ABOUT AGRA

Agra, one of the main cities of the Indian state Uttar Pradesh, is a historical city that was a home to many Mughal Emperors and its evidence can be seen in the prehistoric monuments that are in abundance in the city. Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the red fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Sikanda (Akbar’s tomb) are some of the major attractions that persuade travelers from all parts of the world to come and spend some time to experience the royal lifestyle of Mughals. In addition to this, its close proximity to India capital city, New Delhi, make it one of the major cities to explore.

There is also a very interesting story behind the formation of the city of Taj. It was established by Badal Singh in the year of 1475. And you will also found its name in the great epic Mahabharata as at that time it was called Agraban. However, it came into real existence when famous Lodhi kings select the city to make their capital besides the Yamuna River. Sikander Lodhi made Agra his capital. Later in a blood-spattered war, Mughal Emperor Babar defeated the Lodhis to capture Agra and thus laid the foundation of the Mughal Empire.

The coming of Babar precursors a new era which was to see Agra at its pinnacle during the control of Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jehan. However, the credit of making it a globally renowned city goes to Akbar's period that made it the center of art, culture and commerce and learning. The city is full of attractions and some of the major attractions that you will see during your Agra tours are mentioned below. These are the globally renowned tourist places and UNESCO World Heritage sites that will surely keep you spell bound throughout the tour and the time to come.

Taj Mahal: No need to describe the beauty of this one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Tajmahal, a while marbled stature that is sure to keep you enticed with it timeless beauty. Built by famous Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the sweet memory of his beloved wife (Begum) Mumtaj Mahal, Taj Mahal is the true symbol of love.

The Red Fort (Lal Quila): Very close to Taj Mahal and one of the most famous World Heritage Sites, the red fort was commissioned by famous Mughal Emperor, Akbar the Great.

Sikandra: Located on the Delhi Agra Highway, Sikandra is also a UNESCO World Heritage site that is a home to the last home of Mughal Emperor Akbar as he is buried here. It is also very beautiful red stoned stature that keeps tourists enticed for a long time.

I'timād-Ud-Daulah: It was built by Empress Nur jahan in the memory of her father Mirha Ghiyas Beg. It is also known as the baby Taj that is just opposite the Tajmahal on the other bank of River Yamuna.

Fatehpur Sikri: Located 35 km from Agra on Jaipur Highway (HN 11), Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of India in the empire of Akbar the Great. It is also a world heritage site known for having the tallest door of the world or Buland Darwaja.

In addition to this, there are also a number of other attractions like Swami Bagh, Dayal Bagh, Ram Bagh, Mankameshwar Temple, Jama Masjid that keep travelers enticed. Interestingly, its close proximity to Chambal River that has been converted for the breeding of crocodile by World Bank is also a centre of attraction in itself for jungle safari.

Agra is also famous for a number of five-star to budget hotels that you can book according to your requirements and budget. In addition to this, colorful market places, multi-cuisine restaurant and above all the globally renowned leather industry is all that speak about the rich legacy of the city. Its shoes and other leather products are world famous.