AGRA - THE TAJ MAHAL AND BEYOND

AGRA - THE TAJ MAHAL AND BEYOND

Agra Taj Mahal Mughal Emperor Akbar Agra Fort Fatehpur Sikri Buland Darwaza India Acme voyages

The Emperor Akbar was not only a great monarch, he was also a great architect. He was the one who commissioned the sprawling Agra Fort and of course, the entire city of Fatehpur Sikri, which he built from the ground up, that became his capital during his reign. The Buland Darwaza and Rumi Darwaza are reminiscent of the Mughal Empire’s roots in Central Asia. These magnificent entrances are somewhat similar to those of Khiva and Samarkand. 

Another one of our favourite monuments though not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the subtle and sophisticated design of the Tomb of Itmad-Ud-Daulah, that was commissioned by his daughter, the Empress Nur Jahan. In fact, many historians believe that this precursor to the Taj Mahal was the source of Emperor Shah Jahan’s inspiration and impetus to build it. In fact, Mumtaz Mahal, who is immortalised in the beauty of the Taj, was none other than Nur Jahan’s niece. Nur Jahan was married to Shah Jahan’s father, the Emperor Jahangir.

But that’s not all... Agra is also home to a wonderful culinary tradition - mouthwatering kebabs that melt in your mouth, make it worth the extra night.

A little known fact about the city is it’s ancient music tradition. In fact, the Agra Gharana is a very old school of Hindustani classical music, and one of it’s finest. In fact, the Agra Gharana predates the Mughals and goes all the way back to their predecessor, Allaudin Khilji, of the Delhi Sultanate.

WHEN TO VISIT: Our favourite times to visit Agra are late October-early November and late February-early March. The weather is pleasant and you can experience the magnificence of the Taj Mahal without a shroud of morning or evening fog.

WHERE TO STAY: If you’re looking for a palatial experience then the Oberoi Amarvilas is a must. The ITC Mughal has spacious rooms and an excellent spa. But if you’re looking for an independent boutique hotel, then the new Ekaa Villa has embraced Agra culture beautifully and is worth the extra night.

WHY GO: History, culture, cuisine

HOW TO GET THERE: Agra is easily reached from Delhi, Jaipur and Gwalior. One can either come by road, or take the Shatabdi train. Visit our website to learn more.