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Agra
is the land of the Great Mughals who conceived monuments in
grand scale and translated them into monumental masterpieces that
continue to mesmerize. Walk into the gardens that Babur
himself laid out as an ode to Persian repose. Inveigle inside
Akbar’s masterpiece – the Agra Fort -where he began the grand
fusion of Indian and Islamic architecture. Discover
Jehangir’s passion in the form of Red Rose palaces where you
will also encounter Shah Jehan’s first experiments with pavilions of
dazzling craftsmanship.
Yet all these are just the appetizers. Agra will always be
renowned as the city of the Taj Mahal. Encounter the Taj and you
will be truly mesmerized. A poetry in marble, it has enthralled
millions everyday –since four centuries! Be thunderstruck by an
emperor’s romance with wife’s memories that glitters in every stone.
Besides, you can shop-till-you-drop for the exquisite handicrafts,
marble work and miniature Taj Mahals in all sizes. Spectacular
carpets, sizzling precious and semi –precious jewellery, leather
items are sure-fire attractions – but you would do well to buy only
from authorized shops.
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Places to visit |
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Taj Mahal
It is a
monumental ode to love in marble.
Built
by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of Begum Mumtaz Mahal,
it is meant to immortalize his exalted emotions of love.
The ethereal
tomb is situated in the middle of landscaped gardens and
happens to be perfectly symmetrical. The main structure is
topped by a dome and flanked by marble pillars crowned with
bulbous domes. Fascinating calligraphies with holy Quran’s
verses as well as semi-precious stones inlaid into the
marble in beautiful patterns called pietra dura adorn the
floors and walls. |
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Agra Fort
Built by Akbar
in 1565 A.D. - and the last prison for Shah Jahan- its
enormous construction includes several other masterpieces
like the Moti Masjid, Diwane-I-Aam, Diwani-I-Khas and
Musanman Burj, Khaas Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal. |
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Itmad - Ud
Daula Tomb
Built in Noor
Jehan father memory, it is beautifully ornamented with
pietra dura inlay and lattice work marble screens. |
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Chini Ka Rauza
The
Itmad Afzal Khan’s tomb uses brightly colored glazed China
matti (porcelain) tiles as decoration. |
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Unique Shopping
In Agra, you can buy
legendary handicrafts such as Marble and soft stone inlay work, gold
thread embroidery (zari and zardozi), metalware, exquisite hand
–knotted silk and woollen carpets and leather goods including bags,
shoes and clothing. Semi-precious and precious jewelry in Mughal
style is also available. Sink your teeth into the special Agra
sweets viz. 'petha' and ‘Gazak’. Don’t miss the saltish snack 'Dalmoth
too.
Do's and
Dont's
- Sunscreen,
loose comfortable cotton clothing, and sunglasses in summers and
warm clothing in winters are essential.
- It is safe to drink water in hotels and restaurants otherwise use
Branded bottled water.
- In some religious monuments wear discreet clothing; women may not
be allowed. Keep footwear outside.
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