Agra Fort popularly known as Red Fort of Agra is one of the famous monuments in India and the world. It was made by Lodi initially as the history suggests, but in order to claim it Mughals tried to renew the fort as they also did by copying the work of Sher Shah Suri and fabricated The Taj Mahal. Sikandar Lodi (1488–1517), the first Sultan of Delhi who shifted to Agra lived in the fort. He governed the country from here. He died in the Fort in 1517 and his son, Ibrahim Lodi, held it for nine years until he was defeated and killed at Panipat in 1526. Some of the palaces, wells and also mosque were built by him in the Agra Fort during his period. At the end of the battle of Panipat, the victorious Babur stayed.
Spread in the 94 acres of land, Agra Fort has a half moon (semicircular) plan. If you look at the map, you will see that it seems to be situated on the bank of Yamuna River and the chord of the whole plan touches the river’s bank. The west gate is the largest out of all the gates of the Fort. In the Akbar’s time of rule, a lot of interesting premises, fascinating buildings and architecture masterpiece were constructed.
The west gate of the Red Fort is also one of those masterpieces of his time. Mughal rulers not only renovated this but also beautify it by making gardens and other wonderful places however in this process they also destroyed some important places of the fort.
As it is very near to the river bank, the height of its surrounding walls is 70 feet to keep it secure from the enemy who is trying to attack by crossing the river only. Although it was very difficult at that time but Mughals have considered this threat and secured the fort by all means making it almost impossible to conquer.
The Delhi Gate is one of the biggest attractions of The Fort’s northern part of which is still being used by the Indian Military. That’s why it is not available to the public. However, you can go and visit Jehangir Palace, Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam and other beautiful places inside the Fort.
AGRA FORT TIMINGS AND ENTRY FEE
The Agra Fort is open for tourists from Sunrise to Sunset throughout the week. Entry fee for Indian citizens is Rs. 50 per person while tourists from SAARC Nations have to pay Rs. 90 person. Visitors from other foreign nations have to pay Rs. 650 per person for visiting the fort. Children below 15 years of age are allowed free or charge, no need to buying tickets for them.
AGRA FORT HISTORY
The history says that it was made by Lodi while plenty of efforts were made by the Mughal to demolish the name of its original creator. The stone from which the Lodi’s Grave is made is also used in the construction of the Fort. Furthermore, there are some stories popular about the Agra Fort that Shahjahan died with a view of the Taj Mahal in the Musamman Burj which is a tower made of marble having a balcony. It was also accepted as the capital of Mughal Empire by Akbar just because it is in the centre of his territory and he could rule from Red Fort easily.
HOW TO REACH AGRA FORT
Nearest place of transport is Agra Fort Railway Station which is only 1 Kilometer away, most of the trains connecting Rajasthan and Gujarat arrives and departs from here. The distance from Agra Fort to Taj Mahal is only two and half kilometers, can be covered easily in 15 minutes. Rickshaws and battery operated vehicles are easily available here.
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
To describe Fort, I would say that the Fort is a unique building and people come to see the immense architecture, the Delhi Gate, Moti Masjid, Jahangir’s Palace, Khas Mahal and Nagina Masjid.