Agra is a city in the state of Uttar Pradesh, located 230 kilometers south of New Delhi. It is home to a plethora of historical monuments, such as the Taj Mahal and the Jama Masjid. Other Places to visit in Agra include the Agra Fort, the Fatehpur Sikri and the Moti Masjid.
Taj Mahal – One of the Top Places to visit in Agra
If you are planning to visit Agra in India, you should know that it is a thriving metropolis with a rich cultural and architectural history. It has some of the most impressive tourist attractions in the country.
The Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This monument is a masterpiece of art and architecture. Many people consider it to be one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Agra Fort is a red sandstone fortress that has been in existence for centuries. This fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features elaborate carvings on the walls.
Agra Fort
Agra Fort is a popular tourist destination in Agra, India. It is an archaeological site that is classified as a World Heritage Site. The fort has several palaces and gateways.
Some of the most famous palaces within the fort are the Khaas Mahal and the Shish Mahal. Another palace that is worth visiting is the Macchi Bhawan. This is a double-storeyed building that was the Golden Throne of Shah Jahan. It features arched galleries and marble tanks.
Other attractions within the fort are the Nagina Masjid, Diwan-i-Aam, and Khaas Mahal. These are also listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
One of the most iconic attractions in Agra is the Taj Mahal. Built as a mausoleum for the wife of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj is a symbol of love and unending devotion. In addition, it is often regarded as a symbol of faith.
Mehtab Bagh is another must-visit place in Agra. Located on the banks of the River Yamuna, it is the perfect synergy between the Taj Mahal and the fort.
Itmad-Ud-Daula
Itmad-Ud-Daulah is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Agra. This monument is a magnificent architectural marvel. In fact, it is often regarded as the draft of the Taj Mahal.
Itmad-Ud-Daulah was built by Nur Jahan, the mother of Shah Jahan, in 1628. The tomb was the first to use pietra dura, a unique Indian inlay technique that uses semiprecious stones to create decorative floral designs in marble.
There are two main attractions at the Tomb of Itimad-Ud-Daulah. First, there is the mausoleum itself. This beautiful structure is surrounded by a glorious garden.
Second, the tomb contains the remains of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, a Persian official in the Mughal empire. His wife, Jodha Bai, was a Hindu woman. She was also buried here.
You can visit the tomb anytime between 6 am and 6 pm. Other attractions in the area include the Mughal Gardens, a wildlife sanctuary, and the Elephant Conservation and Care Center.
Another historical site in Agra is the Sikandra Fort. It is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. One of the most iconic buildings of the Mughal era, the Sikandra Fort is an example of the timeless beauty of Mughal architecture.
Moti Masjid
Moti Masjid is one of the most famous places to visit in Agra. This beautiful mosque is located within the Agra Fort. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The interior of the mosque is decorated with marble. There are elegant inlaid panels that are similar to those in the Taj Mahal. Also, the domes have Hindu and Islamic elements. The vault of the mosque is made of light white marble.
Khas Mahal is another important place to visit in Agra. It was built in the 17th century. In the past, it was a royal palace used by many emperors.
Akbar’s Mausoleum is another great tourist spot in Agra. This tomb has beautiful architectural features such as white minarets and geometric patterns. The garden surrounding the tomb is well maintained. The monument has a pyramid-styled four-tier structure.
Another place to see in Agra is the Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daula. It was the first structure in Agra to use pietra dura, a technique that uses semiprecious stones to create a decorative floral pattern in marble.
Akbar’s Tomb – Other top places to visit in Agra
The Akbar’s Tomb is one of the most important monuments in Agra. This tomb is built over 119 acres of land in Sikandra, a suburb of Agra city. It is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
The tomb has a three-story domed chamber. In the center is a false tomb, carved with floral carvings. All sides are covered with thick walls. There are four gates to access the structure.
It is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The entrance fee is Rs. 30 for Indians and for foreigners it is Rs. 310 per person. Children aged under 15 do not need a ticket.
You can see some exotic animals around the tomb, such as monkeys and peacocks. It is also a popular spot for tourists.
The tomb of Emperor Akbar is a great work of Mughal architecture. The monument is made of sandstone, marble, and white marble. Some of its features include elaborate designs, sophisticated geometrical patterns, and white minarets.
The tomb has a beautiful garden surrounding it. It was designed by Akbar himself. He selected a burial site and planned the entire process of construction. His son, Jahangir, added a marble story to the top of the structure.
Jama Masjid
One of the major landmarks of Agra, the Jama Masjid is one of the most sacred sites for Muslims. It is also one of the largest mosques in India. Built by the Mughals, the mosque has become an important religious site.
The Jama Masjid was commissioned by the emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 and was completed six years later. At the time of its construction, the cost was a million rupees.
The mosque’s domes are made of red sandstone, and they feature inverted lotus finials. They are made using the pietra dura, or semiprecious stones, technique.
The courtyard of the mosque is beautiful, and there are four kiosks. Visitors can enter the mosque and take pictures for a nominal fee.
