Agra is a city on the banks of the Yamuna river in India’s northern state of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, owing to its many Mughal-era monuments, most notably the Taj Mahal. Agra was the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1556 to 1658, and it remains an important commercial and cultural center for northern India. The city’s history is closely intertwined with that of the Taj Mahal, which was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal. Today, Agra is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 1.5 million people. Visitors from all over the world flock to see the Taj Mahal, making it one of India’s most popular tourist attractions.

Historical monuments and places of interest

The Taj Mahal

Rudyard Kipling poetically described Taj Mahal as “the embodiment of all things pure”. No exaggeration is needed to explain the attractiveness of this white marble marvel, a poetic representation of an Emperor’s love for his Queen. Taj Mahal was constructed on the bank of River Yamuna in 1631 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, after the passing away of his beloved consort Mumtaz Mahal while giving birth to their child. It took 17 years and involved 1000 elephants and 22000 workers to build this magnificent monument according to her last wish.

The Taj Mahal, one of India’s three World Heritage Sites, is the epitome of beauty. Set in a grand Mughal Garden, it stands tall atop a raised marble platform overlooking the Yamuna River. Every side of this architectural marvel exhibits perfect symmetry with its majestic vaulted arches accentuated by Pietra Dura scrollwork and calligraphic verses from the Quran using inlaid jasper. Photographers and tourists alike flock to visit this entrancing monument that looks just as flawless today as it did upon its completion centuries ago.

Agra Fort

The formidable red-sandstone fort, situated on the banks of the River Yamuna and constructed in 1565 under Emperor Akbar’s guidance, was later enhanced by his grandson Shah Jahan, who changed it into a palace. The semi-circular structure is enveloped by a 21.4 meter high wall. Though primarily built as a military base – portions still serving as an Indian Army reserve – Jahan was locked up here for eight years following Aurangzeb’s accession to power in 1658. It includes an abundance of buildings, including secret caverns; the single entrance being Amar Singh Gate. Pathway from here directs to Moti Masjid prior to Diwan-e-Aam – where Shah Jahan would hear petitions or other complaints – and the left staircase carrying you to a courtyard with a white marble Nagina Masjid. Further attractions are: Diwan-e-Khas, known for possessing Shah Jahan’s celebrated Peacock Throne and diamond Koh-I-Noor; Shish Mahal, featuring walls crafted with little mirrors; Khas Mahal -with its white octagonal tower & palace; Jahangir’s Palace in the southern area, possibly built by Akbar himself

Sikandra/Akbar’s Tomb

Located in the western outskirts of the city, the red-sandstone and marble tomb of Emperor Akbar was completed by his son Jahangir. Ornately decorated with beautiful calligraphy, it reflects the philosophy of Din-e-Ilahi – a religious movement devised by Akbar, which blended Hinduism and Islam, amongst other beliefs. Sikandra holds within its walls not just the tomb but also the grave of the Mughal ruler in a dark chamber and its outlying garden, designed in Char Bagh style adds to its overall charm.

Itmad-Ud-Daula

A masterpiece of design and construction, this tomb was built under the commission of Empress Noor Jahan in memory of her father Mirza Ghias Beg in 1623-28 A.D. This ornate tomb is considered a precursor of Taj Mahal. Visitors are captivated by the beauty of its white marble structure.

Chini Ka Rauza

This mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s Prime Minister and Persian poet Afzal Khan Mullah is situated just one km away from Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb. This place is surrounded by well-tendered gardens and hosts some of the most exquisite blue glazed tilework, made from porcelain known as “Chini Mitti” or “Chinese Clay”, brought from China. A small portion of the exterior still has these tiles, while most of the interior is decorated in Floral Designs. Thus making it an ideal curtain raiser to an exotic Persian art style stationed in Agra, open for visits from sunrise to sunset any day.

Tomb of Mariam

This tomb, built in memory of Akbar’s wife Mariam Zamani, is located a mere kilometer away from the Emperor’s own tomb at Fatehpur Sikri on the Delhi-Agra National Highway. Born Heer Kunwari, Rajput Princess of Amer in 1562, she was rechristened Mariam-uz-Zamani upon her marriage to Akbar and gave birth to their son Jahangir who would eventually build her this tomb near Sikandra after her death in 1623. Adorned with exceptional carvings, the ground floor consists of forty chambers which once boasted faintly painted plastered walls. The center chamber holds Mariam’s cenotaph while the facades are covered with red sandstone split into countless panels and decorated with intricate bas-relief geometrical patterns; each corner also features an ornate octagonal tower crowned with pavilions supported by slender pillars. The upper storey houses a marble cenotaph open to the sky above.

Ram Bagh

Ram Bagh, constructed in 1528, is a Mughal garden attributed to Emperor Babur, founder of the Mughal Dynasty. Located 3 km from the Tomb of Itmad-Ud_Daula and 500 meters from Chini ka Rauza, it’s Agra’s oldest garden situated among a lively marketplace. It is believed that Babur was interred here temporarily before being laid to rest in Afghanistan. The Garden was established by Babur and later renovated by Noor Jahan, wife of Jahangir.

