by BAXY SINGH

Agra is well known city in the world, it hosts the most beautiful wonder in the world. Agra is situated on the bank of river “Yamuna” and is 204 km away from the capital of India, New Delhi. Agra is the third biggest city of Utter Pradesh, in northern India.

“Taj Mahal” is the most famous monument in the world. The king Shah Jahan built this for his most beautiful wife “Mumtaj Mahal”. It is one of the three world heritage sites in India and others are Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Taj mahal is made up of white marble; it is the most fascinating monument of India. Agra is one of the leading tourist destinations in India; tourism contributes a large part in the economy of Agra. It has always been a center of education and learning. In the mughal era, Agra grew as a center of Islamic education. The oldest collages of India the “Agra Collages” was formed as Sanskrit school by Scindia rulers in the year 1823.

Agra is also a good shopping destination in India. Stone handicrafts, brassware leather items are created by traditional crafts men, are world famous for their excellent quality. The stone replica of “Taj Mahal” is most popular. Other most popular thing you should buy from Agra is “Petha” a kind of sweet, made from vegetables, is very famous.

Important spots of tourist interest are the great “TAJ MAHAL”, “Agra Fort”, “Fatehpur Sikri” and “Sikandra”. Agra Fort was built by the king “Akbar” in 1565. “Fatehpur Sikri” is also worth while, the king “Akbar: has sifted his capital to this city, is 36 km away from Agra. “Sikandra” is the tomb of the king Akbar, is 13 km away from the main city.

Agra is a hub of leather industry in northern India and is main center of export of leather products to all over the world. Agra’s leather products like shoes, garments, handbags and other leather accessories are of very fine quality. Apart from Agra, “Kanpur” is also a center of leather industry, is 260 km away from Agra and 464 km away from “New Delhi”. Agra’s automobile industry also contributed to the economy of the country. Agra is known because of having good numbers of garments manufacturing units. Agra is located on the national highway-2; this is also a good reason for the expansion of the city.

Agra is well connected from all parts of India by Indian Railways network and by road. There is an airport also but very few flights are available. Nearest international airport is New Delhi the capital of India is 204 km away from Delhi. Lots of trains are available from New Delhi to Agra approximately a train every hour. Local mode of transport is shared auto rickshaw; tourist should always avoid this. The best way is to hire a taxi either from the pre paid booth at Railway Station or there are tons of travel agents there, do not forget to bargain with these agents.

Agra is extremely hot during summer; temperature can be up to 48 degree Celsius. One should always avoid visiting Agra during this season. Rainy season starts from July till September. The can be heavy rain and dust storms in this season; do not forget to carry water proof clothes and an umbrella. The best time to visit Agra is in October, November, January and February. December is extremely cold.

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by SANJOG KR

‘Top Five Destinations Of North India’ is an article talking about some of the most famous tourist destinations of Incredible North India. Amongst all, Jaipur, Khajuraho. Agra, Varanasi and Gulmarg take immense pride in luring tourists from across the globe. These destinations offer everything from rich architectural heritage to natural beauty, adventure and handicrafts.

Photograph by Zé Eduardo

Visiting Incredible North India is a wonderful experience of celebrating the royal past and the sheer natural beauty. Few destinations in the world are as fascinating as this one. It encompasses an astonishing range of tourist attractions, which are simply irresistible. Everything from the architecture to the incredible hospitality is superb in this land.

Top 5 Tourist Destinations Of North India Are:

Jaipur Walk the well planned city of Jaipur, participate in the colorful fairs and festivals, get drunk on the luxury of the stunning palaces and forts, feast on the delicious culinary delights, treat your eyes to the reflection of a palace in a charming lake, watch the enchanting wildlife or browse the city’s bazaars filled with amazing handicrafts, everything here is steeped in romance and royalty. The attractions of the pink city have earned international fame. Some of the must see attractions here are the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort and Ranthambhor National Park.

Khajuraho Renowned the world over for its erotic sculptures carved flawlessly on the outer walls of the ancient temples, Khajuraho village is a World Heritage Site. Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, the village is an architectural marvel in the true sense of the word. One can also enjoy the classic Dance Festival celebrated here every year in the month of February/March.

Gulmarg A sparkling jewel in the crown of Kashmir, Gulmarh is a hill station cocooned in abundant natural beauty. The beautiful valley with colorful flowers, the romantic lake and the peaceful ambiance make this hill station a popular tourist destination. Trekking and golfing are the exciting adventure sports you can indulge in here.

Agra Agra is a historic city, which is famous across the world for its architectural wonder ‘Taj Mahal’. A symbol of love, this finest monument of the Mughal Empire is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a World Heritage Site. Other attractions of the city are Agra Fort, Sikandra and Fatehpur Sikri.

