Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal: This is the magnificent Mugal structure that makes this city a tourist attraction. All credit goes to Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who booked the space on the banks of the Yamuna and ordered the construction to start in 1632. 

As per the available history of Taj Mahal, the entire construction of the tomb took 22 years, employing over 20,000 artisans and craftsmen. Shah Jahan devoted the marvellous structure to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

The Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site India and is widely recognized as "the jewel of Mughal architecture Taj Mahal in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage." Its perfect symmetry, intricate carvings, and stunning white marble facade make it a breathtaking spectacle.

Agra Fort: Agra's Red Fort, famously known as the Red Fort of Agra, is a magnificent historical monument that stands as a testament to the power and grandeur of the Mughal Empire. 

Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction, often regarded as the primary building after the iconic Taj Mahal. 

Originally, this fort was constructed by the Rajput ruler Sikandar Lodi and was known as Badalgarh. In 1556, Mughal Emperor Akbar captured Agra and decided to make it his capital. He ordered the reconstruction of the fort using red sandstone, giving it its distinctive name.

Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb: Often referred to as the "Baby Taj," Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb is a captivating Mughal mausoleum and was the first Mughal tomb constructed on the banks of the Yamuna River, a location later chosen for the Taj Mahal. 

The tomb was commissioned by Nur Jahan, the powerful Mughal empress and wife of Jahangir, in memory of her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg. Construction began in 1622 and was completed in 1628. You can reach Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb by hiring an auto-rickshaw.

Tomb of Akbar: Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Sikandara, the tomb of Akbar is the resting place of the Mughal emperor who laid the foundation for the empire's golden age. This magnificent mausoleum offers a unique blend of architectural styles and historical significance. 

The Buland Darwaza, a monumental red sandstone gateway, leading to the main tomb complex. The gate features intricate carvings and offers panoramic views of the complex.

Fatehpur Sikri: This is a deserted city built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and briefly served as the Mughal capital from 1571 to 1585. Located approximately 35 kilometres west of Agra, this astonishing place is renowned for its grand palaces, mosques, and tombs. 

Popular tourist attractions include the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chishti, Diwan-E-Aam, and Panch Mahal. The Sikarwar Rajputs controlled the area from around the 7th to the 16th century CE. The city's name likely reflects this earlier Rajput influence.

Bateshwar: Situated about 80 kilometres away from Agra, closer to the town of Bah, Bateshwar is renowned for its captivating temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nicknamed "Shiv Nagri", it boasts over 100 Hindu temples, most dating back to the 8th to 10th centuries CE. 

If you're interested in venturing beyond the usual tourist spots in Agra, this will help you to go deeper into the history of Agra, connecting to the Sanatana era under Rajput emperors.

Mankameshwar Temple: Considered one of the oldest temples in Agra, the Mankameshwar Temple is believed to date back to the Dvapara Yuga (a Hindu cosmological age). Legends claim Lord Shiva himself established the Shiva Linga (representation of Lord Shiva) enshrined within the temple. 

The temple's name itself translates to "Lord of Wishes," and devotees believe that praying here can help fulfil their desires. The Mankameshwar Temple is situated in the Rawatpara area, near the Agra Fort Railway Station.

Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal: Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal is a significant historical and pilgrimage site for Sikhs, situated near Sikandra. Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal is constructed on the very spot where the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, offered himself up for arrest by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1675. 

Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection. The complex is well-maintained and welcomes visitors of all faiths.

Delve Deep into the Golden Age of the Mughal Empire

Agra was the center of the Mughal Empire. From Babur to Aurangzeb, several rulers reigned here, fostering the growth of Islam. The buildings in Agra still narrate the tales of the Mughal Empire's golden era. 

Near the Taj Mahal, constructed from white marble, you can spend quality time with your loved ones. Exploring the Taj Mahal and other sites will help you and your children gain a deep understanding of the Mughal period in India.

Witness the World-Famous Symbol of Love

Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal and dedicated it to Mumtaz Mahal. In memory of his beloved, Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of this magnificent monument. During that time, the Yamuna River would have flowed as a pristine stream, making the scenery even more beautiful than it is today. Nonetheless, the Taj Mahal's brilliance still amazes visitors.

Assess the Conditions of the Yamuna

The plight of the major North Indian rivers, the Ganges and the Yamuna, is well-known. The Yamuna flows through Delhi to Agra, where you can witness the deteriorated state of what was once a vibrant river. You can raise your voice on social media to support its revival or attempt to make changes in your lifestyle to contribute to the cause.

Taste the Delicious Agra Cuisine

Agra is renowned for its delectable vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. In vegetarian cuisine, you will find a variety of chaat items that are mouth-watering at first glance and will whet your appetite. The bedmi puri and potato curry here are particularly delicious and flavorful, and you must try them.