Agra Packages - A City Soaked In Culture

By Author: Rashmiranjan Patil
Total Articles: 261
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Situated on the banks of the river Yamuna in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, Agra, the erstwhile capital of Hindustan is famous for its heritage tourism. With its many spectacular Mughal architectural marvels, Agra is perhaps most famous for the UNESCO World Heritage Site Taj Mahal, which is also one among the seven wonders of the world.

Known as an eternal monument of love, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal who died during childbirth. This magnificent mausoleum is built out of pure white marble and is the star attraction of the city. Tourists from all over the world flock to see this beautiful monument whose beauty is enhanced by blooming gardens with a myriad of flowers and shady trees and aesthetically designed waterways that culminate in magnificent fountains. Incorporating architectural designs from Turkish, Persian and Indian styles, the Taj Mahal was constructed over a period of 20 years employing thousands of artisans, craftsmen and other skilled labourers. Taj Mahal though mostly recognised by the white domed marble mausoleum comprises of many intricately ...
... designed structures that together add to the beauty of this famous monument.

Apart from the Taj Mahal, Agra is also home to several magnificent palaces, forts and gardens that were built by the Mughal emperors. Most famous among these are the Fatehpur Sikri and the Agra Fort, which feature prominently in the many Agra Packages on offer. A short drive from the Taj Mahal is the Fatehpur Sikri, which was built during the 16th century by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and includes many prominent monuments inside its premises such as the Jama Masjid, Mariam-uz-Zamani Palace, Buland Darwaza, Tomb of Salim Chisti and Panch Mahal.

Another must visit attraction included in the Agra Packages is the Agra Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Anguri Bagh Gardens, Diwan-i-Khas, Jahangir's Palace, Ladies' Bazaar, Moti Masjid, Nagina Masjid and Shish Mahal inside its premises. Another must visit monument in Agra is the Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb, often referred to as 'Baby Taj', because of its similarity to Taj Mahal. Trips to the magnificent monuments of Agra like the Sikandra, Itmad ud Daula, Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Jama Masjid, Diwan-i-Am, Buland Darwaza are included as part of the many Agra Packages. Few other popular monuments in Agra are the Chini Ka Rauza, Soami Bagh Samadh and Tomb of Akbar the Great.

Agra is very well connected to important cities in the country by air and rails. While its domestic airport caters to a limited number of airlines and cities, its four railway stations make it very well connected to most major cities in the country.