All About Agra U P 

Agra is a city in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh state. It's home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a mausoleum built for the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal (who died in childbirth in 1631). The imposing main building features a massive dome and intricately carved white marble inlaid with precious stones. This is set behind a reflecting pool inside a courtyard defined by 4 minarets.A religious tour across Agra will take you through various places to visit in Agra. One of them is the Guru Ka Taal, which is large tank with beautiful towers erected around it. The red stone structures were built during Jehangir's reign beside the holy tomb of Itibar Khan Khwajasara.

Agra is a city on the banks of the river Yamuna in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is 378 kilometers (235 mi) west of the state capital,Agra is the perfect spot for a tourist and students of Architecture. Even the climate in Agra is very inviting and suitable. The city is well designed, where even the houses show huge detailing in their design. On close inspection, even the interiors of the buildings show the unreal imagination that the architects probably had. Every building, looks like it had been designed to adorn the city, designed artistically from every angle. Even the food speaks greatly about the spicy Indian Cuisine.It is a city with rich cultural, historical, architectural and religious attachments.

Agra is a city which is synonymous with the history of India. Over the centuries it has enriched the nation with its philosophical contributions. Agra is one of the most important favorite destinations of the world wide travel lovers owing to its exceptional collection of religious places, monuments, forts, palaces and other places.There are temples, mosques and other structural wonders, which arise religious and spiritual feelings among the worshipers. Agra is unique in the sense that it has several famous places of worship for both the Muslims and the Hindus, indicating the secular lookout of the city.

“HOW TO REACH AGRA"

By Air

The nearest airport to Agra is the Kheria Airport located around 5 km from the city center. Agra is connected to Delhi, Varanasi and Khajuraho by air. For other cities, tourists need to take a flight to Delhi and continue their journey by train or bus.

By Rail

There are four main railway stations in Agra; they are Agra Cantt, Raja-ki-Mandi, Agra Fort and Idgah Agra Junction. The city is well linked with train services to all major cities in India. There are many super fast express trains connecting Agra with Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata.

By Road

Agra is well connected by road to major cities in India. The National Highway Number 2 links it with rest of India. Delhi and Lucknow are well connected with Agra. There are regular bus services from these two cities to reach Agra. Taxies are also to reach Agra from these cities. Main bus stations in Agra are at Idgah and Agra Fort. Distance to Agra From Mathura - 59 km From Delhi - 210 km From Kanpur - 278 km From Lucknow - 330 km From Jaipur - 238 km From Gwalior - 119 km From Gurgaon - 196 KM From Varanasi - 577 KM.

“ PLACES TO SEE IN  & AROUND AGRA "

Tourist Places in Agra

The heritage of the Mughal dynasty and their fascinating tombs, forts and mausoleums can be easily observed in and around the city of Agra. There are also other monuments and places that are famous for their beauty and significance in Agra.

Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in the Indian city of Agra. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous tourist attractions in India and across the world. It's one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Completed in 1653, The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, as a symbol of eternal love. Taj Mahal is built on a red sandstone base, topped by a huge white marble terrace on which rests the dome flanked by four tapering minarets. The floors and walls have intriguing calligraphy and mosaic work adorned with precious stones.

Agra Fort

Agra Fort is the former imperial residence of the Mughal Dynasty located in Agra, India. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and is about 2.5 km northwest of its more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal.Agra fort was commissioned by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565. During Shah Jahan's era, the red sandstone fort was reformed into a palace and extensively repaired with marble and pietra dura inlay. Distinguished buildings in the fort are the Pearl Mosque, Jahangir's Palace, Diwan-e-Am, Diwan-e-Khas (public and private audience halls), Shish Mahal, Musammam Burj and the Khas Mahal. The fort is semi-circular shaped, flattened on the east with a long, nearly straight wall facing the river.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb

Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah is a Mughal mausoleum in the city of Agra in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Often described as a "jewel box", sometimes called the "Baby Tāj", the tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah is often regarded as a draft of the Tāj Mahal.This Mughal Mausoleum in the city of Agra was built at the command of Noor Jahan (wife of Jahangir) for her father Mirza Ghiyas Bagh, who was honored with the title of Itmad-ud-Daula (pillar of the state). This is where the mausoleum took its name from.

Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is a small city in northern India, just west of Agra, founded by a 16th-century Mughal emperor. Red sandstone buildings cluster at its center. Buland Darwaza gate is the entrance to Jama Masjid mosque. Nearby is the marble Tomb of Salim Chishti. Diwan-E-Khas hall has a carved central pillar. Jodha Bais Palace is a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles, next to the 5-story Panch Mahal that overlooks the site.Founded by the great Mughal emperor Akbar, in the year 1569, Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal Empire during the years 1571-1585. Named as Fateh (meaning victory) in the beginning, it was later known as Fatehpur Sikri. It was home for the birth of navaratnas (9 jewels). It stands as a representation of the infamous Mughal architecture with unique designs and artworks. The building was made of red stones and Akbar intended to revive the Persian court splendors made by his ancestor Timur, but eventually it came through as the classic Indian embellishments. The Fatehpur Sikkim was deserted after its completion due to natural calamities of insufficient water further triggered by the proximity of the Rajputana areas. The city is a piece of art that surrounds brilliant works by great minds of the strong Mughal period influenced by the emperors.

Akbar's Tomb

Akbar's tomb is the tomb of the Mughal emperor, Akbar and an important Mughal architectural masterpiece. It was built in 1605–1613.Built solely for the great Mughal emperor, the Akbar Tomb was built in 1605-1613. It covers a good area of 119 acres in the Sikandra. It was Akbar himself who initiated the works in 1600 as per the Tartary tradition. Located in the suburbs, about a kilometer away lies the tomb of Miriam, Akbar's wife. The southern gate is similar to those of the Taj Mahal with 4 white marble chhatri and also serves as the entrance to the tomb.One of India's greatest assets, the tomb is an attractive tourist spot, with people eager to see the tomb flooding the place.

Sikandra Fort

Sikandra is named after Sikandar lodi, the Delhi ruler who was in power from 1488 to 1517. Sikandra Fort is located in the western periphery of the city.The last resting place of Akbar the great, 13 km away from the Agra Fort, the Sikandra fort is one of the preserved monuments in India. Started by Akbar, it was completed by Jahangir, his son which is the foundation for Sikandra Fort Complex. Surrounded by a beautiful lush garden, it is located in the western periphery of the city. The tomb reflects the characteristics of the great emperor with its beautiful and intricate carvings marking a phenomenal beginning to his end. The fort is built with precious red sandstone. Though provided with four gates it remains a mystery why only one (the southern gate) leads to the tomb. The nearest railway station and airport lie within 5kms and 13kms respectively.

Bageshwarnath Temple

Bageshwarnath Temple, which is situated off the Ramratan Road in the northern region of Agra, is one of the popular holy places in the district.Bageshwarnath temple is one of the most holy places in Agra, located at Ramratan Road in the North. It is the place of Baba Bageshwar. A temple of Lord Siva and a very old place of worship, it still remains unrecognized in comparison with other temples in Agra. During the festival period, however, it takes on the festival spirit and is covered in lights. Apart from being a holy place, it serves as a landmark for the area. It sees a huge crowd of devotees, all lined up throughout the year to get the blessings of Lord Siva. Easily accessible and connected tosolid well laid roads, it is one spot that just cannot be missed. The temple is located at a distance of only two kilometers from the heart of the city.

Jodha Bai ka Rauza

Jodha Bai Ka Rauza is an excellent example of the fusion of Hindu and Muslim architectures. The palace of Emperor Akbar's favorite queen-Jodha Bai,Located in Fatehpur Sikri, Jodha Bai Ka Rauza or Jodha Bai's Palace.Akbar's favorite queen, Jodha Bai, built a palace of her own named after her as Jodha Bai ka Rauza. In comparison with other magnificent places built by Akbar, this was one of the most simple yet elegant piece of architecture. Jahangir who took Akbar's place after defeating him is the son of Akbar and Jodha Bai. She is said to represent the most architectural features of Gujarat and Rajasthan combining the Hindu and Muslim traditions, creating a delightful fusion. Jodha Bai is the daughter of King Bharmal of Amber and was among the three chief queens of Akbar. She was allowed to practice Hinduism and was also said to be involved in the political issues until Nur Jahan was crowned as the empress. Dedicated to this woman of great views and attitude, the Jodha Baika Rauza stands for her impact during the great emperor's rule.

Octagonal Tower

the octagonal tower also known as Musamman Burj. Built in the years 1631-1640 by Shah Jahan and dedicated to his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is said to have replaced Akbar's small marble palace. It was built, such that the ladies could look outside, with delicate marble lattices engraved with ornamental niches. Built for the ladies, it has a fountain outside and a huge verandah surround the place. It was this place that Shah Jahan spent his last years as his own son's captive. It is also said to be the place where he spent time with his favorite daughter Jahanara Begum. Overlooking the Taj Mahal, it is situated in the Agra Fort. Beautiful and sad in its own way, it gives us a peek into Shah Jahan's final days on this earth.