Nagina Masjid

Nagina Masjid is a beautiful and elegant mosque situated in Agra Fort, near Moti Masjid. Crafted with pristine white marble, the Mosque was built for the personal convenience of the Emperor. Adorned with a three-arched façade and cusps supported by slender piers on its entrance, this prayer chamber comprises of three majestic domes built on top. It also has a marble paved court lined by walls to the north, south and east side whereas the prayer chamber lies towards its west. The middle arch is captivatingly big, having nine cusps while ones on either sides comprise of seven cusps each.

Mehtab Bagh

On the left bank of the River Yamuna, next to the Taj Mahal, is Mehtab Bagh. As the last of the 11 parks built along the Yamuna’s bank, this park was built by Emperor Babur. An area of 300 by 300 metres (980 feet by 980 feet) is perfectly aligned with the Taj Mahal across the river. Excavations have revealed an octagonal tank at its center and a gateway on its northern wall. It is now one of the best places to view the great mausoleum.

Jama Masjid

A rectangular open forecourt was constructed by Shah Jahan’s daughter, Jahanara Begum, in 1648 A.D., making it one of the largest mosques built by the Mughals in India. This monument is beautifully constructed while imbibing Iranian architecture and is constructed of red sandstone and white marble. It took about six years for the construction of Jama Masjid to be completed.

Guru Ka Taal

Guru Ka Taal, a world-renowned Gurudwara in Agra, had its foundations laid during the 1970’s. It is believed that four out of the ten Sikh gurus made pilgrimage to this hallowed site. Not only does it have a significant historic and religious significance, but also entices throngs of devotees and visitors from different countries every year. Its proximity to becoming one of India’s most illustrious architectural marvels is marked with intricate stone carvings. Alluring travellers from every corner of the globe to experience its grandeur and splendor first-hand!

Agra’s food

Petha

Agra is renowned for its Petha, which is a sweet prepared from ash gourd or white pumpkin and infused with different flavors. It comes in a variety of shapes and two main varieties – chewy and dry or soft and syrupy. Various versions of Petha are available such as plain (white), Kesar(saffron),Angoori Petha and Paan Petha. This delicious treat is believed to have medicinal properties, such as aiding blood pressure, hydration, brain growth, etc. For the best Petha in Agra, drop by the famous Panchi Petha at Hari Parvat Crossing.

Dalmoth.

It is a traditional Namkeen made from nuts, spices, lentils, and oil. It is crispy, spicy, and greasy. A good Dalmoth is found in Panchi Petha and Baluganj. This namkeen (snack) is best paired with tea when you want to munch something crunchy. Dalmoth comes packaged in boxes or bags, and its spicy flavor will overwhelm your taste buds.

Jalebi & Bedhai

Bedhai is a typical Agra breakfast often sold at street stands. It’s a combination of spicy bedhai and sweet jalebi, both equally delicious. Bedhai is similar to Kachori and is served with a bowl of spicy sabzi which usually has potato pieces inside and a dollop of curd. Jalebi is made from fermented batter that’s fried and then soaked in hot sugary syrup, making it a luscious dessert. This balanced breakfast can be found across the city, with some of the most popular places being GMB and Shree ji sweets on Fatehabad road.

The paratha

Paratha is an iconic Mughlai dish and Agra is one of the cities known for it. It’s a popular vegetarian item, prepared by pan-frying a flat wheat bread and stuffing it with potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, and cheese. Enjoying Parathas is the perfect way to satisfy your craving for traditional Indian flavors. Commonly eaten in breakfast alongside curd, pickle and chutney, this nourishing meal will surely fill you up. If visiting Agra don’t miss out on Rambabu parathe wale located along Old Delhi – Agra highway, they serve delicious parathas.

Mughlai Food

Mughlai food is a reminder of the days of the Mughal Empire in India. Their cuisine found its way into many parts of North India, yet Agra has managed to preserve its unique and scrumptious flavours. The Mughals brought their own dishes when they made Agra their capital, and these are best experienced at Nai ki Mandi area on MG Road, Indiana, Pinch of Spice and Taj Mahal Restaurants on Fatehabad Road – all serving up authentic dishes sure to tantalize your taste buds!

Chaat

Chaat is adored in Agra, particularly Dahi-bhalla, Raj kachori, samosas and gol gappas. The renowned Bhallas stand out as the city’s most beloved. These are a fried potato and chickpea patty broken open then coated with grated ginger and a zesty-sweet tamarind sauce. Agra’s Bhallas are bigger and crispier than others and make for a hugely satisfying snack; find them exclusively on the streets of Agra. Head to Chaat wali gali in Sadar Bazar to savor the authentic taste of chaat from Agra.