Varanasi Considered to be one of the most holiest cities in India, Varanasi is called the city of light. It is a poular Hindu Pilgrimage that attracts devotees from all across the globe. Located on the banks of the holy river Ganga, the city is a religious and a spiritual site. There are numerous temples, yoga centers and Ayurvedic centers in the city. It is also known for banarasi saris, jari work and wooden items.

North India Tours offer a great opportunity to explore the exotic region of India that abounds in amazing attractions. There is something magical about the Golden Triangle Tour, which encompasses mind-blowing destinations like Jaipur, Delhi and Agra. Known for their rich cultural heritage and sheer natural beauty, the destinations occupy a significant place on the itineraries of tourists from all over the world.

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By Meenu

India is a rich country as to its religious past. It’s a secular country and has been embracing all the religion of the world. India is the pioneer of teaching the possibility of coexistence of diverse races and religions under the same umbrella. It’s a country spreading the message of peace and harmony from the hoary past. Buddhism is a unique religion for spreading Photograph by F. Mottironi

peace in the cosmos. If you want you can visit the temples of India and one another example of Indian heritage and culture- the Taj Mahal at the same time during Buddha travel package or simply Indian temple tour.

Every year innumerable pilgrims of Buddhism come to India to experience Buddha tour or Buddha temple tour or simply Indian temple travel package to mollify their prancing mind. On influx you will be received by our envoy and this day you will be taken for an excursion to this very heart of India- Delhi. The journey will cover Qutab Minar / Humayun Tomb / India Gate / Red Fort / Jama Masjid / Gandhi Memorial etc.

The day is to be ongoing with the Elephant ride at Amer Fort, followed by the city excursion covering – Hawa Mahal, Royal Observatory, City Palace, Nawab Sahab Ki Haveli and Johari Bazar etc.

Drive to Agra en-route visiting the old desolate town of Mughal empire i.e. Fatehpur Sikri. On influx, check in into hotel. Afternoon you go out for city trip covering Taj Mahal, Red Fortand the Tomb of Itmad-ud-daula’s Tomb. Afternoon city trip of Sarnath: renowned for its Dhamekh Stupa and for it being the place where Buddha preached his first sermon enshrining the belief of his teachings into laws. You learn and assimilate so many things to usher peace in your life during Buddah travels package in India that it remains in your memory for ever.

At sunrise take pleasure in boat ride at River Ganges, followed by a city trip covering – Vishwanath Temple, Bharat Mata Temple etc. Stay there for two nights with outings to Rajgir/ Nalanda / Sapta pari cave and Venevamas. Above two days you will come across with many locales of Buddhist significance, i.e., Rajgir: A significant Buddhist pilgrimage since the Buddha spent 12 years here, and the first Buddhist council after the Buddha achieved Nirvana was held here, Nalanda: founded in the 5th century known as center of intellectualism. You learn the truth of existence and the objective of life during Buddhist pilgrimage tour in India.

A.M. ensue to Vaishali, a very extraordinary place to Buddhists as The Lord preached his last lecture & announced his imminent “Nirwana”. See the majesty of Ashok Pillar – Lotus tank, Chaumukhi & proceed to Kushinagar for during the night stay.

Morning trip Mahanirvana shrine, the modern Japan/Srilanka Buddhist center & monasteries, then go on to Lumbini.

Morning trip to Ashoka’s pillar (249 BC) rediscovered in 1890′s inside thick sal woods, a shrine of Mayadevi, the ruins of an old monastery and some new stupas, then in the afternoon go on to Balrampur en route visiting Sravasti where you will see the extensive debris of this antique city & Jetavana Monastery.

Even at the end of the Buddha with Taj tour you cannot forget the hospitality and satisfaction you get from our envoys during this Buddha tour India.

About the Author
All India Tour Packages Online is a web portal for tourism whereby you can get the useful information about tourism in India. You can visit at -

http://www.allindiatourpackages.com
http://www.allindiatourpackages.com/india-buddha-tours/buddha-with-taj.html

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By vini

The lively capital of India, the glorious pink city and alluring state of Taj Mahal, what stands common in this trio is the famous Golden Triangle, which brings them together. Welcome to Golden Triangle Tours and travel to live the saga of India with us.

Photograph by F. Mottironi

If you are planning to enjoy the royal glory and beauty of India, then plan your leisure trip with us and get soaked with the comfort that we serve. The tour package of Golden Triangle India is a fine concoction of enjoyment with relaxation. As we believe in serving leisure with comfort to all kinds of tourists, we offer range of tour packages to the destinations of golden triangle of Northern India.

