Travel to Agra – Things to do and places to visit in Agra, India
- Swan Tours
- May 25, 2018
- 14 min read
Home to one the Seven Wonders of the World the Taj Mahal, Agra is one of the most popular traveler destinations in India. It is as liked by Indians as it is by foreigners who throng here in great deals to appreciate its appeal. In addition to Delhi and Jaipur, Agra forms the Golden Triangle of tourism in India.
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Positioned in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is synonymous with the Taj Mahal nevertheless there's lot more to the city than this world-famous monolith. Right from the legendary Mahabharata to the Mughal Dynasty, Agra has actually been significant and has actually played a significant function in forming India's history. The city was very first discussed in Mahabharata as Agrevana which suggests the border of the forest. It was later developed by Sikandar Lodi of the Lodi Dynasty in the sixteenth century who developed many structures consisting of forts, action wells, mosques, etc in Agra. He moved his capital from Delhi to Agra and after his death, his boy ruled the city for 9 years. Later, Sher Shah Suri ruled Agra and from 1556 to 1658 it was the capital of the Mughal Empire. Under the Mughal reign Agra was called Akbarabad and was ruled by greats like Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan, etc.
Their love for architecture, gardens and art and culture added a brand-new measurement to Agra's character. From Persian gardens on the banks of the Yamuna to monoliths and mausoleums, Agra's golden age began throughout their guideline.
It was after the decline of the Mughal Empire and during the reign of the Marathas that Akbarabad ended up being Agra. By 1803, it came under the British Raj that remained strong for a lot of part till India got self-reliance in 1947.
What also formed Agra's culture were the various faiths that were born and grown here. From Din-i-Ilahi to the Radhaswami Faith, these beliefs had followers from Akbar's time. Runukta of Hinduism and Shauripur of Jainism too have their links to Agra.
With so many popular rulers having ruled the city, Agra is home to numerous essential monuments consisting of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. A journey to Agra is incomplete without visiting these that will take you back to a period of its marvelous past.
Getting There
Agra is well-connected by road, rail and air with the majority of parts of the country as it is a prime tourist location. Surprisingly, it is 210 km far from the state capital Lucknow and just 125 km away from Delhi. The city is on the banks of the River Yamuna and delights in a healthy increase of tourists throughout the year.
Agra's Kheria Airport is 12.5 km far from the heart of the city and you can get taxis when you land. There are 4 primary railway heads in Agra: Agra Cantonment, Agra Fort, Idgah Agra Junction and Raja ki Mandi. Trains from most cities halt at one of these railway stations. India's fastest train, the Gatimaan Express that runs between Delhi and Agra in flat 100 minutes is also an option for tourists. It likewise offers travel itineraries for one, 2 or more days. You can also drive down to Agra from different parts of the county.
The Yamuna Expressway is among the fastest routes to reach Agra from Delhi. If you don't have your very own lorry, you can even obtain of private taxis that ply on this expressway. Buses likewise ply from cities like Delhi, Lucknow, Jaipur and Gwalior to Agra. The primary bus stops in the city are Taj Depot, Inter State Bus Terminal, Ford Depot and Idgah Bus Stand. The government has guaranteed that reaching Agra is not a trouble as it generates a major portion of tourism for the state.
Sightseeing Attractions in Agra
Agra was the seat of the Mughal Empire and is peppered with some fantastic architectural marvels of their times. While Taj Mahal garners one of the most amount of interest, when in Agra, it is necessary to visit some of the city's other exemplary structures. As soon as you are done admiring the wonder that is Taj Mahal, proceed to other important websites, some in its area and some a little additional away from it. From Akbar's Tomb to Agra Fort and the walled city of Fatehpur Sikri, Agra is the home of some essential monoliths that inform the story of India's history. Take a day out to check out these gems that Agra has to use.
Taj Mahal
The first thing every tourist who concerns Agra desires to do is see the appeal that is Taj Mahal. No matter the number of times you've been here, it will leave you enthralled with its elaborate carvings and architecture. The Taj Mahal is definitely the primary attraction that draws millions of travelers to Agra every year and appropriately so. Called the epitome of love, it was built by Shah Jahan for his cherished other half Mumtaz Mahal whose tomb rests right under the main dome of the monolith.
It took 22 years and over 20,000 employees to build this marvel. Shah Jahan spent his last years put behind bars in the Agra Fort gazing at his production and after his death, his tomb was put inside the Taj Mahal next to his better half. The white marble monolith is an architectural marvel with fine detailing, on the south bank of the Yamuna River. Verses from the Holy Quran are engraved on it, gems embellish its walls and the intricate inlay work includes a touch of majesty to the structure. Another brilliant reality that makes it a work of art is its proportion, which is why it looks the very same from all four sides.
