Home of the Taj Mahal, Agra provides avid glimpses of Mughal architecture. To be in Agra is like taking a walk through history. Agra today is another provincial town with remnants from the past – tombs, churches, cemeteries and gardens. Close by is Emperor Akbar’s city Fatehpur Sikri, impressive in architecture and visited by devotees during the month of Ramzan for Urs at the shrine of Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti.

Sightseeing

Taj Mahal
One of the most famous monuments of the world, the Taj is virtually the raison d’etre of Agra’s tourism. The monument built in white marble stands on the bank of River Yamuna in testimony of eternal love between an emperor, Shah Jehan, and his most favoured queen, Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal took 22 years to build (1631-1652 AD) and is noted for its symmetry and balance of its architecture and exquisite inlay work Tel:2330498. Open: 6 am to 7.30 pm. Closed on Friday.Agra Fort: Built by great Mughal emperor, Akbar, in the middle of the 16th century, when he shifted his capital from Lahore (now in Pakistan), it has a number of beautiful buildings Tel:2364512. Open: sunrise to sunset.

Sikandra
The mausoleum of Emperor Akbar on the outskirts of the city (towards Delhi) represents his philosophy, piety and secular character Tel:2641230. Open: sunrise to sunset.

Itmad-ud-daulah
This monument in white marble standing across the river and short distance from the Taj, is believed by many to be an inspiration and model for the more famous mausoleum. It was built by Empress Noorjehan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, during 1622-1628 AD and pietra dura – inlay on marble – was first used here Tel:2080030. Open: sunrise to sunset.Agra has many other important monuments and places of interest to a visitor. These include Chini-ka-Rauza, Mehtab Bagh, Mariam’s Tomb, Jama Masjid, Ram Bagh, and Radhaswami Samadhi. All of these, except Radhaswami Samadhi, are open from sunrise to sunset.

Sound & Light Show
A sound-and-light programme is conducted at Agra Fort every day after sundown, that details the history and important events connected with it. The programme in English is held from 7/7.15 pm and in Hindi from 8.15/8.30 pm, depending on season Tel: 2111009, 2364512. Entry: English Rs. 75, Hindi Rs. 30.

Shilp Gram
A multi-faceted centre developed to promote arts, crafts, culture and cuisine of the region also replicates the rural surroundings. Craftpersons can be seen at work here.

Taj Nature Walk
A beautiful forest spread over 70 hectares of land has been developed to the east of the Taj Mahal. Besides preserving many varieties of flora and fauna, and providing a green buffer for the precious monument, the park provides fascinating views from various mounds of the Taj. Entry: Rs. 5.

Festival
Taj Mahotsav: a ten-day arts and crafts fair, held every year from February 18-27 at the Shilp Gram precincts and includes cultural programmes. 

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