Location
Agra is one of the most prominent destinations on world tourism map. The
city is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India and is around 203 kms
from the national capital, New Delhi.
The City Agra
The vibrant city of Agra is famous for several heritage monuments. Some of
the popular monuments include the monument of love Taj Mahal, the Red Fort,
Fatehpur Sikri etc. Agra is a city known for its art, culture and religious
philosophy. The city attained prominence during the rule of the great Mughal
emperor, Akbar, who made it his capital.
Climate
the city experiences an extreme climate with hot summers and cold winters.
In summer the maximum temperature rises up to 46 degrees C and in winters
the minimum temperature drops down to 5 degrees C. The most suitable time
period for visiting the city is during winter, especially during the month
of December and January.
Sightseeing
The city of Agra has various places that bear great historical importance
as such attract tourists from all over the world.
» Taj Mahal - Agra is home to one of the seven
wonders of the world. This magnificent monument of love is one of the most
visited places in the world. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan
in the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaj Mahal. This famous mausoleum is a
blend of Indo-Persian architecture. It is also one of the World Heritage
Sites in India regarded by UNESCO.
»
Agra Red Fort - The foundation stone of this massive fort was laid by
Akbar in 1565 A.D. It was at that time when he chose the city as his
capital. The fort was later completed by his successors Jahangir and Shah
Jahan. The fort houses several palaces, mosques, gardens and courts, within
its walls.
» Tomb of Akbar (Sikandra) - This beautifully carved
red sandstone of Akbar lies in the middle of a lush garden. The construction
of the tomb was initiated by Akbar but unfortunately he couldn't survive to
see its completion. It was Akbar's son, who carried on his father's mission
and completed the tomb in the year 1613.
» Fatehpur Sikri - This is an ancient town located
just 37 km from Agra. The town was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar during
1571 and 1585. The monuments within the city are fine examples of a medley
of Hindu and Mughal architecture. The tomb of Shaikh Salim Chisti within the
city complex is a famous pilgrimage centre for Muslims.
Fairs & Festivals
Agra city is also known for its Taj Mahatsav (Taj Festival), held every
year in the month of February. This brings Indian classical dance, music and
crafts on a single platform for the tourists to experience the rich culture
of India.
Shopping
The city is known for jewellery, leather products, weaving and marble work.
The Sadar Bazar, southern area of Taj Ganj and the crafts village or
Shilpgram, are the places from where one can buy good quality craft items.
Popular Food
Agra offers a variety of cuisine to its travellers. Besides, Mughal
cuisine, it is also famous for its sweets like petha, gazak, and saltish
snack called dalmoth.
Accommodation
Agra
offers different categories of hotels and lodges ranging from five star,
four star, three star to budget class with all kinds of modern facilities.
Some of the major hotels are :
» Five Star - Hotel Taj View, Hotel Amar Vilas, etc.
» Four Star - Hotel Holiday Inn, The Trident, etc.
» Three Star - Hotel Amar, Hotel Mansingh Palace
etc.
Transportation
» Air - The city has his own airport which is just
7km from the city center. Indian airlines operates daily flights to Delhi,
Varanasi, Khajuraho and some other tourist destinations.
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