Top 8 Best monuments in Agra, a city steeped in history, is home to some of India’s most iconic monuments. Foremost among them is the Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is a symbol of eternal love.
Another significant monument is the Agra Fort, also a UNESCO site. This majestic red sandstone fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors and houses beautiful structures like the Jahangir Palace, Khas Mahal, and the Diwan-i-Khas.
The Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often called the “Baby Taj,” is an exquisite marble structure that predates the Taj Mahal and showcases early Mughal architecture.
Mehtab Bagh, a garden complex across the Yamuna River, offers stunning views of the Taj, especially at sunset.
Also worth visiting is Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, a blend of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, and Jain architectural styles, reflecting the emperor’s secular vision. Agra’s monuments narrate tales of love, power, and artistic brilliance.
Taj Mahal: The Symbol of Love
The Taj Mahal in Agra is one of the most celebrated monuments in the world, symbolizing eternal love. Commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, it was built in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. This stunning mausoleum took over 20 years to complete and involved thousands of artisans and craftsmen.
Made of shimmering white marble, the Taj Mahal is renowned for its symmetrical design, intricate carvings, and inlay work using precious stones. Its central dome rises majestically above the tomb, flanked by four slender minarets that enhance its grandeur.
The monument is set within a vast Mughal garden, reflecting the Persian style of Charbagh, with a long reflecting pool that mirrors its beauty. The changing hues of the Taj, from pinkish in the morning to golden under moonlight, add to its charm.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal is not just a masterpiece of architecture but also a profound symbol of love and devotion that draws millions of visitors every year.
Agra Fort: The Red Fort of Agra
The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most significant historical monuments in Agra. Built primarily with red sandstone by Emperor Akbar in 1565, it served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital shifted to Delhi. This majestic fort is a fine blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles and reflects the power and grandeur of the Mughal era.
Enclosed by massive 70-foot-high walls, the fort houses several impressive structures, including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the Khas Mahal. The beautiful Musamman Burj, where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, offers a stunning view of the Taj Mahal.
Agra Fort was not only a military base but also a royal residence and a center of governance. Its labyrinth of palaces, halls, and courtyards tells the story of an empire at its zenith. Visiting Agra Fort offers a deep insight into the rich heritage and history of the Mughals.
Fatehpur Sikri: The Abandoned Mughal City
Fatehpur Sikri, located near Agra, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most remarkable examples of Mughal architecture in India. Built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century, it served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for about 14 years. The city was constructed in honor of the Sufi saint Salim Chishti, whose blessings Akbar believed led to the birth of his son, Jahangir.
The architecture of Fatehpur Sikri is a unique blend of Persian, Indian, and Islamic styles, showcasing Akbar’s vision of religious harmony. Major attractions within the complex include the Buland Darwaza (Gate of Magnificence), Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and the Tomb of Salim Chishti, which is known for its delicate marble lattice work.
Although abandoned due to water scarcity, Fatehpur Sikri remains well-preserved and offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal court. Its historical significance and architectural brilliance make it a must-visit destination near Agra.
Itimad-ud-Daulah: The Baby Taj
The Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb in Agra is often referred to as the “Baby Taj”, as it marks a significant shift in Mughal architecture that later influenced the construction of the Taj Mahal. Built between 1622 and 1628 by Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, it is the mausoleum of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, who held the title “Itimad-ud-Daulah” (Pillar of the State).
This elegant structure is the first Mughal tomb built entirely of white marble, adorned with intricate pietra dura inlay work using semi-precious stones. The tomb stands on a raised platform and is surrounded by a beautifully laid-out Persian-style charbagh (four-part garden).
Unlike earlier Mughal tombs, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s design is more delicate and ornate, with fine lattice screens, floral motifs, and geometric patterns enhancing its charm. The use of light and shadow gives it an ethereal quality, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Peaceful and less crowded than the Taj Mahal, this tomb offers a serene glimpse into Mughal art, love, and legacy.
