Located at a distance of 203 Km from Delhi, Agra - the city of the Taj Mahal -- is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. One of the eight wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal is known for its unrivalled architectural beauty. As Agra was the capital of India during the 16th and first half of the 17th centuries, the city boasts a number of historic monuments in the form of magnificent forts, mosques and tombs. The city is frequented by thousands of tourists every year, who come to take a glimpse of the enchanting Taj Mahal from all over the world.
On your Palace on Wheels tour with About Palace on Wheels, you will visit various tourist attractions in and around Agra. Some of them are mentioned below for your reference.
Taj Mahal: The symbol of eternal love, the Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal, who died at a young age of 38 while giving birth to their 14th child. Situated on the bank of Yamuna River, the Taj Mahal represents a fine blend of Mughal, Persian, Central Asian, and Islamic architecture. The most impressive and remarkable features of the Taj Mahal are its four tall minarets (162.5 feet high) at four corners of the structure, the black and white chessboard marble floor and the majestic dome (213 feet high and 58 feet in diameter) in the middle. The Taj Mahal is one of the most visited and most photographed monuments in the world.
Agra Fort: The Mughal Emperor Akbar laid the foundation of the Agra Fort in 1565 AD. It took eight years to complete this massive fort at a cost of 3.5 million rupees at that time. After Akbar, Jehangir and Shah Jahan also added some new features to the fort. The fort is known for its magnificent architectural styles reflected in its various features. Some of the main attractions in the fort include the Diwan-e-Aam, the Diwan-e-Khas, the Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), the Nagina Masjid and the Palace of Mirrors.
Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah: Built by Noor Jahan - the wife of the Mughal Emperor Jehangir -- in memory of his father, the white marble tomb represents a fine example of Indo-Persian architecture. Enjoying the privilege of being the first marble tomb of the Mughal period, the tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah must be visited to see its beautiful inlay designs and carvings, which are considered even superior to the Taj Mahal. The tomb is popularly known as the 'Baby Taj'.
Jama Masjid or Jami Masjid: Built by Jahan Ara Begum -- the favorite daughter of Shah Jahan who was also imprisoned with him -- in 1648, the mosque has a unique shaped dome with no minarets.
Akbar's Mausoleum: The mausoleum of Akbar is located at Sikandra at about 10 Km from Agra. Akbar himself designed and started its construction. The beautiful tomb enjoys a perfect blending of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and Jain motifs.
Fatehpur Sikri: Located at a distance of about 37 Km from Agra, the Red Sandstone town of Fatehpur Sikri was built by Akbar as his capital during 1571 and 1585. The city represents a fine blend of Indo- Mughal architecture. The main attractions at Fatehpur Sikri are the Buland Darwaza (54m high) - the largest gateway in the world and the tomb of famous Sufi saint Shaikh Salim Chisti.
The Taj Mahotsav (grand festival), organized from February 18 to 27, is yet another major attraction at Agra. During the festival various colorful cultural programs of folk dances and music are organized for the entertainment of visitors.
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