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Shish Mahal: The Glass Palace of Agra Fort

Discover the shimmering beauty of Shish Mahal in Agra Fort, a testament to Mughal artistry with intricate mirror mosaics and royal history.

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The Shish Mahal, or Glass Palace, is an ornate chamber within Agra Fort, famed for its intricate mirror mosaics. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1640, it served as a royal bathing chamber and a private dressing room for the queens, showcasing the opulence of the Mughal era.

A brief summary to The Shish Mahal (The Glass Palace)

  • 52HF+F7X, Agra, Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Uttar Pradesh, 282003, IN
  • +9118002008335

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the palace in a more peaceful setting.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the entire Agra Fort complex, including the Shish Mahal.
  • Photography is encouraged, but avoid using flash to protect the delicate mirror work.
  • Hire a local guide to fully appreciate the history and architectural details of the Shish Mahal and Agra Fort.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the main entrance of Agra Fort, follow the well-marked pathways leading towards the Diwan-i-Khas. The Shish Mahal is located on the western side of the Muthamman Burj, beneath the Diwan-i-Khas corridor. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes within the fort complex. Remember to retain your Agra Fort entry ticket, as it is required to access the Shish Mahal. Entry fee for Indians is INR 50, while for foreign tourists it is INR 650. Entry is free for children below 15 years.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus, the main bus terminal is near Agra Fort. From the bus stand, it's a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride to the fort's entrance. Auto-rickshaws typically charge INR 50-100 for the ride, but negotiate the fare beforehand. Alternatively, you can take a local bus to the Agra Fort. Once inside the fort, follow the walking directions to reach Shish Mahal. Remember to purchase an entry ticket for Agra Fort, which also grants access to the Shish Mahal. Entry fee for Indians is INR 50, while for foreign tourists it is INR 650. Entry is free for children below 15 years.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Agra. Request a ride to Agra Fort. From the taxi stand or drop-off point, walk towards the fort's entrance. Follow the internal pathways to reach the Shish Mahal, located near the Diwan-i-Khas. A short taxi ride from Agra Cantt Railway Station to Agra Fort costs approximately INR 150-250. Parking is available near Agra Fort, with charges around INR 80 for cars. However, parking conditions may vary. Remember to purchase an entry ticket for Agra Fort, which also grants access to the Shish Mahal. Entry fee for Indians is INR 50, while for foreign tourists it is INR 650. Entry is free for children below 15 years.

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Discover more about The Shish Mahal (The Glass Palace)

The Shish Mahal, aptly named the Glass Palace, is a dazzling highlight within the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Emperor Shah Jahan, known for his exquisite taste and architectural contributions, commissioned its construction between 1631 and 1640. Situated on the western side of the Muthamman Burj, near the Diwan-i-Khas, this palace was designed as an imperial bathing chamber and dressing room, offering a cool and private retreat. The palace is celebrated for its elaborate mirror work. Tiny, high-quality mirrors from Aleppo, Syria, adorn the walls and ceilings, creating a mesmerizing effect. When lit, these mirrors glitter and twinkle, transforming the interior into a magical realm of reflections. The design incorporates elements of Islamic and Rajasthani architecture, featuring two large chambers connected by arched openings and narrow passages. Marble tanks with fountains once provided hot and cold water, allowing the space to function as a steam bath. The dado panels in the outer hall feature inlaid borders with painted plants, using black and red hues. Above these, stucco relief work depicts floral bunches combined with glass mosaic, adding to the palace's ornate beauty. The play of light and reflection creates stunning photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

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