India Tourism

Additional Highlights of the City :

Agra Fort: This 16th century massive fort is a magnificent creation of the Mughals. The for is a testimony to Mughals’ power. Built in reed sandstone, the Agra fort encompasses, within its 2.5km enclosure walls, the imperial city of the Mughal rulers. The fort complex comprises many exquisite palaces like the Jahangir Palace and the Khas Mahal, built by Shah Jahan; Diwan-i-Khas; Diwan-i-aam, and Sheesh Mahal (The Mirror Palace). There are also two beautiful mosques including Shah Jahans Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) (sadly currently out-of-bounds).

The Octagonal Tower is an exquisitely carved tower where Shah Jahan spent the last seven years of his life. The tower was considered to provide one of the best views of the Taj but today the pollution has reduced the visibility. The tower, and much of the Agra Fort, is in bad shape but blank spaces and the empty inlay works give an idea of how this building must have looked in its prime.

Fatehpur Sikri: The deserted city Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughal Empire between 1570 and 1585. It was built under the personal supervision of the Emperor Akbar; he was childless and, having tried all sorts of solutions to his plight, visited a Sufi saint, Sheikh Salim Chishti, for help. Soon a son was born and, impressed and overjoyed, he started building on the site where he had met the saint. However due to a severe shortage of water the city was abandoned after only fifteen years and the capital was relocated back to Agra. As a result Fatehpur Sikri stands untouched and perfectly preserved; a complete medieval fortress of red sandstone, with vast central squares, exquisitely carved multi-tiered pavilions, cool terraces and formal gardens. Fatehpur Sikri is a 25 miles (40km) west of Agra, on the way to Jaipur.

The Festival of Agra : With the arrival of February, Agra burst into colours. Yes, its time for Taj Mahotsav - the festival of cultural mosaic that brings together the Indian arts, crafts and culture. The Mahotsav (festival) was organised by UP Tourism and held as an annual event in and around Shilpgram (next door to the Taj Mahal), a fitting tribute to the legendary skills of master craftsmen and other exponents of art, music and cuisine. The festival starts with a spectacular procession inspired by Mughal splendour - bedecked elephants, camels and drum beaters included.

Things to Buys in Agra :
Its fun shopping in Agra. Agra has several shopping areas and shopping malls where one can buy the specialties of the place. Agra is known for its leather goods industry. Handmade leather and leather products from Agra is exported the world over. Particularly these items are made by the Agra jail inmates, which after sale give them a decent earning. One can also find leather chappals (sandals), purses, bags, decorative items and many more leather product made by the local artisans. Also get some sandal and rose wood items from the handicraft craft emporiums and shops. The shops also showcases brass decorative pieces and stone carved images. Zari and embroidery work, Stone inlay work and durries are some other buys which you will love doing.

WebsiteSource:Tour Packages India


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