Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Closed on Fridays
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Entry Fee:
- Development Authority: INR 5
- SAARC/BIMSTEC: INR 25
- Toll Tax (Agra Development Authority): INR 10
- Other Foreigners: INR 110
- Children (up to 15 years): Free
Tips:
- If you buy the INR 500 toll ticket for the Taj Mahal, you don’t need another toll ticket for Akbar's Tomb on the same day.
- Be mindful of monkeys in the area and secure your belongings.
Overview
The Tomb of Akbar, located in Sikandra on the outskirts of Agra, is the final resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Built between 1605 and 1618, the tomb spans 119 acres and blends sandstone and marble in a stunning display of Mughal architecture. Akbar himself oversaw the construction, and its unique design faces the rising sun instead of Mecca, defying traditional norms. The tomb is set within a magnificent garden designed by Akbar, and his wife’s tomb is also located nearby.
How to Reach
The tomb is around 8 km from the city center, located on Mathura Road (NH-2). You can easily reach it by hiring a cab or auto-rickshaw.
Architecture
Akbar’s Tomb reflects a fusion of Hindu Rajput and Mughal styles. The structure features four grand gates, with the southern gate being the largest, adorned with marble chhatri-topped minarets. The tomb itself is pyramidal, with four storeys, and the top pavilion is made entirely of white marble. Beautiful inlaid panels, floral patterns, and calligraphy decorate the entire monument.
Historical Significance
The tomb was built during Akbar's lifetime, with his son Jahangir adding the marble top storey after his death. In the 17th century, under Aurangzeb's reign, the tomb was looted by the Jats in retaliation against Aurangzeb’s oppressive rule, resulting in the destruction of much of the tomb’s treasures and even the cremation of Akbar’s remains. Despite this, the tomb remains an impressive symbol of Mughal grandeur.
