History of Agra

Situated on the banks of the River Yamuna, the city of Agra has had a long tryst with history that dates back to the Mahabharata. It is during the Mughal rule that Agra assumed importance. Sikander Lodhi is known as its founder. It is here that Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memoriam of his queen Mumtaz Mahal. Under British rule, the region was known as Presidency of Agra and was the seat of the government. It is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which are the chief Agra sightseeing attractions.

People and Culture of Agra

Known for its cultural diversity, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians are all found in this city. Agra is the birthplace of two religions—Din Illahi, which gained popularity during Akbar’s reign, and the Radhasoami Faith. Though Hindi is the primary language, Urdu, Brij Bhasa, and English are also widely used. The annual ‘Taj Mahotsav’ is a 10-day event that showcases the folk arts, music, and crafts of the region to locals and those sightseeing in Agra.

Things To Do in Agra

The Taj Mahal, without a doubt, tops the list of places to see in Agra. Built in the mid-17th century, this monument is considered a fine example of Mughal architecture. Besides the Taj, the Agra Red Fort, built by Emperor Akbar, also figures on the list of UNESCO Heritage Site. Akbar’s tomb in Sikandra, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s tomb, Mankameshwar Temple, Gurudwara Guru Ka Taal, Jama Masjid, and Ram Bagh are some other places to visit in Agra.

The third of Agra attractions on the Heritage list is Fatehpur Sikri, which is about 35 km from the city. The Buland Darwaza is the most prominent of the various historical buildings found here. Among other things to do in Agra, you can go on the Mughal Heritage Walk, which is a 1 km loop.

Food and Shopping in Agra

There can be no better place to taste some authentic Mughlai dishes than in the restaurants and eateries across Agra. Do not forget to sample the Kadhai Paneer, Butter Chicken, Naans, Bedai, Bhallas, Pasanday, Korma, and Tandoori Chicken. A trip to Agra is incomplete if you have not satiated your sweet cravings with some Pethas and Jalebis.

Visitors on an Agra tour love to take home souvenirs in the form of locally manufactured leather products, handicrafts, and stone goods. The Sadar Bazaar area is a great place to shop for trinkets and leather shoes and figures on the list of Agra places to visit.

Accommodation in Agra

There is no need to worry if you are wondering how to reach Agra. The airport at Agra has regular flights to and from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Varanasi. The city is well-connected by rail to various parts of the country and there are many stations such as Agra Cantonment, Agra Fort, and Agra City to name a few. Three national highways connect Agra to the rest of India along with many state highways. Agra getaways are popular with people living in the Golden Triangle area comprising of Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. There are plenty of hotels and resorts in Agra to cater to the needs of different types of travellers. They are all centrally located and well-connected to the various Agra tourist places.