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Shah Burj Agra

Shah Burj is one of the structures in Agra Fort that contributes to its overall magnificence. Exploring this structure for the first time, and viewing the Taj Mahal from it, one cannot but be overwhelmed by an array of emotions. There are several stories related to this structure, one of these is that it was here Shah Jahan, along with his daughter, Jahanara Begum, spent his remaining days after being imprisoned by his son, Aurangzeb. What thoughts must have run through his mind, as he sat here and watched his finest creation from a distance, one wonders.

Shah Burj, a marble octagonal tower which stands in close proximity to Diwan-i-Khas, was built by Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The site where this tower stands also has a fascinating history. It was here that Akbar first built a marble palace which was later destroyed by Jahangir. Finally, Shah Jahan built the Shah Burj at this site between the years 1630 and 1640 AD. From here, you can enjoy splendid views of the Taj Mahal. It is one of the most magnificent monuments of Agra which captivates onlookers with its design, architecture and the fabulous views it offers.

Architecture

The Shah Burj, also known as the Musamman Burj, is an octagonal tower which lies in close proximity to Shah Jahan’s private hall, Diwan-i-Khas. A multi-storied marble tower, it overlooks the Yamuna River.

The dome of the tower is topped by a gilded tower which is easily visible from a distance. The floor of the chamber is paved with marble so as to resemble a “pachisi” board. Pachisi is a traditional cross and circle board game which originated in medieval India. This area is also known as the Pachisi court. Even though it is believed that this is where Shah Jahan played the game of pachisi, the fact is that it provided a beautifully ornamented cover for drains. Other prominent features of the Shah Burj are the marble lattices with ornamental niches. This was built to allow the royal ladies of the court to observe the outside world without being seen.

Some of the most distinguishable aspects of the tower are its vertical pillars, horizontally shaped chajjas (projections of cover of a roof) supported by lovely brackets, a jharoka on its eastern side and a marble screen on the riverfront.

Interesting facts
  • It was at Musamman Burj that Shah Jahan spend his last days along with his daughter, Jahanara Begum, after being imprisoned by his son, Aurangzeb.
  • This place offers you splendid views of the Taj Mahal.
Entry Fees

The entry fees for both domestic and international visitors vary when visiting Shah Burj, which is located in Agra Fort. Domestic tourists have to pay an entry fee of 40 INR while international tourists have to pay an entry fee of 550 INR. There is no entry fee for children below the age of 15 years.

Best Time to Visit

Shah Burj, which is also known as Musamman Burj, is located in the city of Agra, Uttar Pradesh. During the summers, this place can get very hot, with temperatures averaging 42°C. If the heat isn’t a bother, then you can certainly visit it during this time. During the winters, it gets cool and pleasant, thus creating the perfect conditions for sightseeing and exploration.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

After exploring the Shah Burj in Agra Fort, there are other places which you can visit during your visit to Uttar Pradesh.

  • Taj Mahal
  • Fatehpur Sikri
  • Akbar's Tomb
  • Agra Market
  • Jama Masjid

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