The very name Agra conjures up images of impregnable
forts, palaces, handicrafts and jewelry and not to mention the world
famous Taj Mahal, right at the heart of the city. It is one of the
most richly endowed historical cities to be seen in India. The city’s
impressive past lives in evidence even today and is amply revealed
in its many splendid ruins. As one passes through the meticulously
laid Persian gardens or the towering fortresses, marble palaces
or majestic courtyards and pavilions, one can only think of an awe-inspiring
era of great rulers and builders.
Agra’s origin goes back beyond the recorded
history, finds mention in the great Hindu Epic –The Mahabharata.
But it was during the period of the Mughals that Agra received its
true identity and became the abode of one of the worlds few foremost
wonders- Taj Mahal. The beauty of this immortal world monument is
beyond any description. Set in the form of a magnificent tomb, this
incredible architecture of white marble stands in evidence to man’s
most romantic dream ever dreamt.
Among other important attractions of the city,
the majestic Red Fort and Jahangir Palace are must visit sites.
Agra is also known as shoppers’ paradise. There is plenty
of shopping areas, where one can find various gift items and souvenirs,
made of marbles, along with other specialties of the place.
Close to Agra City, there lies another landmark
architecture of the Mughals. It’s the phantom city of Fatehpur
Sikri. Built by Emperor Akbar, this capital city had been deserted
later by the then Mughal Emperor, owing to scarcity of water. The
city is a World Heritage Site today and is one of the most alluring
tourist destinations.
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