Agra, of the Uttar Pradesh state in North India, is synonymous with Taj Mahal, one of the worlds greatest wonders. It is also home to the famous Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikiri. However, the olden glory of the city is now seen only in these and a few other majestic monuments. Agras golden age peaked and declined with the advent of its Mughal rulers who claimed it as their capital, from Akbar the Great to Shah Jahan. The Sikandra, tomb of Akbar the Great, is one such architectural masterpiece.
Arguably the greatest and most powerful ruler of the Mughal era of Indian rule, the empire of Akbar the Great encompassed most of North India. His reign was during the latter part of the 16th century, concurrent to the founding of Agra by Sikandar Lodi of the Delhi Sultanate. The tomb was later named after the citys founder by Akbars son Jehangir.
Akbar began building his final resting place in the outskirts of Agra in a location whose serenity was perhaps incongruent with the adventurous and turbulent life he led. The mausoleum was built in the Indo-Saracen style typical of Mughal architecture, incorporating a harmonious mix of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and Jain motif and designs reflective of the emperors religious tolerance. However, he died before the tombs completion, passing the task onto his son Jehangir, who made many modifications to the original plan.
The outstanding architectural features of this tomb, whose shape resembles a truncated pyramid, are the minarets of red sandstone which arise from its four corners. These are exquisitely inlaid with marble. Spacious cloisters occupy the ground floor of his multi-storied structure whose rooms are decorated with intricate carvings and colorful paintings. The tombs of Akbars two daughters are also housed herein; Akbars tombstone is distinctive by being enshrined with inlays of floral and geometric design. The building is largely wrought of red stone, excepting the topmost fifth floor which gleams in white marble. The beautiful gardens surrounding the royal resting place were built by Sikandar Lodi himself.
There are many fully-serviced
Agra hotels that have sprung up around Sikandra for tourists eager to explore the city.
The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Road Agra in particular is a tranquil retreat only 3 km from the Taj Mahal and is also in close proximity to the final resting place of the great Mughal Emperor.
