When Shah Jahan built Taj Mahal, little did he know that the monument would stand as a symbol of love for centuries to come. Millions of people flock to Agra to see the Taj Mahal every year. But while the Taj should be on your must-do list, there are quite a lot of other monuments and historical sites that will take your breath away. These sites will take you back to the time gone by.
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1. Visit The Finest Mughal Architecture, Agra Fort
As you enter Agar and start moving from courtyard to courtyard, you realise that Agra is home to the finest Mughal forts in India. Agra Fort is a red sandstone and marble architecture that exudes power and grandiosity. The fort which was primarily built by Emperor Akber in 1565 as a military structure, was later converted into a palace by his grandson Emperor Shah Jahan. This fort has some of the most iconic structures in Mughal such as Shish Maha, Diwan-e-aam and Diwan-e-khaas. The Amar Singh gate with its dogleg design which was earlier built to confuse attackers is now the point of entry to the fort.
2. Say Hello To Nature At The Mehtab Bagh
You will get some of the best views of Taj Mahal from the Mehtab Bagh. It is a four-garden complex and is the ultimate viewing point of the magnificent Taj Mahal. The garden which is open from sunrise to sunset and is a photographer’s heaven. Here, you can take some of the unique photographs of the Taj with a supremely gorgeous backdrop. The 10,000-Square-Foot Sunflower Maze In The USA Is One Of The Most Instagrammable Places In The World.
3. Relax In The Tomb Of Itimad-ud-Daulah
This tomb had a fascinating story to tell. It is the first monument to be built in white marble instead of red sandstone, which officially marked the replacement of red sandstone from Mughal architecture. Itimad-ud-Daula also referred to as the “baby Taj” has been constructed with the same elaborate carvings and cut-out stonework. The tomb is surrounded by gorgeous gardens that make it the perfect site to relax and experience the beauty of the Moghul era that was rich in culture, art and history.
4. Pay Some Homage At Akbar’s Mausoleum
Akbar ruled the Mughal kingdom, expanded its empire to include most of the Northern Indian subcontinent. His remains along with his daughters can be found in Akbar’s Mausoleum. The complex features a marble tomb and a marvellous sandstone and with striking marble inlay in a variety of colours. It is surrounded by Mughal gardens that are home animals to deer, monkeys, and even few peacocks. If you happen to carry a compass, whip it out at this site. You’ll notice that the tomb faces east, a contrast to nearly all other Mughal tombs, which point toward Mecca. Visit Mecca Masjid In Hyderabad – One Of The World’s Largest Mosque.
5. Shop At Kinari Bazar
To experience what Agra felt like many years ago, Kinari Bazar a must- visit. Located behind Jama Masjid in the narrow streets, you will find a multitude of colourful little shops here. This is the place for some of the finest jewellery in Agra, as well as shoes, clothing, authentic snack stalls, and Agra’s famous marble-work. This market is renowned for wedding shopping and sells beautifully crafted garlands, veils, and turbans.
6. Meet The Locals At Korai Village
Located on the Agra-Fatehpur Sikri highway, a day trip to Korai village is a must. A trip to the town will give you an insight into the simple lifestyle of the locals here. The people of this village earn a livelihood through day tours. Earlier, the villagers kept bears, and they would host several bear dances to entertain visitors to gain a source of income. However, they had lost this opportunity once the government acted upon animal rights. Chug Along In A Mini Train Through The Scenic Veli Village Of Kerala In Just ₹60; Starting Oct 7.
So, the next time you are in Agra, do not miss these well-known sites.