Introduction

Built almost entirely of red sandstone and decorated with inlaid white marble, Sikandra is the final resting place of the 5th Mughal Emperor, Akbar. As was the tradition, Akbar planned and began construction of the tomb during his last years, however construction was only completed by his son Emperor Jehangir. The tomb lies in the center, surrounded by a charbagh style Mughal Garden - a quadrilateral garden divided symmetrically by paved walways.. A stream of clear water leads from the tomb to this main square. Each side is walled, with a finely decorated dome atop the gate on each side.

Sikandra is Akbar’s final tribute to Persian architecture. His tomb lies nestled right in the center of lush green gardens landscaped in the charbagh fashion. Black buck graze peacefully in the gardens and serenity prevails all around.

The entire complex follows the symmetrical design found in Persian architecture along with features such as chattris or cenotaphs from Hindu architecture. Entrance is through a magnificent gateway, comprising 20 huge panels featuring intricate geometrical inlay work.

The tomb itself resembles a pyramid flattened at the top, with three-storey minarets on each of its four corners. Intricate marble inlay work decorate the arch at the entrance. Within the inner sanctum, the dome features elaborate floral and geometric designs and inscriptions of Islamic verses.

The entire structure is divided into four storeys, with Akbar’s petal strewn grave and the tombs of his mother and two daughters lying in the basement. Beautiful colored paintings, inlay work in floral designs and geometric patterns and exquisite carvings adorn the walls here. The uppermost floor is built entirely of marble, in contrast to the red sandstone of the other storeys. It features an open courtyard enclosed with a marble screen, a design departure from Mughal tradition.

Located on the outskirts of Agra, about 8 kilometers away from the former Mughal capital, Sikandra provides an interesting perspective to the development of Mughal architecture.

Special Attributes

Tomb on the third Mughal Emperor, Akbar, Sikandra is an exquisite example of Persian influence on Mughal period architecture.

Nuisance

Monkeys

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Buses, Taxis

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

When walking outside, there may be exposure to the sun, especially in summer when the temperatures can go up to 48 degrees Celsius. Remember to carry adequate sun-protection: hats, caps, sun-screen, and water. While inside, there is no climate control.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July, August, September

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

Professional video cameras with more than 8 mm lens.

Tip

For Non-Indians, entrance fees at Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Itmud-ad-Daulah, Sikandra and Fatehpur Sikri include a levy of Rs. 500, which is paid to the Agra Development Authority. The levy can be paid in one go by opting for a day pass, which costs Rs. 500 and excludes the entrance fees levied by the Archeological Survey of India at each monument.

Type of site

Monument, Mausoleum