Agra
Agra
city is famous the world over as home to one of the seven wonders of the world,
the Taj Mahal. Very few cities in the world can boast of so many architectural
splendors at one place as the mausoleums, majestic forts and palaces of Agra
display. Established in 1475 by Badal Singh, the city gained repute under the
Mughal emperors who adorned the city with many incredible structures including
the astounding Taj Mahal. During your tours to Agra, you will find the influence
of the Mughal culture which can be observed even today in almost every aspect
of life in the city.
Tourist
Attractions of Agra
» Taj Mahal
: The only one of its kind, Taj Mahal may be summed up as dream in white.
The monumental masterpiece which took about 22 years and 20,000 workers to complete,
was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved
wife Arjumand Banu.
» Agra Fort : Agra Tours include the place of towering Agra
Fort, It was built by Akbar to which modifications were made later by
Shah Jahan. Delhi Gate, Amar Singh Gate, Akbari Mahal and the Jehangir Mahal
are some of the incredible structures inside the fort made of red sandstone.
» Itmad-ud-Daula : One of the finest examples of architecture
in the city, the tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daula was built by Noor Jehan in the memory
of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The structure adorned with pietra dura inlay
and lattice work marble screens also contains the cenotaph of Noor Jehan's mother
Asmat Begum.
» Chini Ka Rauza : It is the mausoleum
of Mulla Shukrullah Shirazi who built the structure during his lifetime in 1639
AD. The building displaying traditional Mughal architecture is ornamented all
over with glazed-tile decorations and motley schemes of colors.
» Sikandra Fort : This is another famous tourist attraction
in Agra, which is set amidst beautiful lush gardens, Sikandra Fort is the tomb
of one of the greatest Mughal emperors, Akbar. The ornately carved huge structure
built of red sandstone was completed in 1613 by Akbar's son Jehangir.
Food And Accommodation
Agra is famous among other things, for its culinary prowess and it is much famous
in Mughalai Foods. The Mughalai Foods influence on the food can be clearly observed
with some of the most famous Moghal meat dishes coming from this part of the
country. The city features a lot of restaurants which serve sumptuous international,
Indian and of course traditional Agra cuisine as well the warm and delicious
Mughalai foods. The delicious kormas, pasandas, nargisi kofta and sweets like
petha and dalmoth are some of the specialties here.
Agra, it is the very famous city .The tourist attractions of Agra is dotted
with numerous hotels including five-star luxury hotels and low cost hotels,
that provide world class facilities to the visitors. Stay at one of the luxury
hotels to experience traditional hospitality and modern day facilities catering
to the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
Getting There
» By Air : The Agra Airport (Kheria), situated just 7 kms. from
the city centre, connects the city to other major parts of the country. Daily
round trip flights operate from Delhi to Agra, Khajuraho and Varanasi.
» By Rail : Agra Cantonment Station connects Agra to Delhi and
other major Indian cities. The luxury train Palace on Wheels starts from Delhi
station and passes through Agra on its week long journey.
» By Road : An excellent highway connects Agra to Delhi which
is just 204 kms. from the city. Buses or private taxis which are easily available,
can be hired to travel from Delhi to Agra. The main bus stands in Agra are Agra
Fort and Idgah