India tours cannot be complete without visiting one of the world’s greatest landmarks: Taj Mahal. No matter the length of your stay in India ,Taj Mahal tours provide tours ranging from one day up to several Days. One-day Taj Mahal tours typically feature Agra Fort and other monuments in Agra itself while multi-days tours visits may include Delhi or Jaipur as well.
Taj Mahal tours from our company typically include transportation, entrance fees and guided tour with an experienced guide. Furthermore, customized Taj Mahal tours can also be customized according to your liking.
1 Taj mahal
One of the top attractions in Agra is visiting its iconic Taj Mahal, an UNESCO World Heritage site and one of its seven Seven Wonders of the Modern World. Visitors have an opportunity to tour this 17th-century agate mausoleum alongside its lush gardens and Agra Fort.
About Taj mahal
In 1632, Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan began construction of Taj Mahal as the memorial to his late wife Mumtaz Mahal – then Empress of India. Over 20 years of labor were required in its construction process which employed innumerable Indian artisans, architects and laborers in its creation.
History Of Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is famous for its geometric beauty and iconic dome; as well as for its exquisite Indo-Islamic and Persian architecture. Taj mahal marble work of precious and semiprecious stones on its floor surface and detailed marble inlay work around its dome and perimeter walls; its exquisite inlaid work features precious and semiprecious stones inlaid at precise intervals to form intricate designs with intricate marble inlay work, decorated by exquisite artwork adorned with precious and semiprecious stones inlay work adorned with precious and semiprecious stone inlay work on marble work which displays precious and semiprecious stones as it forms part of an extensive complex that also Include spacious guest houses and expansive gardens as part of complex that also houses big mosque.
Since 1983, Taj Mahal is recognized as an official World Heritage site by UNESCO and one of its Seven Wonders of the World. This magnificent mausoleum is a symbol of eternal love – making it the most photographed site in India and inspiring countless pictures!
Below are more interesting facts on Taj Mahal!
- The Taj Mahal changes colors depending on the time of day – appearing pink in the morning, white during midday, and golden at dusk.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983, construction started in 1632 and ended 22 years later when completed in 1653.
- Over 20,000 workers – architects, artisans and laborers alike – were involved in its construction.
- Materials came from all parts of India and Asia with white marble coming specifically from Makrana in Rajasthan.
2 Agra Fort
Agra Fort, located in Agra, India and designated a UNESCO world heritage site since 1987, is an ancient fort that serves as one of India’s primary historical landmarks. The Agra Fort Constructed by Emperor Akbar in 1565 from red sandstone blocks and later renovated by Shah Jahan’s grandson Shah Jahan for use by Mughal Emperors until 1638 as their primary residence within its gates are extravagant structures such as Diwan-i-Khas, Jahangir Palace, Musamman Burj and Musamman Burj where Shah Jahan was imprisoned by Aurangzeb’s son Aurangzeb.
Architectural Highlights
Agra Fort is an impressive semicircle shaped fort located 2.5 kilometers outside Agra city center and with impressive walls stretching for more than 2.5 kilometers around it. Notable structures within include:
- Jahangir’s Palace
- (Khas Mahal),
- Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience)
- Musamman Burj – where Shah Jahan was imprisoned
- Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace)
3 Itamd- Ud – Daullh
Itmad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb in Agra, India is a masterpiece of Mughal royal mausoleum design and craftsmanship that for shadowed Taj Mahal in terms of its intricate features made out of white marble and its stunning craftsmanship. As such it has often been described as being likened to an early blueprint.
Mirza Ghiyas Beg, known in Mughal culture and history by his Persian aristocratic title Itmad-ud-Daulah. He served under Jahangir as his personal representative until Jahangir died; during which period, Mirza Ghiyas Beg was one of Nur Jahan’s influential father figures who was known for her violent ways within Mughal politics and history.
Construction of the Tomb
- The Tomb was built by Nur Jahan between 1622 and 1628.
- Nur Jahan ordered its construction between 1622 and 1628 as an act of honor to Mirza Ghiyas Beg, known by his title of Itmad-ud-Daulah (“Pillar of State“).
- This was one of the earliest Mughal tombs constructed entirely with white marble and decorated with exquisite inlay work using semi-precious stones.
4.Mehtab Bagh
Mehtab Bagh meaning “Moonlight Garden“, Mehtab Bagh was established by Emperor Babur during the 16th century as part of his ambitious architectural projects and provided beautiful scenic views opposite Taj Mahal. Later renovated by Shah Jahan himself for their architectural significance and beauty.
Garden Features:
All Align with the Taj Mahal: This garden is well known for providing one of the best sunset views overlooking this iconic monument.
Charbagh Layout: Similar to Mehtab Bagh, Charbagh is another Persian style garden featuring quadrilateral plots divided with walkways and water channels following tradition.
Reflection Pools: To maximize their reflection effect on Taj Mahal glory.
Flora: The Garden contains plants dating back to Mughal rule such as Guava and Maulsari trees as well as Neem and Jasmine trees, all ideal for bird watching in their tranquil atmosphere. Birdwatching enthusiasts also find this park to be the ideal setting to indulge in their hobby of birding quietly and leisurely.
Romantic Myths: There’s an often repeated (yet unverifiable) tale that Shah Jahan intended to build the “Black Taj Mahal” here as part of an ambitious twin monument plan, yet never managed.
5.Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikr is an iconic city located in Uttar Pradesh in India that was of immense historical and architectural importance during Mughal rule, boasting elegant gardens.
