GOOGLE SAYS :
Agra is a city in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh state. It's home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a mausoleum built for the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal (who died in childbirth in 1631). The imposing main building features a massive dome and intricately carved white marble inlaid with precious stones. This is set behind a reflecting pool inside a courtyard defined by 4 minarets.
My view :
As we entered in UP , we had warm welcomed with damaged roads, road side garbage, Free Animals, and terrific traffic sense of people , although it was at the beginning, as we entered in city, We saw City was neat and clean so, we had some hopes for our tour destinations.
Early morning we started with our trip plan
DESTINATIONS AS FOLLOWS:
THE TAJ MAHAL
A must see place in the world. incredible architecture and story behind one of the most famous monuments mankind has ever seen. Don't forget to see the view of the Taj from behind on the banks of the yamuna river. early mornings are best times to visit and after the guided tour, ask to spend some quiet time roaming the area. hire a photographer to take some cool pics as mementos.
their is something special in that environment which gives you pleasant feeling. Feel Love in that air.
First look of TAJ was memorable experience, even when you walking out from there you will turn back to fill yours heart with that last seen memories
The main entrance, once guarded with solid silver gates, is a maze of marble embroidery; inlaid in the wall in jeweled script are quotations from the Koran, one of which invites the "pure in heart" to enter "the gardens of Paradise."
AGRA RED FORT
The fort itself is absolutely beautiful. Intricate engravings and tiling everywhere you look. Oozing with history too. However, my favourite part of the Fort was the views out across the river to the Taj Mahal which looks somewhat alien in the surrounding landscape. A must see in Agra.
1. I recommend that you have at least a small idea of Indian history before going here so that you can appreciate it more. A quick google search should do the trick.
2. It gets fairly crowded so I recommend going as soon as it opens.
3. There is an entrance fee and they don't take card. In the middle of the demonetization crisis (especially if you're going to visit the Taj), you'll have to plan ahead.
4. Excellent view of the Taj from a distance.
5. Heard Great Stories from our guide about Shah Jahan and his Family members
Brief History
Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Agra, India. The fort is also known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge and Red Fort of Agra. It is about 2.5 km northwest of its much more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. The fort can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city.
Agra Fort built by Akbar in Red Sandstone when he was through with the consolidation of his power after accession to power in 1654, Agra Fort worked both as a military strategic point as well as the royal residence.
Ever since Babur defeated and killed Ibrahin Lodi at Panipat in 1526, Agra played an important center of Mughal Empire it was in a ruined condition and Akbar decided to make it his capital and arrived in Agra in 1558 Akbar had it rebuilt with red sandstone. Architects laid the foundation and it was built with bricks in the inner core with sandstone on external surfaces. Some 1,444,000 builders worked on it for eight years, completing it in 1573.
At the end of his life, his son, Aurangzeb, in the fort, a punishment that might not seem so harsh, considering the luxury of the fort, imprisoned Shah Jahan. It is rumored that Shah Jahan died in Musamman Burj, a tower with a marble balcony with an excellent view of the Taj Mahal.
The fort contains splendid palaces both in red sandstone and white marble built by two generations of prolific builders Akbar and later Jehangir and Shahjahan. Of the nearly 500 Akbari buildings built in the Bengal and Gujarati traditions only a few have survived, arrayed in a band on the riverfront.
Some of the exquisite structures that deserve a mention are:
Sheesh Mahal - Literally meaning 'Glass Palace' it was the royal dressing room adorned by tiny mirror-like glass-mosaic decorations on the walls.
The Diwan-i-Am - Which was used as a communications ground between the public and the aristocracy and once housed the Peacock Throne.
Diwan-i-Khas - A hall of private audience, it was used to welcome kings and dignitaries.
The Anguri Bagh - It houses 85 square, geometrically arranged lush gardens.
Khas Mahal - An immaculate white marble palace.