The mosque is open for visitors between 8 am and 6 pm. In order to enter the mosque, you need to remove your shoes. There is an additional charge for going up the minarets.
Another prominent feature of the mosque is the prayer hall. It features a fountain and a large prayer chamber.
Fatehpur Sikri
The town of Fatehpur Sikri is a historic site located in the north of India. It was once the capital of the Mughal Empire. Emperor Akbar built the city to honor the Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chishti.
Akbar was the ruler of the Mughal Empire for nearly 50 years. He was also the founder of the Din-e-Ilahi faith. He is buried in Akbar’s Mausoleum, a large complex of buildings and gardens.
One of the most important monuments in Agra is the Taj Mahal. This beautiful structure is one of the world’s seven wonders. It is a masterpiece of architecture and a symbol of love. The Taj is surrounded by a garden, which is home to peacocks, monkeys, and deer.
Agra Fort is another major attraction in Agra. It is a historical site and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the attractions within the fort are the Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah and the Taj Mahal.
There are several other important monuments in Agra. Some of the highlights include the Jodha Bai palace and the Jama Masjid mosque.
Mehtab Bagh
Located in Agra, India, Mehtab Bagh is a square-shaped garden complex that is aligned on the banks of the river Yamuna. The Taj Mahal complex is located on the opposite bank. This tourist attraction is open from sunrise to sunset. Among its famous attractions is the Chini ka Rauza, Jama Masjid, Akbar’s Mausoleum, and the Sikandra tomb.
During the Mughal period, rulers chose to build elaborate luxury tombs for eminent figures. All the emperors had a personal tomb at this site.
Mehtab Bagh is a good place to go if you want to spend a romantic night or just enjoy the beauty of nature. It is also a perfect destination for photographers. You can find more than 80 different varieties of plants at Mehtab Bagh, which make it an ideal place to visit.
Mehtab Bagh is also known as Moonlight Gardens. It has pavilions and walkways covered in white plaster. In addition to this, the gardens have a range of colorful flowers. However, frequent rainfall can spoil your Mehtab Bagh experience.
Wildlife SOS
Wildlife SOS is a non-profit organization that rescues and rehabilitates abused animals. The organization has several animal sanctuaries across India. This includes an elephant rescue center and a bear sanctuary. It is also home to the world’s largest sloth bear rescue center.
The organization is run by a group of dedicated volunteers. These people are passionate about the welfare of animals. They can book volunteer activities on the organization’s website.
Besides elephants and bears, the wildlife group also rehabilitates a number of other animals. A visit to Wildlife SOS is an educational experience. Among the many attractions on offer, visitors can learn about the facility’s sting operations and anti-poaching initiatives.
One of the more impressive feats of the facility is its bear walkway. This is the country’s first.
Wildlife SOS’s Elephant Conservation and Care Centre is another must-visit tourist destination in Agra. The center is located about 15 minutes away from the main Wildlife SOS complex. The facility is also known for rescuing abused and neglected elephants.
There are two other attractions in Agra that are worth a visit: the Taj Mahal and the Agra fort. In fact, Agra is one of the seven wonders of the world.
Jodha Bai ka Rauza
Jodha Bai Ka Rauza, the residence of Akbar’s favorite wife, is an excellent example of the fusion of Hindu and Muslim architectural designs. It has a beautiful combination of chhatris, pillars, and wall brackets.
The structure of building is built in a two-story structure. The exterior structure is made of red sandstone while the interior is white marble. It has mural paintings.
Jodha’s Palace in Agra is a symbol of the enduring peace between Hindus and Muslims. This building was constructed for Queen Jodha, who was the first wife of Emperor Akbar. In addition to its beauty, the palace is also an excellent example of Indo-Mughal architecture.
Jodha’s Palace is one of the biggest buildings in the harem complex of the Fatehpur Sikri fort. It is constructed of light-colored marble and has three large domes.
The mosque is constructed on a slightly slanted plot. Built of sandstone and multi-colored marble, it has a central fountain. The domes are made of marble and the walls are blue-washed. Several arched recessions are also present on the sides of the mosque.
Mariam-uz-Zamani Tomb
Mariam-uz-Zamani’s tomb is one of the most popular tourist spots in Agra. It belongs to the wife of Mughal Emperor Akbar. The tomb is constructed of red sandstone and is surrounded by lush gardens. This place is ideal to visit in October to March.
The Mariam-uz-Zamani Tomb is located in Sikandra, Agra. This place is a kilometer away from the tomb of Emperor Akbar.
The Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani is a three-story structure. In this tomb, there are forty chambers, a terrace, and a garden. On the ground floor, there are also two corridors. These structures are carved with intricate designs and decorative engravings. There is a cenotaph at the center of the tomb.
Another major attraction in Agra is the Taj Mahal. During the Mughal era, several emperors had built monuments here. For instance, Akbar had built the Fatehpur Sikri.