Your trip with Golden Triangle Tour to the incandescent reflections of India starts from the capital of the country- Delhi, where you will be exposed to the glorious monuments along with east meeting west face of the place. Your next halt with us will be the city of valor and royal heritage -Jaipur. Here you will be taken for the excursion and sight seeing of the city, which includes, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort Palace, City Palace, Jantar Mantar and gem factory where you can witness the art of gem cutting. The next morning you will be driven to Agra, the home of splendid beauty- Taj Mahal.

The crowning beauty and beloved jewel of India, Taj Mahal surely justifies by its magnificence as one of the seventh wonder of world. The beautifully carved white marble is an epitome of love and art. A mausoleum of Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, Taj Mahal has been a marvel for the travelers from every continent. It took 20,000 workers and 17 years of labor to create it as a song of perfect creations in the world. A garden by the River Yamuna, was selected as a perfect site for the tomb. The Taj emits a balanced image, in the shimmering ornamental water channel, which divides the Mughal Garden. The two structures, a mosque and a guesthouse, built in the red stone, stand as the protectors to the mausoleum. The flower motifs of the Taj are so superfine that its been said,

They set stone flowers in the marble
That by their color, if not their perfume, surpass real flowers.

You will explore the harmonious picture of creativity and beauty in the chaste ornamentation of the Taj Mahal. For ages this monument has inspired musicians, painters and poets to reflect its charm in their composition. As a tourist it will surely inspire you to come and admire its beauty again and again.

About the Author
vineet is the author GoldenTriangle

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VINAY CHOUBEY

Agra is famous as being home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World-the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendor of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid remainder of the mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid reminder of the capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries.

Taj Mahal
The construction of this marble masterpiece is credited to the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan who erected this mausoleum in Photograph by Zé Eduardo memory of his beloved wife, Arjumand Bano Begum, popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal, who died in AH 1040 (AD 1630). Her last wish to her husband was “to build a tomb in her memory such as the world had never seen before”.

The designer of Taj Mahal was Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. The material was brought in from all over India and central Asia and it took a fleet of 1000 elephants to transport it to the site. The central dome is 187 feet high at the centre. Red sandstone was brought from Fatehpur Sikri, Jasper from Punjab, Jade and Crystal from China, Turquoise from Tibet, Lapis Lazuli and Sapphire from Sri Lanka, Coal and Cornelian from Arabia and diamonds from Panna.

Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is an epic in red sandstone. A city of yesteryear, today lost in the mists of time. Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar during 1564 A.D.. Mughal Emperor Akbar had no heir. He visited holy men to enlist their prayers for his son.

Sikandra Fort
The mausoleums of emperor Akbar represent his philosophy and secular outlook, combining the best of Hindu and Muslim architectures in a superlative region. Completed in 1613 A.D. by his son Jahangir, it is one of the well preserved monuments. This is the last resting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

Agra Fort
The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra Fort in 1565 A.D., although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shah Jahan. Agra Fort is located on the banks of the Yamuna near the railway station. Agra is well connected by air with Khajuraho, Varanasi, and Delhi. It has good rail and bus connections with major Indian cities. From the city, there are taxis, tempos, auto-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws to carry one to the fort. Prepaid taxis and autos from the railway station are also available. Bicycles can also be hired on hourly basis.

Itmad-Ud-Daulah
Itmad-ud-Daulah is the tomb of Mirza Ghyas Beg, a persian who had obtained service in Akbar Court. The Marvel tomb was made by Emperor Jahangir’s Queen, Noorjahan, for his father Mirza Ghyas Beg during 1622-1628 A.D. The Craftmanship at Itmad-ud-Daulah foreshadows that of the Taj Mahal. It was here that. “Pietra Dura”-the inlay work on marble-so characteristic of the Taj-was first used.

Radha Swami Samadhi
This is the head quarter of Radhaswami religion; here the holy ashes of the founder of the faith have been preserved. On the sprawing lawns here, is a beautiful marvel temple with beautiful carving of fruits, flowers, leavesand plants which have been reduced into stone true to nature, and are distinctive speciments of the plastic arts. This is under construction for almost 100 years.

Taj Mahotsav
Come February, and it’s springtime. The time of the year when nature dawns all its colorful splendor and Agra bursts into colorful celebrations. For 10 days there is sheer celebration of U.P.’s rich heritage of arts, crafts, culture, cuisine, dance and music. Yes, it is Taj Mahotsav time again. There are festivities all around and Agra truly puts on the colors of joy and gets transformed into one non-stop carnival. Organised by U.P. Tourism and held as an annual event at Shilpgram, literally next door to the Taj Mahal, the Taj Mahotsav is indeed a fitting tribute to the legendary skills of master craftsman and other exponents of art, music and cuisine.