Being among the Seven Wonders of the World and the only one in India does not stop from incorrect stories floating around the Taj Mahal. Ones like the Taj Mahal was likewise to be developed in black marble or that Shah Jahan dismembered the arms of the craftsmen who developed the monolith are quite common but not truly real. But one true and remarkable story is that Agra was not the very first option to construct the Taj Mahal. Yes, the world popular monument was initially planned to be constructed in Madhya Pradesh in Burhanpur since Mumtaz Mahal passed away there. Shah Jahan had even defined the website along the Tapti River where it was to be developed however the plan was shelved when Burhanpur was not able to supply adequate white marble that was needed for its building and construction. And so, Agra got its renowned monolith that we call the Taj Mahal.
Appreciate its striking appeal yourself when here. The Taj Mahal is open for visitors between 6 am to 6 pm but remains shut on Fridays. The entry cost for Indians is Rs 20 and for foreign nationals it is Rs 750. Inning accordance with one legend, if you leave the Taj Mahal and recall, you are most likely to come back for another see. Would you?
Agra Fort
Another architectural jewel in this city is the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was constructed by Mughal Emperor Akbar with the assistance of 4,000 employees who worked for 8 years to complete its building in 1573. Agra Fort is made from red sandstone and was the seat of the Mughal Empire. Some of the major destinations in Agra Fort that will leave you enthralled are structures like the Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Jehangir's Palace and Khas Mahal. The fort has four big gate which the Delhi Gate was used for the king's formal entry. Diwan-i-Khas and Diwan-i-Aam were scheduled for royal audience and the public respectively.
Agra Fort has actually been prominent throughout the Mughal reign. Despite the fact that Akbar developed it, throughout the guideline of Shah Jahan, he renovated it by adding marble work and transforming the raw red sandstone structure to a palace. Years later on, his son Aurangzeb imprisoned him in the very same fort at Mussaman Burj. Do pay a see to this part of the fort as it uses among the best views of the Taj Mahal. Despite these changes, Agra Fort is an embodiment of Mughal architecture at its best and should not be missed.
Agra Fort is open to travelers all the times of the week from 7 am to 6 pm. For Indians, the entry charge is Rs 20 while for immigrants it is Rs 300. It is spread out throughout 94 acres so you will require about two hours to check out the entire monolith.
Fatehpur Sikri
One of Emperor Akbar's pet projects was constructing a walled city a little away from Agra. He called it Fatehpur Sikri as well as ruled here for at some point before he was required to leave due to scarcity of water system. Nevertheless, the enduring monuments tell a tale of his valour and excellent work. Fateh in Persian symbolizes success. The city endured and 3 of its walled sides are still intact. Akbar paid keen interest in its architecture and layout and it took about 15 years to plan and develop it totally.
As soon as prepared, it had palaces, harems, buildings, courts and a mosque. But one of the best architectural marvels of Fatehpur Sikri is the Buland Darwaza, a grand gateway to the walled city. Made from red sandstone, there are 52 steps that lead up to its 175 ft high archway that has 2 engravings. Akbar's favorite minister Birbal too has a monolith in Fatehpur Sikri called Birbal's home. Considering that he was a Hindu, the architecture is various than the normal Mughal structures.
One of the first buildings to be built in Fatehpur Sikri was the Jama Masjid, a mosque built inning accordance with Indian mosque architecture. It likewise houses the tomb of Salim Chishti, a great Sufi saint. Akbar, who was the founder of the faith Din-e-Ilahi likewise constructed Ibadat Khana in Fatehpur Sikri which was used for meetings. The Panch Mahal, a five-storey palatial structure was for the girls and the Naubat Khana that had drummers announce the entry of the emperor were other distinct structures in this city. Despite the lavish architecture and careful planning, Fatehpur Sikri was deserted in 1585 after ruling it from 1571. This was because the lake that supplied water to the city dried up. However, it deserves marvelling the beauty of exactly what a stunning city this once was. Fatehpur Sikri has to do with 37 km far from Agra however can be finished on the exact same journey. Most of the city lies uninhabited and reminds one of its once wonderful past. You can discover a few budget plan hotels to remain at near the Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station. Do not miss out on visiting this location as it is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Akbar's Tomb
Akbar the Great built some marvelous monuments in his lifetime and one of them was his tomb itself. The task of commissioning your own burial place belongs to Turkic custom-made that Mughals abided by. He even chose the site where he desired to be kept. His last resting location, Sikandra is where Akbar's Tomb is. His son Jehangir finished the building of his dad's burial place in 1613 and it was beautifully carved, made of red sandstone. Simply 1 km far from Akbar's Tomb is Mariam's Tomb, who was Akbar's better half and Jehangir's mother. The monolith is open for visitors on throughout the days of the week from 6 am to 6 pm. The entry charge for Indians is Rs 15 and for immigrants it is Rs 110.
