Tourist Places in Agra

The famous Tourist Places in Agra, Uttar Pradesh include Buland Darwaza, Agra Fort and Taj Mahal.

About Agra, Uttar Pradesh

1. Taj Mahal: Agra is world-renowned for the Taj Mahal, an iconic white marble mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
2. Historical Significance: Agra has a rich historical background as it was the capital of the Mughal Empire during the 16th and 17th centuries. It served as an important center for culture, trade, and governance.
3. Agra Fort: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort, is a massive red sandstone fort built by Emperor Akbar. It houses numerous palaces, halls, and structures that reflect Mughal architecture.
4. Fatehpur Sikri: Located near Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a well-preserved ghost city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by Emperor Akbar and served as his capital for a brief period.
5. Yamuna River: Agra is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, one of the major rivers in India. The Taj Mahal is located on the river’s bank.
6. Cultural Diversity: Agra is a melting pot of various cultures and traditions due to its historical significance and the presence of different rulers and empires over the centuries.
7. Art and Crafts: The city is known for its intricate handicrafts such as marble inlay work, leather goods, jewelry, and textiles. The local artisans showcase their skills in various markets.
8. Cuisine: Agra offers a variety of Mughlai cuisine, which includes dishes like biryani, kebabs, and Mughlai curries. The city is also famous for its sweet delicacies, including the famous Agra ka Petha.
9. Tourism: Agra is a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. The Taj Mahal alone draws a significant portion of this tourist traffic.
10. Education and Economy: Agra has educational institutions and universities that contribute to its educational landscape. Its economy is also influenced by industries like leather goods, handicrafts, and tourism-related services.
11. Transportation: The city is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Agra Airport caters to domestic flights, and the Agra Cantt railway station is a prominent railway junction.
12. Cultural Events: Agra hosts various cultural events and festivals, celebrating the city’s heritage and traditions. The Taj Mahotsav is a popular annual cultural festival that showcases music, dance, crafts, and more.
13. Climate: Agra experiences a hot desert climate, with scorching summers and relatively mild winters. The best time to visit is during the winter months, from October to March.
14. Chini ka Rauza: This is a lesser-known but exquisite Mughal monument in Agra. It’s the tomb of Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, a poet, and scholar, known for its intricate Persian-style architecture.
15. Jama Masjid: Agra’s Jama Masjid is a significant mosque known for its stunning architecture, built by Shah Jahan’s daughter, Princess Jahanara Begum.

How to Reach Agra, Uttar Pradesh

By Bus

Agra enjoys excellent bus connectivity with cities such as Delhi, Jaipur, Gwalior, Lucknow, and Kanpur. There are daily bus services connecting these cities. Agra boasts two significant interstate bus terminals: Idgah Bus Stand, situated centrally just 8 kilometers from the Taj Mahal, and ISBT, located 12 kilometers away from the Taj Mahal.

By Train

Agra is strategically positioned on the Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai routes, ensuring robust connectivity to numerous cities across India. The city hosts regular train services from prominent locations like Delhi, Jaipur, Gwalior, and Jhansi. Furthermore, Agra maintains excellent links with cities in other regions such as Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai. Agra boasts five railway stations: Agra Cantt Station (the primary station), Agra Fort Railway Station, Raja ki Mandi, Agra City, and Idgah Railway Station. Notably, both the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort are conveniently accessible from Agra Cantt railway station, and travelers have the option to hire a pre-paid taxi, auto-rickshaw, or even a cycle rickshaw to reach these iconic attractions.

By Airplane

Agra’s Kheria airport serves as both a military base and a seasonal commercial airport. Currently, it is exclusively connected by Air India flights from New Delhi. The flight from Delhi to Agra is a brief journey, lasting less than an hour. Situated 13 kilometers away from Agra city, Kheria airport is conveniently accessible. To reach the city, you can easily hire a taxi, with the journey taking approximately 10-15 minutes, subject to traffic conditions.

Tourist Places in Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Buland Darwaza

Fatehpur Sikri: A Glance into its History and Significance

1. Historical Capital: Once a thriving capital of Mughal Emperor Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri, located within the Agra district, played a significant role in the Mughal Empire during the late 16th century, particularly until 1585.
2. Abandonment and Reasons: Fatehpur Sikri’s prominence waned due to two key reasons – its close proximity to the Rajputana region and the scarcity of water resources in the area. These factors led to the decision to abandon the city and relocate the Mughal capital back to Agra.
3. Transition to a Ghost Town: After being deserted, Fatehpur Sikri remained mostly uninhabited for a considerable part of its history. The town transformed into a ghost town, with remnants of its once-thriving past scattered across its landscape.
4. Name Origin: Originally known as “Fatahabad,” the name Fatehpur Sikri is derived from the Persian word “Fatah,” which means victory. This name signifies the triumphs and achievements associated with the establishment of the city.
5. Akbar’s Vision: Emperor Akbar’s vision for building Fatehpur Sikri was multi-faceted. One of the main reasons was to honor the revered Sufi saint, Salim Chishti. The entire palace complex was constructed around the mausoleum of Salim Chishti, showcasing Akbar’s respect for the saint.
6. Architectural Marvel: The architectural brilliance of Fatehpur Sikri is showcased through its intricate design and layout. The city’s structures, including palaces, mosques, and courtyards, exhibit a harmonious blend of Mughal, Persian, and Indian architectural styles.

