Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra

Akbar’s Tomb: Travel,Timings, Ticket & Tips

Location: Sikandra, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
Timings: Everyday – 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Ticket Price: Indian Visitors: INR 20, Foreign Visitors: INR 250 (as per ASI)
Ticket Availability: On-site or online through ASI (Archeological Survey of India)
Activity Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours to explore the tomb
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Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra, on the outskirts of Agra, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dedicated to the greatest Mughal Emperor, Akbar. The tomb perfectly fuses Mughal, Gothic, and Rajput architectural styles, showcasing the emperor’s secular outlook. Surrounded by lush gardens, it reflects Akbar’s personality and his vision of life and death. A visit to Akbar’s final resting place offers a serene escape into the Mughal era. Additionally, you can also explore other monuments in Agra to plan your day better. Additionally, you can also explore other activities to do in Agra to plan your day better.

History

Emperor Akbar chose Sikandra as his resting place and commenced its construction in his lifetime in 1601. Although he died in 1605, his son Jahangir later completed the tomb in 1613. He enlisted 4000 workers from Iran and sourced red sandstone from Fatehpur Sikri, white marble from Makrana, and black-yellow stones from Iran to complete the tomb. The tomb reflects Akbar’s interest in various religions and is a legacy of his contributions to the Mughal Empire. However, the Jats looted the tomb during Aurangzeb’s reign but it was later restored by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). 

Architecture

Akbar’s tomb is mainly made of Hindu and Islamic styles. The structure is constructed mainly of red sandstone with intricate marble inlays. The complex is within a Charbagh-style garden, representing the Islamic concept of paradise. The main tomb building is a five-story pyramid-shaped structure, each level decked with delicate carvings, chhatris, and jali work. The topmost story, built entirely of white marble, houses the cenotaph, which is simple yet elegant, signifying Akbar’s modesty.

Things to do in Akbar’s Tomb

Main Tomb: This central attraction is the tomb of Akbar in the middle of the Charbagh Gardens. The tomb’s significant feature is its inlay work and calligraphy on the walls.

South Gate: This is the largest of all the four gates and is adorned with intricate designs with minarets at each corner made of white marble. 

Charbagh Gardens: The gardens surrounding the tomb are apt for a peaceful stroll and are home to various animals and birds, including the blackbuck deer.

Kanch Mahal: Emperor Jahangir used this place as his hunting ground and was famed for its elaborately carved designs of wine vases and floral creepers.

To know more, you can even check our Indian Holiday Agra guide.

Interesting Facts about the Akbar’s Tomb

• Akbar expressed his wish to Jahangir that his tomb remains simple and undecorated, without carvings. The tomb is surrounded by 40 rooms intended for the burial of his family members. However, only Shakrul Nisha Begum and Aram Bano, Akbar’s daughter, were buried there.
• A fascinating architectural feature of the tomb is its “whispering walls.” If someone whispers from one end of the wall, a person on the other end can hear it. This is often called the “Telephone System of Akbar’s Times.”
• Surprisingly, the famous Kanch Mahal within the complex contains no glass. The blue and yellow decorations on the structure are porcelain tiles that shine like glass under a full moon.
• The tomb’s entrance has two gates: Salaami and Jahangiri. The Salaami Gate, built by Jahangir, is smaller and intended to ensure everyone bows when entering Akbar’s tomb. The Jahangiri Gate is the main entrance, inspiring the Taj Mahal’s minarets. Interestingly, Akbar’s tomb cannot be seen from either gate, but the gates are visible and aligned with the tomb.
• During Aurangzeb’s reign, the tomb was looted by the Jats. They stole precious stones, dug up Akbar’s grave, removed his bones, and burned them.

Best Time To Visit the Akbar’s Tomb

The ideal time to visit the Akbar’s Tomb is October to March. At this time of the year, the weather is pleasant, making it perfect for strolling through the gardens and admiring the tomb’s intricate details. Visiting at sunrise is best to avoid huge crowds. For more details, check out our Agra tour packages.

Note: If you are visiting during summer, try exploring between 4-6 PM or early in the morning.

How To Reach the Akbar’s Tomb

By Air: The nearest airport is Agra’s Kheria Airport, about 14.1 km away. It has regular flight connectivity with major cities like Delhi, and the journey takes around 40 minutes. 

By Train: The central railway station is Agra Cantonment, approximately 13.2 km from Sikandra. It is connected to all the major cities of India. However, the nearest railway station is Raja ki Mandi, 9 km from Sikandra. You can easily hire a taxi (Ola/Uber) or an auto-rickshaw) from the station to reach the tomb.

By Road: Akbar’s Tomb is well-connected by road. You can reach the site via the Agra-Delhi NH2. Regular buses and private taxis (Ola/Uber) are also available from Agra and the nearby cities.

Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are readily available for commuting within Sikandra. You can even take metros or book Ola or Uber to reach the tomb complex.

Places to Visit Near Akbar’s Tomb

Here are a few well-known places to add to your sightseeing list alongside Akbar’s tomb.

• Mariam-uz-Zamani Tomb (1.1 km/ 3 min)
• Chini ka Rauza (10.0 km/ 18 min)
• Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb (10.6 km/ 19 min)
• Agra Fort (11.7 km/ 23 min)
• Taj Mahal (14.6 km/ 32 min)
• Mehtab Bagh (13.1 km/ 28 min)
• Fatehpur Sikri (43.1 km/ 49 min)

Travel Tips

• Early Visit: Arriving early in the morning can help you avoid the crowds and make your visit more peaceful.
• Photography: While photography is allowed, it’s recommended to respect the site, particularly in areas where it might disturb others.

Beware of Scams: Be cautious of scams, such as overcharging for guides, tickets, or souvenirs. Always buy tickets from official counters.