Agra is renowned for housing the iconic Taj Mahal, a symbol of love admired worldwide. The city boasts numerous architectural marvels. Its forts, palaces, tombs, and mosques reflect the grandeur of the Mughal empire, which established Agra as their capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries. Situated on the Yamuna River's western bank, Agra is widely acclaimed globally for its abundant architectural legacy.
This charming town moves at a leisurely pace and is home to craftsmen who have been honing their skills on marble and soapstone since Mughal times. Agra is also famous for its carpets, gold thread embroidery, and leather shoes.
Travellers can also explore the city luxuriously with the famous train, the Palace on Wheels.
The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal as a tribute to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is regarded as the personification of love. This magnificent monument is one of the most visited and photographed places globally. Its architecture is a splendid blend of Indo-Persian styles, showcasing the Mughal era's glory.
Built by Akbar, who chose Agra as his capital, Agra Red Fort is a significant structure after the Taj Mahal. The fort's construction took about eight years under Qasim Khan Mir Barr-u-Bahr's supervision. Initially featuring over five hundred buildings, many were later demolished by Akbar's descendants and replaced mainly with marble structures. For a wealthy experience, the Palace on Wheels offers an excellent journey to Agra, including a visit to this majestic fort.
Situated about 37 km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri was built predominantly from red sandstone by Emperor Akbar. Planned as his capital, the city was abandoned due to a water shortage, and within 20 years, the Mughal capital moved to Lahore. Built between 1571 and 1585, the city showcases an excellent mix of Mughal and Hindu architecture, with the Fatehpur Sikri mosque resembling the holy mosque in Mecca and accessible via the 54m high Buland Darwaza.
Located 4 km from Agra, Akbar's Mausoleum was initiated by Akbar himself. This stunning structure combines Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist, and Jain motifs. The Palace on Wheels also stops here, providing travellers with a chance to witness this architectural marvel.
Built by Shah Jahan in 1648, Jama Masjid's main gate inscription credits its construction to Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan's favourite daughter, who was imprisoned with him. Its unique dome shape and absence of minarets set it apart.
This glazed tile tomb is a memorial to Allama Afzel Khal Mullah Shukrullah of Shiraz, a poet-scholar and Shah Jahan's prime minister.
Located 15 km from Agra, Dayal Bagh, also known as Soamibagh, houses the samadhi of Radha Swami faith founder Swamiji Maharaj'. Believed to be a living monument, its construction has been ongoing for nearly 100 years. The central structure, 110 feet high, is built from pure white marble.
Dedicated to Nur Jahan's father, Ghias-ud-Din Beg, this tomb was built between 1622 and 1628. Although smaller than the Taj Mahal, its inlay designs and carvings are equally mesmerising. The interiors feature intricate marble latticework that allows light into the interiors.
This red sandstone tomb, built in 1611 for Akbar's wife, is located on the Delhi-Agra highway. Its intricate carvings are worth a closer look.
Built by Babur in 1558, this garden is situated 500 m north of Chini Ka Rauza. Although it looks different now, it still holds historical significance.
By Air: Agra airport, or Kheria airport, connects Agra to major cities in India. All major domestic airlines operate flights to this city of the Taj.
By Rail: Agra railway station links Agra to almost every part of the country.
By Road: Agra is connected via National Highways 2, 3, and 11, linking it to other places within and outside the state. State transport offers both deluxe and ordinary bus services to Agra.