Jahangir's Palace

Jahangir Palace is the largest part of Agra Fort in Uttar Pradesh, India. Emperor Akbar built the palace in the 16th century.The most noteworthy building in the Agra Fort, Jahangir's Palace is the palace where the Rajut wives lived during Akbar's rule. It was a created as a fusion of Hindu and Central Asian architecture. The palace was a token of the great Mughal emperor, Akbar to his beloved son Jehangir, who later succeeded him to become the emperor. It has a huge bowl known as Hauzi Jahangir which is a master work of art carved from a single stone. It was used to hold the fragrant rose water. This palace was later used by the Mughal Queen Nur Jahan, who used it as her palace. Reflecting the culture, tradition and history of the civilians, this palace conquers it all when it comes to the way it was built with care and expertise.

Guru Ka Taal

Guru Ka Taal is Located near Sikandra, the Guru Ka Taal is the Sikh pilgrimage dedicated to the 9th Sri Guru Tegh Bahudar Ji. It is the place where he laid down his arms to accept arrest in front of Aurangazeb. Dated back to the 17th century, the building was built in the year 1610. The reservoir was used to provide water during the dry season and was ornamented with precious stone carvings. The Gurudwara was built in 1970 due to the contributions of Saint Baba Sadh Singhji. When first built it had twelve towers, but only eight had managed to survive the years and remain intact. Constructed on red sandstones, it has the finest architecture notable by archeologists all over the world. It holds significance to many more such buildings and is a spot of tourist attraction. A number of devotees pay their respect every year to offer their prayers.

Chini ka Rauza

Chini ka Rauza is a funerary monument, rauza in Agra, India, containing the tomb of Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, a scholar and poet who was the Prime Minister of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The tomb was built in 1635.This is a monument in Agra which houses the tomb of Alamo Afzal Khan Mullsh. He was the Prime Minister during the reign of Shah Jahan, the famous Mughal Emperor. He was a renowned poet and scholar. In 1635, this tomb was built in his memory. The exquisitely built building has beautifully glazed tiles that are decorated well and has thus gained architectural beauty. The many inscriptions speak of the technical knowledge of the people in that era. The walls along with these inscriptions and colorful tiles give the building this name. Howeverthe building is mainly of brown stone and is rectangular in build. However, the central chamber is shaped octagonal with curved recesses that are eight in number. Square chambers that are eight in number are linked with the halls. The dome made in Afghan style is rounded and also has many important words from the books of Islam inscribed on it.

Radha Swami Samadhi

Radha Swami Samadhi is located 15 kms from Agra, Dayal Bagh, also known as Soamibagh, houses the samadhi of the founder of Radha Swami faith, 'Swamiji Maharaj'.It is a glorious building built with maximum utilization of white marbles. This building was built as the Samadhi ( tomb) of the founder of the sect Radha Swami. The founder was lovingly called as 'Swamiji Maharaj'. The Samadhi is adorned with intricate patterns and multifaceted designs on the inside. It is also known as Soamibagh. The construction work commenced many decades ago. However, the belief that the ardent followers hold is that the construction work should continue forever. It should never end. The aim of this continued construction is to make it a living monument. Hence the construction has gone on for 100 years. Despite the incomplete state, the ornate stone architecture has invited tourists from all over the world, to view Indian architecture in all its majesty.

Mehran Bagh

Mehran Bagh is a perfect squared garden complex. It is designed such that it becomes partially flooded, especially during times of heavy rain. The complexity in construction sets a new standard for Mughal architecture. Mughal garden research also attained new heights with the dawn of this archaeological masterpiece. Mumtaz Mahals actual tomb has been actually found to be exactly midway between the entrance of the Taj Mahal complex and the ends of Mehran Bagh.

Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh is a charbagh complex in Agra, North India. It lies north of the Taj Mahal complex and the Agra Fort on the opposite side of the Yamuna River, Mehtab Bagh translated to mean a moonlight garden, is located north of Taj Mahal and the opposite of the Yamuna River. A square garden measuring 300 m by 300 m, it becomes partially flooded by the rain duringrainy season. It was the last garden of the eleven built by the Mughals. It was built by the Mughal emperor Babur. Designed in the riverfront terrace pattern, it contributes a significant part to the Taj complex. The garden was said to be surrounded by a compound wall made of Brick, lime plaster and clad with red sandstone. Octagonal shaped domes were situated in the corners. A small Dalit shrine is present near the entrance. In a letter written to Shah Jahan by Aurangzeb, he mentioned the garden after a flood in 1652 AD. Archeological excavations were started in 1994 to renew the garden and give it a new flair.