No
tour in India can complete without paying a visit to this erstwhile Mughgal
city of Agra, the home of Taj Mahal, world's most beloved monument. With its
laid -back lifestyle and its immense wealth of architecture, handicrafts and
jewellery, Agra is amongst the most remarkable city of the world. In terms
of ambiance it is still associated with its Mughal period led by Babur, who
arrived in 1526. Agra grew in prominence as almost all of India came under
the rule of Mughal empire but Agra reached its zenith under the rule of
Akbar,Shah Jehan and Jehangir. It was under the rule of Akbar that Agra
become a leading centre of art, science, commerce and culture.
A Brief History
Traditions ascribes the foundation of the present city of Agra to Raja
Badal Singh around 1475 A.D. However the mention of "Agraban" in
the Mahabharata suggests that it has been the sister Of Matura, an ancient
city in the vicinity, from a very early period. Sikandar Lodi made this
place his capital when the Lodis ruled North India. But according to an
ancient legend, the name of Agra is derived from Agra vans of the twelve
groves of Brijmandala, where teenager Lord Krishna is said to have sported
with his companions. Situated on the banks of Yamuna, this town was chosen
by the emperor Babar as a base for the Mughals.
ATTRACTIONS IN AGRA
Agra Fort
The construction of this marble masterpiece is credited to the Mughal
emperor Shah Jahan who erected this mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife
Arjumand Bano Begum; known as Mumtaz Mahal who died in A.D. 1630
Taj Mahal
The construction of this marble masterpiece is credited to the Mughal
emperor Shah Jahan who erected this mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife
Arjumand Bano Begum; known as Mumtaz Mahal who died in A.D. 1630
SHOPPING IN AGRA
Agra is also known for its fabulous handicrafts, made of marble and
softstone inlay work. The Mughals were great patrons of arts and crafts.
Empress Nur Jahan took personal interest and was an accomplished artist
herself in Zari embroidery work. Agra's major handicraft products besides
inlay work are : leatherware, brassware, carpets, jewellery and embroidery
work. Agra is also well known for its sweets 'Petha' and 'Gazak' and saltish
snack 'Dalmoth'.
Agra is also famous for the leather items. Agra is the hub of hand made
leather items. Particularly the Agra jail inmates are make these items which
are sold to give them a decent earning. The local artisans are also good at
making leather Chappals (sandals), purses, bags, decorative items and many
more such leather product which instantaneously attracts your attention.
The main shopping areas of the city are Sadar Bazar, Kinari Bazar,
Raja-ki-Mandi, Sanjay Place and the Taj Mahal Complex. Shopping is
recommended at the Govt. Emporia or Souvenir Shops approved by Uttar Pradesh
Tourism.
EXCURSIONS OF AGRA
Jama Masjid
In
the close proximity of the Royal Palace is the Jami Masjid, the sacred
section of the Fatehpur Sikri. Built in 1572 AD, this is one of the largest
mosques of India. Inside the mosque is the vast congregational courtyard. To
the right, at the corner, is the Jammat Khana hall and next to this is
Zenana Rauza, the Tomb of the Royal Ladies.
Fatehpur Sikri
Like the cactus flower that for a moment adorns the desert, so was the town
of Fateh Pur Sikri, having a brief span of glory and abandoned only after 15
years of its construction, due to scarcity of water in the town. But it is
true that no town like Fateh Pur Sikri was ever erected before or can be
erected again. This magnificent town once the capital of Mughal Empire still
stands majestically, almost untouched by the passage of time.
Varanasi
Varanasi also known as Benaras is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in
India. Situated on the banks of sacred river Ganges, Varanasi has been a
centre of learning and civilisation for over 2,000 years. Besides being a
pilgrimage centre, it is considered as an auspicious place to die, ensuring
an instant route to Heaven.
Mathura
The city of Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, the nucleus of Brajbhoomi, is
located at a distance of 145-km south-east of Delhi and 58-km north-west of
Agra.
Vrindawan
The city of Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, the nucleus of Brajbhoomi, is
located at a distance of 145-km south-east of Delhi and 58-km north-west of
Agra.
