Indian city of Agra is a city located in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh along the Yamuna River. The city of Agra is mentioned in the Mahabharata – the ancient India epic – under the name Agravana, which means “the border of the forest.” In the year 1506, Sultan Sikandar Lodhi was the first to relocate his capital from Delhi to Agra. The first formal Persian garden, known as the “Arambagh”, was created in Agra by Babar, the founder of the Mughal dynasty, on the banks of the Yamuna River.
How To Reach ?
Agra has a good network of highways, trains, and airports.
From Delhi, it is merely a 30-minute hop. The distance between the city centre and Agra’s Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport is only 6 kilometres. Agra is connected to Delhi, Khajuraho, and Varanasi via national and private flights. At the airport, there are a lot of taxis and auto rickshaws available.
On the main wide gauge train routes to the south, east, and west, Agra serves as a significant railway junction. Agra Cantonment is the city’s railway station. Excellent train service is available from New Delhi. Agra can be reached from Delhi in two to three hours by numerous trains connect.
Agra is well connected to all areas of the nation since it is at the intersection of national routes 2, 3, and 11. The primary bus station in Agra is called “Idgah”. Most buses depart towards Agra from here. Bus services with express and air conditioning are offered from Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Gwalior, and Jhansi. Bus services are less expensive than train and air travel.
What to see ?
Agra has become a fantastic destination for tourists. Both domestic and foreign tourists are drawn to it. Given the variety of tourist attractions available in Agra, it is inevitable.
One of the main draws is the Taj Mahal, which Agra is delighted to hold. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. One may argue that the majority of tourists that come to India do so to witness the architectural splendour and real-life illustration of loyalty and love. The Taj Mahal is a striking example of the Mughals’ love and passion for architecture and construction. The Taj Mahal is nothing short of a miracle, not just being a popular tourist destination in Agra but also, one could argue, throughout all of India.
The Agra Fort is the next most popular tourist destination. Adding another feather to Agra’s cap, the Agra Fort is a marvel of architecture and art. It is another significant attraction in Agra. It was built by Akbar in 1565 AD. The Moti Masjid, Diwani-I-Khas, Diwane-I-Aa, Musanman Burj, Jahangir’s Place, Khaas Mahal, and Sheesh Mahal are just a few of the impressive structures found within the enormous fort that was constructed in true Islamic style of design.
The Mughal Emperor Akbar built Fatehpur Sikri, which is 35 kilometres from Agra, and established his capital there. It is a major tourist destination in its own right. The location showcases a variety of buildings with important historical significance that were later abandoned. It is a popular tourist destination and a World Heritage Site. The Buland Darwaza, or “the lofty gateway,” was constructed at Fatehpr Sikr in 1601 CE by the Mughal emperor Akbar. It was constructed to celebrate his victory. There are 52 steps that lead up to the Buland Darwaza. The Buland Darwza has a height of 53 metres and a width of 35 metres. It is constructed of red and buff sandstone and is carved and inlaid with black and white marble.
Akbar’s Tomb Sikandra is another tourist destination. Only 13 kilometres away from the Agra Fort, the Mughal Emperor Akbar’s final burial site. Sikandra is located on the Delhi-Agra Highway. Akbar’s tomb exhibits the totality of his character. This magnificent mausoleum, which is surrounded by a verdant garden. It is interesting to know that this was constructed by the emperor himself while he was still alive. It is made of red ochre and sandstone. This beautiful piece of Islamic architecture is among the Mughals’ best-planned creations. This amazing tourist attraction in Agra draws visitors from around the world.
Next to mention is Itmad – Ud Daula. One of the finest specimens of Mughal architecture, the Itmad-Ud Daula, was constructed on the Yamuna River’s banks. This significant landmark in Agra was built by the Mughal Empress Noor Jehan as a tribute to her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. It features exquisite marble and inlay work.
Another striking sight in the city is Chini Ka Roza. This is the grave of renowned Persian poet and court minister Shah Jehan. Constructed by the poet himself, the Chini Ka Roza is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Agra, with intricate colour schemes and magnificent embellishments. One of the best pieces of architecture in India, this monument is a marvel of Mughal design.
The next place to see is the Mankameshwar Temple, one of the four ancient Shiva temples positioned at each corner of Agra City. It’s close to the Jama Masjid. The shrine is surrounded by markets, many of which are of Mughal Era in origin. It’s location is in the old city.
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Agra, comes in last but certainly not least. This provides an incredible Christian site in Agra.
Agra has a vast selection of attractions. This gives the location a proper sense of history and tradition.