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An evening in the precincts of Taj, with sun dripping at the backdrop can totally drive you in a state of elation; however, it would be a shame to visit Agra if its all you are going for. The enchanting allure of Agras architectural grandeur pulls tourists near like an ant to the jaggery. While the hype may seem illusory, the city tinted in the shades of Mughals speaks volumes for their legacy in the words that look as good as they sound. The traces left by the prosperous emperors of that era could still be seen & sensed in the walkways of forts, tombs and mausoleums that Agra inhabits. In fact, it is the rich historical and cultural heritage of the city that makes it glow distinctly in Indias Golden Triangle Tourist Circuit.That said; listed below are some of the prepossessing architectural marvels of Agra, capable enough to satisfy your wanderlust in your coming getaway.
Built by Akbar in the year 1573, this marvelous fort made from red sandstone served as the residence of many great Mughal Emperors. Extended over an area of around 94 acres, Agra fort had a record number of around 5000 buildings built in Bengali and Gujarati style. Later, Shahjahan, the grandson of Akbar, built a marvelous white marble mosque in it, which is a must-see place for all the history buffs. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and there is an entry fee of Rs.40 per person for Indian Nationals, Rs.80 for citizens of the SAARC nations and for any other foreigner, the charge is Rs.550 per head.
The Sheesh Mahal, or the Glass Palace, is located inside the magnificent Agra Fort. It was built by Shahjahan during 1631-1640 on the western side below the Diwan-e-Khas Hall. This palace was constructed as a Summer Palace to provide relief from the scorching heat. It has two majestic tanks that are interconnected by canals to keep the palace cool throughout the hot summer. The use of thousands of mirrors gives a very unique look to this palace. Visiting the splendid Sheesh Mahal is worth a try when traveling to Agra.
For all the lovers of nature, Mehtab Bagh is a must-visit place, located in the vicinity of Taj Mahal. Constructed by Emperor Babur, to get the best view of the splendid Taj, this garden is apt for those who want to click unique pictures of Taj Mahal. Entry fee of Rs.10 is charged from Indian Nationals and Foreigners have to pay an entry fee of Rs.100.
Described as jewel box or baby Taj, the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is a true delight to all the visitors. It was built by Begum Nur Jahan, wife of Jahangir, in the memory of her father Mirza Ghyas Beg during 1622-1628 A.D. Pietra Dura, the inlay work of Taj Mahal was first used in the construction of this splendid mausoleum. An entry ticket of Rs.20 needs to be purchased by Indian nationals before visiting this tomb and the price for foreign tourists is Rs.210. Nationals of SAARC countries need only pay Rs.25 as entry fee.
Located near the Diwan-e-khas in Agra Fort, the Shah Burj or the Musamman Burj was built by Shahjahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Its octagonal structure lures all the tourists. It is said to be the best spot to have a view of the splendid Taj Mahal. The entry charges to this magnificent place are the same as that of Agra Fort.
Located near the Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, the Bear Sanctuary of Wildlife SOS is a delightful place for every animal lover. The bear sanctuary, located on the Delhi-Agra Highway, is a home for many species of bears from across the world. This rescue center was established in the year 1995 by a group of young people and has now rescued thousands of animals. Visit this place to enjoy 2 hours of unforgettable fun and pleasure.
The iconic Fatehpur Sikri is yet another marvel of the grandiloquent architecture of the Mughal-era. Legends say that, Akbar shifted his residence to Fatehpur Sikri to honor the Sufi Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti, who is said to have blessed Akbar with a son. Believed to be the first planned city of Mughals, Fatehpur Sikri displays excellent architectural delights to all the travelers. Take a tour of the entire complex to witness unmatched designs and architecture. The entry fee for Indian nationals and citizens of SAARC nations is Rs.40 and for other foreign nationals is Rs.510.
A trip to Agra is never complete without visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal. Built by Shahjahan, the greatest admirer and patron of Mughal Architecture, Taj Mahal is included in the worlds seven greatest wonders. Its beauty can be best described in the words Shahjahan himself, who said, Taj made the sun and the moon shed tears from their eyes. The magnificent mausoleum stands intact on the bank of river Yamuna and houses the tomb of the great Mughal Emperor as well as his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It took around 20 years to complete its construction in 1653 with the efforts of around 20,000 artisans. It is made from the finest quality white marble imported from faraway places and embedded with thousands of precious stones. Constructed by shahjahan in the memory of his dead wife, Taj Mahal is an epitome of true love and romance. There is a nominal fee of Rs.40 per head for Indian nationals and Rs.1000 per head for foreigners, which needs to be paid at the time of entry.
Jama Masjid, constructed by Shahjahan for his daughter Jahanara Begum, is the largest mosque in Agra. It is an architectural delight for all the visitors. The main prayer hall is designed on a high podium, which can be reached by five arched entrances. The entire place is carved with Persian inscriptions that render it a unique look. Visiting jama masjid is recommended to experience spiritual bliss.
Anguri Bagh, built by Shahjahan was popular for its grape production. Visiting this amazing place will bring us closer to the Mughal era and the feminine culture of the time. Shahjahan built it in 1637, as a relaxing spot for all the royal ladies. The garden can be visited anytime between sunrise and sunset with the entry ticket of the Agra Fort.