Mina Masjid - Literally meaning 'Heavenly Mosque' it is a tiny mosque closed to the public. here akbar arrange meena bazar for royal family females
Nagina Masjid - Literally meaning 'Gem Mosque' it was designed exclusively for the ladies of the court.
Musamman Burj - A large, octagonal tower with a balcony facing the Taj Mahal.
Open from sunrise to sunset
Entrance Fee: Foreigners: Rs 520/-
Indians: INR Rs 20/-
Open on all Days
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a fascinating ghost city built in the 16th century; 37 km from Agra Akbar the great, who at 26 years did not have an heir, founded this historic site.
Fatehpur Sikri He went to a saint, Shaikh Salim Chishti who lived in a city called Sikri. His blessing gave Akbar 3 sons. As a gesture, Akbar built a whole new city in Sikri. Akbar named his new capital Fatehpur Sikri or the City of Victory
Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour at its height.
It was built between 1569 and 1585 and was intended to be the joint capital with Agra, but was soon deserted because the water system could not support any residents. It remained untouched for over 400 years now and its palaces are a remainder of the extravagance of the Mughals Fatehpur Sikri is the best example of the culmination of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs, derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture.
After this within 20 years, the capital of Mughals was shifted to Lahore
Diwan-i-Khas- Hall: Popularly known as the “Ekstambha Prasada”, the Diwan-i-Khas served as the royal chamber of Emperor Akbar. It is designed according to the Persian style of architecture and is decorated with fine sculpture and precious stones. There are 4 kiosks, which are located in the middle of the court.
Panch Mahal: The Panch Mahal ranks among the most fascinating buildings in Fatehpur Sikri. It is a five-storey building which was meant to be the shelter of the royal ladies and mistresses. The top story of the building offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Buland Darwaza: It ranks among the important monuments in the place. This enormous gateway has a height of 54 meters and is largest gateway in the world. It was made in the year 1575 to celebrate Emperor Akbar's success in conquering Gujarat and is a fine blend of Persian and mughal architecture.
Apart from these prime Attractions in Fatehpur Sikri are Diwan-I-Am, Turkish Sultana Rsquo;s House, The Treasury, Daulat khana-I-khas, Palace of Jodha Bai, Hawa Mahal And Nagina Masjid, Birbal Rsquos Palace, Sunehra Makan and The Jama Masjid.
Today regarded as one of the most important buildings amongst a list of World Heritage Structures, which has been brought forward by the UNESCO, a visit to the Fatehpur Sikri in Agra in India remains one of the fondest dreams of Indians from all around the world.
Entrance Fee: Foreigners: Rs 485/-
Indians: Rs 50/-
Open on all days
Guru ka Taal
Guru Ka Taal is the most revered place of the Sikh's located in Agra. The place is said to be visited by four of the ten gurus of the Sikhs. The gurudwara has been built over the stop where Guru Tegh Bahadur offered his arrest to the Mughal king Aurangzeb. The splendid gurudwara which stands in the precincts of Sikandra is due to the noble contributions and efforts of Sant Sadhu Singh Mauni during 1970's. The place is an important pilgrim place for Sikhs and every year thousands of devotees flock into the Agra city. For these people the land out there is blessed.
Agra is a city in northern India’s Uttar Pradesh state. It's home to the iconic Taj Mahal, a mausoleum built for the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal (who died in childbirth in 1631). The imposing main building features a massive dome and intricately carved white marble inlaid with precious stones. This is set behind a reflecting pool inside a courtyard defined by 4 minarets.
My view :
As we entered in UP , we had warm welcomed with damaged roads, road side garbage, Free Animals, and terrific traffic sense of people , although it was at the beginning, as we entered in city, We saw City was neat and clean so, we had some hopes for our tour destinations.
Early morning we started with our trip plan
DESTINATIONS AS FOLLOWS:
THE TAJ MAHAL
A must see place in the world. incredible architecture and story behind one of the most famous monuments mankind has ever seen. Don't forget to see the view of the Taj from behind on the banks of the yamuna river. early mornings are best times to visit and after the guided tour, ask to spend some quiet time roaming the area. hire a photographer to take some cool pics as mementos.
their is something special in that environment which gives you pleasant feeling. Feel Love in that air.
