Agra in Uttar Pradesh, India is a famous tourist destination. It finds mention in Mahabharata in which it's mentioned as Agrabana or Paradise. The world famous Taj Mahal is in Agra and so are the majestic Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. While Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shahjehan, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri were built by Akbar--the greatest of the Mughal emperors.
The pearly white Taj Mahal, a romance in stone, which is the pride of not only Agra but India, was built in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, Shahjehan's beloved wife. The most beautiful monument ever built for love Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It took 18 long years (1631-48) and more than 20,000 craftsmen to build this amazing structure that has not only stood the test of time but continued to be an epitome of love even after so many years.
The Taj looks breathking and graceful from almost any angle. Whether you see it from front or from back, from a distance or from an arm's distance, it looks wonderful and mesmerizing though its close up detail is more amazing. Semi-precious stones are inlaid into the marble in beautiful pattern and with superb craftsmanship in a process known as pietra dura.
The 16th century built Agra Fort is another attraction of Agra. Like the Taj, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the seat of the Mughal dynasty in the 16th century. Pearl Mosque, Diwan-e-Am and Diwan-e-Khas, and Khaas Mahal are the chief attractions of the imposing Fort that's built in red sandstone. Akbar built the Agra Fort in the finest architectural style. The fort has magnificent gates and walls and a moat.
Fatehpur Sikri, the last of the three chief attractions in Agra, is located 35 km away from Agra. It was here that the first Mughal Emperor Babur defeated Rana Sanga, the great Rajput warrior. The best part of Fatehpur Sikri is the imposing Buland Darwaza. Built by Akbar to celebrate his victory over Gujarat, Buland Darwaza is not only the highest gateway in the world but shows the Mughal architecture at its best and also the most robust.
Agra is located at a distance of 250 kms from Delhi and is well connected by road, rail and air.