Guru Ka Tal was built in 1970 in the memory of Guru Teg Bahadur. It has very high historical significance as Guru Teg Bahadur is said to have surrendered here before Aurangazeb. People from many parts of the country visit this Sikh pilgrimage to pay their homage to the great Sikh guru. One should visit this place at least once in a lifetime to experience the sanctity of this Sikh memorial.
Located in the complex of Fatehpur Sikri, Maryamuzzamani Palace was the palace of Emperor Akbars queen. With impressive architecture and beautiful floral designs, this palace is a true delight for the eyes. The lush green gardens surrounding this palace make it a must-visit destination for everyone. The entry fee for Indian nationals and SAARC citizens is Rs.10 and for foreign nationals is Rs.250.
Dayal Bagh or Soami Bagh is a must-visit place for all the ardent Radha Soami devotees. This place holds high stature for all the followers of Radha Soami. This place of worship was constructed in the honor of the founder of Radha Soami Satsang Movement, Shri Shiv Dayal Sahib. The complex also houses the Dayal Bagh Temple, which was built in 1861.
In order to get a better understanding of the Taj Mahal, it is highly recommended to visit the Taj Museum, which is located in the complex of the world-famous monument. This two-storey museum houses as many as 121 antiques from the Mughal period to let you have a deeper insight into the construction of Taj Mahal. There is a nominal charge of Rs.20 for the domestic visitors and Rs.750 for foreign tourists. One can visit the museum between 10am to 5pm and it remains closed on Fridays.
The Birbal Bhawan is located near the Jodhabai Palace in Fatehpur Sikri. This bhavan was the residence of one of the navaratna of Akbars court, the wise and intelligent Birbal. In the words of Victorian French author Victor Hugo, this bhavan looks like a miniature jewelry box. To visit this place is to travel back in time to the Mughal era and experience its excellent architecture. One needs to pay an entry fee of Rs.10 for Indians and Rs.250 for foreigners to witness this splendid two-storey building.
There is a hidden gem in the busy market of Rawatpara near Agra Fort Railway Station. If you travel through the lanes of this market, then you will find the highly praised Shri Mankameshwar Mandir. This temple is a sacred place of worship for all the devotees of Lord Shiva. The main Shivalinga is covered in silver plating and is opened only once in few years. Rumors suggest that this temple is said to fulfill the wishes of true worshippers. Dont forget to try the famous paan on your next visit to this wish granting temple.
Built by Emperor Akbar, Jahangir Mahal or Jahangir Palace was earlier used as a zenana for his Rajput wives. It is a remarkable building depicting a blend of Gujarati as well as Rajasthani architecture. A tour to this Mahal would make you relive the Mughal era blended with a touch of Indian architecture. An entry fee of Rs.50 by Indians and Rs.300 by foreigners need to be paid for a smooth tour through this splendid building.
Buland Darwaza or The Gate of Magnificence was built by Emperor Akbar to celebrate his victory over Gujarat. Standing majestically as the main entrance door to the palace of Fatehpur Sikri, this gate is 53.63m high and 35m wide. Buland Darwaza is a must-see place for all the tourists visiting Agra because of its great architecture and stunning Mughal designs.
Located around 500 meters from the Eastern Gates of Taj Mahal, Taj Nature Park is a heaven on earth for all the nature lovers. A walk in the serene environs of this park is sure to offer you complete peace of mind. One can enjoy numerous views of the magnificent Taj from this park. It consists of photo points, watch towers, flower beds, sunrise-sunset points and a large variety of flora and fauna to engage all the travelers. The entry fare for this nature walk is Rs.20 for Indians and Rs.100 for foreign tourists.
Situated 1km north of The Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb, The Chini Ka Rauza is yet another mausoleum constructed by the great Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. It houses the tomb of Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, the prime minister of the Emperors court. It derives its name from the fact that it was built using variety of tiles or chini in different colors. The unusual architecture of this tomb makes it a must visit place for all the tourists.
Nageshwarnath temple is a very popular religious place for all those travelling to Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Crowded with devotees throughout the year, this temple, at Ramaratan Road, is regarded as a very sacred place of worship. During the festive season, this temple is decorated with bright lights and witnesses a record number of devotees.
Paliwal Park or Krishna Dutta Paliwal Park is spread across a vast area of about 70 acres. It is a favorite destination for the localities of Agra because of its peaceful environment and calm surrounding in the heart of the hustling-bustling city. One can visit this park any time of the day between sunrise and sunset without any entry charge and enjoy the coolness of nature. It is surrounded by a number of colleges and universities that make it a favorite spot among the college goers. Paliwal Park should be visited once by everyone travelling to Agra to witness a blend of variety of people and get to know about the life of the city closely.
Offering a plethora of tourist places, this city is well-known for its rich Mughal inheritance. Apart from the splendid Taj Mahal, one can witness a number of other epitomes of Indo-Mughal architectural excellences. A tour of Agra will let you have a deeper insight into the rich history that it holds. This city is a true paradise for all the history enthusiasts.