First look of TAJ was memorable experience, even when you walking out from there you will turn back to fill yours heart with that last seen memories
So many people, guards blowing whistles constantly to move the crowds through the mausoleum, people jostling for space, not quite what I remember, but it is the one and only Taj Mahal; an architectural marvel, a work of wonder. Something you need to see if you are in India. Closed Fridays, so Thursdays and Saturdays tend to be busy. Also, maybe avoid the school holidays!
Brief History
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 Begum, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in A.H. 1040 (A.D. 1630). Her last wish to her husband was "to build a tomb in her memory such as the world had never seen before". Thus emperor Shah Jahan set about building this fairytale like marvel. The construction of Taj Mahal was started in A.D. 1632 and completed at the end of 1648 A.D. For seventeen years, twenty thousand workmen are said to be employed on it daily, for their accommodation a small town, named after the deceased empress-'Mumtazabad, now known as Taj Ganj, was built adjacent to it.
Sheer poetry in marble. Majesty and magnificence, unrivalled, the Taj Mahal is the only one of its kind across the world
Rabindra Nath Tagore defined Taj mahal as "a tear on the face of eternity" whereas to others, it is a tender elegy in marble" and the ultimate expression of love.
Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world, and some Western historians have noted that its architectural beauty has never been surpassed. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj as if suspended when viewed from across the Jamuna River.
Shah Jahan had begun his reign by killing his brothers; but he had neglected to kill his sons, one of who was destined to overthrow him. In 1657 his son Aurangzeb led an insurrection from the Deccan. Aurangzeb defeated all the forces sent against him, captured his father, and imprisoned him in the Fort of Agra. For 9 bitter years the deposed emperor lingered there, never visited by his son, attended only by his faithful daughter Jahanara, and spending his days looking from the Jasmine Tower of his prison across the Jumuna to where his once-beloved Mumtaz lay in her jeweled tomb.
Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. The queen’s real name was Arjumand Banu. In the tradition of the Mughals, important ladies of the royal family were given another name at their marriage or at some other significant event in their lives, and the public commonly used that new name. Shah Jahan's real name was Shahab-ud-din, and he was known as Prince Khurram before ascending to the throne in 1628.
The Taj stands on a raised, square platform (186 x 186 feet) with its four corners truncated, forming an unequal octagon. The architectural design uses the interlocking arabesque concept, in which each element stands on its own and perfectly integrates with the main structure. It uses the principles of self-replicating geometry and symmetry of architectural elements.
The mausoleum is a part of a vast complex comprising of a main gateway, an elaborate garden, a mosque (to the left), a guest house (to the right), and several other palatial buildings. The Taj is at the farthest end of this complex, with the river Jamuna behind it. The large garden contains four reflecting pools dividing it at the center. Each of these four sections is further subdivided into four sections and then each into yet another four sections. Like the Taj, the garden elements serve like Arabesque, standing on their own and also constituting the whole.
Brief History
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 Begum, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in A.H. 1040 (A.D. 1630). Her last wish to her husband was "to build a tomb in her memory such as the world had never seen before". Thus emperor Shah Jahan set about building this fairytale like marvel. The construction of Taj Mahal was started in A.D. 1632 and completed at the end of 1648 A.D. For seventeen years, twenty thousand workmen are said to be employed on it daily, for their accommodation a small town, named after the deceased empress-'Mumtazabad, now known as Taj Ganj, was built adjacent to it.
Sheer poetry in marble. Majesty and magnificence, unrivalled, the Taj Mahal is the only one of its kind across the world
Rabindra Nath Tagore defined Taj mahal as "a tear on the face of eternity" whereas to others, it is a tender elegy in marble" and the ultimate expression of love.
Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world, and some Western historians have noted that its architectural beauty has never been surpassed. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj as if suspended when viewed from across the Jamuna River.