Mehtaab Bagh: The Moonlit Garden
Mehtab Bagh, meaning “Moonlight Garden,” is a beautiful garden complex located on the northern banks of the Yamuna River, directly opposite the Taj Mahal in Agra. Originally built by Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, Mehtab Bagh was later restored by Emperor Shah Jahan as a perfect viewing point for the Taj.
The garden is laid out in the Charbagh style, a traditional Persian garden design with symmetrical pathways, water channels, and lush greenery. It was strategically aligned with the Taj Mahal to offer a mirror-like view of the monument, especially during moonlit nights, making it a romantic spot and a favorite among photographers.
Mehtab Bagh also plays an important ecological role, acting as a buffer zone to protect the Taj Mahal from river erosion. During the rainy season, the Yamuna floods parts of the garden, creating reflections of the Taj that are truly breathtaking.
With its peaceful ambiance, panoramic views, and historical significance, Mehtab Bagh is a must-visit for anyone exploring the beauty of Agra.
Akbar Tomb (Sikandra): A Mausoleum of Grandeur
The Tomb of Akbar the Great, located in Sikandra, on the outskirts of Agra, is a magnificent mausoleum dedicated to the greatest of Mughal emperors, Akbar. Construction began during Akbar’s lifetime around 1605 and was completed by his son Jahangir in 1613. This architectural marvel reflects Akbar’s vision of unity and secularism, combining elements of Islamic, Hindu, Christian, Jain, and Buddhist styles.
The tomb is set within a sprawling 119-acre garden, laid out in the classical Charbagh style. The gateway to the complex is grand and intricately decorated with inlay work and calligraphy. The main tomb building, made of red sandstone and white marble, features elegant minarets, arches, and detailed carvings.
Unlike other Mughal tombs, Akbar’s cenotaph lies in a simple open courtyard, symbolizing his humble and philosophical nature. The complex also houses the tomb of his wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani, nearby.
Peaceful and less crowded, the tomb offers a serene experience and stands as a timeless tribute to one of India’s most visionary rulers.
Jama Masjid In Agra: A Majestic Mughal Mosque
The Jama Masjid in Agra is one of the largest and most impressive mosques built during the Mughal era. Constructed in 1648 by Shah Jahan and dedicated to his daughter Jahanara Begum, it stands opposite the Agra Fort’s Delhi Gate, near the Agra Fort railway station. Known for its immense size and architectural elegance, the mosque remains a prominent landmark in the city.
Made primarily of red sandstone with intricate white marble detailing, the Jama Masjid features a large courtyard, a beautiful central dome, and three grand entrances. The mosque’s façade is adorned with delicate calligraphy, floral motifs, and geometrical patterns, showcasing the finesse of Mughal artisans.
The prayer hall is supported by several arches and has a mihrab indicating the direction of Mecca. Despite centuries of history, the mosque continues to function as a place of worship and is visited by both devotees and tourists.
The Jama Masjid of Agra represents the grandeur of Islamic architecture and reflects the cultural and spiritual richness of the Mughal era.
Chini Ka Rauza: A Monument of Persian Influence
Chini Ka Rauza is a lesser-known yet architecturally significant monument in Agra, located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, just a short distance from the Taj Mahal. It was built in 1635 and serves as the tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi, a Persian poet and the Prime Minister of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
The monument is named “Chini Ka Rauza” due to its unique use of glazed ceramic tiles—called chini in Persian—imported from China. These vibrant, colorful tiles, in shades of blue, green, yellow, and turquoise, decorate the façade and give the tomb its distinct charm.
Chini Ka Rauza stands out for its Persian-style architecture, with its square-shaped structure, bulbous dome, and intricate tile work. Although time and weather have worn down much of its original glory, traces of the brilliant craftsmanship still remain.
Set amidst peaceful surroundings with views of the Yamuna, this monument offers a serene and offbeat experience for those interested in history, art, and Mughal-era elegance.
