It will not be wrong to say that another architectural masterpiece of the city of Agra is the Agra Fort — housing second to none for its location, chief is the Taj Mahal. However, an imposing edifice of red sandstone, built to be a symbol of grandeur and power of the Mughal Empire, ensures that this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a pillar of proof. The fort, which was also the principal residence of the Mughal emperors till their capital was shifted to Delhi, was built by the Emperor Akbar in the 16th century.  

Not just a military stronghold, the fort serves as a palace complex that has been home to the rise and fall of emperors, political intrigue, battles and romance. An ideal place for those desiring to know about the rich Indian heritage, Agra Fort, as it stands with its huge walls, well-designed palaces and beautiful mosques, is a prime historical tourist site.  

In this guide, we have taken you to the location, background, design, entrance charges, and hours of this grand lattice work fort.  

Location of Agra Fort  

Agra Fort is located in a city named Agra, Uttar Pradesh, in India and is situated on the right bank of the river Yamuna. It lies just 2.5 km away from the Taj Mahal and hence, is a tourist attraction in the city.  

Address: The Agra Fort is located at Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003.  

Nearest Airport: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, Agra (approx. 12 km)  

Nearest Railway Station: Agra Cantt Railway Station (approx. 5 km)  

History of Agra Fort  

Agra Fort has been the witness to its history prior to the era of Mughals, where it was originally a brick fort constructed by Rajput by Chauhan rulers. But it gained popularity later when Emperor Akbar, who seized Agra in 1556, decided to rebuild the fort in red sandstone. It was finished in 1573 and thereafter became the power centre of the Mughal Empire.  

Mughal Era at Agra Fort  

An Emperor named Akbar (1556-1605): He used the sand stone to convert Agra Fort into a big building and turned it into the Mughal capital.  

Emperor Jahangir (1605- 1627): He elaborated the fort with more grand palaces and gardens.  

Emperor Shah Jahan (1628-1658): The white marble constructions inside the fort were built by Emperor Shah Jahan (1628-65): famous Moti Masjid (the mosque) and Musamman Burj (where he was later imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb).  

Emperor Aurangzeb (1658-1707): Emperor Aurangzeb (1658-1707) had his father Shah Jahan imprisoned in the fort and so the latter spent his last days in gazing at the Taj Mahal, the mausoleum of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.  

British Rule and Independence  

Once the Mughal Empire declined, the Marathas came into power and later it was controlled by the British. Much of its original splendor was lost because the British used parts of the fort for military purposes. Following India’s independence in 1947, India recognised Agra Fort as a historical monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.  

Architectural Marvel of Agra Fort  

The Agra Fort is a perfect example of Mughal architecture which combines the Persian, Timurid and the Hindu influences. There are two main gateways of the fort are Delhi Gate and Amar Singh Gate. Today the Amar Singh Gate is the entrance for visitors to the fort and the Delhi Gate has been closed on account of security.  

Key Structures Inside Agra Fort  

1. Jahangir’s Palace – An example of Rajput and Mughal architectural fusion is Jahangir’s Palace, which Akbar built for his son Jahangir.  
2. Khas Mahal – Built by Shah Jahan, Khas Mahal has a white marble palace adorned with beautiful frescoes and golden ceilings.  
3. Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) – Hall of private meeting with nobles and foreign dignitaries by the emperor.  
4. Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) – The emperor spoke to common people and heard their pleas in Diwan – i – Aam (Hall of Public Audience).  
5. Musamman Burj – Aurangzeb, Shah Jahan’s son, imprisoned his father in a beautiful marble tower – Musamman Burj.  
6. Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) – A palace with walls and ceiling decorated with ancient tiny mirrors, sheen of the Mughal artistry.  
7. Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) – One of the most serene white marble mosques, Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) was built by Shah Jahan.  

There are also hidden tunnels and secret passages inside the fort, used in times of battles for escape.  

Timings and Entry Fees for Agra Fort  

Timings:  

• Agra Fort is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.  

The fort’s history is celebrated in the evening in a light and sound show.  

Entry Fees:  

• Indian Citizens: ₹50 per person  
• Foreign Tourists: ₹650 per person  
• SAARC & BIMSTEC Citizens: ₹90 per person  
• Children below 15 years: Free entry  

Also, there is an extra charge for photography and videography inside the fort.  

Interesting Facts About Agra Fort  

1. Shah Jahan’s Prison: Shah Jahan spent his last years imprisoned in Musamman Burj, but found consolation in the view of the Taj Mahal.  

2. Architecture Transition: The fort has evolved from red sandstone in Akbar’s era to white marble in Shah Jahan’s era.  

3. Connected to the Taj Mahal: A secret tunnel was connected to the Taj Mahal; it is believed to have connected Agra Fort to the Taj Mahal.  

4. British Modifications: They also modified parts of the fort for military use at the expense of some of its original Mughal structures.  

5. Inspiration for the Red Fort: The Design of the Red Fort in Delhi was inspired by the design of the Agra Fort.  

Best Time to Visit Agra Fort  

It is best to visit Agra Fort in the winter months (October to March) as the weather is pleasant. The fort is not an easy place to go in the summers as it gets really hot. It (Rajasthan) offers some respite from July to September, but humidity levels continue to be high.  

How to Reach Agra Fort  

1. By Air: There are flights coming to an airport at Agra, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport (12 km).  

2. By Train: At a distance of only 5 km is Agra Cantt Railway Station. The Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express offer fast connectivity from Delhi.  

3. By Road: Agra is highly connected with Yamuna Expressway and NH2 and can be reached by Road from cities like Delhi, Jaipur and others.  

Conclusion  

Agra Fort, apart from being a treat to the eyes, is a symbol of power, grandeur and the rich heritage of the Mughal Empire. It is one of the most significant monuments of India due to its massive walls, intricate palaces and rich history. If the Taj Mahal is the grand old lady of Agra, then Agra Fort is the experience that stays with you forever. This is the very place that will help you recollect the architectural brilliance and strategic genius of the Mughals. This fort is a storehouse of stories of valiant rulers, political intrigue, royal betrayals and the timeless love.