Agra is a renowned city in India that is characterized by the magnificent Mughal architecture, great history and immense beauties. The city features the world-known Taj Mahal, however, this is not all that the city has to offer. The best time to visit Agra is during the months of October and November. Agra reveals the finest Indian culture, both in great fortresses and in quiet gardens, in busy bazaars and in peaceful tombs. Some of the best things to do in Agra is exploring history, art, shopping or photography.
Taj Mahal
The most recognized monument in India, and one of the symbols of love, is the Taj Mahal. It was constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the honor of his wife Mumtaz Mahal and has white marble which shifts color depending on the sunlight. The reflex pools, gardens and the elaborate carvings make it a spectacular view. The best time to observe its beauty is at the sunrise and sunset. The calm atmosphere and magnificent architecture appeal to millions of tourists annually. Agra can never be complete without visiting this masterpiece.
Agra Fort
Agra Fort is a great red sand stone fort constructed by Emperor Akbar. It possesses lovely palaces, courtyards as well as halls within its huge walls. The Mughal architectural brilliance is evident in the important structures such as the Jahangir Palace, Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas. The Taj Mahal can also be seen in the distance on some points of the fort. The fort is full of history and it was the primary place of the Mughal emperors. Taking a tour around the fort is like getting to move in the past and knowing what the royal life was like then.
Mehtab Bagh
The Mehtab Bagh is a serene garden positioned on the other side of Yamuna River, which is opposite to the Taj Mahal. It is among the most ideal places to see and take pictures of the Taj, mainly at sunset. The Mughals came up with the garden as an ideal place for viewing the monument. The fact that it is a clean environment with green vegetation and peaceful settings makes it the best place to get away and rest without crowds. The Mehtab Bagh is an ideal place to capture spectacular views especially by people who cherish photography or silent places.
Itimad-ud-Daulah (Baby Taj)
Itimad-ud-Daulah has also been referred to as the Baby Taj as it is assumed to be a draft of the Taj Mahal. This is a lovely tomb constructed of white marble, and adorned with fine carvings and colored stones. It was constructed by Nur Jahan in commemoration of her father. The building is small yet very classy and calm. The tomb is surrounded by a garden that contributes to the beauty. Visitors like the Baby Taj visit to enjoy early Mughal architecture and have a chance to have some peaceful moments without a large number of people.
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is one of the historic cities constructed by the emperor Akbar a few miles out of Agra. It was used as the capital of the Mughal for a few years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are beautiful constructions in the complex, such as Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal, and the tomb of Salim Chishti. It is very grand architecture and bears a combination of a blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architecture. A walk through its palaces and courtyards provides an insight on Mughal history. It is an absolute must-see site on history lovers.
Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra
One of the best Mughal tombs is found in Sikandra where the Emperor Akbar is buried in Akbar Tomb. It is a red sandstone and marble structure that is surrounded by beautiful carvings and serene gardens. The gate leading to it is magnificent and it is adorned with bright patterns. There are also friendly deer and peacocks within the complex of the tombs that make it an experience. It is a nice location to explore Mughal architecture and take photos since it is neither busy, nor very noisy.
Jama Masjid, Agra
Jama Masjid Agra is one of the oldest and the biggest mosques that were constructed under the Mughal rule. It is facing the Agra fort and has been known to have a large courtyard, domed elegant architecture and beautiful carvings. Jahanara Begum who was the daughter of Shah Jahan constructed the mosque. Its historical and religious significance is also significant since it is a quiet and richly decorated place. Tourists are amazed by the symmetry, red sandstone walls and marble decorations. It is a great place to learn about the Mughal architecture and to have the spiritual experience of Agra.
Kinari Bazaar
One of the busiest markets in Agra is the Kinari Bazaar, which is situated close to Jama Masjid. It is famous for its small streets where it is possible to find shops with jewelry, clothes, textiles, leather products, and handcrafted goods. The local culture in Agra can be experienced and the market is one of the best places to shop souvenirs. Eating street food such as chaat and sweets is another experience that can be undertaken in the area. The market is entertaining to walk around because of the colorful environment and the traffic of people. It is ideal for those travelers who love shopping and exploring the local lifestyle.
Chini Ka Rauza
Chini Ka Rauza is a tomb of the renowned Mughal poet and scholar Allama Afzal Khan. It is also famous because of its distinctive Persian-style tile work which made the monument its name. The structure also displays beautiful patterns and designs since the building used to have glazed tiles in bright colors although many have faded. It is an isolated place, and it is situated on the Yamuna River. This is a good destination to tourists who appreciate offbeat and historical destinations that are not the same as the typical tourism places.
Dolphin Water Park
As a family and child visiting Agra, Dolphin water Park is an entertaining place. It contains water slides, wave pools, splash areas, and all age pools. The park is a nice relief to sightseeing and it enables the visitor to have a day filled with excitement and cool water sports. It is comfortable as the food stalls, seats, and clean surroundings are provided. It is an excellent spot to relax and that too in hot seasons. This water park is enjoyable to tourists who desire to have a combination of fun and leisure.