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With the Taj Mahal , we continue our presentation of the 7 Wonders of India. Enjoy discovering India.

Jaipur Travel Guide

Museums In Agra

The Taj City, as Agra is called sometimes, has quite a few museums in its territorial lands. The great monuments in the city themselves constitute the missing links of the powerful Mughal dynasty. Whatever the reason be, for not establishing and maintaining a conspicous institute to keep track of the events but there sure are places which provide the insights of some of the greatest kings of Indian middle ages.

The Taj Mahal Museum and the Spiritual Museum are among the few museums in Agra city. The museums of Agra have a special regard for architecture due to the influence of wonderful structures in its plains. It is due to this fact that the showcase of these museums are often provided with antiquities of architectural brilliance. The Taj Mahal Museum particularly exhibits this idea. Even Spiritual Museum is no exception. This museum too exhibits models that are in a way connected to the idea of structure and form. The museums of Agra are wonderful places for aspiring architects and the arts lovers.

The Taj Mahal Museum

The Taj Mahal Museum forms a part of the Taj Mahal Complex. The museum is located towards the west of the Taj Mahal. The museum is popular as it houses the records and plans of construction of the great mausoleum. The museum contains original drawings of Taj Mahal, precious and semi precious stones to be used in the construction and celadon plates. The celadon plates are famous ass it is believed that the color of the plates gets changed or the plate itself breaks into pieces if poisonous food is served in these. The museum also has drawings providing the viewing perspective of the graves in the mausoleum.

Spiritual Museum

The city of Agra which is famous for its architectural brilliance is provided with few institutes that tend to preserve the heritage of Agra. Quite distinct from the popular museum the Spiritual Museum has a concept of its own. The museum which is still in its early stage of development has been built for the newly founded movement called ‘Brahma Kumaris’. The participants of the movement prophesies the self realization of God as their father. The museum houses many shapes, colors and forms that tend to explain various physical phenomena. The Spiritual Museum has been constructed near the Taj Mahal Complex and is visited by a fair number of people who constitute both the art lovers as well the tourists.

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.

alivia.martin@yahoo.in

gra the famous city of Uttar Pradesh has ones been the under the Mughal Rulers. This place is known all around the globe because of some of its famous monuments and architectural features. The city is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World The Taj Mahal. As the city attracts large number of tourists every year these tourists do not admire the architectural beauty of this place but they also enjoy to shop in this historic city. There are many good venues in Agra where one can go and shop certain things to gift to their near and dear ones.
During the Mughal rule over India handicrafts were in vogue, different communities of artisans and craftsmen who were skilled in different types of art came to India. These craftsmen were highly skilled and thus produced the best of pieces which were worth admiring. The Mughal rulers patronized their work and it thus gave them impetus to work more and more. This art and skill is still alive in Agra due to which it becomes the most perfect destination for shopping freaks.

Here one can buy variety of items like marble handicrafts, carpets, rugs, gold threads, and leather and embroidery pieces. The things available in the market are of good quality and one can buy it without any doubts.

The Agra city has interesting local markets which are full of people. Some of the famous shopping destinations are the Sadar bazaar, Tajganj which are generally thronged by the public. Things of superior quality are available here these craft items are brought from Shipgram. Some very important thing which is generally bought by the people here is the miniature model of Tajmahal. During the famous Tajmahotsav artisans and craftsmen from all around the country come here to display and to sell their work.

MUGHLAI CUISINE

Agra city is the most ideal destination for the food lovers. Agra is known for its lip smacking mughlai cookery items. Some delicious delicacies are as follows creamy kormas; pasandas in an almond sauce; mince and nargisi kofta. Agra is well known for a tempting sweet called peetha and delicious snack called Dalmoth.

There are numerous food joints where one can go and enjoy the best of the dishes. One can go to different food joints according to his or her affordability and can have the delicious mughlai food. During Taj Mahotsav a Food festival is conducted which attracts people in large number.

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saritaets

Agra is predominant tourist destination in northern India. The city is mainly famous for wonderful Taj Mahal. Apart from Taj Mahal, there are many other attraction sites in the city. Most of the tourist sites in Agra have been constructed and established in Mughal period. So, they bear a presence of Mughal essence. The sites to visit in Agra are scattered and difficult to visit all sites with a public transport as it will exhaust you completely. It is better to embark Agra tour with a private car. You can easily hire a car in Agra. There are floods of car rental companies in Agra.

