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Shish Mahal: The Glistening Glass Palace of Agra Fort

Discover the shimmering beauty of Agra Fort's Shish Mahal, a testament to Mughal artistry and imperial luxury.

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The Shish Mahal, or Glass Palace, is an opulent chamber within Agra Fort, built by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1640. Adorned with intricate mirror work, it once served as a royal bath and a private retreat, showcasing the luxurious lifestyle of the Mughal emperors.

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 a more peaceful exploration of the Agra Fort complex.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore Agra Fort, including the Shish Mahal and other significant structures.
  • Dress modestly if you plan to visit any religious areas within the fort, ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered.
  • Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and architectural details of the Shish Mahal and Agra Fort.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Once inside Agra Fort, follow the signs towards the Diwan-i-Khas. The Shish Mahal is located on the western side of the Muthamman Burj, below the Diwan-i-Khas hall. The path is well-maintained and easily accessible on foot.

  • Public Transport

    From the Idgah Bus Stand, take a local bus towards Agra Fort. Alight at the Agra Fort bus stop, which is near the Amar Singh Gate, the only entry point for tourists. From there, it's a short walk to the fort entrance. Bus fares typically range from ₹10-₹20. Entry fee for Indians is ₹50 and for foreign tourists is ₹650. Children below 15 years have free entry.

  • Taxi/Auto-rickshaw

    From Agra Cantt Railway Station, hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Agra Fort. The ride is approximately 4 km and takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around ₹150-₹250 for an auto-rickshaw or ₹200-₹300 for a taxi. Ensure the driver takes you to the Amar Singh Gate for entry.

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Discover more about The Shish Mahal (The Glass Palace)

Nestled within the historic Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Shish Mahal, meaning "Glass Palace," offers a glimpse into the luxurious world of the Mughal emperors. Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1640, this dazzling chamber is located on the western side of the Muthamman Burj, below the Diwan-i-Khas hall. It's believed to have been used as an imperial bath and a private retreat. The Shish Mahal is renowned for its intricate mirror work, with countless pieces of glass embedded in the walls and ceilings. These mirrors, some of which were imported from Aleppo, Syria, create a mesmerizing effect, reflecting light in a thousand different ways and creating an illusion of endless space and light. The palace is comprised of two large chambers connected by a broad arched opening and two narrow passages. Originally, the chambers featured marble tanks with fountains and arrangements for both hot and cold water, further emphasizing their function as a bathing area. The play of light on the glass and mirrors creates a captivating ambiance, especially when illuminated by candlelight. The walls also feature stucco relief work depicting floral designs, enhanced with glass mosaic work. While there is no inlay work in the inner hall, the surfaces are dutifully painted to lend them the desired beauty. The ceilings are ornamented with stalactite patterns, and the entrance portal features chiseled stucco work in conventional Persian motifs.

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