Most people who come to India as tourists, head to Agra the first chance they
get. This is, as you might have guessed already, because of Taj Mahal, one of
the seven man-made wonders of the World. Come to Agra and check out not only
this White marble wonder but also the historical monuments and the fine cuisine
of this magnificent city.
Agra - Location
Agra is around 203 kms from Delhi, the capital of India and about 235 kms
from Jaipur, capital of Rajasthan, which is a major tourist destination of
India.
Agra -When To Visit
Agra is quite hot, in the summers the temperature can be anything between
22° C and 42° C, and in the winters it is usually somewhere between
4.2° C and 29° C. Though tourists come to Agra throughout the year,
the best time is between Ocotber and March, when the weather is more pleasant.
Agra - History In Brief
Agra was founded by Sikander Lodhi, of the Lodhi dynasty in the 16th century.
Agra received a lot of attention in Mughal hands, which explains the many
monuments and forts in the city. After Mughlas, it was also under the rule
of Jats, Marathas and finally it was under the British.
Agra - Must- See Places
A tour package to Agra always includes a tour of the Taj Mahal. This symbol
of eternal love was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved Mumtaj. It
is possibly one of the most famous monuments and is one of the reasons why
tourists make a beeline to come to Agra.
You can also tour the Agra Fort, which was built by Emperor Akbar. The construction
of the Fort started in 1565 and was finished in 1571. Inspired by both the
Hindu and Islamic styles of architecture, the fort is made of red sandstone
and is a beautiful synthesis combining the best elements of both styles of
architcture. Your holiday package will also take you to the Itmad-ud-Daulah
Tomb, which was built by Mughal Empress Noor Jahan. This place is very popular
with tourists for it is quite like the Taj Mahal and is truly a beautiful
structure. While you are on your tour of Agra, you can also visit the tomb
of Akbar, which many insist has a very unique architecture, which is a mix
of many different styles. And of course, a tour to Agra cannot be complete
without a tour of Fatehpur Sikri. Also known as the 'City of Ghosts', it was
built by Akbar, the great Mughal Emperor. Though the city is not necessarily
in a very good shape yet by looking at it, one can still imagine the splendor
and magnificence of the former capital.
Agra - Excursions
Travel to Sur sarovar or Keetham lake, which is great place to enjoy outdoor
activities. Here one can go fishing or enjoy a picnic with their children
and loved ones. Firozabad can also be visited, which is famous for its factory
shops that sell glassware at a reasonable price. If you are really out to
explore the wonderful places, then you can travel to Vrindavan, which is famous
for its Govind Dev Temple and Krishna Balram Temple. Vrindavan can either
be reached by train or road. You might want to visit the Keoladeo Ghana National
Park, which was formerly called the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The National
park is at a distance of 55 kms from Agra, so it can easily be visited while
you are enjoying a holiday in Agra. The national park, besides being home
to several kinds of birds, also has jackals, cats, hyenas, antelopes and even
reptiles. While you are in Bharatpur also check out the historical places
such as the Bharatpur Fort or the Loha Garh, besides a Government Museum.
Agra - Getting There
The airport is the Kheria airport, which is located at a distance of 7kms
from the city center. There are many railway stations in Agra but the important
ones are the Raja ki Mandi and the Agra Cantt. Stations. You can board the
Shatabdi and Taj Express from New Delhi, which is a fast way of reaching Agra.
There are also other important trains such as, Udyan Abha Toofan Express,
Nizamuddin Intercity Express, Kerala Express and Ahmedabad-Gorakhpur Express,
which connect Agra to other major cities in India.
Reaching Agra by road is no problem. The city is very well connected and
one can get there by either taking a bus or hiring a cab.
Agra - Events
The Taj Mahotsav, which is organized from February 18 to 27, is a celebration
one should not miss. The Sheetla fair is also worth attending, and it is held
during the months of July and August. The Kailash Fair is held in honor of
Lord Shiva and it is held in the months of August and September.
Agra - Shopping
The tourists to Agra can buy semi-precious stone jewelry, leather items such
as belts, shoes etc, and also lots of handicrafts. One can also get paintings
and souvenirs to take back home.
Agra - Cuisine
Agra is a great place to try Mughlai cuisine and various kinds of kebabs
and gravies. Also try pulaos, kheer and the famous petha, which one should
not forget to try. There are lots of restaurant and eateries in this city,
so perfect for those who live for Gastronomical delights.