The Taj Mahal rises above the banks of the river in Agra like a solitary tear suspended on the cheek of time.
Agra is the city of the Taj Mahal, in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Agra has three UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort in the city and Fatehpur Sikri on the outskirts of Agra. There are also many other buildings and tombs from Agra's days of glory as the capital of the Mughal Empire.
History and Culture
The recorded history of Agra begins around the 11th century, and over the next 500 years, the city changed hands between various kings, both Hindu and Muslim. It is said that no trip to India is complete without at least one visit to the Taj.
The legacy of the Mughal empire has left a magnificent fort and a liberal sprinkling of fascinating tombs and mausoleums, and there’s also fun to be had in the bustling chowks (marketplaces). History, architecture, romance all together create the magic of Agra which is almost the lifeline of Indian tourism. History fanatics as well as architecture buffs can have a ball here with the sheer expanse of the Mughal art and culture on display.
Agra’s history goes back to the 11th century when it was referred to by Ptolemy as Agra. In Indian classics, Agra is mentioned as Agra ban or forest area.
The Mughal traits still exists in Agra today from its buildings to its cuisine and culture.
Agra’s position as the capital was changed when Shahjahanabad became the new capital. Emperor Shah Jahan created the new city which today exists as Old Delhi. The relocation to a new capital saw the decline of Agra.
The shoulder seasons January-February -March, September- October and November – December are the best times to visit, wit. Especially in December and January, temperatures can dip to near-zero.
- September - March