Agra in Uttar Pradesh state has been undoubtedly one of the most visited cities in India, thanks to the magnificent Taj Mahal. The white marble structure by the Yamuna River was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. While it is definitely a reason why tourists flock to Agra, we cannot deny the charm of the equally mesmerizing other monuments and one of them being the Agra Fort adjacent to it. Built of red sandstone entirely, the UNESCO heritage site is also famously called the Lal Qila. It is a testament to the royalty of the Mughal architecture and their regal way of living. The Agra Fort light and sound show is an unmissable part when you visit the city.
To plan a visit to the Agra fort, make sure to select a stay that is close to these monuments. This will not only save your travel time but allow you to explore the splendid fort at your own pace. Make it hassle-free by booking a suite at the Jaypee Palace Hotel & Convention Centre in Agra. But to be well-planned ahead and know about the Agra Fort history, Agra Fort timings and the Red Fort Agra ticket price will only make your exploration a lot better.
History behind Agra Fort
When visiting a historical place, it is very important to know a bit about its history. Know some interesting facts about it. This 70-foot-tall structure was created of red sandstone which gave it the popular moniker of the ‘Lal’ (red) ‘Qila’ (fort). The structure even from before the 11th century got its actual glory as a red fort when the Mughal emperor Akbar decided to rebuild it with red sandstone.
In the 16th century, this vast fort area was built in eight years, which was connected to the Taj Mahal. Some of the structures inside the fort were later rebuilt by Akbar’s son, Emperor Shah Jahan using white marble. Agra Fort is also the place where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb till his death. It is said that Shah Jahan asked Aurangzeb to prison him inside this fort so that he could watch his wife’s tomb (Taj Mahal) visible easily from there. Post Aurangzeb’s death, the fort was captured by Marathas and later taken over by the British rulers.
Post-Independence, the Indian government overlooks its management.
What to see inside the Agra Fort?
In addition to the Agra fort light and sound show, there are a lot of other things you must see. Visiting a monument might confuse you about what all you need to see there. However, we won’t leave you all confused. Below is a list of what all you must see inside the Agra Fort.
1. Jahangir’s Palace
Jahangir’s Palace is an impressive structure inside Agra Fort. When learning about Agra Fort or visiting it, you must not miss this palace. It was built by Emperor Akbar for his son, Jahangir. The palace showcases a blend of Islamic and Hindu architecture. It has beautifully carved walls and grand courtyards.
2. Khas Mahal
Khas Mahal, or the “Private Palace,” is another important place in Agra Fort. It was built by Shah Jahan as his personal residence. This stunning marble structure offers a splendid view of the Yamuna River. It has beautiful pavilions, fountains, and ornamental pools. The palace exemplifies Mughal luxury and the refined taste of the emperor.
3. Musamman Burj
Musamman Burj is an elegant, octagonal tower. It has stunning marble screens and carvings. Located near the Khas Mahal, it is where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb. Shah Jahan spent his last days gazing at the Taj Mahal here.
4. Diwan-i-Khas
Diwan-i-Khas, or the “Hall of Private Audience,” was used by Mughal emperors to meet distinguished guests and nobles. It is known for its ornate pillars and intricate inlay work. This hall reflects the grandeur of the Mughal court. Its elegant design and detailed craftsmanship make it a significant attraction in Agra Fort history.
5. Sheesh Mahal
Sheesh Mahal, or the “Palace of Mirrors,” is a stunning room adorned with tiny mirrors and intricate glasswork. The reflections create a dazzling effect, especially when lit by lamps. This beautifully decorated chamber was used by royal women and is considered one of the most exquisite structures in the fort.
6. Shahjahani Mahal
Shahjahani Mahal is one of the earliest constructions by Shah Jahan inside the fort. It showcases a unique blend of sandstone and marble architecture. The mahal served as a residential palace. Its elegant carvings, arches, and decorative elements reflect the transitional phase of Mughal architecture.
7. Jahangir’s Chain of Justice
Jahangir’s Chain of Justice was a symbolic 60-foot chain with bells that hung outside Agra Fort. It allowed anyone to call for the emperor’s attention directly, ensuring justice for all. This unique feature showcased Jahangir’s commitment to justice and fairness, making it an interesting piece of Agra Fort history.
Agra Fort Timings and Entry Fees
| Agra Fort Timings | Details |
| Open Throughout the Year | Yes |
| Days Open | All days of the week |
| Timings | Sunrise to Sunset |
Agra Fort Entry Tickets Prices
| Category | Ticket Price |
| Indian Adults | ₹40 |
| Indian Children | ₹20 |
| Foreign Adults | ₹650 |
| Foreign Children | ₹500 |
| SAARC & BIMSTEC | ₹40 |
| Video Camera Fee | ₹25 |
| Photography Fee | ₹200 |
Agra Fort Information
| Location | Agra |
| Timings | From sunrise to sunset everyday |
| Entry | Through Amar Singh Gate |
| Entry Fee | ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 650 (foreigners); free entry for kids below the age of 15 years |
| Still and Video Camera | Allowed |
| Commissioned by | Emperor Akbar |
| Architectural Style | Mughal Style |
| Status | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Area | 94 acres |
| Year of Establishment | 1573 |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
| Material Used | Red sandstone and marble |
Agra Fort Light and Sound Show
The light and sound show is unmissable when you are visiting the Agra Fort. It is played in both Hindi and English for all visitors to see and understand. Find the below details for the Agra Fort light and sound show.
