Agra: The Indo-Gangetic Wonder of India

Agra is one of the famous tourist destinations of India, where travellers from the entire world congregate to visualize the Mughal legacy. Located on the banks of river Yamuna, Agra is the most populous city of Uttar Pradesh and heavily loaded by vacation enthusiasts who wish to envision the glimpse of Mughal era. Some of the historical factors which differentiate Agra from other cities are:

• Mughal-era Buildings: The constructions by Mughals were idiosyncratic in nature, Taj Mahal is one of them, which was the epitome of love specially dedicated by Shah Jahan to his wife Mumtaz Mahal. This white marble structure adds elegance to the history of Agra. Other alluring architectures include Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, Akbar’s Tomb, Fatehpur Sikri, Mehtab Bagh etc are the sharp portrayal of Mughal dynasty.

• Akbarabad: Agra was known as “Akbarabad” under the decree of Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan. It was one of the most important cities of the Mughal era. It witnessed frequent constructions when Babar was the king. One of the finest gardens under his era was the “Aaram Bagh” situated on the banks of river Yamuna.

• The Marathas: After the decline of Mughal emperors and the Mughal Dynasty Akbarabad was conquered by the Marathas. The name Akbarabad was changed to “Agra” under their rule. Finally, it went into the hands of the British in 1803.

• Din-i Ilahi: The birth of religion “Din-i Ilahi” was in the pious city of Agra.

Agra- At Present:
Think of Agra and the first monument which automatically blinks in the mind is “Taj Mahal”. This mammoth monument is a white marble constructed dome-shaped white coloured building which is surrounded by four long gigantic pillars and supported via plinth. The city of Agra is well connected to all other cites of India and one can easily reach from any part of India. If you are residing in Delhi, it takes a maximum of three hours to reach Agra Cantonment. Gatimaan express reduces this time by 100 minutes. Agra city comes under the North Central Railways Zone of the Indian Railways. Three major stations are Agra Cantt, Agra Fort and Raja Ki Mandi. The city is blessed with well-built roads, highways, local transport like buses, e-rickshaws, auto, taxi and cabs. Some of the Mughal monuments which are admired by the tourists are:

• Taj Mahal: Listed under the seven wonders of the world, Taj Mahal is adored for its exceptional beauty and historical importance. It was built by the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The bright finishing of marbles and semi-precious stones makes this monument unique and shiny representing the cultural heritage of India. It is the most elegant building in Agra, for the tourists from the globe, to admire.

• Agra Fort: Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great in 1565 had given the Agra another monumental gift called Agra Fort also called Red Fort. The exteriors of the fort reveal the interior beauty of the fort. Some of the conspicuous buildings in the fort include the Pearl Mosque or Moti Masjid, the Diwan-e-‘Am and Diwan-e-Khas, Jahangir’s Palace, Khas Mahal and the Shish Mahal. The extraordinary construction attracts visitors from all over the world.

• Fatehpur Sikri: This is the place where Buland Darwaza welcome tourists which was built by Akbar. It is 53.63-meter-high and 35 metres wide using the décor of buff sandstone and highly-carving black and white marbles. This monument represents the benevolence of Akbar relating to religious sentiments.

• Akbar’s Tomb: Thirteen kilometers from Agra fort lies the Akbar’s tomb at Sikandra. It was the last resting place of the emperor Akbar. Akbar himself planned his own tomb and selected a suitable site for it.

• Jama Masjid: This large mosque was attributed to the Shah Jahan’s daughter “Jahanara Begum”. It was built in 1648 reflecting the love and affection of Shah Jahan towards his daughter.

• Mariam’s Tomb: This tomb was built by Jahangir in memory of his mother Mariam-uz-Zamani popularly known as Jodha Bai. She took her last breath in Agra. This tomb is built next to the tomb of the Akbar.

• Keetham Lake: This finest lake is a major attraction, as it has the variety of aquatic species including marine lives and beautiful birds. It is situated seven kilometres away from the Akbar tomb in Agra.

Other Tourist Places in Agra are: Chīnī kā Rauza, Mehtab Bagh, Mughal Heritage Walk, Mankameshwar Temple, Gurudwara Guru ka Taal, Paliwal Park and Soamibagh Samadhi.

Famous cuisines of Agra to Attack:

• Petha: Petha is the specialty of Agra and Mathura. It is made by fresh pumpkin, sugar syrup and kesar. It was originated in the kitchen of Mughals. Panchhi Petha store is the most famous in Agra located at Hari Parvat crossing.

• Kebabs and Tikkas: Agra offers the best kebabs and tikka in town. It’s a Mughlai cuisine and various local restaurants servers this flavorful dish. Pinch of Spice at M.G road is the best server of this delectable recipe.

• Tikkis and Chats: Aloo chat and tikkis can be found everywhere in Agra. Switch to Agra Chat House located at Sadar Bazar, Agra Cantt for best chaats in towns.

• Bedai: Bedai means kachori served with Aaloo sabzi. It is a popular breakfast item in Agra. Deviram sweets and restaurant at MG Road should be in the top of the list to taste this delicacy.

• Jalebis: Again, Deviram sweets and restaurant wins the competition in Agra when jalebi is concerned. This spiral dessert is served best when hot and makes your mouth watery as soon as you take the first bite.

The history, architect and the cuisines of Agra make it distinct from every city in Uttar Pradesh. If you plan a tour to Agra, then RailMitra will guide you in every aspect of the train journey. We offer all services like checking PNR status, seat availability, train running status and ordering food in train.  Experience the ancient Mughal land with the rich and heavenly taste of Agra.