The festival at Agra

Taj  Mahotsav

The Taj Mahotsav is eagerly anticipated by those in northern India. It takes places every year during February at Shilpgram, just outside the Taj Mahal’s eastern gate. The festival, organised by the Taj Mahotsav Committee, encourages the display of creative artistry by craftspeople and their unique talents. During these 10 days, it provides an opportunity for people to experience the art, culture and cuisine of India in one place. Entertaining performances from local and bollywood artists fill each evening with a cultural aura; plus it is used as a way to mark the start of spring season with all its grandeur and splendour. To begin proceedings, a huge procession of locals, tourists and folk artists show off their specialities. All sorts of beautiful crafts from different parts of India transform the venue into Mini India – attracting both domestic and international travellers who seek to witness this sensational event.

Fair of Bateshwar

Bateshwar is an important town located 70 km from Agra. It derives its name from Bateshwar Mahadev, a paramount deity, and is culturally and spiritually significant due to the presence of 108 temples devoted to multiple gods and goddesses of Hinduism. Every year, a month-long fair is conducted in October-November to celebrate Lord Shiva’s glory; where his followers come to take a holy dip in the Yamuna River. Besides, a cattle and livestock fair are also organized during that time which further spreads its jollity to Agra city.

Ram Baraat

Every year before Dussehra, Ram Baraat is organized as a ‘barat’ or marriage procession of Lord Rama. This celebration forms part of the re-enactment of Ramleela that leads to the festivities of Dussehra with Ravana’s effigy being burnt by Lord Rama. In what is known as Janakpuri, the palace of Sita is set up at the venue where the ‘baraat’ arrives, amidst an array of colorful and decorated Jhankis. The venue also hosts a fair, attracting people from far and wide to witness this sacred union. The idols of Lord Rama and his brothers are adorned with precious jewels and placed on a chariot, which serves as one more highlight in the procession.

Kailash Fair

During the month of August or September, a Kailash fair is held at Kailash temple in Agra in honour of Lord Shiva. This marks the auspicious sighting of Lord Shiva as the ‘Lingam’. Devotees travel from all over Agra to attend this fair.

Agra attractions

Sunrise and sunset at the Taj Mahal

Sunrise is the best time to view the Taj Mahal because there are few crowds, and the air is cool and pleasant. Sunset is also a great time to see the white marble masterpiece.

During the full moon, Taj Mahal is open for five nights

It is said that during the full moon the light from the moon  illuminates the Taj Mahal in a way that is not seen on a regular day. It is a sight to behold for one and all. For five days around new moons, tickets must be purchased a day in advance, and entry is limited.

Nature Walk at Taj

The Taj Mahal can be seen from many different locations in the city. One such spot is 500 meters away on the East Gate Road of the Taj Mahal. For a perfect view of its white marble magnificence, it is recommended to visit at sunrise or sunset from the lush 180 acre garden that has 20 ft high watch towers.

Excursions nearby

Fatehpur Sikri

This city of red sandstone architecture and intricate carvings is located 37 KM west of Agra, perched atop a rocky ridge.

Mathura

Mathura is 49 kilometers from Agra and is the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It is dotted with magnificent temples that depict the various phases of Krishna’s life.

Bateswar

Situated 70 Km away from Agra, the city of Taj, Bateshwar is an ancient temple complex, as well as a deeply spiritual and cultural centre for Hindus. This place is dedicated to BATESHWAR MAHADEV- an alternate name for Lord Shiva, and there are more than 100 temples in this complex. These temples are arranged along a crescent-shaped curve of the river and some have ghats (steps) descending to the water. It is believed that Bateshwar was where Lord Krishna’s mother was born, and that it has been cited in numerous myths and legends over time. Ancient scriptures even refer to it as Surajpur due to its founder Raja Suraj Sen, who also happened to be Lord Krishna’s grandfather.

Chambal Sanctuary

An opportunity to explore the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the Chambal Valley is available at Chambal Sanctuary Sanctuary (just 10 Km from Bateshwar). More than 600 square kilometers of the river have been designated as the National Chambal Sanctuary. There are currently 242 species of bird species in the sanctuary, including mars crocodiles (muggers), gharials (gavials), eight turtle species, and Gangetic dolphins.

Bird sanctuary at Keetham

Founded by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department in 1991, Keetham Bird Sanctuary was known as Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. In addition to having more than 165 species of resident birds and migratory birds, the sanctuary also has a population of more than 300 pythons. It is also one of the largest bear rehabilitation centers in India for dancing bears.

The sanctuary is relatively small, but it is a very important bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh. The Keetham Jheel wetland, which is popularly known as Keetham Jheel, is a fresh water wetlands. Since 1991, the area has been declared a sanctuary as a result of the large number of migratory and resident birds arriving there year after year.

In addition to its scenic beauty, religion-cultural heritage, and rich assemblage of fauna and flora, it was named after Soordas, the great poet of Hindi literature, whose place of birth is said to be within the sanctuary’s perimeter.

In the semi-arid part of the country, a lake surrounded by lush and luxuriant vegetation is a picturesque sight and a rare experience. It is an important birding destination for ornithologists, as it is close to the important city of Agra and is very rich in avifauna.

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