A major tourist destination, Agra
has the distinction of housing one of the Seven Wonders
of the World: Taj Mahal. Apart from the Taj Mahal, Agra
is a city filled with forts and palaces that are reminiscent
of the colorful culture of the bygone eras.
The Agra Fort was built between 1565 and
1571 AD, the fort retains the irregular outline of the demolished
mudwall fort of the Lodhi’s. The magnificent towers,
bastions, ramparts, and gateways, symbolize the stature and
power of Akbar.
Built by Shah Jahan in 1648, the main gate
of this mosque has inscription written on it that it was built
by Jahanara Begum. She was the favorite daughter of Shah Jahan
and was imprisoned with him. The absence of minarets and the
shape of the dome gives it a distinguished character.
Chini ka rauza is an Afzal Khan creation,
who was a high official in the court of Shahjahan. It is decorated
by glazed tiles on the façade and depicts the Persian
influence on Mughal architecture.
It was created by Emperor Babar in 1528
and is one of the earliest Mughal gardens. History also says
that Babar was temporarily buried here, before being interred
at Kabul.
Ketam lake is situated within Surdas Reserved
Forest. Sur Sarovar is in fact, a tranquil spot, ideal for
relaxed outings. A wide variety of fishes and water birds
add to the lake’s natural charm and beauty. The lake
is 27 km from Agra.
Itmad-ud-daulah Tomb was created by Emperor
Jahangir’s queen, Nur Jahan for her father, Mirza Ghiyas
Beg, between 1628 and 1662. The craftsmanship of Itmad-ud-daulah
foreshadows that of the Taj Mahal.
