If you’ve always planned to visit the Taj Mahal but were put off by the prospect, we’ve put up an Agra schedule to gain a clear sense of the city. Though the epidemic is not over yet, you will be able to visit your favourite destinations in total safety and security on your end after this prolonged lockdown. The basic mistake tourists make while arranging a trip to Agra is to only see the Taj Mahal. Yes, it is a major attraction of the city, but there are several more monuments that make Agra a wonderful space created ever. Spend most of your time admiring the Taj Mahal, but there are other attractions nearby that you can easily explore on your two-day trip to Agra.
Already daydreaming about walking in front of the Taj Mahal? Continue on for our Agra travel guide, which will provide you with a snapshot of once in a lifetime magnificence.
TAJ MAHAL
One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal stands tall at the south bank of Yamuna river in Agra. Taj Mahal or the “icon of love” is one of the best places to visit in Agra and the most popular tourist destination in India. It is also considered to be the epitome of Mughal Architecture. The ivory-white marble mausoleum was built by Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz. The monument is now where the tombs of the king and queen lie. Taj Mahal has also been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being a masterpiece recognized all across the world. Take a walk inside the Taj Mahal and you will feel as if you’re walking through history. The ornate architecture and alluring designs will transport you to the kingly times and leave you dazed. Pay a visit to this symbol of love, with your family and friends.
FATEHPUR SIKRI
Fatehpur Sikri, a town in the Agra district was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. The town was built and established by Akbar and later abandoned in 1610. Like all the other tourist places in Agra, this was also entirely built with red sandstone. The town has several significant parts to explore. The first thing that one comes across in this town is the enormous Buland Darwaza which is 54 meters in height which is sure to leave you awestruck. The surreal interiors of the town are a visual treat to the eyes and will surely leave you spellbound. Relive the history of Mughals.
AGRA FORT
As you enter and start to cross courtyard after courtyard, you might realize that Agra has one of the finest Mughal forts in India. This red sandstone and marble architecture exudes power and grandiosity. Emperor Akbar began the construction of Agra Fort as a military structure in 1565, and it was later transformed into a palace by his grandson Emperor Shah Jahan. Some of the most iconic structures in Mughal history are still a part of this fort, such as Shish Mahal (Mirror Palace), Diwan-e-aam (Hall of General Audience), and Diwan-e-khaas (Hall of Private Audiences). The Amar Singh Gate, which was built to confuse attackers with its dogleg design, is now the sole point of entry to the fort. Witness this beautiful monument.
Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Another Mughal mausoleum on the bank of the river Yamuna, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb is one of the best places to visit in Agra. The architecture and interior are known to be inspired by that of Taj Mahal as it also has traces of white marble from Rajasthan amidst the red sandstone. And for the same reason, it is also known as the “Baby Taj”.The tomb was built by Nur Jahan in 1628. The delicately designed jali screens from white marble beautifully light up the interior of the tomb. Don’t miss the semi-precious stones engraved in the white marble interiors of the tomb. Witness the beauty of this “Baby Taj”.
AKBAR’S TOMB
Akbar’s Tomb was built by Jahangir in 1613. If you’re a history buff, this is one of the best places to visit in Agra for you. The tomb is built in red sandstone and holds some of the most stunning marble designs. As you walk into the building, you’ll find exquisite marble designs on the ceilings and mystical calligraphy towards the real underground tomb of Akbar. The biggest gate around the tomb is the south gate where you will see intricate white marble designs on the panels. The real tomb of Akbar is in a small underground room that has a very transcendent feel to it. Explore the surreal beauty of this place.
MEHTAB BAGH
Mehtab Bagh in Agra stands at the North of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort along the bank of river Yamuna. This is one of the many hidden places to visit in Agra. The garden is a char bagh which is a quadrilateral garden layout inspired by the four gardens of paradise mentioned in the Quran. The garden stands perfectly in symmetry with the view of the Taj Mahal. It is also said that the garden had a spot from where Shah Jahan would watch the moonlit Taj Mahal, thus giving the garden the name of Mehtab Bagh. The surreal views and an ideal place for a couple photoshoots have made Mehtab Bagh one of the most popular tourist attractions in Agra.
DOLPHIN WATER PARK
If you get tired and saturated with all the Mughal architecture and monuments, this is one of the best places to see in Agra and wind off. Dolphin Water World is North India’s biggest water park. It houses a water park, an amusement park, and a fast-food plaza as well. With slides like clusters, wave pool, multilane water slides, kids’ train, and carousel caterpillar the park is a complete package for a fun-filled day out for the family. Have a fun-filled experience at this Dolphin Park only in Agra.
WILDLIFE SOS
Wildlife SOS, an initiative started by a group of individuals to conserve India’s wildlife, is a great place to visit to spend some time with animals as well as educate yourself about animal cruelty in India. Although Wildlife SOS initially was started to rescue the dancing bears of India, it also runs active projects to provide shelter and help to leopards, elephants, reptiles, and other animals. Wildlife SOS offers a personal two-hour guided experience that you must pre-book. This involves a guided tour of the facility, a documentary to explain the history of the dancing bears, and activities to interact with the bears, such as feeding those fruit or porridge. The center is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.
KINARI BAZAAR
One of the best places to shop in Agra is Kinari Bazaar which is also located near the Jama Masjid. This is a wholesale market which suggests that the price range of the products will be one of the best in the region. Kinari Bazaar has a great history which is another reason why shoppers want to roam around in the market. The place offers a wide range of handicrafts, glassware, marbles, textiles, and leather. Once again the bargaining skills are required in this market to get the best deals.
SADAR BAZAAR
Located near the Agra Cantonment railway station, Sadar Bazaar is the most famous spot in Agra which attracts a good number of tourists. If you are looking for products like handicrafts, garments, some delicious sweets, leather products, then this place can be the best option for you. Basically, if you want to purchase good quality products at a cheaper, then there is no better place than Sadar Bazaar. Along with the well-known Cafe Coffee Day, there are many other food spots available from where can have a tasty meal.
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