Itmad-Ud-Daulah tomb was built by Nur Jahan for his father Ghias-ud-Din Beg. He was a Persian who had obtained service in Akbar's court. On Jahangir's succession in 1605 he became Wazir or the Chief Minister and received the title of ltmad-ud-daulah, the pillar of the government. Jahangir fell in love with his daughter, Mehrunissa, who at the time was married to a Persian. When her husband died in 1607 she entered Jahangir's court as a lady-in-waiting. Four years later Jahangir married her. Thereafter she was known as Nur Mahal (Light of the Palace), later being promoted to Nur Jahan (Light of the World).

Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb was built between 1622 and 1628 AD on the banks of the Yamuna river. The tomb is not as big as the Taj Mahal but the inlay designs and carvings are also not less than Taj Mahal. The delicate marble latticework in the passages allows the light to enter the interiors. This tomb is built entirely of white marble and inlaid with semi precious stones which exhibits a strong Persian influence. A profusion of translucent marble screens endow it with added beauty.

Like a jewellery box, it is noted for its intricate inscriptions in Quranic Tughra style. The tomb is very different from the other monuments built by Akbar and is on more intricate feminite lines. The roof retains a distinctive Hindu influence with its curved roof and broad caves. On the rooftop pavilion, there are replica tombs of the main chamber below.