Agra
Agra, one of the major cities of India is famous for its tradition, culture, wonderful monuments, rich legacy and none other than for one of the seven wonders of the World "Taj Mahal". Ruled by the famous Mughal emperors, Agra is notable for its architectural magnificence and incredible historical establishments.
Location
Agra, "The City of Taj" is located in the extreme southwest part of Uttar Pradesh. Agra shares it boundary with Rajasthan in the West and Southern part, with Firozabad from the East, and with some districts of Mathura and Etah from the North. This historical city of India covers an area of around 26° 44' N to 27° 25' N and 77° 26' E to 78° 32' E. Agra is situated on the banks of the river Yamuna and observes an extreme climate which is very hot during summer and severely cold in the winters. Though it a small city of India, yet Agra generates major revenues from its tourism industry.
Places to see
A tour of Agra is something very attractive and memorable for you because of its monument of love 'Taj Mahal' and other historical attractions.
Taj Mahal: The Taj is one of the renowned destinations located in the tourism map of the world. Taj Mahal is the most decorated monument constructed during the Mughal reign and is one of the finest sought after tourist destinations in India. Taj Mahal represents the eternal love of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and was built in the fond memory of his wife Mumtaz. Tourists from across the globe gather here throughout the year to experience the gorgeous beauty of Taj Mahal at least once in their lifetime.
Agra Fort: The Agra Fort is an attractive monument made of red sand stone. The Idea of this gorgeous mansion was conceptualized by Mughal emperor Akbar during 16th century and was completed by his successor Shah Jahan. The heritage building of Agra Fort is a perfect example of the superb blend of Indian traditional architecture and Mughal artistry.
Fatehpur Sikri: Fatehpur Sikri is a township build by the Mughal emperors which is situated 37 km away from the Agra city. This red sandstone built city was constructed between 1571 and 1585 and is one of the prominent examples of Mughal and Hindu architectural mix. Fatehpur Sikri is the ideal place to spend some time amidst architectural magnificence. The view of sunset here is a wonderful experience to treasure.
Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb: This grave was built by the memory of Emperor Jahangir’s Chief Minister and Nur Jahan’s father Ghias-Ud-Din Beng. The carving and designs of this white marble tomb attracts the attention of the visitors and undoubtedly a delicate spot of interest.
Buland Darwaza: This is a triumphal arch constructed in 1575 to celebrate the take-over of Akbar over Gujarat.
Akbar's Mausoleum: A blend of five different religions Hindu, Islamic, Christian, Buddhist and Jain Motifs could be experienced in Akbar's Mausoleum which is located 5 km away from Agra.
Jama Masjid: Mughal emperor Shah Jahan constructed this building during 1648. The shape of the dome is unique in its style and inscriptions could be found in the entrance of the mosque which was written by the daughter of Shah Jahan.
Dayal Bagh Temple: The 110 feet high majestic Dayal Bagh temple is located only at a distance of 15 km from the city. This white marble building houses the Samadhi of the originator of Radha Swami Faith.
Akbar's Tomb: Akbar's Tomb is situated at Sikandra, a small town which is located within a 4 km distance from Agra. The architectural pattern of this tomb reflects the integration of numerous architectural styles of the then era. The tomb of Akbar also represents a local flavor which can also be found in Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
How to reach
Agra is well connected both internally and externally by road, air and train.
By Air: This city has its own domestic airport which is known as Kheria Airport. This airport is located at a distance of only 5km from the city and daily flight services link this city with various other locations.
By Rail: Railway communication is something notable in Agra. The city has seven railway station including Tundla Junction and major stations like Agra Catt Railway Station and Agra Fort Railway Station. Super fast trains like Shatabdi express and Rajdhani express connects this city with all major stations of India.
By Road: Three National Highways crisscross Agra and connect the entire city together. Public and private sector transportations like busses and other luxurious transports are available which link Agra with all major destinations within and outside the state.
What to do
Other than visiting the historical places, this colorful crowded city has a lot more to offer its visitors. Plan you trip systematically and take the pleasure of all other attractions including the historical places of interest.
Experience Taj on a Full Moon Night: Seeing Tajmahal on a full moon night is a breathtaking experience. Many a voyager waits for this moment and makes his trip accordingly to experience the white marble monument dazzling in the moonlight.
Wildlife in Agra: Agra is not only rich in its historical and architectural background but it has an amazing wildlife also. One can enjoy a trip to sanctuaries in Agra to feel nature from the closest possible extent. The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is one of its kinds for its huge collection of different species of birds including various migratory birds.
Tonga Ride: The Tonga Ride is the most attractive means of local transportation in Agra. These tongas are very colorful and could be found in numbers on every tourist spots in order to offer a fun ride to the visitors.
Folk Culture: Agra is probably one of those rare states of India which still practices the oldest forms of rural entertainment. Folk music, sentiments, humor, lifestyle all are compiled together in a theatrical form and are being played in different puppetry shows.
An Unlikely Trip to Dhobi Ghat: This place is situated on the bank of a river where the washer folk clean their laundry. Though it holds no historical significance but this colorful spot has always been a favorite place for many film makers and Dhobi Ghat attracts photographers a lot.
Color Your Hands: Applying henna on hands in nothing new in India but females never like to lose the opportune of coloring their hands with beautiful henna tattoos while in Agra. You will find artists sitting beside every corner who would decorate your hands with intricate patches of colors.
Agra Food: The city of Agra is also famous for its food which is hard to resist. Numerous restaurants, food courts are there who serve traditional Mughlai cuisine along with other Indian and continental dishes which are enough to satisfy your taste buds.
Nightlife in Agra: This place has got numerous amusement opportunities and the nightlife entertainment is one of the breathtaking options for the tourists. Agra nightlife is vibrant and many bars and clubs, nightclubs are there to make your trip memorable. Some of the famous nightlife destinations of Agra are Le Bar, Downtown Club Bar, Mughal Bar, Downing Street Bar etc.
Shopping: Agra is the right place for people who love to shop. This city is known for its marble work and handicrafts. Agra is famous for handicrafts like brassware, carpets, jewelry, leatherwear, jardozi embroidery etc, which are world famous. Other than these products sandal wood and rose wood items are also very renowned in Agra.
Best time to visit
When it is about visiting an historical city like Agra, there is nothing as such called the right or wrong time to visit. The city observes uncountable tourist approaching throughout the year. However, the most suitable time to visit this place is winter specifically between December and March as the weather remains very comfortable to travel around the city. Agra is recommended not to be visited during monsoon as the roads become dirty during this season and incessant rains may even ruin the charm of travelling as well.
History
Agra bears a rich heritage of the past. The reference of Agra could be traced out from the greatest Hindu epic Mahabharata. This city was established by Badal Singh in 1475. The Mughals captured Agra later on and all the architectural beauties like historical monuments and forts were constructed during this period. The Mughlai cuisine and the contemporary architectures of this city still holds the glory of Agra.
Climate
Unlike other North Indian cities Agra also has a tropical climate which is extreme in nature. The city of Agra witnesses three seasons hot and dry summer, monsoon and a mild winter. Summer is tremendously hot and the maximum temperature can rise as high as 45° C. Agra receives heavy rainfall during rains and the climate gets warm and humid in this season. Winter is a very pleasant in Agra which arrives during December and the weather becomes cold and foggy there which is very comfortable for visiting and sightseeing.
The essence of Agra can also be felt in its hotels where personal hospitality and comfort is best offered. The opportunity to know the Indian history, tradition and culture is very high while visiting this delightful city of Uttar Pradesh.
