Abstract: In recent years, research has been devoted for the improvement of the masonry mortar in order to achieve the optimum results towards the strength and durability. An experimental programme is presented in order to evaluate the influence of sand grading for the mortar mix (1:3) keeping the water cement ratio 0.5 constant. Six types of mortar mixes were prepared in the form of 70.6mmx70.6mmx70.6mm cubes confirming IS-10086-1982. Mortar specimens were cured for 7, 28 and 90 days through which compressive strength was tested for 7, 28 and 90 days, Drying shrinkage test was conducted on 250mmx25mmx25mm bar for 3, 7 and 35 days of moisture curing. Water absorption for 28 days and 90 days were observed and rest of the specimens were immersed in fresh water with solution of 3% HCL and 1% H2SO4 and tested at 30 days and 90 days from the day of immersion. Mix 04 with 60 % coarse and 40 % fine sand showing the optimum results toward the strength and durability.