Adinath Temple | Khajuraho

The Itimad ud Daulah, often referred to as the "Baby Taj," is a Mughal mausoleum located in Agra, India.

Visual Characteristics

This tomb is constructed primarily from white marble, inlaid with semi-precious stones in intricate floral and geometric patterns. The structure features a central chamber surrounded by smaller rooms, topped by a square pavilion with corner minarets. The exterior walls are adorned with pietra dura inlay work, and the interior contains cenotaphs of Mirza Ghiyas Beg and his wife.

Location & Access Logistics

The Itimad ud Daulah is situated on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, approximately 3 kilometers northwest of the Agra Fort. Access is via the Agra-Lucknow Expressway or local roads leading to the riverfront. Parking is available at the site. Bus routes serving the city center stop within walking distance of the mausoleum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Itimad ud Daulah began in 1622 and was completed in 1628. It was commissioned by Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, as a tomb for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, who held the title of Itimad ud Daulah. The mausoleum is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal in terms of architectural style and the use of pietra dura.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can examine the detailed pietra dura inlay work on the exterior and interior surfaces. Photography is permitted within the grounds. The mausoleum is surrounded by formal gardens, offering a space for observation of the architecture.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Shaded areas are provided within the gardens and under the arcades of the mausoleum. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors are not present within the immediate vicinity of the mausoleum, but are available in the surrounding city.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight creates softer shadows and highlights the marble. The optimal months for visiting are from October to March, avoiding the monsoon season and extreme summer heat.

Facts & Legends

The Itimad ud Daulah is notable for being the first Mughal structure to be built entirely of marble and the first to incorporate extensive use of pietra dura inlay. It is also the first Mughal tomb to be situated on the bank of a river.

Nearby Landmarks

• Agra Fort (2.5km Southwest)
• Taj Mahal (3.0km Southwest)
• Mehtab Bagh (3.5km West)
• Sikandra (7.0km Northwest)