Situated in an overwhelmingly noisy and dirty city, the
attractions in Agra are nevertheless some of the most famous and
beautiful in the world.
Most people visit Agra primarily to see the Taj Mahal, and this
glowing white monument more than justifies the trip all by itself.
No matter how jaded or disenchanted a traveller is, the Taj
conjures deep emotions; it is almost impossible not to be moved by
the love story that birthed this splendid mausoleum, and even for
those who don't like the soppy stuff the beauty of the building is
mesmerising. It is India's most popular and iconic attraction, and
one of the most recognisable buildings in the world. Expect it to
be busy no matter when you visit! To admire the Taj Mahal from a
distance, and escape some of the crowds at the site, pay a visit to
the Mehtah Bagh gardens where you can relax on the lawns and take
photographs - the gardens are not exceptional, but the views
are.
Another world-class attraction in the city, very near the Taj
Mahal, is the Agra Fort, a 16th-century Mughal monument containing
a veritable treasure trove of impressive buildings. Things to see
in the fort include the Jahangir Palace, the Khas Mahal, the Glass
Palace (Sheesh Mahal) inlaid with thousands of mirrors, and two
stunning mosques. Sha Jahan spent the last seven years of his life
incarcerated in the ornately carved Octagonal Tower, which once had
an enviable view of his beloved Taj Mahal.
A less famous but very worthwhile site, the Tomb of
Itimad-ud-Daulah is one of the best things to see in Agra. It is
often called the mini-Taj and although it is small it is
exquisitely carved and consistently ranks with visitors as one of
Agra's great treasures. The attraction is usually quiet and seldom
crowded, and its peaceful atmosphere is refreshing compared to the
bustle of other attractions in Agra.
Those who have time to adventure out of the city should consider
an excursion to Fatehpur Sikri, a medieval fortress which was
briefly the capital of the Mughal Empire, but was deserted in 1585
due to water shortages. This proud fortress now stands, perfectly
preserved and a little spooky, in the arid landscape 25 miles
(40km) west of Agra.