Mehtab Bagh
Equating to moonlight garden, Mehtab Bagh is the best spot for admiring the appeal of the Taj Mahal. Built by Babur, it is a square garden that was as soon as resplendent with swimming pools, water fountains and trees. Today, it makes for a recreational traveler area. A Mughal garden, it is completely lined up with the Taj Mahal along the Yamuna River and was explained by Shah Jahan as the ideal area for seeing the Taj Mahal.
Due to frequent floods and extraction of structure product by the villagers, the garden lay in ruins by the '90s. Nevertheless, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) stepped in and began work to restore the garden to its initial state. They even made certain that the plants utilized in Mehtab Bagh were ones that were originally a part of Mughal gardens. These consisted of guava, Ashoka, jamun, neem, hibiscus, and so on. There were four sandstone towers too in the garden at its four corners, however, only one remains now. During the repair, other structures were added to Mehtab Bagh that were not initially a part of it. A few of these include a statue of BR Ambedkar holding the constitution of India, a temple and nurseries. Check Out Mehtab Bagh in between 6 am to 7 pm, it is open on throughout the days of the week. The entry cost for Indians is Rs 5 while for foreign nationals it is Rs 100.
Mankameshwar Mandir
One of the ancient Shiva temples in the country, Mankameshwar Mandir holds much religious importance as according to the legend, Shiva installed a lingam here on his own. The Mughal architecture isn't really the only thing that draws travelers to Agra, temples like these are likewise crowd-pullers. The temple is close to Agra Fort and near other tourist monoliths like the Taj Mahal. According to the legend, Shiva wanted to go to Mathura after the birth of Krishna to get a look of the little infant young boy. Throughout his descent from Mount Kailash, he rested and practiced meditation at the sight of this temple and stated that if he is able to reach in time to see Krishna, he will install his swaroop here. And so, on his way back he kept his word and there was a lingam here covered in silver.
Today, Shiva devotees originate from various parts of the county to visit this temple. People need to climb up down a flight of stairs to reach Mankameshwar Mandir's sanctum sanctorum. It is surrounded by other idols of Shiva's household and there are more temples behind this temple's complex dedicated to other gods like Saraswati, Krishna, Hanuman and more.
When here, you can light a deepak and make a dream as the temple gets its name from a wish-fulfilling temple that Shiva himself developed. Also, attempt the paan outside which is generally triangular and covered in silver foil. Mankameshwar Mandir is open on all days from 7 am to 10 pm and entry to the temple is complimentary for all.
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Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
Another screen of Mughal architecture, the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah was commissioned by Nur Jahan, Jehangir's partner, for her daddy Mirza Beg who was offered the title of Itimad-ud-Daulah or pillar of the state. The mausoleum is often referred as the draft of Taj Mahal or Baby Taj as it has different aspects that correspond the Wonder of the World. It is also called a jewel box as it isn't really as grand as other Mughal structures yet there is no compromise on its complexity.
The Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is made from white marble from Rajasthan and has semi-precious stones encrusted in its walls that display different objects such as a vase, arrangement, fruits, etc. Its construction began in 1622 and was finished in 1628. A garden criss-crossed by sidewalks and water courses surround the monument. It lies on the right bank of the Yamuna River and is a close replica of the Taj Mahal including its interiors. Mirza Beg's burial place rests beside his other half's tomb which was motivated by the Taj Mahal. Numerous of Nur Jahan's relatives' tombs are likewise kept in this monolith.
You can go to the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah any day of the week between 6 am to 6 pm. The entry charge for Indians is Rs 10 and for foreigners it is Rs 250. Although this is the tiniest of the Mughal monuments, it is a must-visit when in Agra for its intricate work.
Master ka Tal
Individuals of the Sikh community have another factor to visit Agra as it is the home of Guru ka Tal. A reservoir from the Mughal age, Guru ka Tal became a religious place when a gurudwara was built here in 1970s. Exactly what makes it a holy pilgrimage location is the truth that 4 from the 10 Sikh gurus have actually visited this place in their lifetime. Being both a historical and religious website, it draws enough travelers along with pilgrims.
