Things to Know about Moti Masjid in Agra before Visiting

Nestled within the majestic complex of the Agra Fort, the Moti Masjid stands as a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture in Agra, India. Known as the "Pearl Mosque" for its pristine white marble facade, this iconic structure holds a significant place in the history and heritage of the region.

The mosque is entirely made from white marble in an Indo-Islamic and Mughal style and is under Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Moti Masjid is one of the structures built by Shah Jahan during his reign. He dismantled various other structures to form his structures in Marble. The most well-known is the Taj Mahal, also among the world's seven wonders.

Moti Masjid was constructed between 1646 and 1653. It was the same period when Shah Jahan was also building the Taj Mahal. It took five years to complete the construction of Moti Masjid, which later turned out to be one of his most beautiful structures.

The mosque shines during the moonlit night; hence, the name Pearl Mosque was given to this spectacular monument.

It was built as a worship place solely for the royal members of the court, and it was situated to the north of Diwan-i-Am in Agra Fort.

Moti Masjid is one of the oldest mosques in India and one of Shah Jahan’s favourite monuments.

The beautiful Moti Masjid is located north of the Fort courtyard on an east-west axis.

• The mosque is made from red sandstone, and the roof features three huge domes and a chhatri made from white marble.
• Each wall features a high entryway, also known as seven bays supported by arches and pierces, which are again divided into three aisles each. Next is the courtyard, which features a pool in the centre and a sundial on an octagonal marble pillar.
• Beautiful arcades line the northern, southern and eastern edges. On the western edge is the main prayer hall connecting seven entryways. It is separated by a latticework screen especially constructed for women to offer their prayers.
• The masjid comprises three gates, the biggest of which is the main gate on the eastern side. The gate's exterior is red sandstone and the interior is white marble.
• Two gates on the northern and southern sides. Every gate is royally decorated with chhatris like the ones during Hindu reigns.
• On the front side of the hall are Persian inscriptions in black marble. These inscriptions glorify the Shah Jahan and Moti Masjid.

1. Best time to Visit Moti Masjid

The best time to visit the Masjid is in the winter months, from November to March, as the weather remains cooler, so you can explore more.

2. Moti Masjid Agra Location

Moti Masjid is located within Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

3. Moti Masjid Timings

• Days: Every day of the week
• Morning sessions: 7 am to 12 pm
• Afternoon sessions: 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm

4. How to Reach Moti Masjid Agra?

• Nearest Railway Station to Moti Masjid Agra: Agra Cantt Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Moti Masjid, which is 2.2 km away.
• Nearest Airport to Moti Masjid Agra: Agra Airport is the nearest airport to Agra Fort, which is 8.2 km away.
• Nearest Bus Station to Moti Masjid Agra: The Power House Bus Stand is nearest to the Agra Fort where several buses run, especially from the fort to the station, which is 1.3 km away.

5. Entry Fee for Moti Masjid

As the Masjid is within Agra Fort, a nominal fee is charged.

• For Indian Residents: ₹20
• For Foreign Tourists: ₹750

6. Moti Masjid Nearby Places to Visit

While visiting Moti Masjid, here is the list of nearby places you must add to your list to explore.

1. Taj Mahal
2. Agra Fort
3. Itmad-ud-Daula
4. Tomb of Akbar the Great
5. Mehtab Bagh
6. Fatehpur Sikri

1. On Moonlight night, the monument shines like a pearl; hence, it has been named “Pearl Mosque.”
2. It took five years to build and is within the Red Fort, which comes under UNESCO World Heritage sites.
3. There are separate centres for males and females to pray and seek blessings.

The timeless elegance of Moti Masjid graces the Agra, which stands as a symbol of great spiritual devotion. If you ever visit the Moti Masjid, stay there till sunset to experience the majestic beauty of the monument and explore the real meaning of Pearl Mosque, also justifying the jewel in Agra’s crown.