Agra Fort Light and Sound Show Timings
| Show | Timings |
| Hindi Show | 30 minutes after sunset |
| English Show | Immediately after Hindi show |
Agra Fort Light Show Ticket Price
| Tourist Type | Amount in INR |
| Indian | 70 |
| Student | 40 |
| Foreign Tourist | 15 |
| Children below the age of 15 years | Free |
Things that are not allowed inside the fort
Following are the things you cannot take inside the Agra Fort.
- Knives or sharp items
- Alcohol
- Tobacco items
- Cell phone charger
- Headphones
- Merchandisable items
- Dangerous items like explosives
Attractions near Agra Fort
There are a lot of other places near Agra Fort that you must visit. This fort is often overshadowed by the Taj Mahal. But, it is a must visit for everyone who wishes to embrace the beauty of monuments in India. Also, you must visit the following places near it.
- Jama Masjid (700 m)
- Taj Mahal (2.9 km)
- Itmad-ud-Dulah’s Tomb (3.5 km)
- Mehtab Bagh (5.5 km)
- Sardar Bazaar (3.5 km)
- The Red Taj (6.2 km)
- Sikandra Fort and Akbar’s Tomb (12.6 km)
How To Get There?
You can reach Agra Fort by railway, airport or vehicle. The nearest railway stations are Agra Cantt, Agra Fort, and Raja Ki Mandi. You can also directly fly to the city as the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya or Agra Airport is 5 km away from the main city and well-connected to cities like Delhi, Jaipur and Lucknow. There are also local buses, cabs and autos to commute internally.
And make your Agra visit a lot more enjoyable by staying at the Jaypee Palace Hotel and Convention Centre, a five-star luxurious hotel with modern facilities. It is located just a few minutes away from the Agra Fort, the Taj Mahal and the commercial hub of the city. Stay like royals in this lavish hotel made of Mughal-style architecture including red sandstone and white marble décor. You can explore five restaurants, a spa, a gym, unique amusing packages and a comfortable stay in one of the plush 341 rooms with contemporary amenities. So, next time you are planning to visit Agra Fort, do check out Jaypee Hotels website.
References – How to Spend Three Days in Agra and See the Taj Mahal?
Conclusion
Agra is not just about the Taj Mahal. There are several other places you must visit in this beautiful city. One of these is the Agra Fort. This beautiful monument depicting the Mughal style architecture and Indian history is a must visit for every tourist. We hope all the Agra Fort information in this blog will help you plan a trip. Also, book your stay at Jaypee Palace Hotel, Agra to enjoy your vacation luxuriously.
To plan a visit to the Agra fort, make sure to select a stay that is close to these monuments. This will not only save your travel time but allow you to explore the splendid fort at your own pace. Make it hassle-free by booking a suite at the Jaypee Palace Hotel & Convention Centre in Agra. But to be well-planned ahead and know about the Agra Fort history, Agra Fort timings and the Red Fort Agra ticket price will only make your exploration a lot better.
FAQs
Q1. How much time do you need for Agra Fort?
Ans: You typically need around 2 to 3 hours to explore Agra Fort thoroughly. This time allows you to visit its key attractions, such as Jahangir’s Palace, Diwan-i-Khas, and Musamman Burj, while enjoying the stunning architecture and rich history of the fort.
Q2. Do we need a guide in Agra Fort?
Ans: While a guide is not mandatory, hiring one can greatly enhance your visit to Agra Fort by providing historical context and interesting stories about its architecture and significance. Guides help you understand the fort’s complex history, making the experience more engaging and informative.
Q3. Can we visit Agra Fort at night?
Ans: Agra Fort is generally open from sunrise to sunset, and night visits are not allowed. However, on special occasions, the fort may offer light and sound shows in the evening, which provide a unique way to experience its history and grandeur under illuminated lights.
Q4. What is the Speciality of Agra Fort?
Ans: Agra Fort is renowned for its stunning Mughal architecture, intricate carvings, and significant historical importance as a royal residence and military fort. It houses several notable structures, including palaces, mosques, and halls, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Mughal Empire.
Q5. Are Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri the same?
Ans: No, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri are different sites. Agra Fort is located in Agra city and served as a royal residence, while Fatehpur Sikri, located about 40 km away, was a planned city built by Akbar and served as the Mughal capital for a brief period.