Master ka Tal is likewise known for its stone carvings and towers that increase its appeal manifold. Even though it is a Sikh spiritual location, owing to its Mughal past, its architecture of red sandstone advises us of its historic past. The gurudwara is built in the memory of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh guru who was martyred here during his fight for the freedom to practice one's faith.
Ram Bagh
The very first of the eleven Mughal gardens to be developed, Ram Bagh was Babur's concept and was initially called Amar Bagh that means garden of relaxation. Integrated in 1528 on the banks of River Yamuna, it has to do with 5 km away from the Taj Mahal. The concept of the garden was motivated from a Persian garden that represents the Islamic concept of paradise. For That Reason, Ram Bagh had rich plant with a river flowing through it. It has two seeing structures that were integrated in such a manner in which the cool breeze from the Yamuna and the trees would keep them cool even throughout peak summertime season. Mughal Emperor Babur spent a great deal of time in this garden as well as died here. Before moving his body to Kabul, it was kept here for some time. Not simply him, Emperor Akbar and his son Jehangir likewise invested their time in Ram Bagh. Today restored garden screens Nur Jahan's skills as a garden designer.
Kinari Bazaar
If you like to shop and desire to reclaim home something that will advise you of your Agra trip, visit Kinari Bazaar. A congested market filled with stores offering some of the very best regional arts and crafts, Kinari Bazaar is behind Jama Masjid. You will need to brace yourself to stroll through narrow lanes that are breaking with people to go shopping here. From shoes, fabrics, spices, jewellery to even marble work, you will find whatever in this market. You can even sample local treats at one of the numerous street stores. Kinari Bazaar opens at 11 am and closes down by 9 pm. It is open throughout the days of the week except Tuesdays. Keep this for later when you are finished with sightseeing in Agra.
Events And Festivals In Agra
Agra is the home of a number of celebrations and events that occur throughout the year to provide travelers a taste of the city and something to bear in mind than simply its sightseeing destinations. Here are a few of the leading celebrations celebrated in Agra every year.
Taj Mahotsav
Most likely the greatest event of the monument, Taj Mahotsav usually occurs in February every year. It began in 1992 as a way of drawing in more travelers and providing something more. The occasion happens on a grand scale and lasts for a week or more. From local craftsmen’s selling their crafts to ghazal efficiencies, poetry sessions, plays and dance and music performances by celebs, you can anticipate to have a fun-filled time at Taj Mahotsav. Every year, the schedule for the celebration is available online days prior to the event and you can pick to go on the day your preferred artist is performing. The occasion charges a small cost for Indian nationals and much of the sessions are even complimentary. The month of February was selected as the weather condition is typically enjoyable and the influx of foreign tourists is normally high throughout this time.
Taj Literature Festival
Keeping up with it tradition of culture and art, Taj Literature Festival celebrates the Agra and its greats by methods of the composed word. The occasion has seen a few of the best in the market come together to offer the audience the finest literary experience. In 2016, Taj Literature Festival occurred in February. Verses of Agra's famous poets like Mirza Ghalib and Mir Taqi Mir to the impact of Sufi saints on the city became part of the festival in its previous years.
Ram Barat
Among the greatest annual events not just in Agra however the whole of north India, Ram Barat is a yearly marriage procession for Ram that becomes part of the Ramlila. Every year a new location is selected in Agra and given a facelift to make it look fitting for the royal procession. What started almost 125 years ago by a businessman called Lala Kokamal is still held every year by his household. The procession lasts for three days and people from all parts of the county go to Agra to witness this carnival. The location picked is given more funding to embellish it for the unique occasion. Knowledgeable artisans develop giant structures like the Janak Mahal and streets are illuminated for the procession. The preparations begin well beforehand to make sure that things go efficiently. There is non-stop music and movie theatres run motion pictures all night long to keep individuals who have come from other cities amused. These three days are absolute enjoyable for those who enjoy such festivities.
Kailash Fair
Just 12 km off Agra is a town called Kailash that houses the Kailash temple outside which the annual fair is organized in August or September. Kailash Fair is a fun-filled affair that attracts individuals of north India particularly Shiva fans. It is believed that Shiva himself visited Kailash through a stone lingam. The reasonable is held every year to commemorate and hope to the lord and seek his true blessings. Not simply for spiritual people, Kailash Fair is one of the most vibrant celebrations as the entire place is decorated and stalls are set up. Sugary foods, street food, arts, crafts, etc are offered at these stalls and individuals throng in great deals to be a part of it. They initially visit the temple where they offer milk and flowers then delight in the revelry outside. Kailash Fair is perfect to witness among the most colourful celebrations of the nation.
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