Agra, India, is renowned for its magnificent architectural wonders that reflect a rich historical and cultural heritage.
Among the various attractions, the city is home to numerous iconic buildings that attract tourists from all over the world.
Visitors can explore stunning examples of Mughal architecture and other historical structures that tell the story of Agra’s past.
This article will guide readers through the 10 best architectural buildings in Agra, highlighting the beauty and significance of each site.
From grand mausoleums to intricately designed forts, these structures offer a glimpse into the architectural brilliance of the past centuries.
1. Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, is one of the most iconic buildings in India.
It was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Constructed between 1631 and 1648, it is a stunning example of Mughal architecture.
The mausoleum is built from white marble and is known for its splendid dome, intricate carvings, and symmetrical design.
The complex includes a reflecting pool, which creates beautiful reflections of the building, especially at sunrise and sunset.
The Taj Mahal is not only a tomb but also a symbol of love. It houses the graves of both Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan.
The garden, known as the Charbagh, represents the gardens of Paradise, enhancing the overall aesthetic beauty of the complex.
Millions of visitors from around the world come to see this magnificent structure every year. The Taj Mahal is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural significance and architectural brilliance.
2. Agra Fort
Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an imposing structure made of red sandstone.
It was built in 1573 under the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. Covering an area of 380,000 square meters, the fort serves as a major historical monument in the city of Agra.
This fort was the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638.
The structure contains several well-preserved buildings, including the Jahangir Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, and Sheesh Mahal.
The Sheesh Mahal, though largely closed to tourists, is known for its intricate mirror work.
Entry to the fort is through the Amar Singh Gate.
The fort was not only a military base but also a royal residence, making it a central piece in the Mughal architectural legacy. For more details, visit the Agra Fort page on Cultural India.
3. Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
The Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, located in Agra, India, is often referred to as the “Baby Taj.” It is recognized for its stunning architecture and intricate design.
This mausoleum was built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir, between 1622 and 1628. The structure showcases Persian architectural influences, especially the prominent dome.
One of the distinct features of the tomb is its use of pietra dura, a technique that involves inlaying semi-precious stones into white marble.
This method was later used extensively in the construction of the Taj Mahal.
The mausoleum is situated near the Yamuna River and is surrounded by beautiful gardens, known as Char Bagh, which enhance its serene atmosphere.
The Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is a masterpiece that represents the richness of Mughal architecture.
4. Akbar’s Tomb
Akbar’s Tomb is a significant monument in Agra, showcasing Mughal architecture. This mausoleum, built between 1605 and 1613, is located in Sikandra, a suburb of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It covers 119 acres of grounds.
Akbar himself began the construction, and it was completed by his son, Jahangir.
The buildings mainly feature deep red sandstone and are enriched with white marble highlights.
Visitors can access the tomb from sunrise to sunset.
The entry fee is ₹30 for Indian nationals and SAARC and BIMSTEC country visitors, while tourists from other foreign countries pay ₹310. Children below 15 years can enter for free.
Sikandra is about 10 kilometers from Agra city. It’s accessible by bus, autorickshaw, or cab. Agra offers various accommodation options, making it a convenient base for visitors exploring Akbar’s Tomb and other attractions.
5. Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh, also known as the “Moonlight Garden,” is a beautiful charbagh complex in Agra.
This garden lies to the north of the Taj Mahal complex and the Agra Fort. It is located on the opposite side of the Yamuna River.
The garden is square in shape and measures approximately 300 by 300 meters.
The layout is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal, providing a stunning view of the monument from across the river.
Designed as an integral part of the Taj Mahal complex, the Mehtab Bagh offers a serene and peaceful environment.
Visitors can explore its lush greenery and well-maintained pathways.
The garden’s alignment with the Taj Mahal creates a picture-perfect scene, making it a popular spot for photographers.
Entry fees for Mehtab Bagh vary for different visitors.
Indian citizens may pay ₹25 – ₹35, while foreign visitors might pay ₹200 – ₹300. Children under 15 can enter for free.
The distance from the Taj Mahal to Mehtab Bagh is about 7 kilometers, making it an easy addition to any Agra itinerary.
6. Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani
The Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani is located in Sikandra, next to Akbar’s tomb. This mausoleum was commissioned by her son, Jahangir, and built between 1623 and 1627.
Mariam-uz-Zamani, also known as Jodha Bai, was the favorite wife of Mughal Emperor Akbar.
The structure showcases exquisite Mughal architecture, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
The tomb’s architecture includes intricate carvings and elegant designs, typical of Mughal style.
Its peaceful surroundings add to the beauty and historical significance of the site. For more details, you can visit the Wikipedia page on the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani.
7. Moti Masjid
Moti Masjid, also known as the Pearl Mosque, is a stunning 17th-century mosque located within the Agra Fort.
Built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, this mosque is crafted entirely from white marble.
