Agra Fort Trip

Location :
Agra Fort or the Red Fort is located on the banks of the Yamuna near the railway station, at a distance of less than 2 kilometers from the Taj Mahal.

About the Agra Fort :

Agra fort was build around 1565 when the initial structures were built by Akbar. Shah Jahan replaced most of these with his marble creations. Some however survived, among them are- Delhi Gate, Amar Singh Gate, Akbari Mahal and the Jahangiri Mahal.

The fort is crescent- shaped, flattened on the east with a long, nearly straight wall facing the river. It has a total perimeter of 2.4 km, and is ringed by double castellated ramparts of red sandstone punctuated at regular intervals by bastions. A 9mt. wide and 10mt.deep moat surrounds the outer wall. An imposing 22mt. high inner wall imparts a feeling of invincible defensive construction. The route through the Amar Singh gate is dog-legged. The layout of the fort was determined by the course of the river, which in those days flowed alongside. The main axis is parallel to the river and the walls bridge out towards the city.

Inside the Agra Fort :

Jahangiri Mahal is one of the surviving buildings, of Akbar's era, in the Agra Fort. It was a magnificent palace constructed especially for women belonging to the royal household, and was used mainly by the Rajput wives of Akbar.

Musamman Burj is famous for its unique ornamentation especially for the awesome pietra dura work. This structure is associated with two famous Mughal personalities Nurjahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

Sheesh Mahal (royal hammam) was used as the harem dressing room. It was beautifully decorated with glass pieces, hence earned the name Sheesh Mahal. Mina Masjid, situated just above the Sheesh Mahal, is enclosed on all the four sides by high walls. This attractive structure was constructed by one of the most prolific builders of Mughal period, Emperor Shahjahan.

Diwan-I-khas was the hall of private audience and the emperor used to receive the important dignitaries here. Constructed by Shahjahan, between 1636 and 1637, it is known for its remarkable decoration with pietra dura.

Diwan-I-Aam was the hall of public audience constructed by Shahjahan. The Emperor used to met officials and commoners here and listened to the petitioners. It was here in Diwan-I-Aam that the famous Peacock Throne was kept.

Moti Masjid also known as pearl mosque, is situated to the right of Diwan-i-Aam in the Agra Fort. This magnificent pearl shaped mosque was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

Climate :

In summer, between March and June, the temperature soars up to 45°C during the day. Dry, searing winds heat up the ground and make it difficult to venture outdoors. Light cottons are the best clothing, except in winter, when light woollens are required. The temperature is around 28°C during the day, but can go down to 4°C at night.

How to Reach :

Air : Agra is well connected by air with Khajuraho, Varanasi, and Delhi.
Rail : It has good rail connections with major Indian cities.
Road : From the city, there are taxis, tempos, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws to carry one to the fort. Prepaid taxis and autos are also available. Bicycles can also be hired on hourly basis.

Accomodation :

To cater to the huge number of tourists visiting Agra, the city has a large number of hotels to cater tourist of every hue -- 5 star, 4 star, 3 star and Deluxe Hotels. These hotels are famous for their traditional Indian hospitality and provide services which are at par with the best in the world.