Nestled within the majestic Agra Fort in Uttar Pradesh, Nagina Masjid is a hidden architectural gem of Mughal India. Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan, this mosque was designed exclusively for the royal women of the court. Unlike the more famous monuments of Agra, Nagina Masjid remains relatively quiet and serene, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and seekers of peaceful reflection.
Masjid About
Nagina Masjid, also known as the "Gem Mosque" or "Jewel Mosque," is a historical mosque located inside the Agra Fort in Uttar Pradesh. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1640 as a private place of worship for royal women of the court. The mosque is a symbol of simplicity, elegance, and exquisite Mughal architecture.
Masjid Description
The mosque is entirely made of white marble, giving it a pristine and sacred appearance.
It features three domes and a central prayer chamber, which is enclosed by walls on three sides.
The arches and mihrabs (prayer niches) are beautifully designed, showcasing intricate Mughal craftsmanship.
A balcony overlooks the road leading to Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate), providing a scenic view of the surroundings.
Masjid Speciality
The mosque was exclusively used by the women of the Mughal harem for prayers.
It is one of the lesser-known yet highly significant architectural gems inside the Agra Fort.
Near the mosque, the Mina Bazaar (also known as Bazaar for Women) once existed, where royal ladies could buy luxury items without being seen by the public.
The use of pristine white marble signifies purity and divine sanctity.
Masjid Location and Address
Address: Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003, India
Latitude & Longitude: 27.1794° N, 78.0226° E
Masjid Timings
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The mosque is open all days of the week, as it is located within Agra Fort.
Visitors are required to follow fort entry rules and regulations before accessing the mosque.
Masjid Sevas (Services)
Since it was a private royal mosque, there are no formal religious services conducted today.
However, tourists and history enthusiasts visit to appreciate its architecture and historical significance.
Traveling and Accessibility
How to Reach Nagina Masjid, Agra
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport (Agra Airport) (Approx. 8 km from Agra Fort).
Other Nearby Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (210 km away)
Direct flights to Agra are limited, so travelers often land in Delhi and take a train or road transport to Agra.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Agra Cantonment Railway Station (4.5 km from Agra Fort)
Other Railway Stations: Agra Fort Railway Station (2 km), Raja Ki Mandi Railway Station (6 km)
Major trains like Gatimaan Express, Taj Express, and Shatabdi Express connect Agra to Delhi, Jaipur, and other cities.
By Bus:
Nearest Bus Station: Idgah Bus Stand (5 km from Agra Fort)
Regular buses run from Delhi, Jaipur, Mathura, and other nearby cities.
Bus Routes to Agra Fort:
From Delhi: Take a bus via Yamuna Expressway (Approx. 4 hours).
From Jaipur: Take a Rajasthan State Transport Bus to Agra.
From Mathura: Local buses and taxis are available (Approx. 1-hour journey).
Train Routes to Agra Fort:
Delhi to Agra: Gatimaan Express, Taj Express, Shatabdi Express, and Intercity Express.
Jaipur to Agra: Shatabdi Express, Intercity Express.
Varanasi to Agra: Marudhar Express, Poorva Express.
Airways to Agra:
Limited direct flights to Agra; travelers usually take a flight to Delhi and then a train/bus to Agra. Facilities in Agra for Visitors
Food Facilities
Agra has plenty of restaurants and street food options. Some famous dishes include:
Petha (local sweet)
Mughlai cuisine
Bedai & Jalebi
Parathas and Chaat Popular Restaurants near Agra Fort:
Pinch of Spice
Peshawri – ITC Mughal
Shankara Vegis Restaurant
Stay Facilities (Hotels near Agra Fort)
Luxury Hotels:
The Oberoi Amarvilas
ITC Mughal
Taj Hotel & Convention Centre
Budget Hotels:
Hotel Atulyaa Taj
Hotel Kamal
Hotel Taj Plaza
Nearby Places to Visit from Nagina Masjid
Nearby Cities
Mathura (57 km) – Birthplace of Lord Krishna
Vrindavan (65 km) – Famous for Banke Bihari Temple
Fatehpur Sikri (40 km) – Historical city built by Akbar
Nearby Temples and Attractions
Taj Mahal (2.5 km) – One of the Seven Wonders of the World
Jama Masjid, Agra (3 km) – One of the largest mosques built by Shah Jahan
Moti Masjid (Inside Agra Fort) – A beautiful white marble mosque
Diwan-i-Aam & Diwan-i-Khas (Inside Agra Fort) – Royal audience halls
Tomb of Akbar (10 km) – Mughal Emperor Akbar’s mausoleum
Mehtab Bagh (3 km) – A garden offering a stunning view of the Taj Mahal
Fatehpur Sikri (40 km) – Home to Buland Darwaza and Salim Chishti's Tomb
Best Time to Visit Agra
October to March is the best time to visit, as the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
Summers (April to June) are extremely hot, making outdoor visits uncomfortable.
Monsoons (July to September) bring moderate rain, making Agra look fresh and scenic.
Shopping in Agra – What to Buy?
Agra is famous for handicrafts, marble inlay work, and leather products. Some shopping areas include:
Sadar Bazaar – Best for leather goods and handicrafts.
Taj Ganj – Known for marble souvenirs and jewelry.
Kinari Bazaar – Famous for fabrics, ornaments, and handicrafts.
Shahganj Bazaar – Affordable clothing and home decor.
Subhash Bazaar – Best for silk sarees.