The architecture of Moti Masjid is notable for its simplicity. Its design is less ornate compared to other structures in the fort, allowing its elegant white marble to stand out. The domes of the mosque give it a distinctive appearance.
Visitors to the Agra Fort can view the mosque, which is open every day from sunrise to sunset.
There is a small entry fee: ₹20 for Indian residents and ₹750 for foreign tourists. Its beauty and historical significance make it a must-see for anyone exploring Agra. For more information, you can visit Moti Masjid at Agra Fort.
8. Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid in Agra is notable for its grand architecture and historical significance.
It was ordered by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and completed in 1648. This mosque is dedicated to his eldest daughter, Jahanara Begum.
The structure is one of the largest mosques in India. It features a vast courtyard, a large dome, and intricate marble inlay work on its walls and ceilings.
Located near the Agra Fort, the mosque’s location makes it easily accessible for visitors.
The mosque also has a grand entrance and several prayer halls, making it a significant place of worship and tourism.
For more details, visit the Jama Mosque, Agra page on Wikipedia.
9. Ram Bagh
Ram Bagh, also known as Aram Bagh, is the oldest Mughal garden in India.
Built by Emperor Babur in 1526, it is located about five kilometers northeast of the Taj Mahal. This garden features vibrant flowers, flowing water channels, and ancient structures.
Ram Bagh provides a serene escape from the busy city life. It showcases the rich Mughal architectural legacy, making it an essential visit for history enthusiasts.
The name “Ram Bagh” is thought to be a corruption of the Persian “Aram Bagh,” meaning “garden of rest.”
The garden is open from sunrise to sunset.
Visitors find the best times to visit are early morning and late evening during summer and after 10 A.M. in winter.
Babur was temporarily buried here before being moved to his final resting place in Kabul. Discover more about Ram Bagh here.
10. Chini ka Rauza
Chini ka Rauza is a hidden gem in Agra, showcasing exquisite Persian architecture.
This funerary monument built in 1635 contains the tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi, a scholar and poet who served as the Grand Vizier under Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
What makes this site unique is its beautiful glazed tile work, known as chini.
This decoration method was a first for its time, and it beautifully blends Indo-Persian styles.
The monument sits on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, about 1 kilometer north of Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb.
Visitors can reach Chini ka Rauza easily by taxi or autorickshaw.
The site is approximately 10 km away from Agra City, and the trip takes about 25 minutes.
From Agra’s Kheria Airport, the distance is 11.9 km, making it accessible for those flying in.
Architectural Heritage of Agra
Agra’s architectural heritage is rich, with buildings that highlight the city’s historical importance and the influence of Mughal architecture.
These structures provide insight into the cultural and architectural innovations of their time.
Historical Significance
Agra has a deep historical significance because of its association with the Mughal Empire.
The city’s important architectural landmarks include the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri.
The Taj Mahal, built as a memorial to Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is renowned for its intricate marble work and elegant design.
Agra Fort stands out with its strategic features and grand design.
Starting in 1558, Emperor Akbar initiated the fort’s reconstruction, emphasizing both security and grandeur.
The fort includes several palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace and Khas Mahal. These buildings reflect the Mughal preference for symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing structures.
Influence of Mughal Architecture
Mughal architecture in Agra combines Islamic, Persian, and Indian styles.
This fusion is evident in the use of domes, minarets, and gardens.
Agra Fort, for example, demonstrates the Mughal emphasis on vast, open spaces and grand entrances.
The Jama Masjid, another significant structure, showcases the intricate artistry typical of Mughal designs.
Built in the 17th century, its carvings and vast courtyard display the emphasis on both functionality and beauty.
These buildings are not just historically important; they represent the merging of numerous artistic traditions, achieving a distinct and enduring architectural style.
Architectural Styles and Influences
Agra’s architectural heritage showcases a blend of Persian, Islamic, Hindu, and regional influences.
These styles combine to create some of the most iconic structures in Indian history.
Persian and Islamic Elements
Persian and Islamic architecture heavily influenced the buildings in Agra. The Taj Mahal, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, epitomizes this blend.
Built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it features white marble, intricate inlay work, and symmetrical gardens. These elements reflect Persian influences.
Other notable features include the use of domes, arches, and minarets. The Taj Mahal complex also showcases large gates and detailed calligraphy, typical of Islamic artistry.
One can observe similar traits in other Mughal structures in Agra, like the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, which incorporate red sandstone with white marble inlays.
Hindu and Regional Influences
In contrast, many structures in Agra also exhibit strong Hindu and regional architectural elements.
These influences are evident in the detailed carvings and ornamental designs found in some of the city’s older buildings.
For instance, the Agra Fort, although largely Mughal in style, includes intricate Hindu-style carvings.
Additionally, regional Rajput architecture has left its mark on Agra.
The use of pink and red sandstone, seen in buildings like the Jahangir Mahal, reflects local architectural practices.
The combination of Hindu and Mughal features creates a unique, hybrid style that enriches Agra’s architectural landscape.