Agra, located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a historic city steeped in culture and heritage. Covering an area of approximately 188 square kilometers (73 square miles), Agra is divided into multiple administrative divisions, including the Taj Ganj, Fatehabad Road, and Sikandra regions. With a population of over 1.5 million residents, Agra is a bustling metropolis that attracts visitors from around the globe, drawn by its iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, as well as its rich culinary traditions and vibrant artisanal craftsmanship.
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Taj Mahal
Undoubtedly the most famous monument in Agra, if not the world, the Taj Mahal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural marvel. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, this white marble mausoleum is an epitome of love and a must-visit destination for travelers from all corners of the globe.
Agra Fort
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort of Agra, is a massive fortress built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It served as the main residence of the emperors of the Mughal Dynasty until 1638. The fort showcases a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles and offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal from certain vantage points within its premises.
Fatehpur Sikri
Located just a short distance from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a well-preserved historical city that served as the capital of the Mughal Empire during the reign of Emperor Akbar. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts impressive architectural wonders, including the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts.
Akbar’s Tomb (Sikandra)
Situated in Sikandra, on the outskirts of Agra, Akbar’s Tomb is the final resting place of Emperor Akbar. The tomb showcases a unique architectural style, blending elements of Islamic, Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, and Jain design. Surrounded by lush gardens, the tomb complex is a serene retreat offering insight into the grandeur of the Mughal era.
Baby Taj (Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb)
Often referred to as the “Baby Taj,” Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb is a Mughal mausoleum located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River. Built by Empress Nur Jahan in memory of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, this exquisite tomb is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal and features intricate marble inlay work and delicate carvings, earning it the nickname “Jewel Box.”
Mehtab Bagh
Located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, Mehtab Bagh, or the Moonlight Garden, offers panoramic views of the iconic mausoleum. This tranquil garden is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic, especially during sunset, when the Taj Mahal is bathed in a golden glow, creating a breathtaking backdrop for photography enthusiasts.
Local Cuisine
Agra is renowned for its delectable cuisine, particularly Mughlai and North Indian flavors. Visitors can savor a variety of mouthwatering dishes such as tandoori chicken, kebabs, biryanis, and aromatic curries. Don’t miss trying the local specialty, petha, a sweet made from ash gourd, and indulging in rich Mughlai desserts like Shahi Tukda.
Shopping
Agra offers a vibrant shopping scene, with bustling markets and emporiums selling an array of handicrafts, marble artifacts, leather goods, and traditional clothing. Explore markets like Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar, and Shah Market to find unique souvenirs and gifts to take back home.
My wife and I had an unbelievable experience in India. We chose the golden triangle tour covering places like Jaipur Agra New Delhi Jhansi and Khajuraho. Deepesh Upadhyay was our guide in Agra, Jhansi Khajuraho, that was amazing to be with such a nice and seasoned guide!! We had a great time travelling with Taj Travel Services, visiting beautiful places and living Indian culture for a few days!!
Naveen has good judgment people. He selected spectacular tour guides at each location that we visited. The driver he selected, Mustack, ensured we were always comfortable and timely to our next location.
He worked to ensure that the tour was personalized to what we wanted: bird watching at Keoladeo National Park, safaris at Jim Corbett National Park, and planning an India’s greatest hits trip while also making sure we attended our friend’s wedding!
As a person with several food allergies (dairy and gluten), I appreciated how Naveen made sure to communicate my dietary needs to Mustack and others so I could experience the variety of food India has to offer without great worry.
My second time visiting Agra and I had no doubt for calling again Taj Travel services. The choice was very easy, Naveen is a professionnel, very well documented and courtious person. I highly recommend his services.
Taj Travel Services provided amazing customer service and took care of all the needs for our 50 participants on a volunteer/adventure tour. They were organized, understanding, more than helpful, and ready to handle all of the unforeseen issues that New Delhi and Agra presented us with. Deepesh, Naveen, and Samarth were absolutely a pleasure to work with, and we are looking forward to working with them again and again.
We visited India in August 2016 and came back with my mother. Since we had a wonderful experience with Taj Travel Services and with our great guide Samarth, we asked him to guide us again. As in the first time, we got very impressed with his professionalism, knowledge and very good English level. This time we had several sightseeings in Delhi and Agra. We visited very interesting places, monuments and we throughly enjoyed his recommendations and hidden gems. Samarth kept giving us during the entire trip the best service and many unexpected moments that we cherish as the most significant memories of our trip.
Taj Travel Services really set up the bench mark for our next trips: always on time, always friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and professional. Samarth embodies all this attributes!! Thank you for making our trip a fantastic experience!!! When ever we come back to India we won’t hesitate to have Taj Travel Services coordinate our trip and Samarth as our guide again.