Shah Jahan had begun his reign by killing his brothers; but he had neglected to kill his sons, one of who was destined to overthrow him. In 1657 his son Aurangzeb led an insurrection from the Deccan. Aurangzeb defeated all the forces sent against him, captured his father, and imprisoned him in the Fort of Agra. For 9 bitter years the deposed emperor lingered there, never visited by his son, attended only by his faithful daughter Jahanara, and spending his days looking from the Jasmine Tower of his prison across the Jumuna to where his once-beloved Mumtaz lay in her jeweled tomb.
Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. The queen’s real name was Arjumand Banu. In the tradition of the Mughals, important ladies of the royal family were given another name at their marriage or at some other significant event in their lives, and the public commonly used that new name. Shah Jahan's real name was Shahab-ud-din, and he was known as Prince Khurram before ascending to the throne in 1628.
The Taj stands on a raised, square platform (186 x 186 feet) with its four corners truncated, forming an unequal octagon. The architectural design uses the interlocking arabesque concept, in which each element stands on its own and perfectly integrates with the main structure. It uses the principles of self-replicating geometry and symmetry of architectural elements.
The mausoleum is a part of a vast complex comprising of a main gateway, an elaborate garden, a mosque (to the left), a guest house (to the right), and several other palatial buildings. The Taj is at the farthest end of this complex, with the river Jamuna behind it. The large garden contains four reflecting pools dividing it at the center. Each of these four sections is further subdivided into four sections and then each into yet another four sections. Like the Taj, the garden elements serve like Arabesque, standing on their own and also constituting the whole.
The main entrance, once guarded with solid silver gates, is a maze of marble embroidery; inlaid in the wall in jeweled script are quotations from the Koran, one of which invites the "pure in heart" to enter "the gardens of Paradise."
AGRA RED FORT
The fort itself is absolutely beautiful. Intricate engravings and tiling everywhere you look. Oozing with history too. However, my favourite part of the Fort was the views out across the river to the Taj Mahal which looks somewhat alien in the surrounding landscape. A must see in Agra.
1. I recommend that you have at least a small idea of Indian history before going here so that you can appreciate it more. A quick google search should do the trick.
2. It gets fairly crowded so I recommend going as soon as it opens.
3. There is an entrance fee and they don't take card. In the middle of the demonetization crisis (especially if you're going to visit the Taj), you'll have to plan ahead.
4. Excellent view of the Taj from a distance.
5. Heard Great Stories from our guide about Shah Jahan and his Family members
Brief History
Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Agra, India. The fort is also known as Lal Qila, Fort Rouge and Red Fort of Agra. It is about 2.5 km northwest of its much more famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. The fort can be more accurately described as a walled palatial city.
Agra Fort built by Akbar in Red Sandstone when he was through with the consolidation of his power after accession to power in 1654, Agra Fort worked both as a military strategic point as well as the royal residence.
Ever since Babur defeated and killed Ibrahin Lodi at Panipat in 1526, Agra played an important center of Mughal Empire it was in a ruined condition and Akbar decided to make it his capital and arrived in Agra in 1558 Akbar had it rebuilt with red sandstone. Architects laid the foundation and it was built with bricks in the inner core with sandstone on external surfaces. Some 1,444,000 builders worked on it for eight years, completing it in 1573.
At the end of his life, his son, Aurangzeb, in the fort, a punishment that might not seem so harsh, considering the luxury of the fort, imprisoned Shah Jahan. It is rumored that Shah Jahan died in Musamman Burj, a tower with a marble balcony with an excellent view of the Taj Mahal.
The fort contains splendid palaces both in red sandstone and white marble built by two generations of prolific builders Akbar and later Jehangir and Shahjahan. Of the nearly 500 Akbari buildings built in the Bengal and Gujarati traditions only a few have survived, arrayed in a band on the riverfront.
Some of the exquisite structures that deserve a mention are:
Sheesh Mahal - Literally meaning 'Glass Palace' it was the royal dressing room adorned by tiny mirror-like glass-mosaic decorations on the walls.