Taj Mahal is the major attraction of Agra. Visit Taj Mahal and explore its beauty. It is made of white marble and looks amazing in moonlight and in sunrise reddish hue. It is counted in the Seven Wonders of Medieval World because of its charm and beauty. Now ask your Agra Car Rental chauffer to take you to other famous nearby destinations. Most probably, the chauffer will take you to Agra Red Fort. Agra Red Fort is situated at just 2.5 Km away from Taj Mahal. It is made of red sandstone and contains Mughal style of architecture. There are many complexes inside the fort. This is very old historical structure and is worth to be visited.

Other attraction sites in Agra are Itmad-ud-Daulah Tomb, Akbars Tomb, Ram Bagh, Dayal Bagh, Jahangir Mahal, Panch Mahal, Jama Masjid, etc. The interiors of Itmad-ud-Daulah are considered to be more beautiful than that of Taj Mahal. It is called as Baby Taj or Draft of Taj Mahal. Akbars Tomb situated in Sikandra reflects the architectural brilliance of Mughal style. Your Agra visit will give you true picture of Mughal architectural style and its intricacy.

You can also hire a Car Rental Agra to take an excursion from Agra to nearby places. You can visit Varanasi, Virindavan, Mathura, Bharatpur and many other places.

After visiting Bharatpur you can change the car rental to make the transportation cost cheaper. You can hire a Rajasthan Car Rental to further travel in the terrain of Rajasthan. Rajasthan is also very famous travel destination. It is known for richness of flora and fauna. It is the land of forts and palaces. Rajasthan is very rich in culture and tradition. It will be a good idea to travel across Rajasthan after Agra trip. There are many tourist attractions in Rajasthan. Explore the colors.

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Thomas Johnson

An Agra tour is going to be a very enriching and memorable one for you because of its timeless attractions. Long history of Agra has its reference in the ancient epic, the Mahabharata. But modern Agra was established by Sikander Lodhi of Lodhi Dynasty which ruled Delhi, during 16th century. Later it became the capital of Mughal Empire from 1526 to 1658. It was the golden era for Agra as most of their magnificent historical structures were constructed during this phase. Agra has the finest examples of Mughal architectural style which was the mix of Indian and Islamic styles. Besides Taj Mahal, the Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri nearby are listed among the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Rajput rulers built Agra Fort which was later renovated by Mughal emperors Akbar and Shah Jahan. Golden era of Agra began to diminish when Shajahan shifted his capital to Shahjahanabad in Delhi. And today, Agra is the second Tier of India which is known for its tourist activities.

Photograph by Trey Ratcliff

Culture of Agra: Agra has very rich heritage and interesting culture. Agra is a historical city and was ruled by various different rulers at different times. There is reference to Agra in ancient epic Mahabharata. Its proximity to cities of Mathura and Vrindavan influences its culture also. Agra is influenced by Brij culture which is influenced by the tales of Lord Krishna. Modern day Agra was founded by Sikander Lodi of Lodi dynasty which ruled Delhi during 16th century. People of Agra celebrate all the major fairs and festivals belonging to different religions with great harmony. Taj Mahotsav is a cultural extravaganza which is celebrated every year in Agra.

Art and Architecture: Agra is counted among the most popular tourist destinations in India. It is the Art and architecture of Agra which attracts millions of tourists annually. Agra is home to three world heritage sites which are Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and the Fatehpur Sikri. Taj Mahal is the epitome of the Mughal architecture. It has secured its place in the Seven Wonders of the World year after year. Agra Fort is another example of richness of art and architecture of Agra. Located on the right bank of Yamuna, it is an intricately decorated building. Constructed by the great emperor Akbar, this fort is the testimony to Moghul’s love of elaborate and huge structures. Besides this, there are two museums in Agra worth exploring; one is the popular Spiritual Museum and the other is the Taj Mahal Museum. Both of these museums contain the art, antiquities and artifacts related to the Taj Mahal.

Festivals in Agra: Most of the festivals celebrated in the rural areas of Agra are greatly influenced by the life of Lord Krishna. Festivals are either religious festivals or the cattle fairs or the cultural festivals. Some of the festivals celebrated in its rural areas are Kans lila, cattle fair Jat Devi, Dauji ka mela, cattle fair Kund Mela, , Meta ki Puja Jat Devi, cattle fair Gwal Balba, Holi Milap, Mata-ka-mela, Shitla Mela, Kailash Mela, Parikrama of Shivji, Janamashthmi, Kali-ka-mela, Dussehra, Ram lila, Urs Sufi Sahib and Bateshwar cattle fair.

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