The Agra Moti Masjid was built by the very powerful emperor and a connoisseur of art famously called Shah Jahan. During the rule of Shah Jahan the Mughal emperor, numerous architectural wonders were built. Today most of these are the feast for the eyes. However coming back to the Moti Masjid it can be said that Moti Masjid earned the epithet Pearl Mosque for it shined like a pearl. It is held that this mosque was constructed by Shah Jahan for his members of royal court.
Started in the year 1648, the mosque took six years to be completely finished. The darbar hall or the Diwan-i-Aam is to the left of the mosque and this is where the emperor held his court (darbar) for the common people of his kingdom. The ground of the mosque slopes down from the east to the west. The mosque is made of red sand stones and the three domes on top are made from white marble making it all the more adorable. Like all of the Mughal-era monuments this place too has a symmetrical design. There is a line of domed kiosks which are very much inspired from the Hindu architecture.
Moti Masjid is very well connected by all means of transport. Moti Masjid is just 8 kms from the city Airport and is in close proximity to the city center. Located within the Agra Fort complex, Moti Masjid can also be reached via bus services which run from the Power House Bus Stand. People travelling on their own must take the State Highway 39 to reach Moti masjid. Exit the roundabout and drive on to the SH 62 for 650 meters. Take a roundabout at the 1st exit which will be after another 650 meters. The destination will be on the left.
The best time to visit the Taj Mahal is in the autumn, winter and spring months from October to February. The peak summer months of May to July are best avoided because of the hot weather. The months of October and November, after the monsoon, offer the sight of the Taj at its mesmerising best, as the gardens are lush with greenery and the Yamuna river flows proudly past the Taj Mahal, swollen with post-monsoon rain. Both these factors enhance the overall experience of viewing the Taj Mahal.
