Sunday, July 13, 2008

TOURISM-AGRA

Agra is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh and is the third biggest city of the State. Agra is located 205 kms from Delhi and takes four hours of road travel. Agra's summer season starts from March to June and the temperatures soar up during this period. Between July and September Agra experiences rainfall and nights during winter are very cold as the temperature dips to low levels. Agra can be enjoyed best from the months of November to March.

Places of interest: Agra is a place that speaks of heritage and culture and has a number of places that should not be missed.

Taj Mahal: Taj Mahal is a breathtaking structure and took 22 years and 20,000 workers to complete the construction.A world heritage site and declared as a world heritage monument by UNESCO, Taj Mahal was built by a Sultan whose love for his wife was intense. It is a white marble mausoleum built by Emperor Shahjahan for his wife Mumtaz mahal. The mausoleum is adorned with some of the most precious stones like jade, turquoise, diamond; crystal etc. Don't miss the uniform lettering outlining verses from the Quran. The intricate artwork is a blend of geometric prints and paisleys and flowers, typically of Mughal architecture. Taj mahal is closed on Fridays and is open from 6 in the morning to 1930 hrs on other days. This is one amongst the "Seven Wonders of the World".

Agra Fort: The Agra Fort was built in 1565 by Emperor Akbar and was later renovated by Emperor Shahjahan into a palace. The exterior walls are built so high, that the splendid interiors are hidden away from sight.
Jama Masjid: Famed for its Iranian architecture, this was built by the grand daughter of emperor Shahjahan.

Fatehpur Sikri: One among the declared world heritage site, the place was built by Emperor Akbar. It is located 35kms from Agra. Apart from these there are various places of interest nearby Agra that include Dragah of Sheikh Salim Chishti, Jodha Bai's palace, Panch Mahal, Hawa Mahal, Daulat Khana, Turkish Sultana etc.

Agra Hotel Stay in Agra is no big problem with both high end hotels and budget hotels available in abundance. Be sure to book your hotel in Agra if you intend to travel during peak season. Local handicrafts and leather goods are very famous in Agra, major shopping areas are Sardar bazaar, Mahatma Gandhi Road and Kinari bazaar. No tourist to Agra would miss picking up a replica of the Taj Mahal made in marble or even in talk stone. Also look up exquisite zari and embroidery work and dhurries. The craftsmen of Agra are known for their skilled inlay work on marble and brassware. Leather sandals, shoes and other items are a specialty here. Whilst at Agra, don't forget to pick up some petha and gazak, if you have a sweet tooth.