Introduction

Itmad-ud-daula’s tomb, or 'Baby Taj' as it is often called, is the first Mughal era tomb to be built entirely of white marble. Its intricate inlay work, towering minarets and Mughal-style charbagh gardens inspired Shah Jahan's vision for the Taj Mahal. Nestled on the eastern banks of River Yamuna, the tomb was commissioned by Nur Jahaan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, who was Jehangir’s wazir and had been honored with the title ‘Itmad-ud-daula’, which means pillar of the government.

The marble tomb stands on a red sandstone plinth in the middle of a walled garden, landscaped in the classic Mughal charbagh style - a quadrilateral garden divided symmetrically by paved walkways. The two-storeyed tomb is topped by four minarets rising in to the sky from each corner. Enter the tomb through the central arches flanked by intricatly laticed screens on the sides. These screens softly light the tomb's interiors at all times.

The tomb in itself is beautifully decorated with intricate inlay work in floral and geometric patterns, or pietra dura to use its correct name. Cypresses and wine glasses with handles resembling snakes are also depicted, especially in the main chamber where Itmad-ud-daula and his wife have been laid to rest. Semi-precious stones have been used extensively to decorate the main chamber. Adjacent to the main chamber, are several other rooms housing the tombs of other family members.

The tomb is said to be Taj Mahal's predecessor and Shah Jahan's vision for the Taj Mahal was inspired by this.

Special Attributes

The first tomb to be built in white marble instead of red sandstone. It marks the departure from the red sandstone buildings of Mughal architecture.

Nuisance

Monkeys

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Tongas, Buses, Auto Rickshaws, Taxis, Cycle Rickshaws

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, sunscreen, 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