Khas Mahal Agra (Timings, History, Entry Fee, Images, Built by & Information)

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Khas Mahal (also written as Khaas Mahal) is a striking white marble palace built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It acted as his private palace, as well as the living quarters for his two favourite daughters. It’s considered to be the most beautiful building in Agra Fort.

The palace is built on an elevated platform paved with marble overlooking River Yamuna. You can see classical Persian and Islamic influences all over. The windows are also designed with decorative and delicate latticework.

Khas Mahal Agra was also called Aramgah-i-Muqaddar, meaning “rest house of the noble.” It’s airy by design, and it comprises open terraces flanked by a pavilion on either side.

History of Khas Mahal Agra

Built by Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1640, Khaas Mahal was splendidly set in the Haram complex. Apart from the main hall, it has arched recesses that lead to the side rooms.

The palace has two almost identical pavilions that are separated from the hall by a high marble wall. While the main palace was the place of relaxation for the Mughal emperor, other rooms were for his daughters – Jahanara and Roshanara.

It’s believed that Jahanara lived in the northern pavilion.

Image Gallery of Khas Mahal Agra

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Architecture of Khas Mahal Agra

Khas Mahal is a majestic palace in the fort complex overlooking River Yamuna on one side and Angoori Bagh garden on the other. The main palace has a central hall, with alcoves and rooms on the sides.

It’s built entirely of white marble, and it has a spacious open terrace on its front, facing the garden. The palace also has a beautiful tank in front with fountains.

Khas Mahal’s exterior was painted with delicate floral and geometrical patterns. Its interiors were also richly adorned. The ceilings are flat, and the rooms have brackets that are stylishly carved and moulded. Gold and blue colours were heavily used here, traces of which are still visible on the walls.

The pavilions on the sides are built of red sandstone, but they are stuccoed and polished to resemble white marble. Each of these pavilions has a curved cornice, taking inspiration from the architectural styles prevalent in Bengal.

Things to do at Khas Mahal

1. Exploring the lavish palace – Khas Mahal in Agra Fort is a structural testament to the artistic taste of the Mughals, especially Shah Jahan. The palace, with its rooms, courts and open terraces, offers a taste of the royal Mughal lifestyle. As you walk through its magnificent hall, you’re transported to a time of grandeur and splendour. Elegant extended pavilions and gardens with fountains also add to the charm of Khas Mahal.

2. Appreciating the intricate decor – Not only is the exterior of the palace brilliant, but so is the interior design. The palace interiors greet you with exquisite gold work, murals and floral designs. The pavilions, although made of red sandstone, have been coated with white plaster to match the elegance of the white-marbled Khas Mahal.

3. Wandering through the fort complex – Several magnificent architectural marvels lie close to Khas Mahal. Adjacent to it, Angoori Bagh offers a refreshing oasis. It’s an indoor garden surrounded by imperial living quarters. Then, there is Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower. It serves as a balcony that offers a panoramic view of the riverside and the iconic Taj Mahal. Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khaas are a few other places worth exploring in Agra Fort.

4. Reminiscing the history – A visit to Khas Mahal also allows you a dive into the rich Mughal history. From tales of Shah Jahan’s daughters to his house arrest by Aurangzeb, every corner holds a story. It’s said that Shah Jahan spent the last eight years of his life at Musamman Burj, aided by his daughter, Jahanara Begum. He used to watch Taj Mahal, the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, from the jharokha (window) of the tower.

5. Relishing the views of River Yamuna – From Khas Mahal, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surging River Yamuna. It was built as a serene palace overlooking the river, for Shah Jahan to rest. The soothing environment, coupled with the majestic backdrop of the fort complex, makes it a blissful spot for contemplation and relaxation.

Khas Mahal Agra Timings and Entry Fees

Khas Mahal Agra Fort is open throughout the year, from sunrise to sunset. Visit it in the winter (November to February), when the weather in Agra is the most pleasant. It takes only about an hour to explore the palace. Evening hours, during sunset, are the best.

The entry fee is included with Agra Fort’s ticket. It is ₹50 per person for Indian citizens and ₹650 for foreign country visitors. Children below 15 years of age get free entry.

How to reach Khas Mahal in Agra?

Khas Mahal is in Agra Fort. It is 4 km from Idgah bus stand and 5 km from Agra Cantt railway station. A smaller Agra Fort railway station is nearby, a few hundred metres away. From Agra airport, Khas Mahal palace is 7 km away. The nearest international airport is in Delhi (about 230 km away).

Now, here is how to reach Khas Mahal Agra Fort –

By bus – City buses are available for Agra Fort. Bijli Ghar is the nearest bus stand, only a few hundred metres away. You can walk or take an auto/e-rickshaw from there.

By auto/e-rickshaw – Auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws and e-rickshaws are also available in Agra easily. They’re a convenient way to reach the fort complex.

By cab/taxi – A cab or taxi is the most comfortable way to visit the palace. They enable you to explore the fort complex at your own pace. You can hire them for a full day from the top car rental companies in Agra easily.

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Location Map for Khas Mahal Agra