Agra has been immortalized as City of Taj. Yet, it
doesn't take much for the roving eye to discover much more than fabled Taj
Mahal. The historical city is a virtual gateway to the world of
architectural wonder......a freeze frame from the bygone era. In the great
epic of Mahabharata, the region finds mention as 'Agraban' (an integral part
of the Brij Bhumi or the land of Lord Krishna). The later part of the
history claims the origin of Agra as a city during the reign of Raja Badal
Singh in 1475 A.D.
Much of the cities regal charm of the golden era is reflected in the
majestic buildings and monuments from the past. It lures visitors from round
the world with exquisite art & craft and delicious cuisine. Adjacent to
the tradition, one can experience the luxury and modern convenience in the
form of 5 stars hotels, shopping malls and plazas, wide avenues and a superb
choice of venues for recreation.
Taj Mahal:
Taj Mahal
|
The “epitome of love” and a “monument of
immeasurable beauty", Taj Mahal is a sheer poetry in marble. It is
phenomenal not only in the beauty alone that shines forth, but in the deep
planning and design that went into its making. Delicate carvings in marble
with gorgeous pietra dura for attention. Lapiz, Lazuli, Carnation, Mother of
pearl, Agate and Emerald are inlayed in floral in the form of geometrical
patterns. This enchanting mausoleum is located on the bank of river Yamuna
amidst the green paradise.
The Agra Fort:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra fort is built alongside the river Yamuna
and stretches almost 2.5 km. The massive structure consists of a wall built
in red sandstone housing several buildings inside. The wall has 2 gates, the
Delhi Gate and the Amar Singh Gate. Visitors can only enter the fort via.
the Amar Singh Gate.
Itmad UD Daulah :
Itmad UD Daulah |
The exquisite marble tomb was built by Emperor Jahangir’s
queen, Nurjahan, in the memory of her father Mirza Ghias Beg during
1622-1628 A.D. Built entirely of white marble and inlaid with semi-precious
stones, this mausoleum exhibits a strong influence of Persian architecture.
Ram Bagh:
One of the earliest Mughal Gardens, Ram Bagh was laid out by Emperor Babur,
the founder of Mughal dynasty. It is believed that Babur was temporarily
buried here before being taken to Kabul in Afghanistan.
Agra much more to offer its visitors. Many great monuments of unrivaled
architecture speak of the grandeur and glory of Mughal era. Some of the
other major attractions in the city includes:
| Sikandra |
Jama Masjid |
| Chini Ka Rauza |
Radha Samadhi, Dayalbagh |
| Mehtab Bagh |
Mariyam's Tomb |
Shopping:
Finest Handicrafts
|
Agra is not only famous for its architectural wonders but also for
its handicrafts and fine arts traditions. Some of the finest handicrafts
include marble work, such as inlaywork of the kind seen within the Taj
Mahal; leatherwork covering a wide range of products such as shoes, bags,
belts and more; rugs and carpets, and much more. The main markets of Agra
are Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar and Munro Road. The U.P State Emporium
called Gangotri at the Taj Mahal Complex, offers a choice for variety of
handicrafts under single roof.
Night Life:
There is not much of nightlife in Agra; but still you can catch a drink at
a local restaurant. Movies, Coffee shops and Dining are other options on how
to spend your beautiful evening in the city.
However any night out in Agra should accompany watching Taj in moonlight.
The breathtaking experience cannot be simply expressed in words.
Eating Joint:
The city abounds in restaurants which offer an array of Indian and
International cuisines. However, Agra is popularly known for traditional
Mughlai platter. You can find a number of eating-joints across the city. One
can choose from makeshift restaurants in the Taj Ganj area to the luxury
hotels. The city is also famous for snacks and sweets like Dalmoth(lentils)
and Petha (crystallised marrow).
