Sikandra

Sikandra is a suburb of the city of Agra in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Located on the western outskirts of Agra, it lies along major routes connecting the city with nearby towns and attractions. The area is best known for the mausoleum complex of Akbar the Great, commonly called Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra.

Construction and layout: The tomb was commissioned by Akbar’s son Jahangir and built between 1605 and 1613. The complex is enclosed by a substantial red sandstone gateway and a walled precinct that houses several pavilions, courtyards, and formal gardens. The tomb sits on a raised platform and features white marble inlay and decorative work, with four corner minarets at the platform corners. The central chamber contains the cenotaph of Akbar, while the actual burial lies in a crypt beneath the monument. The architecture reflects a blend of Persianate Mughal design with local influences, illustrating the experimentation and patronage characteristic of the period.

Access and preservation: Akbar’s Tomb at Sikandra is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and is a major protected monument in the Agra region. It is a popular destination for visitors exploring Mughal-era monuments in and around Agra, often visited in conjunction with the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.

Significance: The site is an important example of early Mughal architecture and imperial symbolism. It marks a transitional moment in Mughal architectural style and remains a major historical and tourist landmark near Agra.