India - Agra Tourism
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India - Agra Tourism
Agra - City Guide:
Agra, the name brings to our mind superb monuments including the magnificent Taj which is one of the seven wonders of the world. Agra is the symbol of a bygone era. The era, when the Mughals ruled India. As a reminder of their glorious past they have left behind some beautiful monuments. The one and the only Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Jehangir's Palace. The list of the monuments is endless. If we could push these great monuments away from our minds, then Agra is just like any other city. The major part of the city is the cantonment area, making that area more spacious and cleaner than the rest of the city.
After Babar defeated the last Lodhi Sultan at Panipat, Agra was made the capital of the Mughal empire. The city reached its peak during the reigns of Akbar, Jehangir and Shahjahan. It was Shahjahan, who constructed the major monuments of Agra, including the Taj. After the Mughal dynasty collapsed, Agra was looted. All the precious stones from the monuments like the Taj Mahal were taken away and after the British accession, the city of Agra developed more into an industrial town.
Travel to Agra
AGRA 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.
Itimadud Daulad
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.
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Yes, Agra is one of the HOT Tourist destinations in India mainly after the TAJ MAHAL was included in the NEW 7 WONDERS. Other places is Tourist Interest are Jaipur and Delhi. Agra, Jaipur and Delhi can all be travelled by Car. 90% of the tourist visiting Delhi, visit Jaipur and New Delhi. I have Hubs on all the mail tourist destinations in India. You may check them out.
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funwithtrains says:
14 months ago
Great hub, thanks for the information! My wife and I have been considering a trip to India, and will definitely take some time to go to Agra if we go!