Agra is one of India’s most visited tourist destinations. It is well-known for possessing the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s Seven Wonders. It is equally appreciated by Indians and foreign visitors who flock here in big numbers to marvel at its beauty – that is simply amazing and incomparable. Agra, along with Delhi and Jaipur, constitutes India’s Golden Triangle travel circuit. Situated in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Agra is best known for the Taj Mahal, but the city also boasts many heritage sites and world-famous historical attractions.
Agra has been monumental and has played a key part in moulding India’s history from the epic Mahabharata to the Mughal Dynasty. Agrevana, which means forest border, was the city’s first name in the Mahabharata.
It was later developed in the sixteenth century by Sikandar Lodi of the Lodi Dynasty, who erected several structures in Agra, including forts, step-wells, mosques, and so on.
He relocated his capital from Delhi to Agra, and his son governed the city for nine years following his death. Sher Shah Suri afterward governed Agra, which served as the Mughal Empire’s capital from 1556 to 1658.
Agra was known as Akbarabad during the Mughal era, and it was ruled by greats such as Akbar, Jehangir, Shah Jahan, and others. Their passion for building, gardens, and art and culture gave Agra a new depth. Agra’s golden period began during their reign—from Persian gardens on the banks of the Yamuna to monuments and mausoleums. Akbarabad became Agra after the Mughal Empire fell apart and during the reign of the Marathas. By 1803, it was ruled by the British Raj, which lasted until 1947, when India attained freedom.
Needless to say, Agra has been ruled by many prominent rulers. Due to this reason, the city is home to many historical monuments and heritage attractions. That’s not all. The city boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites that include the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri. A sightseeing tour in Agra would be incomplete without paying a visit to these heritage sites and monuments. So, just embark on the Agra city tour to explore heritage monuments that will transport you to a bygone era.
Agra Tourism Attractions
Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his most beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in the world and also one of the most beautiful & visited buildings in the world. It’s India’s star attraction and never fails to lure visitors with its incomparable beauty. A visit to the Taj Mahal will give you a lifetime experience to cherish, it’s sure.
Agra Fort: The Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another architectural gem in the historical city of Agra. Built by Mughal Emperor Akbar, the fort is home to several beautiful structures. Sheesh Mahal, Moti Mahal, Jehangir’s Palace, and Khas Mahal are some of the most exquisite structures within the Agra Fort Complex.
Itmad-Ud-Daulah Tomb: Agra city boasts many Mughal monuments. Apart from the Taj Mahal and the Agra Fort, another spectacular Mughal monument is Itmad-Ud-Daulah Tomb. This beautiful monument was commissioned by Noor Jahan in the memory of his father, Mirza Beg. This beautiful monument is famous for its beautiful architecture. It is believed that the interiors of the Itmad-Ud-Daulah tomb are more beautiful than the interiors of the Taj Mahal. Due to this reason, the monument is also called the Baby Taj or the Draft of the Taj Mahal.
Fatehpur Sikri: Fatehpur Sikri is the abandoned city of Mughals. This city was established by Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital. But soon, Akbar abandoned the city due to the scarcity of drinking water. Today’s Fatehpur Sikri is a historical town in the Agra district and a UNESCO world heritage site. There are many monuments in this historic town that you should visit. The major attractions here are Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, Jodha Bai Palace, Salim Chisti Tomb, Jama Masjid, etc.
Other Attractions: There are several other attractions that you can visit and explore on your Agra tours in India. Other attractions are Mankameshwar Temple, Akbar’s Church, Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandara), Aram Bagh, Dayal Bagh, Mehtab Bagh, Gyarah Sidi, Jaswant Singh Ki Chhatri, Mughal Museum, Hewitt Park(K.D. Paliwal Park), etc.
How to Reach Agra
By Air: Agra Airport connects the city to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bhopal, and Bengaluru.
By Rail: Agra is well-connected to major Indian cities by train. Being a major tourist destination, Agra is also served by the luxury train Maharajas’ Express. By Road: Agra is well-connected to major Indian cities through the excellent network of roads.