architecture
4
Learn About Mughal History
5
See Diwan-I-Aam
6
View Taj Mahal From Fort
7
Visit Jahangiri Mahal
8
Walk Along Ramparts

Detailed Information

Best Time to Visit

October-March

When to visit place on the day

All-Day

Approximate expense

₹1,000 per person

History

Agra Fort, initially a brick fort held by the Lodhi dynasty, was captured by Babur in 1526, marking the beginning of Mughal rule. Akbar significantly rebuilt the fort using red sandstone, adding palaces and other structures. Subsequent emperors, including Jahangir and Shah Jahan, further embellished it with marble and precious stones. Shah Jahan, ironically, was later imprisoned in the fort by his son Aurangzeb, spending his last years gazing at the Taj Mahal. The fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until 1638 when the capital shifted to Delhi. It later fell to the Marathas and then the British before becoming a prominent tourist destination.

Other Places to Explore in Agra

9/10

The Shish Mahal (The Glass Palace)

Sheesh Mahal, meaning 'Palace of Mirrors', is an exquisite part of Agra Fort. Its walls and ceilings are intricately inlaid with thousands of tiny mirrors that create a dazzling spectacle when illuminated. The hall was used by Mughal royalty as a summer retreat. The reflective surfaces would shimmer in the candlelight, creating an illusion of stars and offering a cool respite from the summer heat. The lower level, once a dressing room, features fountains and channels that likely provided cooling water. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the intricate glasswork, makes Sheesh Mahal a truly mesmerizing experience.

1 hour

Morning

₹500

Admire the intricate mirror-work

Explore the royal bath area

8/10

Soami Bagh Samadh

Soami Bagh Samadh, also known as the Dayalbagh Radhasoami Samadh, is a unique and impressive monument located in Dayalbagh, a suburb of Agra, India. It serves as the mausoleum of Huzur Swami Maharaj, the fifth revered leader of the Radhasoami Faith. The structure is remarkable for its intricate and ornate marble carvings, showcasing a blend of various architectural styles. Visitors are often captivated by the sheer scale of the monument and the delicate artistry displayed throughout. The surrounding gardens offer a serene and peaceful environment, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The ongoing construction adds another layer of interest, as artisans continue to meticulously carve and embellish the marble.

2 hours

Morning

₹200

Admire the intricate marble carvings

Explore the peaceful gardens

9/10

Tomb of Akbar

Akbar's Mausoleum is a magnificent Mughal tomb located in Sikandra, Agra, housing the remains of Emperor Akbar the Great. The tomb showcases a blend of architectural styles, incorporating Hindu, Islamic, Christian, and Buddhist influences, reflecting Akbar's religious tolerance. The four-tiered structure is built primarily of red sandstone and features intricate marble inlay work, exquisite carvings, and beautiful gardens surrounding the main tomb. Visitors can explore the various chambers, courtyards, and gateways, admiring the detailed craftsmanship and grandeur of the complex. The peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

2 hours

Morning

₹500

Admire the intricate carvings

Explore the tomb's architecture

8/10

Diwan-i-Am

Diwan-i-Am, meaning Hall of Public Audience, is a magnificent structure located within the Agra Fort complex. It served as the place where the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan would address his subjects and hear their grievances. Constructed primarily of red sandstone, it features intricate carvings and impressive pillars. The central highlight is the raised platform, once adorned with the legendary Peacock Throne, where the emperor held court. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of the hall, imagining the scenes of bustling activity and royal pronouncements that once took place within its walls. The Diwan-i-Am offers a glimpse into the Mughal empire's administrative and social dynamics.

1 hour

Morning

₹500

Admire the intricate carvings

Explore the hall's architecture

8.5/10

Wildlife SOS - Elephant Conservation and Care Center

Wildlife SOS in Agra is a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating sloth bears, previously exploited for dancing. Visitors can witness these bears enjoying their natural behaviors in a safe and enriching environment. The center offers educational tours that provide insights into the cruel practice of dancing bears and the organization's efforts to protect them. Learn about the bears' individual stories, their rescue, and the ongoing care they receive. The facility also houses elephants rescued from similar situations of abuse and neglect.

2 hours

Morning

₹500

Learn about bear rehabilitation

Observe rescued sloth bears