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Sikandra Fort in Agra, is a structural beauty famed for its symphony of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Completed in the late 16th century during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar, the fort is the emperor’s tomb. The site is filled with beautiful gardens and elaborate structures characteristic of Mughal culture. Akbar Tomb, Sikandra, otherwise known as Akbar’s Fort, is famous for its facade which is made from deep red sandstone with designs inlaid with white marble. Akbar described this fort as the epitome of oneness and on seeking the divergence of faith.
Quick Details About The Sikandra Fort
Location: Sikandra, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
Timings: Open from 6 AM – 6 PM daily
Entry Fee: Approximately ₹ 20 for Indian citizens and ₹ 300 for foreign tourists
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Trivendra300 / Wikimedia Commons
Sikandra Fort lies in Sikandra, a district of Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, and is about 10 km away from the main city centre. The fort is conveniently located on the road and is enveloped in beautiful well-kept gardens adding to the quiet and peaceful nature of the fort. Close to the busy Agra-Delhi road, it is an important point for tourists who come to this city of historical significance, as the city Agra is renowned for the Taj Mahal.
How To Reach Sikandra Fort
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here / Image For Representation Only
By Road: The fort lies a few kilometres off Agra-Delhi road making it convenient by a car or a taxi. Local buses operate continuously from Agra city to Sikandra allowing visitors an economical travel option.
By Train: The nearest prominent railway station is Agra Cantt which is located 10km from Sikandra Fort. Visitors can use the taxis or auto rickshaws from the station and get to the fort in no time.
By Air: The other terminal is Agra Airport, within 12 km professing local services. For international passengers, it houses the Indira Gandhi International Airport that is about 200 km away from Agra with the rest being covered either by road or rail.
Places To Visit Near The Sikandra Fort
Several attractions near Sikandra Fort offer a rich blend of history and culture, making them worth exploring:
1. Taj Mahal
Photo: Yann / Wikimedia Commons
Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal is the top most visited tourist attraction in the world, attracting thousands of tourists each year. Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this grand mausoleum is a perfect example of Mughal architecture that includes Persian, Islamic and Indian design sensibilities. Visitors are also impressed by the beautiful white marble surface that changes colour, depending on the angle of the light and time of the day.
Location: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Distance From Sikandra Fort: 11 kilometres
2. Agra Fort
Photo: Thelazyworker / Wikimedia Commons
Situated not far from Sikandra Fort, Agra Fort, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site is another attraction which draws tourism because of its rich history and beautiful Mughal architecture. In addition, the fort is also known for offering wonderful views of the Taj Mahal. Also, arranged tours contribute to the nice experiences as they enable the visitors to see a lot of features that go into the making of the polished and classic building.
Distance From Sikandra Fort: 10 kilometres
3. Mehtab Bagh
Photo: Abinaya Sankaralingam / Wikimedia Commons
Mehtab Bagh, situated across the Yamuna River and the Taj Mahal, is a well-manicured garden that offers the best view of the Taj, and this well-groomed expanse provides peace and quiet away from the noisy and busy Agra city, making it one of the most favoured spots for tourists who wish to soak in the beauty of nature and engage in photography. The gardens consist of green grass, clean pathways and attractive flower beds making it an ideal place for both slow strolls.
Location: Mehtab Bagh, Nagla Devjit, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Distance From Sikandra Fort: About 10 kilometres
4. Jama Masjid
Photo: Varun Shiv Kapur / Wikimedia Commons
Agra’s Jama Masjid is one of the oldest mosques and is known for its beautiful Mughal architectural style. The mosque was founded in the 17th century during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan and comprises a spacious courtyard, beautifully arched domes with standing minarets. The surroundings are calm and quiet and the inside is beautifully decorated which is a relief from the noisy and busy city.
Location: Opposite Agra Fort, Shah Jahan Rd, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
5. Aram Bagh
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons
Aram Bagh situated at a short distance from the Sikandra Fort is one of the antique Mughal gardens in India and one of the top tourist spots in Agra. The garden is well constructed with features such as symmetrical designs, terraced gardens, water channels and helps to beat the pollution of the city. The peace that this place offers together with its history is what makes Ram Bagh fit for strolling, taking pictures, and having a nice meal in a cool place.
Location: Ram Bagh, Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Distance From Sikandra Fort: About 6 kilometres
Where To Stay
Photo: Anonymous / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tourists visiting the Sikandra Fort have a range of staying options available for different budgets. For a pleasant short stay, Hotel Taj Resorts provides the guests with all the modern facilities along with a view from their room facing the Taj Mahal. The Oberoi Amarvilas Hotel, Hotel Kamal, Hotel Sidhartha, etc are some of the most preferred as these hotels are located in the city centre. Moreover, there are a few homestays in Agra, which enable tourists to experience the culture through their hospitality and way of living.
Where To Eat
Photo: Utkarshkmr27 / Wikimedia Commons
Scrumptious North Indian and Mughlai food can be relished at numerous restaurants in Agra. To get a taste of the local dishes, people can visit restaurants and cafes such as Peshawri, Dasaprakash, Cafe Coffee Day, The Salt Cafe Kitchen & Bar. Nearby and within the Fort or across many attractions, visitors will also enjoy other food delicacies, casual street foods that include Agra petha, chaat and many more in several street food stalls.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Bilal Akram / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The best time to explore the monument of Sikandra Fort would be between October to March, particularly because of the cold season where exploring does not cause one to sweat. This period also coincides with several of the local celebrations in their respective regions, enabling the tourists to interact with the societal practices of Agra.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: juggadery / Wikimedia Commons
- Ensure to carry enough water to keep cool at all times.
- Note that some parts of the fort may require you to remove your shoes in accordance with the local culture.
- It is advised to take visits around early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid crowds.
The beautiful gardens, exquisite designs, and the importance of the tomb of Emperor Akbar draws many knowing people who appreciate culture and nature in equal measure. Being close and easy to access other attractions, the Sikandra Fort is a perfect place for tourists to enjoy the opportunities presented by the heritage of the Mughals. Plan your next trip to Agra with Trip XL!
Cover Photo: Anand.himani18 / Wikimedia Commons
