Agra

Agra: Beyond the Taj

Most travellers know Agra only for the Taj Mahal — and yes, the Taj is one of humanity's most magnificent buildings. But Agra was the Mughal capital for over 100 years, and the city holds three UNESCO World Heritage Sites within 40 km.

The Taj Mahal

Built 1632-1653 by Emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth. 20,000 craftsmen worked for 22 years; 1,000 elephants carried marble from Rajasthan and precious stones from across Asia. Visit at sunrise (gates open 30 min before sunrise) for the magical pink-to-gold transformation. Avoid Fridays (closed) and full moon nights (special restricted access).

Agra Fort

The Mughal seat of power before Delhi — a sandstone-and-marble fortress where Shah Jahan was eventually imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, with a clear view of his beloved Taj across the Yamuna. The Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and Musamman Burj are highlights.

Fatehpur Sikri

40 km from Agra — the abandoned Mughal capital built by Akbar in 1571 and abandoned 14 years later due to water shortage. Beautifully preserved with the Buland Darwaza (the largest gateway in the world), Jama Masjid, and the tomb of Salim Chishti.

What to eat

Agra petha (translucent winter-melon sweet) is the city's signature — pick up boxes from Panchhi Petha. Bedhai-jalebi for breakfast. Mutton seekh kababs at Esphahan in the Oberoi Amarvilas with its Taj view.