Exploring the Gems of Fatehpur Sikri: Top Places to Visit

1. Buland Darwaza: This grand entrance gate stands as a symbol of victory, and its colossal size and intricate detailing leave a lasting impression. It’s one of the largest gateways in the world and serves as an architectural masterpiece.
2. Diwan-i-Khas: The Hall of Private Audience is an exquisite structure that reflects Akbar’s inclusive policies. Its unique central pillar design allowed the emperor to hear from his courtiers and advisors from all corners.
3. Panch Mahal: This five-story pavilion is an architectural marvel, characterized by its diminishing levels. It served as a place for relaxation and conversation, displaying Akbar’s innovative architectural tastes.
4. Jama Masjid: The congregational mosque of Fatehpur Sikri showcases the fusion of Indian and Persian architectural styles. Its stunning central courtyard and white marble façade are remarkable features.
5. Salim Chishti’s Tomb: The mausoleum of Sufi saint Salim Chishti is a focal point of the city. The intricate marble lattice work and the spirituality associated with the site make it a significant pilgrimage destination.
6. Jodha Bai’s Palace: This palace is a testament to Akbar’s policy of religious harmony, as it’s believed to have been built for his Hindu queen, Jodha Bai. The blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture is evident here.
7. Birbal’s House: Named after one of Akbar’s famous courtiers, Raja Birbal, this structure provides insights into the daily life and administrative workings of the Mughal court.
8. Anup Talao: A central pool with a platform in its midst, this location was used for musical performances and discussions among the intellectuals of the court.
9. Mariam-uz-Zamani’s Palace: Another tribute to Akbar’s queens, this palace showcases the Persian influence on Mughal architecture and provides a glimpse into royal life.

Agra Fort

1. Location and Purpose:
   • Agra Fort is situated in the city of Agra, India.
   • It served as the primary residence for the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638.
2. Shift of Capital:
   • In 1638, the Mughal capital was moved from Agra to Delhi, leading to a change in the fort’s significance.
3. UNESCO World Heritage Site:
   • Agra Fort has gained global recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
   • Its historical and architectural value contributes to its protected status.
4. Proximity to Taj Mahal:
   • Agra Fort is located approximately 2.5 km northwest of the Taj Mahal.
   • These two landmarks share historical importance and proximity within Agra.
5. Walled City Concept:
   • Rather than just a conventional fort, Agra Fort can be described as a walled city due to its vast size and complexity.

The Taj Mahal: Iconic Marble Mausoleum in Agra

1. Location and Description:
   • The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum located on the southern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, India.
   • It is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and an emblem of India’s cultural heritage.
2. Commissioned by Shah Jahan:
   • The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who reigned from 1628 to 1658, commissioned the Taj Mahal in the year 1632.
3. Dedication to Mumtaz Mahal:
   • The purpose of the Taj Mahal was to serve as the final resting place for Shah Jahan’s favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
   • Mumtaz Mahal had a special place in Shah Jahan’s heart, and her untimely death led him to create this grand monument in her memory.
4. Architectural Complex:
   • The Taj Mahal is part of a sprawling 17-hectare (42-acre) complex that includes not only the mausoleum itself but also other significant structures.
   • This complex encompasses a mosque and a guest house, adding to the functionality and grandeur of the site.
5. Formal Gardens and Wall:
   • The mausoleum is surrounded by meticulously designed formal gardens.
   • On three sides, the complex is enclosed by a crenellated wall, enhancing both the security and aesthetic appeal of the monument.

Construction and Completion:

1. Phases of Construction:
   • The construction of the main mausoleum was largely completed by 1643, showcasing the intricate marble work and architectural finesse.
   • However, additional work on different aspects of the project continued for approximately 10 more years.
2. Completion of the Complex:
   • The entire Taj Mahal complex is believed to have reached its final form by 1653.
   • The project was a testament to architectural prowess, artistic talent, and dedicated craftsmanship.
3. Monumental Cost:
   • The construction of the Taj Mahal was a significant financial undertaking.
   • The estimated cost of the project at the time was around 32 million rupees, equivalent to a staggering 52.8 billion rupees (approximately U.S. $827 million) in 2015.
4. Architects and Artisans:
   • The construction project engaged the expertise of about 20,000 artisans, craftsmen, and laborers.
   • Ustad Ahmad Lahauri, the court architect, led a board of architects who guided the creative and technical aspects of the project.