The splendour of Agra – the capital of India under the mighty Mughals – still remains undiminished after 500 years. A minor administrative unit saw its transformation to a world – renowned city with the coming of the Mughal. Centered on the timeless creation, Taj Mahal, the city of Agra remains unparallel in history. However, Agra’s name to fame doesn’t end with the Taj. There are countless other surprises,all a gentle reminder of a glorious past. The golden age of Agra began in 1526 A.D. when the Mughal breathed new lifeinto the town, new character and beauty, rather. Foresighted and catalysts of change that were, they ushered in air thatgave birth to some of India’s finest craftsmen, artists, statesmen, warriors and nobility. Agra was never to remain the same again. Today, Agra’s past remains omni present in monuments, buildings, exquisite arts and crafts, cuisine and so forth.All painters of a rich past. The older part of the town still remains much of its glory enchanting every tourist with memories,to carry back home. Also, luxury and modern amenities brush shoulders with each other. And the fast expanse of FatehpurSikri, Sikhandra, Itmad–ud-Daulab and Agra fort beckon. Make it to Agra for a lifetime of a holiday.

Taj Mahal: The construction of this marble masterpiece is credited to the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan who erected this mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife, Arjumand Bano Begam, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1630 A.D. Her last whish to her husband was “to build a tomb in her memory such as the world has never seen before”.Agra Fort: The construction of the Agra Fort was started around 1565 when Akbar built the intial structures. Shah Jahan replaced most of these with his marble creations some however survived, among them are – Delhi Gate, Amar Singh Gate, Akbar Mahal and the Jahangiri Mahal.

Ram Bagh: It was created by Emperor Babar and is one of the earliest Mughal garden. History says that Babar was temporarily buried here, before being interred at Kabul.

Chini-ka-Rauza: It is located 5 km from Agra Fort. Chini-ka-Rauza is the mausoleum of Afzal Khan, a Persian poet and Jahan’s Prime Minister. Parts of its walls are stillcovered with coloured emailed tiles (Chini) that gave the tomb its name.

Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb: It is located 6 km from Agra Fort. The tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg – the father of Empress Nur Jahan. It is the first Mughal building to be faced with white marble and contrasting stones. Itmad-ud-Daula is the tomb of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, a Persian who had obtained service in Akbar’s court. The tomb set a startling precedent as the first Mughal building to be faced with white inlaid marble and contrasting stones. Unlike the Taj it is small, intimate and has a gentle serenity.Sikandra: It is located 10 km from Agra fort. A suburb of Agra and the final resting place of Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Sur Sarovar: Sur Sarovar is situated 27 km from Agra within Surdas reserve forest. It is in fact, a tranquil spot, ideal for relaxed outings. A wide variety of fishes and water birds at to the Lake’s natural charm and beauty.

Patna Bird Sanctuary: Located in the Jalesar town of Etah district, 54 km from Agra, the Patna Bird Sanctuary is spread over an area of 108 hectares. Over 300 different species of exotic birds cluster here during the breeding season in winter months. The intertwined date trees convert the sanctuary scenically into a mini Goa.

Braj Bhoomi: Braj Bhoomi is situated 56 km from Agra. The birthplace of Lord Krishna, along the banks of Yamuna, is just an hour drive by car from Agra. The land is replete with imposing temple, each dedicated to the stages of the Lord’s life. Among the importance temples at Mathura and Vrindavan are Govid Dev Temple, Rangaji Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, etc.

Shauripur: Shauripur is situated 72 km from Agra.The ruins of the old city of Shauripur are 2 km further north of Bateshwar. A group of five Jain Temples is here, atop the village mound. According to Jain mythology, Shauripur was the birthplace of the 22nd Tirthankar Neminath, the son of the King of Shauripur.

Map Of Agra, Uttar Pradesh :