Agra is the home to one of the seven wonders of the world – Taj Mahal. The city of love is always bustling with millions of tourists from all over the world. The ancient city and former capital of India breathes history, art and the great culture of India. Being one of the most important thrones of the Mughal dynasty, Agra is famous for more than just Taj Mahal.
Here are the 5 best tourist places in Agra which you can visit for an indelible experience of grandeur and opulence of the past.
1. Taj Mahal
Taj Mahal means the “crown of palaces”. Located on the bank of river Yamuna, the incredible ivory white-marble mausoleum needs no introduction. One of the seven wonders of the world and the greatest symbol of love, Taj Mahal is the epitome of Mughal and Persian architecture. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of Taj Mahal in the loving memory of his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal in the 17th century. It took over 20,000 construction workers and 20 years to build this monument of love.
Taj Mahal is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts the same amount of love from all over the world as it used to centuries ago. In 2018, more than 6.5 million people from all over the world visited this miraculous architecture. You can visit the Taj Mahal between sunrise and sunset except on Fridays.
Also Read: 7 Incredible Things To Do In Agra, Apart From Visiting Taj Mahal
2. Agra Fort
Agra Fort is one of the finest and best-kept forts of India. The marble and red sandstone architecture was the main residence of the Mughal dynasty and reflect the grandeur of the Mughal era. The grand fort sprawls over 94 acres of land and is just 2 kilometers away from the Taj Mahal.
The construction of Agra Fort was commissioned by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1565 and was later completed by his son Shah Jahan. This was a walled city and some of its iconic structures include Diwan-e-aam (Hall of the general audience) and Diwan-e-khaas (Hall of the private audiences) and Shish Mahal (Mirror Palace). Agra Fort stays open for 7 days of the week and can be visited between 6 a.m.–7 p.m.
3. Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh offers a completely different view of Taj Mahal. You must visit this place to get a different perspective of Taj Mahal. The Mughal masterpiece looks more grand and mesmerizing amid the orange light of sunset and sunrise across the river Yamuna. The four garden complex situated on the opposite bank of river Yamuna offers a great panoramic view of the Taj Mahal.
Unlike Taj Mahal’s main premise, the place is quiet and gives you an opportunity to admire the monument of love from the glasses of history. It is also the best place to take some incredible shots of the Taj Mahal amid the gorgeous backdrops. You can visit Mehtab Bagh throughout the weekend between 6 a.m.–7 p.m.
4. Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah
Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is the first tomb which was built in white marbles and not in red sandstone. The construction of this white marble architecture also put an end to the extensive usage of red sandstone in the Mughal architecture. Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah is often referred to as the ‘baby Taj’ due to its similar elaborate carvings and pietra dura inlay techniques.
The beautiful tomb is enveloped with lush green gardens and is a perfect site to sit, relax and soak the history, art, culture and beauty of the Mughal era. You can visit Itimad-ud-Daulah throughout the week between 8 a.m.–12 a.m.
5. Taj Nature Walk
Taj Nature Walk is the perfect blend of natural and historical beauty. It is located just 500 meters away from the eastern gate of Taj Mahal and offers a completely relaxed and calm ambiance to unwind. Take a walk around to explore the beauty of Taj Mahal from various angles amid the company of beautiful birds including peacocks and hoopoes.
Taj Nature Walk stays open through the week between 6 a.m.–7 p.m.
Agra gives every traveler the opportunity to experience history, art and culture like never before. So, if you haven’t been to the city of Taj, now is the right time to pack your bags and explore the magic of Agra.
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