Sikandra: Akbar's Tomb in Agra, Timings, Tickets and Guide
Akbar's Tomb at Sikandra, Agra: opening hours, tickets, how it differs from the Taj Mahal, the gateway and garden, and how to fit it on the Mathura road.
Akbar's Tomb at Sikandra is the resting place of the greatest of the Mughal emperors, and it is one of the most interesting monuments in Agra. It is large, calm and very different from the Taj Mahal, and it is often almost empty.
This guide covers timings, tickets and what to look at.
The gateway to Akbar's tomb.
At a glance | |
|---|---|
Where | Sikandra, about 10 km north-west of the Taj Mahal, on the Mathura road |
Built | Begun by Akbar, completed in 1613 by his son Jahangir |
Hours | Usually sunrise to sunset |
Tickets | Separate rates for Indian and foreign visitors; check the counter |
Time needed | 1 to 1.5 hours |
Best time | Morning or late afternoon |
What it is
Akbar began planning his tomb in his lifetime, and it was finished after his death. It stands at the centre of a large, walled charbagh garden, with a gateway at each side. The main gateway is the one most visitors photograph, with four white marble minarets.
The tomb itself is a stepped pyramid of red sandstone with white marble, unlike the Taj in form. It blends Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist and Christian influences, which fits Akbar's own view of religion.
What to look for
The south gateway: covered in inlay and carved patterns in red sandstone and marble, with four minarets.
The garden: large, quiet and often visited by deer and monkeys.
The tomb's terraces: you can walk to the top level and look across the garden.
The underground chamber: a long, dim passage leads to the burial chamber.
The inlay and the geometric patterns are very fine, and they are worth a slow look, especially if you have seen the Taj and the Baby Taj.
The approach to the gateway.
Timings and tickets
The monument opens at sunrise and closes at sunset. Tickets have different rates for Indian and foreign visitors. Check the current price at the counter, and bring small notes. The site is quiet in the early morning.
How to fit it in
Sikandra is on the road to Mathura and Vrindavan, so it is a good stop on the way. It is also a 20-minute drive from the Taj. A good Agra day is the Taj at sunrise, the Fort, then Sikandra and the Baby Taj in the afternoon. See our guides to Agra Fort, the Baby Taj and Agra beyond the Taj.
If you are heading to Vrindavan, see the Vrindavan and Mathura day-trip guide.
Is it worth it?
Yes, if you have more than a day in Agra and you like Mughal architecture. It is a good place for a calm hour, and it helps you understand the evolution that led to the Taj.
Frequently asked questions
Who is buried at Sikandra?
The Mughal emperor Akbar.
How far is Sikandra from the Taj Mahal?
About 10 km, a 20-minute drive.
What are the timings?
Usually sunrise to sunset.
Is it crowded?
Much less than the Taj Mahal.
How long does it take?
An hour to an hour and a half.
Plan your Golden Triangle days with us
We add Sikandra to the Agra day with a guide who points out the architecture. Explore the Golden Triangle destination page or talk to a trip designer.
Photo credits
Both photos: Darshanavenugopal, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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