Read More on Itmad ud Daulah's Tomb
History
Mirza Ghiyas Beg (Itimad-ud-daulah) was an Iranian nobleman who served as the Lord Treasurer of Akbar's court. He has a beautiful daughter named Nur Jahan. Jahangir, Akbar's son, married Nur Jahan as he was impressed by her enthusiasm for administration and the way she handled her duties at court.
Mirza Ghiyas Beg died in Agra in 1622, a few months after his wife, and his daughter, the Tomb of Itmad ud Daulah was built by Nur Jahan. This tomb's structure resembles a jewel box in the middle of a lush green garden, and it's also the first building to be built in white marble, indicating the personality of the Iranian buried there.
Architecture
The main Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb Feature, is a fine example of great Persian architecture, with pietra dura style design and the use of semi-precious stones. Floral themes, geometric structures, and trees, as well as inlaid stone works, can be seen throughout the structure's surface and interior. The mausoleum is composed of white marble and sits on a vast red sandstone platform with four magnificent entrances leading to it.
The tomb's interior is divided into 9 chambers, the largest of which is the central chamber, which is only accessible from the southern side. The eastern gate serves as the main entrance while other gates have served different purposes. The four turrets of the square-shaped mausoleum are ornamented with little domed kiosks known as Chattris. These Chattris grow from an octagonal foundation, one on each corner making the Itmad ud Daulah Tomb architecture worthy. The Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb features a square garden separated into four quadrants, with the tomb in the middle. There are paths and water channels in the garden.
Activities
Visit the Taj Mahal
As this is called Baby Taj Mahal, you would wish to see the actual Taj Mahal. Visit the place to feel the beautiful monument.
Shop in the Bazaars
Agra Bazaars are worth visiting. You will get anything and everything that you have thought of. Must visit and shop a lot from the Bazaars.
Must see Agra Fort
The Red Fort is indeed a beautiful monument to have a visit at. This fort is open for all visitors and a must-go place when you are in Agra.
Light and Sound Show
One of the best shows to be a part of. Though it is near the Taj Mahal, you can travel a little more to witness the glam of this show.
Tips for visiting
- Carry a bottle, camera, and other essential things while on a trip to the tomb.
- Take care of your belongings by yourself.
- Follow the rules if asked at the tomb.
- Last but not the least, make sure you enjoy all the best moments while you are at the Itimad ud Daulah Agra.
- Make sure that you learn about the Itimad-ud-Daulah's tomb timing before making a move over there.
Best time to visit
You can visit this tomb from October to March. Itimad-ud- Daulah's is open from sunrise to sunset, and visitors are welcome at any time of day. However, if you want to see the monument at its best, Itimad-ud-Daulah's tomb timing for visiting would be during the morning, when it seems even more majestic as it basks in the sun.
Nearby Atractions
- Taj Mahal
- Sheesh Mahal
- Agra Fort
- Choti Masjid
- Chini ka Rauza
Nearby Hotels
- Hotel Alleviate (0.68 km)
- Holiday Inn Agra MG Road (2.83 km)
- The Oberoi Amarvilas (3.25 km)
- The Coral Court Homestay (3.56 km)
- Max Guest House (4.19 km)
Interesting Facts About Itmad ud Daulah's Tomb
- This building is the first one to be built in White Marble.
- The structure of the building is meant to be the model for the Taj Mahal.
- Visiting in the evening can give you beautiful views of the monument.