Taj Mahal: The most iconic of Agra’s attractions, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This magnificent white marble mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal’s beauty lies in its symmetrical design, intricate inlay work of semi-precious stones, and the way its façade changes color with the light of the day. It is surrounded by lush gardens and reflective pools, making it a breathtaking sight, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Agra Fort: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort is a massive red sandstone fortress located on the banks of the Yamuna River. Originally built by Emperor Akbar and later enhanced by his successors, the fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors. Inside the fort, one can explore numerous palaces, halls, and mosques, including the Jahangir Mahal, the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience), and the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).
Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb: Often referred to as the “Baby Taj,” this beautiful tomb was built by Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir, for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. The tomb is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal, showcasing intricate marble inlay work and elegant Persian-style gardens.
Mehtab Bagh: Located opposite the Taj Mahal on the northern bank of the Yamuna River, Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex (four-quartered garden) that offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal. It is believed that Shah Jahan intended to build a black marble mausoleum for himself here, mirroring the white marble of the Taj Mahal.
Cultural Richness
Agra’s cultural heritage is as rich as its architectural legacy. The city is known for its vibrant festivals, traditional crafts, and Mughlai cuisine.
Taj Mahotsav: This ten-day cultural festival held annually in February is a celebration of the region’s arts, crafts, music, dance, and cuisine. The festival provides a platform for local artisans and performers to showcase their talents, and it attracts visitors from across the globe.
Cuisine: Agra’s culinary scene is heavily influenced by Mughlai cuisine, characterized by rich, flavorful dishes. Popular dishes include kebabs, biryanis, and curries. Agra is also famous for its sweet delicacies such as petha, a soft, translucent candy, and gajak, a crunchy treat made from sesame seeds and jaggery.
Modern Agra
Today, Agra is a blend of historical grandeur and modern amenities. The city offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Agra’s markets are bustling with activity, offering traditional handicrafts, marble inlay work, leather goods, and carpets. The Kinari Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, and the Taj Mahal complex are popular shopping destinations.
Agra is part of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, which includes Delhi and Jaipur, making it easily accessible for visitors.