 The city Agra, better known as the city of Taj, in Uttar Pradesh has a rich historical background, which is apparent from several historical monuments located in the city. Agra is situated on the western bank of the river Yamuna. Apart from being a historical city, Agra offers all the major attractions just like any other developed state of modern India, comprising of shopping malls, theatres, various venues for recreation, business, sports, pleasure, education, arts etc.
Tourist Attractions
Taj Mahal
Agra is known throughout the world as the city of the Taj. Tourists who visit India do not go back without seeing the beautiful Taj Mahal, epitome of love. The Taj Mahal is located near the bank of river Yamuna. Built by king Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white marble monument in the memory of his beautiful wife, queen Mumtaz Mahal. This monument took 22 long years to complete. Persian architect Ustad Isa designed this grand monument. The Taj is also known for its elegant domes, carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever seen. Apart from the white monument, the sprawling gardens from the entrance of the Taj are a striking view for the onlooker.
Fatehpur Sikri
Mughal Emperor Akbar built Fatehpur Sikri, as the capital in the 16th century for a long span of time. Fatehpur Sikri is the most popular sight in Agra, apart from the Taj Mahal. Fatehpur Sikri is just 37 kms from Agra. The architectural magnificence of this city cannot be described in simple words. One must experience the feel of this magnificent structure by seeing. A highly symbolic structure, it is believed as the imminent forerunner of the Taj Mahal as far as elaborate carvings and inlay work are concerned.
Agra Fort
Another very popular tourist destination is Agra Fort. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna, this royal red sandstone fort was built by Mughal Emporor Akbar, after accession to power in 1654. Most of the buildings within the Agra Fort are a mixture of different architectural styles. Many of the palaces inside the fort were later added by next generations of Mughal Emperors like Jahangir and Shahjahan. It comprises of many magnificent palaces, such as the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, Audience Halls, Diwan-i-Khas, and two very beautiful mosques.
Itmadullah’s Tomb
Itmad–Ud-Daulah’s Tomb is another major attraction apart from the Taj Mahal. It was built by the Empress Noor Jehan in memory of her father. It is said that the interiors of this tomb is considered better than the interiors of the Taj.
Other Attractions
Agra is known for its Taj Mahotsav (Taj Festival). This major festival is held every year in February. Millions of tourists visit from all over the world. The major tourist attractions in Agra apart from the Taj Mahal are Jama Masjid, Sikandra, Rambagh, Dayal Bagh among others.
How To Reach
Air: The Kherai Airport of Agra is just 6km from the Agra city centre.
Railway: The Agra railway station is well connected by Delhi-Mumbai, Delhi-Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Delhi-Kolkata tracks. The two fastest trains from Delhi are Superfast Shatabdi Express and Taj Express.
Road: Agra is 200 kms away from Delhi and from Jaipur, it is 232 kms. Some of the important road distances from Agra are Bharatpur-54 km., Gwalior-119 km., Lucknow-369 km. and Mathura-450 km.
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