History of Fatehpur Sikri
Foundation of Sikri City: Sikri city was created by Akbar during the late medieval period (Mughal Era), circa 1569, as an official Mughal capital and it served this function until 1585, at which point Akbar decided it should no longer exist as such a site.
Reason of Foundation: Akbar constructed this city after defeating Gujurat in 1573 as his mark of triumphant conquest.
Commemorative Aims: This city was constructed as a tribute to Sufi Salim Chishti who is interred at his tomb located within its borders. Akbar went there looking for signs from fate; when Bawa Salah gave blessings that Akbar will have son in return for building Buland Darwaza and Jama Masjid, Akbar gave in and built Buland Darwaza and Jama Masjid as promised by Bawa Salah.
Abandonment: Fatehpur Sikri was abandoned due to water supply problems as well as political considerations following its transfer as Mughal capital from Lahore to Delhi in 1750, suffering neglect and dilapidation that has since earned it recognition by UNESCO World Heritage as an historic site.
Gardens Attraction:
Fatehpur Sikri’s gardens add aesthetic value, reflecting Mughal royalty and culture with influences such as:
The Anguri Bagh (Grape Garden):
Sikri’s most-famous gardens is “Anguri Bagh.” Renowned for its intricate, multi-quadranted designs based on grapevine populations, this garden stands out among others due to its popularity with visitors and residents.
There are various abandoned fountains and waterways which add an atmospheric charm and ensure an atmosphere that’s both fresh and relaxing.
The Shahi Baag:
This structure was specifically created for Mughal gardens to act as an enclosure or leisure, relaxation lounge. As its name translates into English as ‘Royal Garden”, its purpose was also relaxation of Mughal court members and guests.
Garden designs typically consist of flourishing green land patches intertwined with water ponds and various ornamental plants.
The Bagh-i-Nur (Garden of Light):
Fatehpur Sikri is famous for its beautiful gardens and fountains that combine Persian and Mughal styles, creating the famed Agra Fort Garden.
This garden was also utilized for leisure activities and added an air of splendor to the royal court.
The Jodha Bai’s Palace Garden:
Jodha Bai’s Palace Garden is another notable tourist spot. A magnificent example of Mughal architecture, this garden was linked with Akbar’s wife Jodha Bai.
Highlighted are the water channels and fountains characteristic of Mughal gardens which combine Persian with Indian elements.
The Mirror Pool (Shishe Wali Kothi):
This area, though not technically considered a garden, adds beauty and tranquillity to Mughal courts through water features like these mirrors surrounded by gardens for an idyllic and tranquil ambiance.
6.Take a Boat Ride on Yamuna River Looking Taj Mahal
A boat ride along Yamuna River may provide one of the finest ways to view it; not only offering magnificent photo opps; this journey provides exquisite sights of its gardens and river – making your experience all that more soothing and peaceful! Why Take a Boat Ride: During these journeys on a tranquil river like Yamuna a Boat ride offers one of the only unique approaches allowing one can approach this majestic architectural wonder amidst tranquil and serene waters: darui WHY BOAT RIDE: Whilst providing fantastic photo opps when approaching Taj Mahal from close quarters is another unique approach from which one should experience all this beauty from close quarters: chaudiere By taking advantage of special benefits it allows one will receive better photos and provide wonderful and peaceful experiences of being there on board.
Why a Boat Ride:
- At this vantage point, visitors have an unparalleled viewing opportunity of the Taj Mahal and its environs.
- No wonder it is considered an extraordinary ride; with water’s beauty combined with lush terrain making this ride truly remarkable.
7 Agra Shopping & Cuisine Options
Agra, famous for its historic significance and beautiful architecture, provides visitors with many shopping and culinary experiences to delight them.
Shopping in Agra:
Leather Products:Agra City is famous for its wide range of quality leather goods such as wallets, bags, belts and shoes made by skilled craftsman in leather markets such as Sadar Bazar and Kinari Bazar which make up these markets.
Marble Artifacts: The Mughal empire had an immense effect on Agra’s marble arts and crafts, which can be found throughout many shops throughout town. Here you will find exquisite inlay work (Pietra dura) similar to what can be seen on Taj Mahal, decorative plates crafted out of marble as well as jewelry boxes with intricate engravings – the latter are great souvenirs to take back home with you as great mementoes from their travels!
Handcrafted Works: Alongside its grand architecture, Agra also boasts exquisite handicrafts such as brass decoratives, wooden pieces and carpets crafted in Kinari Bazar and Sadar Bazar markets. Tourists can also purchase beautiful Mughal jewelry pieces besides clothing and fabrics here.
Textiles in Agra: Saris and other clothing made in Agra is famed for its intricate embroidery. Enjoying shopping colorful fabrics including cottons adorned with embroidery or silk embroideries is an unforgettable experience in itself!
Food in Agra:-
Agra’s cuisine blends elements from various traditions – Mughal, Awadhi and traditional North Indian all come together into an irresistibly tantalizing treat! Here are a few highlights.
Mughlai Cuisine: While living in Agra, Mughlai dishes such as biryani, kebabs, korma and rogan josh became center pieces at every meal. My personal favorite were tandoori meats made in clay ovens – my list includes Murg Mussallam (Whole chicken cooked with spices) as well as Seekh Kebabs as some popular choices from this cuisine.
Treated Disk Petha: As previously noted, Petha is an iconic sweet which originated in Agra and can be made using either an ash gourd, or even rosewater to add flavor. Do make sure you try some when visiting Agra; some popular options are Dhani Petha, Kesar Petha or Angoori Petha if available.
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