Climate
In Summer: 45 C
(Max)
In winter: 22 C
(Max)
Rainy Season: July
to Sept
Best time to visit: Winter
(days are warm and sunny)
Agra gives a comprehensive glimpse of the splendor of the Mughal reign in India.
It is one of the most sought after tours in India for offering a tourist the
best of Indian tourist attractions. It also gives you all the sightseeing you
need plus some special time to chill out and relax at some beautiful and
lesser-known locations.
MONUMENTS AND SIGHT SEEING SPOTS
Taj Mahal
The Taj stands as the symbol of Love and Beauty. It is the most
extravagant monument ever
to
be built in the name of love. It was commissioned by the emperor Shahjahan in
memory of his wife Mumtaz, who died during child birth. It took 15 years for the
construction to be completed and around 20,000 people were employed to do the
work. The artisans who were involved, either had their hand or thumb amputated
so that they could not construct a similar structure. The main architect was Isa
Khan who is believed to have been from Iran.
The Taj Mahal's character changes during the stretch of the day. It looks its
best on full moon nights, in the morning and evening hours. There are the
decorative Mughal Gardens with water in the front of the Taj, so that the
beautiful Taj is reflected in it.
Agra Fort
This fort was built by Emperor Akbar. This massive fort on the banks of Yamuna
river was primarily a military structure during Akbar's time and it was
partially converted into a palace during Shahjahan's time. The walls of the fort
are 20 mt high and extend over an area of 2.5 km.
Jehangir Palace
This building was built by Akbar and is the largest residence in the fort. The
building is an interesting blend of the Hindu and Asian architecture.
Diwan-i-Am
The hall of public audience was built by Shahjahan. This is where the
emperor met his officials.
Diwan-i-Khas
The hall of private audience was built by Shahjahan. Here the emperor received
important people. The famous Peacock throne was kept here. Now in the place of
the throne only a marble niche is left.
Musamman Burj
This exquisite octagonal structure stands close to Diwan-i-Khas. This is where
Shahjahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangazeb.
Jama Masjid
This Mosque was also built by Shahjahan in 1648 in the name of his
daughter Jahanara, who was eventually imprisoned by Aurangazeb along with
Shahjahan.
Akbar's Mausoleum
This is the tomb of Akbar, considered the greatest of Mughal emperors. Akbar
commissioned its construction himself, blending styles of all the religions.
Itmad Ud Daulah (Baby Taj)
On the banks of the River Yamuna is Itimadud
Daulad, which is the tomb of the famous poet Mirza. It was his daughter
Noorjahan who married Jehangir.
Getting There
Tourists planning to travel to Agra can reach the city of the Taj by Air, Rail
and Road in comfort.
By Air Agra airport
is 7 km from the city center and 3 km from Idgah bus stand. Major Indian
airlines operate daily tourist shuttle flights to Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi and
back.
By Road Agra is
about 204 km from Delhi. There is 4 hours journey from Delhi to Agra. There are
many luxury taxis and buses that drive to Agra every time. Idgah and Agra Fort
are the main bus stands of Agra from where one can catch buses to and from or
Delhi, Jaipur, Mathura and Fatehpur-Sikri.
By Rail Agra is well
connected by rail. The main railway station of Agra is Agra Cantonment station.
Agra is well connected by rail to Delhi, Varanasi and major cities of India.
Palace on Wheel, Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Taj Express trains are the best choices
to reach Agra from Delhi in luxury way.