Agra Fort
Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
A symbol of Mughal military might, this massive, rust-red fort, built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1573, is an almost self-contained royal city.
Best for ages: 13+ | £8
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Overview >Bucket list experience:
India’s Mughal Empire
India
Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Founded in the 1520s by Babur, a warrior chieftain from present-day Uzbekistan and a descendant of Timur (or Tamerlane), the Mughal Empire quickly dominated most of north, central and even a swathe of south India for two centuries, before limping into terminal decline for a third.
At its height, the Mughals effectively ruled most of India, from present-day Pakistan all the way east to Assam, and from Kashmir in the north to parts of Tamil Nadu in the south.
Its military prowess, efficient administration and generally outward-looking embrace of existing elites and cultures helped generate prosperity, while its emperors patronised painting, literature and textiles.
But it’s their grand architecture, including some of India’s most iconic monuments such as the Taj Mahal, that have proved their most enduring and tangible legacy.
Its capital shifted between Delhi, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri and Lahore (Pakistan), and it is these destinations which today boast virtually all of the Mughals’ finest monuments.
Find out more
Much has been written about the Mughals; Bamber Gascoigne’s The Great Moghuls is an excellent and very readable account of its history and principal emperors.
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Destination Guide >Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
An atmospheric ‘ghost city’ that provides a fascinating and unique insight into the Mughal court, and superb example of Mughal planning and architecture.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Friday Mosque
Delhi, India
Completed in 1656 by Emperor Shah Jahan, this is one of India’s largest and most beautiful mosques.
Best for ages: 18+ | £3
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Humayun’s Tomb
Delhi, India
Stunning mausoleum and precursor to the Taj Mahal, with tranquil well-maintained gardens.
Best for ages: 13+ | £1
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Overview >Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Mughal Heritage Tour Including Lodhi Garden, Humayun Tomb and Akshardham Temple
New Delhi
The tour gives a deep insight into Mughal rule, and the monumental history of Delhi. Experience faith in the historic Sai Baba Temple and le...
$72 | Rating 4.33 / 5 [12 ratings]
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