Agra Travel
Taj Mahal of India - "the epitome of love", "a monument of immeasurable beauty". The beauty of this magnificent monument is such that it is beyond the scope of words. The thoughts that come into the mind while watching the Taj Mahal of Agra is not just its phenomenal beauty, but the immense love which was the reason behind its construction. Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan got this monument constructed in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, with whom he fell in love at the first sight. The very first sight of the Taj Mahal, the epitome of love and romance leaves one mesmerized. Standing majestically on the banks of River Yamuna, the Taj Mahal is synonymous with love and romance. It is believed that the name "Taj Mahal" was derived from the name of Shah Jahan wife Mumtaz Mahal and means "Crown Palace". The purity of the white marble, the exquisite ornamentation, precious gemstones used and its picturesque location,
The Agra Fort :
Akbar, the great Mughal emperor had started the construction of the Agra Fort in 1565. However, additions were made well into the time of his grandson Shah Jahan. Situated on the banks of river Yamuna the Fort was initially designed as a military structure but later used as a Palace during the rule of Shah Jahan.
This colossal fort’s walls are over 20 metes in height and has a circumference of 2.5 km. Within the Fort rests multiple buildings, which in turn forms a small city within a city. The Fort holds within it buildings such as Moti Masjid (a white marble mosque akin to a perfect pearl, however closed to public), Diwan-i-am, Diwan-i-Khas, Musamman Burj (the place where Shah Jahan died in 1666), Jehangir`s Palace, Khaas Mahal and Shish Mahal.
Fatehpur Sikri :
Even though Fatehpur Sikri is a separate town, we have included this as our Agra attraction so that people do not miss it. In order of importance for list of things to see in Agra, this should rank right after Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
This city lies about 40 Kms west of Agra. Fatehpur Sikri embodies a perfect example of a Mughal city at the peak of the empires success. The city used to be the capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585, and today is a much deserted place. However due to the work done by Archaeological Survey of India, the city is able to hold much of its old world charm.
This historic enclosure is open 6 am to 5.30 pm on all days .
Outside the city enclosure lays the mosque Jama Masjid and the tomb of Shaikh Salim Chishti. Inside the enclosure you will find the Palace of Jodha Bai, Birbal Bhawan, Palace of Christian wife, Panch Mahal and the Treasury.