The Diwan-i-Am - Which was used as a communications ground between the public and the aristocracy and once housed the Peacock Throne.
The Anguri Bagh - It houses 85 square, geometrically arranged lush gardens.
Khas Mahal - An immaculate white marble palace.
Mina Masjid - Literally meaning 'Heavenly Mosque' it is a tiny mosque closed to the public. here akbar arrange meena bazar for royal family females
Nagina Masjid - Literally meaning 'Gem Mosque' it was designed exclusively for the ladies of the court.
Musamman Burj - A large, octagonal tower with a balcony facing the Taj Mahal.
Open from sunrise to sunset
Entrance Fee: Foreigners: Rs 520/-
Indians: INR Rs 20/-
Open on all Days
Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a fascinating ghost city built in the 16th century; 37 km from Agra Akbar the great, who at 26 years did not have an heir, founded this historic site.
Fatehpur Sikri He went to a saint, Shaikh Salim Chishti who lived in a city called Sikri. His blessing gave Akbar 3 sons. As a gesture, Akbar built a whole new city in Sikri. Akbar named his new capital Fatehpur Sikri or the City of Victory
Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendour at its height.
It was built between 1569 and 1585 and was intended to be the joint capital with Agra, but was soon deserted because the water system could not support any residents. It remained untouched for over 400 years now and its palaces are a remainder of the extravagance of the Mughals Fatehpur Sikri is the best example of the culmination of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs, derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture.
After this within 20 years, the capital of Mughals was shifted to Lahore
Diwan-i-Khas- Hall: Popularly known as the “Ekstambha Prasada”, the Diwan-i-Khas served as the royal chamber of Emperor Akbar. It is designed according to the Persian style of architecture and is decorated with fine sculpture and precious stones. There are 4 kiosks, which are located in the middle of the court.
Panch Mahal: The Panch Mahal ranks among the most fascinating buildings in Fatehpur Sikri. It is a five-storey building which was meant to be the shelter of the royal ladies and mistresses. The top story of the building offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Now days it was destroyed in parts plus it's owned by private owner so not open for visitors
Tomb of Salim Chisti: The tomb of renowned Sufi saint Salim Chisti is located here. The tomb is well known for its delicate carvings and draws hundreds of pilgrims.
Tomb of Salim Chisti: The tomb of renowned Sufi saint Salim Chisti is located here. The tomb is well known for its delicate carvings and draws hundreds of pilgrims.
Buland Darwaza: It ranks among the important monuments in the place. This enormous gateway has a height of 54 meters and is largest gateway in the world. It was made in the year 1575 to celebrate Emperor Akbar's success in conquering Gujarat and is a fine blend of Persian and mughal architecture.
Apart from these prime Attractions in Fatehpur Sikri are Diwan-I-Am, Turkish Sultana Rsquo;s House, The Treasury, Daulat khana-I-khas, Palace of Jodha Bai, Hawa Mahal And Nagina Masjid, Birbal Rsquos Palace, Sunehra Makan and The Jama Masjid.
Today regarded as one of the most important buildings amongst a list of World Heritage Structures, which has been brought forward by the UNESCO, a visit to the Fatehpur Sikri in Agra in India remains one of the fondest dreams of Indians from all around the world.
Entrance Fee: Foreigners: Rs 485/-
Indians: Rs 50/-
Open on all days
Guru ka Taal
Guru Ka Taal is the most revered place of the Sikh's located in Agra. The place is said to be visited by four of the ten gurus of the Sikhs. The gurudwara has been built over the stop where Guru Tegh Bahadur offered his arrest to the Mughal king Aurangzeb. The splendid gurudwara which stands in the precincts of Sikandra is due to the noble contributions and efforts of Sant Sadhu Singh Mauni during 1970's. The place is an important pilgrim place for Sikhs and every year thousands of devotees flock into the Agra city. For these people the land out there is blessed.
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