The Magnificent Tomb of Akbar the Great

The tomb of Mughal emperor Akbar the Great isn’t the usual tourist destination. For most tourists in Agra, Taj Mahal is the only reason why they visit the city.

Akbar the Great is, no doubt, considered the greatest of all Mughal emperors that ruled India. He is the son of Humayun whose tomb is one of the top tourist destinations in New Delhi. Akbar founded a vast empire that starts from Afghanistan to India. During his reign, he’s responsible for building Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort, two great destinations not to be missed when you’re in Agra.

Related Post: Things to do and see in Agra

The magnificent tomb of Akbar the Great lies in Sikandra, a suburb in Agra.

This towering entry gate is laden with detailed floral and geometric patterns.

The designs are still clear and visible despite their ancientness.

After passing the gate, you’re looking straight to the building where the tomb of Akbar the Great lies.

The building is elevated from the gardens that surround it.

The gardens don’t just have flowers but they also have deers and monkeys around. And oh, I saw lizards, too.

Leave your shoes outside before you enter the tomb. Then, look up and you’ll see this impressive craftsmanship on the roof.

The details and patterns are so splendid they will hold you breathless.

The Tomb of Akbar the Great is a classic Persian architecture.

The inlay panels, calligraphic designs, geometric motifs and few floral patterns are visible everywhere.

The tomb you see inside is just a replica. The real tomb of Akbar lies below it.

The sitting security inside would scream “Akbaaarrrr” from time to time – in exchange of “donation.”

And guess what? His scream echoes down to the deep recesses of the chambers. Creepy but awesome!

In one of the buildings inside the complex, people tie anything here for their wishes to come true (according to the one I spoke to).

Before you exit (and near the entrance), drop by the Kanch Mahal, a harem quarter or “ladies resort.”

How to get to Sikandra and Fatehpur Sikri
You can hire a van for 1,200 rupees ($19) to bring you here and to Fatehpur Sikri. The price is good for 6 hours of sightseeing which is enough to see both tourist attractions.

Hostel in Agra with Views of Taj Mahal

Cheap hostel in Agra overlooking the Taj Mahal? Look no further but Joey’s Hostel Agra. It’s a simple hostel with friendly staff – and a rooftop with the view of the world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are planning to watch the sunrise at Taj Mahal, then, this is the place where you should go. The morning queue at the ticket booth is notorious so you better stay near the gate.