Also, the Jama Masjid is a prominent religious site. It is a place where up to 25,000 people can pray at once. This religious monument is considered a World Heritage site.
Another interesting place in Agra is the Chini ka Rauza. This place is an example of Indo-Persian architecture. It has a great view of the Yamuna River.
Chini ka Rauza
Chini ka Rauza is a historical monument situated on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River. It is an Indo-Persian architecture that is reminiscent of ancient structures and is said to be one of the first glazed-tiled monuments in the world. This structure is located in Agra, India.
Chini ka Rauza was constructed during the 17th century. The tomb was built in memory of Allama Afzal Khan, a poet, scholar, and Prime Minister during the reign of Shah Jahan.
Afzal Khan was born in Shiraz, Iran, and came to India at the invitation of Shah Jahan. He later rose to become a senior Wazir in the Shah Jahan court. His grave is located in Chini ka Rauza.
The monument is a three-storied tower that features intricate tile work. One of the most striking features of the monument is the use of the semiprecious stone, pietra dura, which is an iconic Indian inlay technique.
There are many reasons to visit the monument. Its glazed-tiled ornamentation is considered to be the best example of this style of construction in the Mughal era. Another reason to visit the monument is its proximity to the Taj Mahal.
Soami Bagh Temple
The Soami Bagh Temple is a wonderful monument of architectural and spiritual significance. Construction of this beautiful structure started in 1904 and continues to this day. It is one of the most sought-after tourist spots in Agra.
Besides its religious importance, the temple is also a source of inspiration. There is a compelling story behind its construction. In fact, it has been continuously decorated for a century.
The building of the Radha Soami Samadhi temple began in the year 1904, and continued for a hundred years. This temple is dedicated to Radha Soami, a Hindu goddess. She is believed to be a symbol of harmony and unity amongst the different religions.
Another of the spiritual centers in the area is the Gurudwara Guru ka Tal. This holy place is visited by many Sikhs. Here, visitors are able to enjoy free meals and participate in spiritual practices.
Another of heritage site in the region is the Friday Mosque. The structure is made of sandstone and has blue-washed walls and ceilings. Moreover, it is inlaid with white marble. At the center, there is a fountain.
Ram Bagh Garden
Ram Bagh is a historic garden in India that is known for its architectural features. The garden is located in Agra, a famous heritage destination in Uttar Pradesh. It is a popular tourist attraction. This historic garden is open from sunrise to sunset.
Ram Bagh was first laid out by Mughal Emperor Babur in the early 16th century. He built the garden for himself to relax and soothe himself. When he died, his ashes were kept in the garden for a few days before being transported to Kabul.
The garden has three cascades, a fountain, and pillared pavilions. The park is crisscrossed by waterways, paths, and terraces. To see the garden, you can hire a tour guide or walk around yourself.
You can also visit the tomb of Akbar, one of the Mughal emperors. He was the ruler of North and Central India (1556-1605). His tomb is made of marble. The structure has turquoise, yellow, green, and orange glazed tiles.
Another famous place to visit in Agra is the Friday Mosque. It is built on a red sandstone platform with blue-washed walls and inlaid panels. The temple’s architecture is based on Persian and Indo-Islamic styles.
Jaswant Singh ki Chhatri
The Chhatri of Raja Jaswant Singh is a dome-shaped cenotaph constructed by the former ruler of Agra. Located on the banks of the Yamuna river, it is a perfect place to visit. It is believed to be the only Hindu monument built during the Mughal Empire.
The chhatri is a blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture. It was originally built with two octagonal towers. Today, the temple is in dilapidated condition. However, it is still a popular tourist attraction.
The tomb is located in Sikandra, a suburb of Agra. It is constructed in red sandstone and is surrounded by a well-kept garden. Akbar’s tomb is a very important architectural masterpiece. There is also a well-designed four-tiered pyramid with a white marble top.
Another similar monument is the tomb of the Persian poet Afzal Khan. Set amongst a beautiful garden, the tomb is decorated with Persian floral designs.
The Mughal emperor Babur is said to have built eleven pleasure gardens. In fact, Anguri Bagh is one of these. This magnificent garden complex is located just west of Shahganj.
Korai Village
The Korai village near Agra is one of the top tourist places to visit in India. This tribal hamlet offers a glimpse into the life of the rural tribes of the country. It is also a great chance to interact with locals.
There are numerous attractions in and around Agra that you can combine with your visit to the Korai village. You can take a walking tour of the town, or even cycle through the streets. In addition, you can participate in activities like monkey catching and cooking on mud stoves.
Among the most famous tourist attractions in and around Agra is the Taj Mahal. This monument has an intricately carved minaret that is sure to impress. Another great spot to explore is the Jama Masjid, the grand mosque of Agra. If you’re looking for a day trip from Agra, you can also check out the world’s largest animal rescue center for Asiatic sloth bears.
While you’re here, make sure to see the Taj Nature Walk. This scenic walk is located right next to the Taj Mahal.
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