Agra is among the most visited tourist cities in India. It is famous for Taj Mahal, which is India’s pride and one of the Seven Wonders of the World and it also boasts of three UNESCO world heritage sites. Agra is located on the banks of Yamuna River and offers great treat for lovers of architecture and Indian history.

The history of Agra can be traced back to the period of Mahabharta when it was called Agravana. It is also believed that Aryans set a base in Agra for some years. Most of the city’s famous sites showcase the beautiful Islamic architecture built by the Mughals, who ruled it for the longest duration. One is transported back to the era of Mughals while exploring the city. Quite often people visit Agra on short trips by hiring a Delhi to Agra cabs through a reputed provider of cab service in Delhi.

Although there are numerous sites to see and things to do in and around Agra, here we will discuss the most popular of those:

Taj Mahal

The most famous monument in Agra, Taj Mahal is a shining symbol of the devotion of love. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal expresses the grandeur of Mughal architecture.

Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh by vil.sandi

Agra Fort

Agra Fort is a unique monument having a mixture of Hindu and Islamic style of architecture. Built by the greatest Mughal Emperor Akbar, it is a must visit site in Agra besides Taj Mahal. The fort is also known as ‘Lal-Qila’ and was an important strategic military point and a symbol of power at that time. It has been designated as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Agra Fort, Agra, Uttar Pradesh by Christopher John SSF

Fatehpur Sikri

Fathepur Sikri is hardly 35 kms from Agra city and an important place to cover in your Agra trip. It was built in 1570 by Emperor Akbar as a tribute to Sufi saint Fatehpur Sikri. The whole town was built using red sandstone and showcases a beautiful blend of Islamic, Indian and Persian architecture. Some of the important buildings to see are Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal, Birbal’s House and Panch Mahal.

Fatehpur Sikri, Agra, Uttar Pradesh by Amit Rawat

Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb

It is India’s first tomb which was completely made out of marble; Itmad-Ud-Daulah also signifies the beginning of new era in Islamic architecture. Before that the buildings were made of red sandstone. It was built during Emperor Jahangir’s time in memory of his father-in-law. Although the tomb is influenced by Islamic architectural style but it also displays Persian touch in few places. The wall paintings inside the monument are a sheer treat for the eyes.

Itmad-ud-Daulah tomb, Agra, Uttar Pradesh by Ramón

Street food joints:

While there are many upscale famous restaurants in Agra that serve all kinds of specialties but the real fun and treat for you will come from the available street food. Agra offers arguably the best Chaat in India and can be located in many corners all across the city. Chaat stall at Double Phatak near Sikandra is one of the famous ones. Your spicy taste buds will be fully satiated for sure. Agra is also renowned for a special sweet called Petha which you can get packed for your friends and relatives back home.

Mughal hotel, Agra, John Robert McNally

Best way to reach Agra is take a Delhi to Agra taxi from a professional service providing car rental Delhi.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Today, 18th April is World Heritage day – an international day for monuments and sites. It is celebrated to raise the awareness about preserving human heritage and diversity of our monuments and sites. There are many UNESCO World heritage sites out of which 37 are in India and we have visited many during our travels in India. Some of those, are in this video including Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, Humayuns Tomb, Khajuraho Temples, Ajanta Ellora, Kaldeo National Park also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Red Fort, The Great Himalayan National Park and Amer Fort . Have you been to any UNESCO World Heritage site? Do let us know in comments. Taj Mahal Picture Credit: Sylwia Bartyzel via Unsplash

A post shared by Food and Travel Bloggers (@delhifundos) on Apr 18, 2020 at 4:43am PDT